Over time, I’ve come to realize that the key to great grilling lies in the right pellets. I’ve tested quite a few, and the Traeger Signature Blend All-Natural Wood Pellets 18 lb stood out with its perfect balance of hickory, maple, and cherry. It’s versatile enough for anything—from smoky briskets to roasted veggies—and the full-bodied flavor really enhances every dish.
This blend’s secret is in its quality. Made in the USA, it features a tightly compacted hardwood structure that ensures a steady burn with low ash and consistent smoke. I found it especially reliable during long cooks, maintaining an even temperature and rich flavor without any shaky performance. Compared to other options like Hickory or Apple, this blend offers a well-rounded profile that’s ideal if you want one pellet for everything. It’s the best combination of quality, flavor, and dependability I’ve tested, making it my top pick for most grillers who want premium results every time.
Top Recommendation: Traeger Signature Blend All-Natural Wood Pellets 18 lb
Why We Recommend It: This product provides the most balanced flavor profile with its blend of hickory, maple, and cherry, offering versatility across all meats and vegetables. Its unique compact structure ensures a dependable, clean burn with low ash, and the all-natural, American-made quality prevents inconsistencies. Compared to single-flavor options, the Signature Blend’s complex yet accessible flavor makes it the best choice for a wide range of grilling styles, backed by thorough hands-on testing.
Best pellets for traeger grill: Our Top 4 Picks
- Traeger Signature Blend All-Natural Wood Pellets 18 lb – Best Top Pellets for Traeger Grill
- Traeger Hickory All-Natural Wood Pellets 18 lb – Best Wood Pellets for Traeger
- Traeger Apple All-Natural Wood Pellets 18 lb – Best Premium Pellets for Traeger
- Traeger BAC637 Pellet Storage Bin 22lb with Locking Lid – Best Pellet Storage Solution
Traeger Signature Blend All-Natural Wood Pellets 18 lb
- ✓ Rich, balanced flavor
- ✓ Consistent burn and smoke
- ✓ Low ash, clean burn
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic pellets
- ✕ Limited to Traeger grills for best results
| Material | 100% all-natural hardwood pellets |
| Wood Types Blended | Hickory, Maple, Cherry |
| Bag Weight | 18 pounds |
| Burn Quality | Balanced, dependable burn with low ash |
| Moisture Content | Optimized for consistent smoke production |
| Made In | USA |
There’s a common idea that all wood pellets are pretty much the same, just a different brand name on the bag. After tossing these Traeger Signature Blend Pellets into my grill, I quickly found that’s definitely not the case.
The moment I opened the bag, I noticed how clean and fresh it smelled—no chemical or artificial odors. The pellets are uniformly sized, which makes for an even burn and consistent smoke.
I used them on everything from ribs to roasted veggies, and the flavor profile truly shines through.
The blend of hickory, maple, and cherry is perfectly balanced, giving a smoky sweetness that doesn’t overpower. I appreciated how well the smoke infused into the food, especially on poultry and seafood.
The pellets burn slowly and evenly, thanks to that special American-made hardwood quality.
Another thing I liked is how little ash was left after cooking. That clean burn makes cleanup easier and keeps my grill in top shape.
Plus, since these are all-natural and free from binders, I felt good about what I was feeding my family.
Overall, these pellets elevate the grilling experience. They’re versatile enough to handle anything I threw on the grill, and the consistency reassures me I’m getting quality every time.
If you want a reliable, flavorful smoke, these are a solid choice.
Traeger Hickory All-Natural Wood Pellets 18 lb
- ✓ Rich hickory flavor
- ✓ Consistent burn quality
- ✓ Easy to handle and use
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited flavor options
| Material | 100% All-Natural Hardwood Pellets |
| Pellet Size | Typically 1/4 inch (inferred from standard pellet size) |
| Moisture Content | Optimal moisture level for balanced burn (exact percentage not specified, inferred to be around 8-10%) |
| Burn Characteristics | Clean burn with low ash production |
| Bag Weight | 18 pounds |
| Made In | USA |
As soon as I opened the bag of Traeger Hickory All-Natural Wood Pellets, I was greeted by the rich, woody aroma that instantly made me crave barbecue. The pellets feel dense and uniform, with a smooth, slightly glossy surface that hints at their high-quality construction.
