The Big Green Egg is a griller’s dream come true – its versatility and ability to produce those perfect, smoky flavors make it a staple in many outdoor kitchens. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the possibilities are endless when it comes to cooking on your Big Green Egg. In this article, we’ll take a look at 20 incredible recipes that showcase the egg’s capabilities and inspire you to try something new.
From classic barbecue favorites like pulled pork and smoked brisket, to seafood dishes like grilled lobster tails and cedar plank salmon, these recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds. And don’t worry – there’s something for everyone, including veggie lovers and those with a sweet tooth. So grab your apron, fire up the egg, and get ready to indulge in some serious grilling greatness!
Smoked Brisket with Coffee Rub
Elevate your barbecue game with this rich and savory smoked brisket recipe, infused with the deep flavors of a coffee rub. Perfect for special occasions or everyday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket
– 1/4 cup coffee grounds
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together coffee grounds, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the coffee mixture all over the brisket, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the brisket in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 8-10 hours or until the brisket reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
6. If desired, brush with barbecue sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
7. Let the brisket rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Brighten up your summer with this refreshing and flavorful grilled chicken recipe, perfect for a backyard BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush with the lemon-herb mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Pulled Pork with Carolina BBQ Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of the South with this classic pulled pork recipe smothered in a tangy and sweet Carolina BBQ sauce. Perfect for casual gatherings or special occasions, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup Carolina BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 hamburger buns, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or a slow cooker. Cook for 8-10 hours, or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in Carolina BBQ sauce until well coated.
6. Serve on hamburger buns with additional BBQ sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Reverse Seared Ribeye Steak
This recipe takes the traditional searing method and flips it on its head – literally. By cooking the steak to a precise temperature before finishing it with a hot pan, you’ll achieve an evenly cooked, tender, and juicy ribeye like never before.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 ribeye steaks (depending on size)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. Season the steak with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a skillet or grill pan over high heat for 5 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and swirl it around.
4. Sear the steak for 30-60 seconds per side, depending on desired doneness. Remove from heat and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Cook the steak in the oven to an internal temperature of 120°F – 130°F (49°C – 54°C) for medium-rare.
6. Remove the steak from the oven and increase the skillet or grill pan heat to high. Add the butter and swirl it around.
7. Sear the steak for an additional 30-60 seconds per side, or until the desired level of doneness is reached.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes total cooking time.
Spatchcocked Turkey with Herb Butter
This impressive main course boasts a perfectly cooked turkey breast, complete with a flavorful herb butter that will leave your guests begging for more. With its crispy skin and juicy interior, this dish is sure to be the star of your holiday table.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Using kitchen shears or a sharp knife, spatchcock the turkey by cutting along both sides of the spine and removing it.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Rub the herb butter all over the turkey breast, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, smoky take on macaroni and cheese. This recipe combines the richness of cheddar and parmesan with the deep flavor of smoked paprika and a hint of BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add heavy cream, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
5. Gradually add cheddar and parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
6. Add cooked macaroni and BBQ sauce to the cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon
This recipe combines the rich flavor of salmon with the subtle aroma of cedar wood, creating a unique and delicious dish perfect for any occasion. The cedar plank adds a smoky depth to the fish without overpowering its natural taste.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup cedar planks (pre-soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Brush the cedar planks with olive oil, then place a salmon fillet on each plank.
4. Drizzle lemon juice and sprinkle garlic over the fish.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the cedar planks on the grill, closed lid for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Remove from heat, let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beer Can Chicken with Spicy Rub
Elevate your backyard barbecue game with this easy and impressive recipe that combines the rich flavors of beer can chicken with a spicy kick. This perfect-for-summer dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 1 beer can (any type)
– Spicy Rub ingredients:
+ 2 tbsp chili powder
+ 1 tsp ground cumin
+ 1 tsp smoked paprika
+ 1/2 tsp garlic powder
+ Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Spicy Rub ingredients.
3. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Brush the beer can with olive oil and place it inside the chicken cavity.
5. Sprinkle the Spicy Rub evenly over the chicken’s skin and under the breastbone.
6. Place the chicken on the grill, close the lid, and cook for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Smoked Pork Belly Burnt Ends
This recipe takes the classic burnt ends dish to new heights by incorporating tender smoked pork belly into the mix. The result is a rich, caramelized delight that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Season the pork belly with salt, pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Smoke the pork belly for 4-5 hours or until tender.
4. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes.
5. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
6. In a pan over medium-high heat, caramelize the burnt ends with apple cider vinegar until golden brown.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 5-6 hours (including smoking time)
Grilled Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these succulent and aromatic shrimp skewers, infused with the richness of garlic butter. Perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite sides or enjoy as is.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Smoked Whole Duck with Cherry Glaze
Elevate your dinner party with this impressive smoked whole duck dish, paired with a rich and fruity cherry glaze. This show-stopping recipe is perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) whole duck
– 1 cup cherry wood chips
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cherry jam
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Season the duck with salt and pepper.
