Smoking Pork Butt on Your Traeger Grill
Smoking pork butt on your Traeger grill is a delicious way to enjoy tender, flavorful barbecue. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner, this guide will walk you through the process of smoking the perfect pork butt on your Traeger.
Choosing the Right Pork Butt
When it comes to smoking pork butt, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. Look for a pork butt with a good balance of fat and meat. A bone-in pork butt can add extra flavor and moisture to the meat during the smoking process.
Prepping the Pork Butt
Before you start smoking, it’s important to prepare the pork butt properly. Here are the steps to follow:
- Remove the pork butt from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes.
- Trim any excess fat from the surface of the pork butt, leaving a thin layer to add flavor and moisture.
- Season the pork butt generously with your favorite dry rub, ensuring that the entire surface is coated evenly.
Setting Up Your Traeger Grill
Now it’s time to fire up your Traeger grill and get it ready for smoking. Follow these steps to set up your grill:
- Fill the hopper with your choice of wood pellets. For pork butt, hickory or applewood pellets are popular choices.
- Turn on the grill and set the temperature to 225°F (107°C) for low and slow smoking.
- Allow the grill to preheat for 10-15 minutes with the lid closed.
Smoking the Pork Butt
Once your Traeger grill is preheated and ready to go, it’s time to start smoking the pork butt. Follow these steps for a successful smoking process:
- Place the seasoned pork butt directly on the grill grates.
- Close the lid and let the pork butt smoke at 225°F (107°C) for several hours, depending on the size of the meat. A good rule of thumb is to smoke the pork butt for 1.5 hours per pound.
- Monitor the internal temperature of the pork butt using a meat thermometer. The pork is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 195-203°F (90-95°C).
Resting and Serving
Once the pork butt reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 30-60 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful end product. After resting, shred the pork butt using two forks and serve it with your favorite barbecue sauce and sides.
Smoking pork butt on your Traeger grill is a rewarding experience that yields mouthwatering results. By following these steps and tips, you can elevate your barbecue game and impress your family and friends with delicious, smoky pork butt that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
So, fire up your Traeger grill, grab a pork butt, and get ready to enjoy some amazing barbecue!
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