How To Smoke Prime Rib On Traeger

Smoking the Perfect Prime Rib on Your Traeger Grill

Welcome to the world of smoking meats! If you’re a fan of juicy, tender prime rib, then you’re in for a treat. Smoking a prime rib on a Traeger grill is a great way to infuse rich, smoky flavor into this delectable cut of beef. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to achieve a mouthwatering prime rib that will have your friends and family begging for more.

Choosing the Right Cut

Before you start smoking your prime rib, it’s important to select the right cut of meat. Look for a well-marbled, bone-in prime rib roast. The marbling will ensure that your prime rib stays moist and flavorful throughout the smoking process. Aim for a roast that weighs around 8-10 pounds, as this size is ideal for smoking on a Traeger grill.

Preparing the Prime Rib

Once you have your prime rib roast, it’s time to prepare it for smoking. Begin by trimming any excess fat from the surface of the meat, leaving a thin layer to help keep the roast moist during the smoking process. Next, season the roast generously with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, and rosemary to enhance the flavor of the meat.

Setting Up Your Traeger Grill

Now that your prime rib is prepped and ready, it’s time to fire up your Traeger grill. Preheat the grill to 225°F and select a hardwood flavor pellet, such as hickory or mesquite, to complement the rich flavor of the prime rib. Once the grill is preheated, place the seasoned prime rib directly on the grill grate, bone-side down, and close the lid.

Smoking the Prime Rib

Smoking a prime rib on a Traeger grill is a slow and steady process. Plan for approximately 30-40 minutes of smoking time per pound of meat. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the roast, aiming for a final temperature of 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium. This will ensure that your prime rib is cooked to perfection, with a rosy pink center and a flavorful crust.

During the smoking process, resist the temptation to open the grill lid frequently, as this can cause fluctuations in temperature. Trust the process and allow the Traeger grill to work its magic, infusing the prime rib with delicious smoky flavor.

Resting and Serving

Once the prime rib reaches the desired internal temperature, carefully remove it from the grill and transfer it to a cutting board. Loosely tent the roast with aluminum foil and allow it to rest for 20-30 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy prime rib.

After the resting period, it’s time to carve and serve your beautifully smoked prime rib. Slice the roast into thick, succulent portions and watch as the flavorful juices cascade onto the cutting board. Serve the prime rib alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and au jus for a truly unforgettable meal.

Smoking a prime rib on a Traeger grill is a rewarding experience that yields mouthwatering results. With the right cut of meat, proper seasoning, and a little patience, you can create a prime rib that will impress even the most discerning of palates. So fire up your Traeger grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the unbeatable flavor of smoked prime rib.