Cooking for kids can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially when it comes to introducing new flavors and healthy options. But what if you could turn that challenge into a fun culinary adventure?
With the rise of home smoking techniques, parents can create mouthwatering meals that are not only delicious but also ignite a sense of excitement in young eaters.
In this article, we’ve compiled 30+ kid-friendly smoker recipes that are guaranteed to make mealtime enjoyable for the whole family. From smoky sliders to sweet desserts, these recipes are designed to appeal to kids’ tastes while also incorporating nutritious ingredients.
So fire up that smoker, gather the family, and get ready to explore a world of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
30+ Delicious Kid-Friendly Smoker Recipes for Family Fun
Incorporating smoking into your family meals doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating. With these 30+ kid-friendly smoker recipes, you can create delicious and fun meals that your children will look forward to.
Not only do these recipes allow for creativity in the kitchen, but they also provide an opportunity to bond with your kids as they help prepare the food.
Smoking brings out unique flavors that will make even the pickiest eaters enthusiastic about their meals. So, whether it’s a weekend barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner, these recipes will ensure that mealtime is a delightful experience filled with smoky goodness and happy faces.
Embrace the adventure of cooking with your smoker and watch as your family enjoys meals like never before!
Smoked Chicken Tenders
Smoked chicken tenders are a delicious and healthy way to introduce kids to the rich flavors of smoking. These juicy, flavorful chicken strips are seasoned with a mild blend of spices, making them perfect for dipping in their favorite sauces.
The smoking process keeps the chicken tender while infusing it with a subtle smoky taste that kids will love.
- Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: dipping sauces (barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard)
- Instructions:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the chicken tenders evenly with the spice mixture.
- Place the chicken tenders in the smoker and smoke for about 1 hour or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with your choice of dipping sauces.
These smoked chicken tenders are a fantastic way to get kids excited about trying new foods. The process of smoking not only enhances the flavors but also keeps the chicken juicy and tender, making it easy for kids to enjoy.
Pair them with a variety of fun dipping sauces to turn mealtime into an interactive experience. Watch as your little ones enjoy these flavorful bites, and consider making extra to enjoy as leftovers or in sandwiches the next day!
Smoked Mac and Cheese
Smoked mac and cheese is a comforting dish that combines the creaminess of cheese with a smoky twist, making it an instant hit with kids.
This recipe is easy to prepare and allows the rich flavors of smoked cheese and a hint of wood smoke to permeate the creamy pasta, resulting in a dish that’s both delicious and fun to eat.
- Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded smoked cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
- Instructions:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the smoked cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni and mix well.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.
- Place the dish in the smoker and smoke for about 30-45 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
Smoked mac and cheese transforms a classic comfort food into a smoky delight that kids will beg for at every meal. The creamy cheese combined with the unique flavor from the smoke creates a dish that is both rich and satisfying.
This recipe is not only easy to make but also allows for creativity—feel free to add cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, or vegetables to customize it to your child’s taste.
Serve it alongside grilled chicken or veggies for a complete meal that the whole family can enjoy.
Smoked Veggie Kabobs
Smoked veggie kabobs are a colorful and nutritious option for kids who are learning to appreciate a variety of vegetables.
The smoking process brings out the natural sweetness of the veggies, making them more appealing to young palates.
Plus, the fun of eating food on a stick is sure to delight children!
- Ingredients:
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 8 ounces mushrooms, whole
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Instructions:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the sliced zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and mushrooms to the bowl, tossing to coat all the vegetables evenly.
- Thread the vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between different types for a colorful presentation.
- Place the kabobs in the smoker and smoke for about 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
Smoked veggie kabobs are a fantastic way to encourage kids to eat more vegetables while enjoying the delicious smoky flavor. The vibrant colors and the interactive nature of eating food on a stick make it a fun meal option.
You can customize the kabobs with any vegetables your kids like, such as pineapple or corn, and even add some cubed chicken or sausage for added protein.
These kabobs are perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or as a fun side dish to accompany any main course. Enjoy the smiles as your kids explore new flavors and textures!
Smoked BBQ Meatballs
Smoked BBQ meatballs are a delicious twist on a classic favorite. These tender meatballs are infused with smoky flavor and slathered in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, making them perfect for kids.
The fun of eating meatballs on a stick or with their favorite dipping sauce makes this recipe a hit at family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
- Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Instructions:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the meatballs in the smoker and smoke for about 1 hour, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush the meatballs with BBQ sauce to glaze them.