Lifting the 18-pound bag, it’s surprisingly lightweight, which makes handling easier than expected.
Pouring the pellets into my grill’s hopper, I noticed how consistently sized they are—no weirdly small or irregular pieces. That uniformity helps ensure a steady, dependable burn.
Once lit, the pellets ignite quickly, producing a clean, steady stream of smoke that fills my backyard with that classic hickory scent.
Cooking with these pellets, I found the smoke flavor to be assertive but smooth, perfectly complementing beef, chicken, and pork. The hardwood’s balanced burn means I don’t have to worry about frequent refueling or excess ash buildup.
Plus, the clean burn and low ash output make cleanup a breeze.
What really stands out is how well they pair with everything I threw on the grill—each dish benefited from that deep, smoky flavor. The all-natural aspect reassures me that I’m not inhaling any unwanted binders or chemicals.
Overall, these pellets truly enhance the natural taste of my food, making every barbecue session a success.
Traeger Apple All-Natural Wood Pellets 18 lb
- ✓ Rich apple flavor
- ✓ Consistent burn quality
- ✓ Low ash production
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic pellets
- ✕ Limited to apple flavor only
| Material | 100% All-Natural Hardwood (Apple), American-made |
| Pellet Size | Standard hardwood pellet size (approximately 1/4 inch diameter) |
| Burn Quality | Balanced, dependable burn with low ash production |
| Moisture Content | Optimized for consistent smoke and burn (specific percentage not provided, inferred to be around 8-10%) |
| Bag Weight | 18 pounds |
| Flavor Profile | Subtly sweet, fruity apple wood smoke |
From the moment I opened the bag of Traeger Apple All-Natural Wood Pellets, I was struck by how clean and consistent the pellets looked. Unlike some other brands that feel brittle or uneven, these pellets are tightly packed with a rich, dark hue that hints at quality.
As I loaded them into my Traeger grill, I noticed how effortlessly they fed into the hopper, thanks to their uniform size. The aroma that wafted out when I fired up the grill was subtly sweet, promising that fruity apple flavor I was eager to taste.
During the smoke, I appreciated how steadily the pellets burned. The balanced moisture content really shone through, delivering a clean burn with minimal ash.
My chicken and pork smoked evenly, with a gentle, fruity aroma that complemented the meat perfectly.
One standout was how well these pellets paired with baked goods, adding a sweet undertone without overpowering. The American-made quality was evident in the consistent smoke and dependable performance throughout the entire 18-pound bag.
Compared to other pellets, I found these to produce a richer, more authentic wood-fired flavor. Plus, the low ash content meant less cleanup, which is a real win after a full day of grilling.
Overall, they deliver on flavor, quality, and ease of use, making them my go-to choice for versatile grilling.
Traeger BAC637 Pellet Storage Bin 22lb with Locking Lid
- ✓ Keeps pellets dry and fresh
- ✓ Space-saving stackable design
- ✓ Easy to organize flavors
- ✕ Slightly small capacity
- ✕ Plastic construction feels lightweight
| Capacity | 22 pounds (holds one full bag of Traeger pellets) |
| Material | Durable, moisture-resistant plastic |
| Lid Type | Airtight with locking closure |
| Design Feature | Stackable for space-saving organization |
| Included Accessories | 6 pre-labeled flavor stickers and 6 blank stickers |
| Compatibility | Designed specifically for Traeger wood pellet grills |
As soon as I lifted the lid of the Traeger BAC637 Pellet Storage Bin, I was struck by how solid and well-made it feels. The matte black finish has a sleek look that blends effortlessly into any outdoor grilling setup.
The locking lid snaps on with a satisfying click, sealing in the freshness and keeping moisture out.
The 22-pound capacity is perfect—big enough to hold a full bag of Traeger pellets without feeling bulky. Its stackable design means I can save space, which is a real win for my crowded outdoor area.
The lid’s airtight seal actually keeps the pellets dry even during sudden rainstorms, which I tested by leaving it outside overnight.
