Who says appetizers have to stay on the sidelines? These 21 meaty bites are packed with bold flavors, smoky edges, and satisfying textures — hearty enough to steal the spotlight as a full meal. From pork egg rolls and smoked shotgun shells to buffalo chicken jalapeño poppers and BBQ-loaded nachos, each dish brings serious protein and punchy flavor. Whether you’re planning a party, firing up the grill, or just craving something indulgent for dinner, these appetizer-inspired mains deliver big taste in small packages.
Pork Egg Rolls
These crispy Pork Egg Rolls are packed with seasoned ground pork and fresh vegetables, offering a perfect crunch in every bite. Whether deep-fried or air-fried, they’re a versatile choice for appetizers, snacks, or main dishes, especially when served with your favorite dipping sauce.
Get the Recipe: Pork Egg Rolls
Birria Nachos
Birria Nachos are a flavorful, over-the-top version of traditional birria, layering slow-cooked beef, gooey cheese, and fresh toppings over crispy tortilla chips. Ideal for game day or casual entertaining, they bring bold flavor and serious crowd appeal.
Get the Recipe: Birria Nachos
Traeger Pork Belly Burnt Ends
Traeger Pork Belly Burnt Ends are smoky, sticky, and irresistibly tender, slow-cooked to perfection and glazed for that signature caramelized finish. A BBQ favorite, they make a standout appetizer or indulgent main course.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Pork Belly Burnt Ends
Steamed Pork Dumplings
Steamed Pork Dumplings are tender and savory, combining seasoned pork filling with delicate wrappers for a bite-sized treat. Steamed to perfection and often finished with a light browning, they’re a must-have for dumpling lovers.
Get the Recipe: Steamed Pork Dumplings
Chili Cheese Glizzy Tots
Chili Cheese Glizzy Tots are a playful, indulgent dish that combines crispy tater tots with sliced hot dogs, hearty chili, and melted cheese. This comfort food mash-up is perfect for game days or casual snacks with friends.
Get the Recipe: Chili Cheese Glizzy Tots
Blackstone Smash Lumpia
Blackstone Smash Lumpia delivers all the flavor of traditional lumpia with a quicker, griddle-friendly approach—no rolling or sealing required. Cooked meat-side down, these flattened rolls come out crisp and golden every time.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Smash Lumpia
Breaded Smoked and Fried Buffalo Wings
Breaded Smoked and Fried Buffalo Wings offer the best of both worlds: deep smoky flavor and crispy, golden texture. Tossed in classic Buffalo sauce, they’re bold, juicy, and perfect for wing lovers craving a spicy kick.
Get the Recipe: Breaded Smoked and Fried Buffalo Wings
Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Poppers
Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Poppers fuse two game-day favorites into one spicy, cheesy bite. The bold buffalo flavor pairs perfectly with the heat of the jalapeños, making these a party-ready appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Poppers
Smoked Over The Top Queso Con Carne
Smoked Over The Top Queso Con Carne is a rich and smoky dip that combines creamy cheese with hearty, flavorful meat. Perfect for dipping at parties or gatherings, it brings indulgent flavor to the table.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Over The Top Queso Con Carne
Smoked Cheesesteak Jalapeño Poppers
Smoked Cheesesteak Jalapeño Poppers are a bold fusion snack that marries the savory flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the spicy bite of jalapeños. These poppers are a creative twist on a classic appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cheesesteak Jalapeño Poppers
Traeger Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
Traeger Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are flaky, golden pastries filled with savory ham, cheddar cheese, and a touch of mustard. Baked to perfection on the Traeger, they’re ideal for parties or as a tasty snack.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
Traeger BBQ Pork Nachos
Traeger BBQ Pork Nachos elevate the classic nacho experience with smoky, tender pulled pork layered over tortilla chips and topped with melted cheese. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish made for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Traeger BBQ Pork Nachos
Traeger Grilled Meatball Bread
Traeger Grilled Meatball Bread is a hearty and unique mash-up that grills seasoned meatballs and bread together for a smoky, satisfying dish. A creative way to reimagine comfort food with a barbecue twist.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Grilled Meatball Bread
Traeger Carnitas Taquitos
Traeger Carnitas Taquitos feature crispy rolled tortillas filled with juicy smoked carnitas, delivering smoky flavor in every bite. They’re a great finger food for parties or casual meals.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Carnitas Taquitos
Coconut Pecan Shrimp
Coconut Pecan Shrimp is a tropical-inspired seafood dish that coats shrimp in a crunchy coconut and pecan breading. The result is a sweet-savory combo with a unique texture, ideal for an island-themed meal.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Pecan Shrimp
Traeger Smoked Shotgun Shells
Traeger Smoked Shotgun Shells are a meaty and cheesy appetizer made from stuffed pasta tubes that are smoked until perfectly tender. This fun and flavorful dish is a conversation starter at any barbecue.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Shotgun Shells
Garlic Parmesan Smoked Wings
Garlic Parmesan Smoked Wings combine the deep flavor of smoke with a rich garlic and cheese coating. They’re a savory twist on traditional wings, perfect for fans of bold, non-spicy flavor profiles.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Smoked Wings
Traeger Smoked Hot Crab Dip
Traeger Smoked Hot Crab Dip brings creamy, cheesy seafood flavor with a hint of smoke, creating a rich and indulgent appetizer. It’s a luxurious dish ideal for entertaining or special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Hot Crab Dip
Traeger Smoked Grape Jelly Meatballs
Traeger Smoked Grape Jelly Meatballs are a fun twist on a party classic, blending smoky flavor with sweet jelly glaze for a surprising and addictive bite. They’re easy to make and always a hit at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Grape Jelly Meatballs
Smoked Loaded Potato Skins
Smoked Loaded Potato Skins take a familiar favorite and infuse it with smoky goodness, topping crispy potato halves with cheese, bacon, and more. They’re a flavorful choice for game day or BBQ sides.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Loaded Potato Skins
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a refreshing and zesty dish packed with plump shrimp, crisp vegetables, and a tangy tomato-based sauce. Served chilled, it’s a perfect starter for warm-weather meals or light entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Shrimp Cocktail