- Serve with additional BBQ sauce for dipping.
These smoked BBQ meatballs are a fantastic way to introduce kids to the smoky flavors of grilling. The combination of sweet barbecue sauce and the tender meatballs creates a comforting dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Serve them as an appetizer at parties or as a main dish alongside macaroni and cheese or roasted vegetables. With their irresistible flavor and fun presentation, these meatballs will quickly become a family favorite!
Smoked Fruit Skewers
Smoked fruit skewers are a healthy and fun dessert option that kids will adore. The smoking process enhances the natural sweetness of the fruits, creating a delightful treat that can be enjoyed warm or cold.
These colorful skewers are perfect for a summer barbecue or as a playful after-school snack.
- Ingredients:
- 1 pineapple, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled
- 2 peaches, pitted and cut into wedges
- 1 cup marshmallows (optional)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- Wooden skewers
- Instructions:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- Thread the pineapple, strawberries, peaches, and marshmallows onto the skewers, alternating between the different fruits for variety.
- Drizzle the skewers with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.
- Place the fruit skewers in the smoker and smoke for about 30 minutes, or until the fruits are slightly softened and caramelized.
- Remove from the smoker and let cool slightly before serving.
Smoked fruit skewers are a deliciously sweet way to encourage kids to eat more fruit. The smoky flavor combined with the natural sweetness of the fruits creates a unique dessert experience.
These skewers are not only fun to eat but also visually appealing, making them an excellent addition to any gathering. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, they provide a refreshing treat that’s perfect for hot days or as a nutritious dessert option.
Let your kids help with assembling the skewers for added fun in the kitchen!
Smoked Cheesy Broccoli
Smoked cheesy broccoli is a tasty and nutritious side dish that kids will actually want to eat. The combination of fresh broccoli, creamy cheese, and a hint of smoke creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. This recipe not only provides essential vitamins and minerals but also introduces kids to the delicious flavor of smoked vegetables.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Instructions:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Place the broccoli directly on the smoker rack or in a grill basket.
- Smoke the broccoli for about 30-40 minutes, or until it is tender and slightly charred.
- Once the broccoli is done, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and return it to the smoker for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Smoked cheesy broccoli is a delightful way to make vegetables more appealing to kids. The smoking process enhances the flavor of the broccoli, while the melted cheese adds a creamy texture that kids will love.
This dish is perfect as a side for grilled meats or as part of a veggie platter at family gatherings. By transforming a simple vegetable into a smoky, cheesy delight, you’ll encourage your kids to explore new flavors while enjoying a nutritious meal.
Enjoy the smiles as they dig into this tasty side dish!
Smoked Sweet Potato Wedges
Smoked sweet potato wedges are a nutritious and tasty side dish that kids will love. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes is enhanced by the smoky flavor, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and savory goodness.
These wedges are easy to make and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces, making them an ideal addition to any meal.
- Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: dipping sauces (ketchup, ranch dressing, or honey)
- Instructions:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then cut them into wedges.
- In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato wedges with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the wedges in the smoker, ensuring they are spread out in a single layer.
- Smoke the sweet potato wedges for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are tender and slightly crispy on the outside.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces.
Smoked sweet potato wedges are a delicious way to introduce kids to healthy eating. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, combined with the smoky flavor, creates a delightful snack or side dish that complements any meal.
Not only are they easy to make, but they also offer a nutritious alternative to traditional fries. With a variety of dipping sauces to choose from, your kids will enjoy these tasty wedges as a fun and interactive way to eat their veggies.
Serve them alongside burgers, chicken, or even as a snack during family movie night!
Smoked Pizza Bites
Smoked pizza bites are a fun and interactive way to enjoy the flavors of pizza without the need for a traditional oven. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for kids, combining the beloved flavors of pizza with a smoky twist.
Easy to prepare and customize, these pizza bites are ideal for parties, playdates, or a cozy family dinner.
- Ingredients:
- 1 package of refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup pepperoni slices (or other favorite toppings)
- ½ cup pizza sauce for dipping
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Olive oil for brushing
- Instructions:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface and cut it into small squares, about 2 inches by 2 inches.
- Place a small amount of mozzarella cheese and pepperoni on each square, then fold the dough over to create a pocket. Pinch the edges to seal.