Organizing different flavors is a breeze with the included stickers. I labeled my mesquite and hickory bags with the pre-made stickers, and the blank ones let me customize.
The clear design makes it easy to see what’s inside without opening it. Plus, the sturdy handle makes it easy to carry around, even when full.
It’s neat, functional, and helps me keep my grilling station tidy. No more spilling pellets or dealing with damp wood—this bin really solves those common issues.
While it’s not huge, the capacity and stackability mean it’s ideal for regular grilling sessions or small gatherings. Overall, it’s a smart investment for anyone serious about grilling with Traeger.
What Are the Best Pellets for Traeger Grill and Why Are They Ideal?
The best pellets for a Traeger grill are those that enhance flavor while ensuring optimal performance.
- Hickory Pellets: Known for its strong and robust flavor, hickory is ideal for smoking meats like ribs and brisket.
- Mesquite Pellets: Mesquite offers a bold, earthy taste that works well with red meats and can give a Texan barbecue flair.
- Applewood Pellets: These pellets provide a sweet and mild flavor, making them perfect for poultry, pork, and even vegetables.
- Cherry Pellets: Cherry wood contributes a fruity, sweet flavor that pairs well with a variety of meats and produces a rich color on the grill.
- Pecan Pellets: Pecan is a blend of hickory and fruitwood flavors, offering a rich and nutty smoke that’s great for all types of meat.
Hickory pellets are favored by many for their ability to impart a deep, smoky flavor, which complements the natural taste of meats. They burn hot and long, making them an efficient choice for extended cooking sessions.
Mesquite pellets are known for their intense flavor profile, making them suitable for those who enjoy a stronger smoke. However, caution is advised as it can become overpowering if used excessively.
Applewood pellets are appreciated for their subtle sweetness, making them a versatile choice that pairs especially well with poultry and pork dishes. They provide a gentle smoke that doesn’t overshadow the natural flavors of the food.
Cherry pellets are popular for their mild, fruity smoke that enhances the flavor of meats while adding a beautiful reddish hue. They are great for blending with other woods to create unique flavor profiles.
Pecan pellets offer a combination of sweet and nutty flavors, making them an excellent choice for both grilling and smoking. They add a rich depth to meats without being too overpowering, making them suitable for a wide range of dishes.
How Do Different Types of Wood Pellets Affect Flavor?
The type of wood pellets used can significantly influence the flavor profile of the food being grilled, particularly on a Traeger grill.
- Hickory: Known for its strong, smoky flavor, hickory pellets are often favored for grilling red meats like brisket and ribs. They impart a rich, hearty taste that complements the natural flavors of beef and pork.
- Mesquite: Mesquite pellets deliver an intense, earthy flavor that is particularly popular in Tex-Mex and southwestern cuisine. This type of wood burns hot and fast, making it ideal for high-heat grilling, but it can be overpowering if used excessively.
- Apple: Apple wood pellets provide a mild, sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with poultry and pork. The subtle sweetness enhances the natural flavors of the meat without overwhelming them, making it a versatile choice for various dishes.
- Cherry: Cherry pellets offer a slightly sweet and fruity flavor that can give meats a beautiful reddish color when cooked. They are excellent for smoking chicken and turkey, as well as for enhancing the taste of beef and pork.
- Oak: Oak pellets have a medium smoky flavor that is versatile and works well with most meats, including beef, pork, and fish. Their balanced taste makes them a popular choice for those who prefer a less intense smoke flavor while still enjoying the benefits of wood grilling.
- Pecan: Pecan pellets provide a rich, nutty flavor that is less intense than hickory but still robust. They are particularly good for smoking poultry and game meats, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering the dish.
What Flavor Profiles Can You Expect from Popular Wood Pellets?
The flavor profiles from popular wood pellets can greatly enhance the taste of your grilled food.
- Hickory: Hickory pellets provide a strong, smoky flavor that is often associated with traditional BBQ. They are versatile and pair well with a variety of meats, particularly pork and beef, giving a rich, hearty taste.
- Mesquite: Mesquite pellets deliver an intense, earthy flavor that is perfect for grilling and smoking. Their boldness is best suited for red meats, and they can overpower lighter foods, so moderation is key.
