Today, I’m diving into the Traeger Pro 575 Pellet Grill, showing you how it simplifies smoking, why it’s my go-to for perfect smoke infusion, and sharing my first smoking session with some mouth-watering cuts. Whether you’re a seasoned barbecue master or just starting out, this grill could be a game-changer for you.
About Traeger Pro 575
Traeger has been a pioneer in the pellet grill market since its inception. Founded in 1985, Traeger revolutionized outdoor cooking with its wood pellet grills, bringing the ease of use and exceptional flavor of wood-fired cooking to backyards everywhere.
The Traeger Pro 575 is a versatile grill that offers 572 square inches of cooking space, making it perfect for large family meals or gatherings with friends. Priced at $799.99, it provides great value with features like WiFIRE® technology, a D2® Controller for precise temperature control, and TurboTemp® for quick heat recovery.
Why I Chose the Traeger Pro 575
Before the Traeger Pro 575, my smoking setup was a classic charcoal grill. While it did the job, maintaining a consistent temperature was a hassle. I spent more time babysitting the grill than enjoying the cookout. The Traeger Pro 575 promised to change that with its set-it-and-forget-it convenience and Wi-Fi connectivity. I could monitor everything from my phone, set alarms, and even keep tabs on the cooking without stepping outside.
For under $1,000, I purchased the grill and a few essential accessories:
- Traeger Front Folding Shelf
- Traeger Drip Tray Liner
- Bucket Liner – 5 Pack
- Traeger Pro Blend All-Natural Wood Grilling Pellets
These additions have transformed my barbecue weekends, making the Traeger more than just a smoker—it’s my new favorite weekend warrior.
Setting Up the Traeger Pro 575
Unboxing the Traeger Pro 575 was a breeze. The packaging was excellent, with heavy cardboard and custom-fitted foam inserts to protect the parts. The assembly instructions were straightforward, and all the necessary tools were included in the kit.
Setting up the grill took about an hour, a bit longer since I was filming the process. Even though the instructions suggest having two people, I managed to do it alone with no issues.
Seasoning the Grill
Before you can fire up the grill for those fantastic barbecue sessions, there’s one critical step you can’t overlook: seasoning your new Traeger Pro 575. This process, also known as Burn-In, ensures your grill is ready and safe for cooking.
- Ensure the augur is free from any foreign objects.
- Load the hopper with pellets.
- Plug the smoker into a wall socket and flip the main power switch to “on.”
- Prime the augur by selecting “Prime Augur” from the menu.
- Set the temperature to 350°F and hold the ignite button.
- Let it run for 20 minutes, then increase to 450°F for another 30-45 minutes.
First Cooking Experience
My first cook on the Traeger Pro 575 was a prime rib from Grass Roots Farmers Co-Op (use code: TIMOTHY). I quickly learned the importance of calibrating the temperature probe in ice water before use, as my first attempt resulted in a still-raw prime rib. After recalibrating, I put it back on the grill for a few more hours, and the result was perfection.
Cooking Various Meats
Over the past month, I’ve cooked a variety of meats on the Traeger Pro 575:
- Tomahawks from ButcherBox: These were smoked for about 2 hours at 225°F before being seared on my Weber gas grill. The result was the best steak I’ve ever had.
- Ribs from ButcherBox: Cooked low and slow at 200°F for 4 hours, these ribs had a beautiful smoke ring and were fall-off-the-bone tender.
- Volcano Shank and Brisket from Porter Road: Both cuts turned out fantastic, with a deep smoky flavor that permeated the meat.
The Traeger Pro 575 makes it incredibly easy to achieve restaurant-quality results at home.
Recommended Add-Ons and Accessories
To get the most out of your Traeger Pro 575, consider adding these highly recommended accessories available on Amazon:
- Traeger Front Folding Shelf: Provides additional prep space.
- Traeger Drip Tray Liners: Make cleanup a breeze.
- Traeger Bucket Liners: Keep your grease bucket clean.
- Traeger Pro Blend Pellets: Enhance the flavor of your meats.
- Meater Plus Wireless Smart Meat Thermometer: Offers accurate readings and integrates with your phone.
- Lodge Cast Iron Skillet: Perfect for searing meats and cooking sides.
- Traeger StayDry Pellet Bin: Keeps your pellets dry and ready to use.
- Traeger BBQ Multi-Tool: A handy tool for grilling and smoking.
- Dewalt DXV04T Portable 4-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum: Ideal for cleaning out the grill.