- Brush the tops of the dough pockets with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
- Arrange the pizza bites in the smoker and smoke for about 30 minutes, or until the dough is golden and cooked through.
- Serve with pizza sauce for dipping.
Smoked pizza bites are a fantastic way to make pizza night exciting for kids. The smoky flavor enhances the cheese and toppings, creating a unique twist on a classic favorite.
These little pockets are not only delicious but also encourage kids to get creative with their fillings—try adding vegetables, different cheeses, or even barbecue chicken!
Perfect for parties or as a fun weeknight meal, these pizza bites will quickly become a family favorite, sparking joy and laughter around the dinner table.
Smoked Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Bites
Smoked garlic parmesan cauliflower bites are a nutritious, flavorful snack that kids will enjoy. The smoking process adds depth to the cauliflower, while the garlic and parmesan create a savory coating that makes these bites irresistible.
This recipe is a great way to get kids to eat their vegetables, offering a crunchy, cheesy treat that’s perfect for snacking.
- Ingredients:
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
- Instructions:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the cauliflower is evenly coated.
- Place the cauliflower in the smoker and smoke for about 30 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.
- Remove the cauliflower from the smoker and immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the hot florets, tossing to coat.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Smoked garlic parmesan cauliflower bites are a fantastic way to introduce kids to the world of healthy snacking. The combination of smoky flavor and cheesy goodness makes these bites incredibly appealing, transforming a simple vegetable into a delicious treat.
This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a versatile option for family meals or party platters.
Serve these cauliflower bites alongside your favorite dip or as a side dish to grilled meats, and watch as your kids eagerly reach for more of this wholesome and flavorful snack!
Smoked Mini Corn Dogs
Smoked mini corn dogs are a fun and tasty twist on a classic fair food. These bite-sized treats are perfect for kids, offering the familiar taste of corn dogs with the added bonus of smoky flavor.
They are easy to prepare and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces, making them a hit at parties, family gatherings, or game day.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 pound hot dogs (mini or cut into smaller pieces)
- Oil for frying (for an alternative method)
- Optional: mustard or ketchup for dipping
- Instructions:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Insert skewers into each hot dog, then dip them into the cornmeal batter until fully coated.
- Place the battered hot dogs in the smoker and smoke for about 30-40 minutes, or until the batter is cooked and slightly crispy.
- Serve with mustard or ketchup for dipping.
Smoked mini corn dogs are a delightful way to make meal times more fun for kids. The smoky flavor enhances the sweetness of the corn batter, while the hot dogs inside remain juicy and flavorful.
These bites are perfect for parties, allowing kids to easily grab and enjoy them with their favorite dipping sauces.
With this recipe, you can transform a classic carnival treat into a homemade masterpiece that brings smiles to the table!
Smoked Chicken Quesadillas
Smoked chicken quesadillas are a delicious and easy meal that kids will love. The smoky chicken, combined with melted cheese and flavorful vegetables, creates a cheesy, gooey delight that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
This recipe is also versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients based on your kids’ preferences.
- Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, smoked and shredded
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- Olive oil for brushing
- Instructions:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with taco seasoning and smoke for about 1 hour, or until fully cooked. Let cool, then shred the chicken.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the tortilla with a mix of the shredded cheeses, smoked chicken, and bell peppers.
- Fold the tortilla over and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown.
- Remove from the skillet and repeat with the remaining tortillas.
- Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve with salsa or sour cream.
Smoked chicken quesadillas are a fantastic way to enjoy a smoky twist on a family favorite. The combination of melted cheese, tender smoked chicken, and colorful vegetables creates a vibrant dish that appeals to kids.
This recipe allows for endless customization, so feel free to add other ingredients like corn, black beans, or even avocado.
Serve these quesadillas at your next family meal or as a fun lunch option, and watch as your kids devour them!
Smoked Marshmallow Chocolate S’mores
Smoked marshmallow chocolate s’mores are a fun and indulgent dessert that kids will love. This recipe takes the classic s’mores to the next level by infusing the marshmallows with a delicious smoky flavor.
The combination of gooey marshmallows, rich chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers makes this treat irresistible for kids and adults alike.
- Ingredients:
- 1 package of graham crackers
- 1 large bar of chocolate (milk or dark)
- 1 bag of marshmallows
- Optional: skewers for roasting
- Instructions:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- Arrange the marshmallows on a baking sheet or place them on skewers.