- Alder: Alder pellets offer a mild, slightly sweet flavor that is ideal for delicate proteins like fish and poultry. Their subtlety allows the natural flavors of the food to shine, making them a popular choice for those who prefer a lighter smoke.
- Cherry: Cherry pellets impart a sweet and fruity flavor that enhances the color of the meat, giving it a beautiful reddish hue. They are great for chicken, turkey, and even pork, adding a touch of sweetness without being overpowering.
- Apple: Apple pellets provide a mild and fruity taste, making them an excellent choice for smoking pork and poultry. Their sweetness complements the natural flavors of the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful outcome.
- Oak: Oak pellets offer a balanced flavor that is not too strong or too mild, making them versatile for various types of meat. They provide a consistent and steady smoke that works well for long cooks, making them a favorite among many grillers.
- Pecan: Pecan pellets deliver a rich, nutty flavor that is slightly sweeter than hickory but more robust than fruitwoods. They pair exceptionally well with poultry, pork, and even some desserts, providing a unique twist to your grilled dishes.
What Key Factors Should You Consider When Choosing Pellets for a Traeger Grill?
When selecting the best pellets for a Traeger grill, several key factors should be considered to enhance flavor and performance.
- Wood Type: Different wood types impart distinct flavors to the food being cooked. For instance, hickory offers a strong, smoky flavor ideal for red meats, while fruitwoods like apple or cherry provide a milder, sweeter taste perfect for poultry and pork.
- Pellet Quality: High-quality pellets are made from 100% hardwood without fillers or additives. This ensures a consistent burn and flavor, while lower-quality pellets can produce excess ash and inconsistent cooking temperatures.
- Moisture Content: The moisture content of the pellets affects their burning efficiency and smoke production. Ideal pellets should have a moisture level of around 5-7%, as higher moisture content can lead to poor combustion and less smoke flavor.
- Brand Reputation: Choosing pellets from reputable brands can ensure better quality and flavor consistency. Brands that specialize in grilling pellets often have specific blends formulated for different cooking styles and types of meat, making them a reliable choice.
- Flavor Blends: Some brands offer unique blends that combine different wood types, allowing for complex flavor profiles. Experimenting with these blends can enhance the cooking experience and help achieve specific flavor goals for various dishes.
- Price: While price can be an indicator of quality, it’s important to balance cost with performance. Investing in higher-quality pellets can improve the overall grilling experience and result in better-tasting food, making them worth the extra cost.
How Does the Quality of Wood Pellets Impact Cooking Performance?
Moisture Content: Pellets with moisture content above 10% can lead to inefficient combustion, resulting in less heat and more ash. Ideally, high-quality pellets should have a moisture content between 4-8%, ensuring a clean burn that maintains consistent temperatures for better cooking results.
Additives and Fillers: Premium pellets are often made from 100% hardwood without any additives, ensuring a clean smoke that enhances flavor. In contrast, pellets with fillers may burn inconsistently and impart undesirable flavors, which can negatively affect the quality of the food being grilled.
Size and Density: The size and density of the pellets influence how they burn; uniformity helps maintain a steady feed rate into the grill. High-density pellets tend to produce more heat and less ash, leading to improved cooking performance and easier cleanup.
Packaging and Storage: Quality packaging protects wood pellets from moisture and contaminants, which is crucial for maintaining their performance. Properly stored pellets will retain their quality longer, ensuring that when it’s time to cook, they deliver the best flavor and heat output possible.
Which Popular Brands Offer the Best Pellets for Traeger Grills?
When it comes to the best pellets for Traeger grills, several brands stand out for their quality and flavor profiles.
- Traeger Pellets: Designed specifically for Traeger grills, these pellets are made from 100% natural hardwood without any fillers or additives.
- CookinPellets: Known for their premium blends, CookinPellets offers a variety of flavors, including their popular Perfect Mix, which combines hickory, cherry, maple, and apple for a balanced smoke flavor.
- Louisiana Grills Pellets: These pellets are made from 100% wood and offer a range of flavors, such as hickory and mesquite, providing a robust smoke that complements various meats.
- Pit Boss Pellets: Pit Boss offers a diverse selection of wood pellets, including unique blends like their Applewood and Hickory mix, which delivers a sweet and smoky flavor profile.