These add-ons enhance the grilling experience and ensure you have everything you need to maintain and enjoy your Traeger Pro 575.
Key Features and Benefits
The Traeger Pro 575 stands out with its range of features designed for ease and optimal cooking results:
- WiFIRE® Technology: Monitor and control your grill from anywhere using the Traeger App. Adjust temperatures, set timers, and access over 1,600 recipes.
- Meat Probe: Conveniently monitor food temperature without lifting the lid.
- TurboTemp®: Improves startup time and helps grill temperature recover more quickly after lifting the lid.
- Hopper Capacity: 18 lbs of pellets allow for hours of smoking without needing a refill.
- Durable Build: All-terrain wheels make it easy to move around your backyard or patio. The porcelain-coated grill grates simplify cleanup.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Connectivity makes it incredibly convenient.
- Even, smoky flavor is a given.
- Pellets make life easy.
Cons:
- No direct sear zone (requires an additional accessory).
- Initial Wi-Fi setup can be confusing.
- Included thermometer needs calibration.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Traeger Pro 575 has elevated my smoking game and brought so much flavor to our meals.
Customer Service and Warranty
Traeger’s customer service is stellar, offering a 3-year warranty and a 45-day return policy. If you have any issues, their support team is just a phone call away, available 7 days a week from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM Mountain Time.
Conclusion and Recommendations
The Traeger Pro 575 is fantastic for anyone who loves deep, smoky flavors and a hassle-free smoking experience. It’s ideal for smoking meat low and slow, then finishing with a perfect sear on a gas grill. If this sounds like a fit and it’s within your budget, I highly recommend picking one up for yourself or gifting it to someone who loves barbecue.
For those who throw big barbecue parties, consider the bigger sibling, the Pro 780, which offers 780 square inches of cooking area for an extra $200.
Common Questions and Answers About the Traeger Pro 575 Pellet Grill
What is the difference between the Traeger Pro 575 and Pro 780?
The main difference is the cooking capacity. The Pro 575 features 575 square inches of total cooking space, while the Pro 780 offers 780 square inches. This makes the Pro 780 more suitable for larger gatherings or big barbecue parties.
Can I sear on a Traeger Pro 575?
Yes, you can sear on a Traeger Pro 575. Effective searing occurs between 350° – 500°F. For the best results, use the reverse sear method, where you smoke the meat low and slow and then sear at a high temperature.
Will everything cooked on the Traeger taste super smoky?
Not necessarily. The Traeger allows you to control the level of smoke. Food cooked at lower temperatures (165° – 225°F) will have a more pronounced smoky flavor, while higher temperatures produce less smoke. This lets you customize the flavor to suit your taste.
Can I use the WiFIRE grill without being connected to the internet?
Yes, you can use the Traeger Pro 575 without an internet connection. However, the WiFIRE® technology enhances your experience by allowing remote monitoring and control through the Traeger App.
How long does it take to assemble a Traeger grill?
Assembly typically takes 30-60 minutes. The Traeger Pro 575 comes with clear instructions and all necessary tools, making the process straightforward. Having a second person to assist can make it even easier.
I already have a gas or charcoal grill. Why should I get a Traeger?
Wood-fired food offers a unique flavor that gas and charcoal grills can’t match. Traeger grills also provide unmatched versatility, ease, and consistency. You can grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ all on the same grill.
What is the warranty on the Traeger Pro 575?
The Traeger Pro 575 comes with a 3-year warranty that covers defects in material and workmanship under normal use and maintenance. For any issues, you can contact Traeger’s customer service, available 7 days a week.
How does the return policy work?
You can return your Traeger grill within 45 days of purchase for a full refund, provided it is in new and unused condition. For purchases made through authorized Traeger dealers, their return policies apply. For assistance, call Traeger’s customer service at 1-800-TRAEGER.
How often should I clean a pellet smoker?
It’s recommended to clean your Traeger every three to five grill sessions. This includes cleaning the burn pot, grease drip tray, and smokestack. Before and after each grilling session, thoroughly scrub the grates and vacuum out the bottom of the grill, including the firepot.
Do I need to calibrate the meat probe?
Yes, calibrating the meat probe is essential for accurate temperature readings. To calibrate, place the probe in ice water and follow the calibration instructions provided with your grill.
Can I bake on the Traeger Pro 575?
Absolutely! The Traeger Pro 575 is incredibly versatile and can be used for baking. You can make anything from pizzas to desserts, all with a subtle smoky flavor that enhances your dishes.