- Smoke the marshmallows for about 30 minutes, or until they become slightly golden and infused with smoky flavor.
- Meanwhile, break the graham crackers in half to create squares. Place a piece of chocolate on half of each graham cracker.
- Once the marshmallows are done, place one on top of the chocolate, and top with the other half of the graham cracker to create a sandwich.
- Let the s’mores sit for a minute to allow the chocolate to melt slightly before serving.
Smoked marshmallow chocolate s’mores are a delightful way to end any meal or enjoy a sweet snack. The smoky flavor adds a unique twist to the classic s’mores, making them even more exciting for kids.
These treats are perfect for family gatherings, camping trips, or cozy nights at home. Not only are they simple to make, but they also encourage kids to participate in the preparation, allowing them to create their very own s’mores.
Get ready for smiles and sticky fingers as everyone enjoys this delicious dessert!
Smoked Sliders with Cheesy Bacon
Smoked sliders with cheesy bacon are mini burgers that kids will find irresistible. The combination of smoky beef, melted cheese, and crispy bacon creates a flavor-packed treat that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
These sliders are fun to eat and easy to customize with your kids’ favorite toppings, making them an ideal choice for parties or family gatherings.
- Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Slider buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup, or mustard
- Instructions:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- In a bowl, mix the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter.
- Place the patties in the smoker and smoke for about 1 hour, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- During the last 10 minutes of cooking, place a small amount of shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on each patty to melt.
- Assemble the sliders by placing each patty on a slider bun and adding your favorite toppings.
Smoked sliders with cheesy bacon are a hit with kids and adults alike. These mini burgers offer the perfect balance of smoky flavor, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon, making them a fun and satisfying meal.
The sliders are easily customizable, so kids can choose their favorite toppings, making every bite unique.
Whether served at a birthday party, a family gathering, or a casual weeknight dinner, these sliders are sure to become a staple in your cooking rotation!
Smoked Zucchini Boats
Smoked zucchini boats are a healthy and delicious way to get kids excited about eating their vegetables.
These boats are filled with a cheesy mixture that’s both flavorful and fun to eat.
The smoking process enhances the flavors, creating a unique dish that can be served as a side or a light main course.
- Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup cooked ground turkey or chicken
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
- Instructions:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create a “boat” shape.
- In a bowl, mix the cooked ground turkey or chicken, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each zucchini boat with the mixture and place them in the smoker.
- Smoke for about 30-40 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender.
- During the last 10 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the stuffed zucchinis to melt.
- Remove from the smoker and let cool slightly before serving.
Smoked zucchini boats are a fantastic way to introduce kids to healthy eating while keeping mealtime fun. The smoky flavor adds depth to the zucchini, and the cheesy filling is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
This recipe is versatile and can be customized with different proteins or sauces, allowing kids to explore new flavors.
Serve these boats as a nutritious side dish at dinner or as a fun lunch option, and watch as your kids enjoy their veggies like never before!
Smoked Apple Cinnamon Chips
Smoked apple cinnamon chips are a delightful and healthy snack that kids will love. The combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and a hint of smoke creates a perfect balance of flavors.
These chips are not only easy to make but also provide a nutritious alternative to traditional snacks, making them a great option for after-school munching.
- Ingredients:
- 3-4 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- Lemon juice to prevent browning
- Optional: dipping sauces (caramel, yogurt, or peanut butter)
- Instructions:
- Preheat your smoker to 200°F (93°C).
- Wash and core the apples, then slice them thinly (about 1/8 inch thick). Toss the slices in lemon juice to prevent browning.
- In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and sugar (if using).
- Sprinkle the cinnamon mixture over the apple slices, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Arrange the apple slices in a single layer on a baking sheet or in a smoker-safe basket.
- Smoke the apple slices for about 1-2 hours, or until they are dried and crispy.
- Let cool before serving.
Smoked apple cinnamon chips are a delicious and wholesome snack that kids can enjoy any time of day. The smoky flavor adds a unique twist to the natural sweetness of the apples, while the cinnamon brings warmth and comfort to each bite.
These chips are perfect for after-school snacks, packed lunches, or even as a fun treat for movie nights. Encourage your kids to help make these chips, allowing them to explore new flavors and learn about healthy eating.
With their crispy texture and delightful taste, these apple chips will quickly become a family favorite!
Note: More recipes are coming soon!