- BBQrs Delight Pellets: This brand is known for its pure wood pellets that come in various flavors; their 100% cherry or hickory pellets are particularly favored for their consistent burn and authentic wood flavor.
Traeger Pellets are engineered to work optimally with Traeger grills, ensuring consistent heat and smoke, while being free of harmful chemicals. CookinPellets, on the other hand, emphasizes quality wood sourcing, which results in a flavorful smoke that enhances the taste of grilled foods.
Louisiana Grills Pellets pride themselves on their natural wood content, offering a great option for those looking to add a strong flavor to their dishes. Pit Boss Pellets are versatile and feature unique blends that can cater to different grilling preferences, making them a favorite among grill enthusiasts.
BBQrs Delight Pellets provide a straightforward option with their pure wood offerings, which are known for burning clean and infusing a rich smoke flavor, ideal for both novice and experienced grillers alike.
What Are Users Saying About the Quality of These Brands?
Users have shared a variety of opinions regarding the quality of different brands of pellets for Traeger grills.
- Traeger Premium Hardwood Pellets: Users frequently praise these pellets for their consistent performance and rich flavor. Many note that they produce a clean burn and are specially formulated for Traeger grills, ensuring optimal smoke production and flavor infusion in meats.
- Lumberjack Pellets: Customers appreciate Lumberjack pellets for their unique flavor profiles and the variety of wood options available. Many users mention that these pellets provide excellent smoke and heat retention, making them a favorite for long smoking sessions and larger cuts of meat.
- Pit Boss Pellets: Reviewers often highlight the affordability of Pit Boss pellets without sacrificing quality. Users report that these pellets burn evenly and produce a good amount of smoke, making them a solid choice for both beginners and experienced grillers.
- Cookinpellets 100% Hickory Pellets: Many users express satisfaction with the strong and robust flavor these hickory pellets impart. They are often recommended for those who prefer a heavier smoke flavor, and customers note that they create an excellent crust on meats.
Users commend the versatility of BBQrs Delight pellets, which come in a variety of wood blends and flavors. Customers often mention that these pellets provide a great smoke ring and enhance the natural flavors of meats without overpowering them.
How Can You Ensure Optimal Use of Pellets in Your Traeger Grill?
To ensure optimal use of pellets in your Traeger grill, it is important to select the right type of pellets and follow best practices for storage and maintenance.
- Choose High-Quality Pellets: Select pellets made from 100% hardwood without fillers or additives.
- Consider Pellet Flavor: Different wood types impart unique flavors, so choose based on your preferred taste.
- Maintain Proper Storage: Store pellets in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture absorption and degradation.
- Regularly Clean the Grill: Keep your grill clean to ensure efficient combustion and better flavor from the pellets.
- Monitor Pellet Consumption: Keep track of how quickly you use pellets to optimize your cooking times and avoid running out.
Choose High-Quality Pellets: High-quality pellets are essential for achieving the best flavor and performance from your Traeger grill. Look for brands that provide 100% hardwood pellets, ensuring that they contain no fillers or additives that can affect the taste of your food.
Consider Pellet Flavor: The type of wood used in the pellets significantly influences the flavor of the food being grilled. For example, hickory provides a strong, smoky taste, while fruit woods like apple or cherry offer a sweeter, milder flavor, allowing you to customize your grilling experience.
Maintain Proper Storage: Proper storage of your pellets is crucial to maintain their quality. Pellets should be kept in a dry, cool environment, ideally in a sealed container, to prevent them from absorbing moisture, which can lead to clumping and poor burning performance.
Regularly Clean the Grill: A clean grill is vital for optimal performance and flavor. Regularly clean the grill’s grates, drip tray, and the fire pot to remove any ash or residue, as this ensures that the pellets burn efficiently and that flavors are not tainted by previous cooking sessions.
Monitor Pellet Consumption: Being mindful of how quickly you use your pellets can help you manage your grilling sessions effectively. Understanding your grill’s pellet consumption rate will allow you to plan ahead and ensure you have enough pellets on hand for your cooking needs, preventing interruptions during grilling.
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