Our Traeger Pork Belly Twists are a playful and irresistible way to serve tender, smoky pork belly. If you love rich, succulent bites with crispy edges and a glossy barbecue finish, these twists belong on your next barbecue, tailgate, or weekend cookout.
Traeger Pork Belly Twists
Pork belly is one of the most versatile cuts of pork. Beyond the classic bacon, it shines when smoked low and slow, rendering its fat and concentrating deep, savory flavors. These pork belly twists follow a simple method that delivers texture and presentation similar to pork belly burnt ends, but the spiral shape adds a satisfying chew and makes them perfect for serving on skewers.
This recipe is straightforward, though it takes time for the fat to render and the meat to become tender. Most of that time is hands-off in the smoker. For best results, use long metal skewers to form the twists; metal is safer and holds heat better than bamboo when cooking for several hours.
If you like this, try our Pork Belly Burnt Ends too!
Smoked Pork Belly Twists Shopping List
Before you start, make sure you have the basics on hand. Quantities are in the recipe card below, but this list covers the essentials so you can plan your trip to the store.
- Pork belly (skinless or skin removed)
- Seasoned salt or a spicy pork rub
- Barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- Long metal skewers (recommended)
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
Our Traeger Smoked Pork Loin is another easy favorite!
How To Make Smoked Pork Belly Twists
Below is an overview of the process so you know what to expect. Scroll further down for the full ingredient list, precise timings, and a printable recipe card.
- Preheat – Bring your smoker to 250°F (about 121°C).
- Cut & Skewer – Slice the pork belly into roughly ½-inch strips, thread them onto long metal skewers, then twist each strip around the skewer to form a spiral.
- Season – Generously season the twists with a spicy pork rub or seasoned salt, ensuring all sides are coated.
- Smoke – Place the skewers on the smoker and cook for approximately 3 hours, until the fat begins to render and the meat becomes tender.
- Wrap & Sauce – Transfer the skewers to a foil pouch, brush with barbecue sauce, seal tightly, and return to the smoker for about one hour to meld flavors and further tenderize.
- Serve – Remove from the smoker, unwrap, and serve hot. Offer whole skewers for guests or slice into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing.
“Shake and Bake” Pork Chops
Traeger Pork Belly Twists FAQ
Cool the pork belly twists to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 2–3 days.
They taste best the same day, but to reheat, warm gently to preserve texture. Reheating in a sous vide or wrapped in foil on a low oven or grill with a little additional barbecue sauce will keep them moist. Avoid microwaving, which can make the pork greasy and lose its texture.
Yes—air fryers can crisp pork belly nicely. The method and times differ from smoking, so consult a dedicated air fryer pork belly recipe for best results.
Chashu Pork Belly Recipe
More Traeger Appetizers
- Traeger Spicy Corn Salsa
- Smoked Pumpkin Seeds
- Traeger Jalapeño Popper Cream Cheese
- Smoked Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple Bites
- Shotgun Shells
- Garlic Parmesan Wings
- Hot Crab Dip
- Smoked Loaded Potato Skins
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Traeger Pork Belly Twists
These smoky pork belly twists are cooked right on the smoker and make a perfect appetizer or party plate. Rich, tender meat with a caramelized barbecue glaze.
10 minutes
3–4 hours (mostly hands-off)
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork belly
- 2 tablespoons seasoned salt or spicy pork rub
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your smoker to 250°F (121°C).
- Slice the pork belly into roughly ½-inch thick strips. Thread each strip onto a long metal skewer and twist the meat around the skewer to form a spiral.
- Season all sides with seasoned salt or your preferred pork rub, pressing slightly so the seasoning adheres.
- Place the skewers on the smoker and cook for about 3 hours, until much of the fat has rendered and the meat is tender to the touch.
- Transfer the skewers to a foil pouch. Brush the twists liberally with barbecue sauce, seal the foil tightly, and return to the smoker for an additional hour to meld flavors and finish tenderizing.
- Remove from the smoker, unwrap carefully, and serve hot. Offer whole skewers or cut into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing.
Nutrition Information
Yield: 6
Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 709
Total Fat: 49g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 193mg
Sodium: 520mg
Carbohydrates: 10g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 53g
Nutrition data provided here is an estimate.
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