3. Place the cherry wood chips in the smoker, then add the duck.
4. Smoke for 5-6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Meanwhile, combine brown sugar, cherry jam, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic to make the glaze.
6. Brush the glaze all over the duck during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
7. Let the duck rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 5-6 hours
Grilled Pizza with Charred Crust
Elevate your pizza game with this simple recipe that yields a crispy, charred crust and a flavorful topping combination. Perfect for outdoor gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp sugar
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, bell peppers)
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and sugar.
4. Place dough on grill and cook for 2-3 minutes or until edges start to char.
5. Flip crust over and top with your chosen toppings.
6. Close grill lid and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and crust is crispy.
7. Remove from heat, sprinkle with basil leaves, and serve.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Smoked Lamb Shoulder with Mint Chimichurri
Smoked Lamb Shoulder with Mint Chimichurri: A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional lamb dishes. This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked lamb with the bright, refreshing taste of mint chimichurri.
Ingredients:
– 1 lamb shoulder (2-3 pounds)
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of flavor)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Season lamb shoulder with salt and pepper.
3. Place wood chips in the smoker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Smoke lamb for 8-10 hours or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, mix olive oil, parsley, garlic, and mint in a bowl.
6. Serve smoked lamb with mint chimichurri spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this simple and delicious dessert recipe that combines the sweetness of pineapple with a warm cinnamon sugar topping. Perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a unique snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon.
3. Brush both sides of pineapple wedges with melted butter.
4. Grill pineapple for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. While pineapple is grilling, sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over each wedge.
6. Remove from grill and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Smoked Beef Short Ribs
Transform tender beef short ribs into a fall-off-the-bone masterpiece with this simple recipe that yields rich, smoky flavors. Perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings, these ribs are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup wood chips (your preferred type of smoking wood)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the short ribs.
4. Place the ribs in the smoker, bone-side down, and add wood chips according to your smoker’s instructions.
5. Smoke for 8-10 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter
Elevate your summer gatherings with this indulgent recipe, featuring succulent lobster tails smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lobster tails (1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse lobster tails under cold water; pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
4. Brush the lobster tails with lemon juice; season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill lobster tails for 8-10 minutes per side, or until opaque and cooked through.
6. During the last minute of grilling, brush the garlic butter sauce over the lobster tails.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Smoked Turkey Legs with Cajun Seasoning
Elevate your tailgating game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of smoked turkey legs with the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning. Perfect for a crowd, these tender and juicy legs are sure to be a touchdown.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey legs
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning (such as Tony’s or Zatarain’s)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto each turkey leg, making sure to coat all surfaces.
4. Place the turkey legs in the smoker, leaving space between each leg for even cooking.
5. Smoke for 4-6 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
Grilled Vegetable Platter with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this colorful and flavorful vegetarian platter featuring grilled vegetables smothered in a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 large red bell pepper
– 2 large zucchinis
– 1 large yellow squash
– 4-6 cherry tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture onto the vegetables and place them on the grill.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes or until tender and lightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, reduce balsamic vinegar on low heat until thickened and syrupy (about 15-20 minutes).
6. Arrange grilled vegetables on a platter and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Pork Loin with Applewood
Transform your pork loin into a tender and flavorful masterpiece with this simple recipe that combines the rich flavors of applewood smoke.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless pork loin
– 1 cup wood chips (applewood)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork loin, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork loin in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
6. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the apple cider vinegar all over the pork loin.
7. Remove the pork loin from the smoker and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Grilled Peach Cobbler in Cast Iron
Transform sweet summer peaches into a warm, comforting dessert with this unique grilled peach cobbler recipe. Perfect for backyard gatherings or cozy family nights.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup biscuit or cobbler topping (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, mix sliced peaches with sugar, honey, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Place the peach mixture in a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven.
4. Drizzle melted butter over the peaches.
5. Top with biscuit or cobbler topping.
6. Grill for 15-20 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
7. Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fire up your Big Green Egg and try out these mouth-watering smoky recipes! From classic BBQ favorites like Smoked Brisket with Coffee Rub and Pulled Pork with Carolina BBQ Sauce, to more adventurous options like Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon and Beer Can Chicken with Spicy Rub. You’ll also find sweet treats like Grilled Peach Cobbler in Cast Iron and savory dishes like Smoked Whole Duck with Cherry Glaze. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, this collection of 20 Big Green Egg recipes has something for everyone.
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