What is the Traeger Ironwood XL?<\/h2>\r\n![\"Traeger](\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/TOHA24_Traeger-Ironwood-XL_Taste-of-Home_01_KSedit.jpg\")
\r\n\r\nAs the name implies, the Traeger Ironwood XL<\/a> is one of the largest grills in the Traeger lineup. With 924 square inches of cooking space, you can cook a serious meal on this pellet grill. The exterior is made from durable, powder-coated steel with four locking wheels. It features a side prep shelf along with a storage shelf underneath. Inside, there are two levels of porcelain grill grates so you can easily move food around. Everything is fueled by wood pellets, which provide indirect heat cooking.\r\n\r\nThe grill is controlled by a touchscreen and control knob, with a temperature range of 165 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Its WiFi capabilities and Traeger app connectivity allow you to control the grill from anywhere, whether you want to monitor the temperature or check how many pellets you have left. You can even shut down the grill from the app. For cleanup, the Ironwood is designed with a removable grease and ash keg for easy dumping.\r\nTraeger Ironwood XL Features<\/h2>\r\nThe Traeger Ironwood XL includes\u00a0tools and accessories<\/a> typical of many quality grills, such as a grilling light, adjustable porcelain grates, storage shelves, a work surface and full insulation. But its offerings don\u2019t stop there; in fact, they only get more high tech.\r\nTouchscreen<\/h3>\r\nMany of us are rightfully a little skeptical of touchscreens, especially on outdoor appliances. Who hasn\u2019t wrestled with a particularly insensitive one? Thankfully, the sizable, full-color digital display included on the Traeger Ironwood XL works beautifully and is super intuitive to use. We love that it continuously displays the interior temperature of the grill. However, because of the touchscreen, the grill requires an outlet, so make sure you have outdoor power before splurging.\r\nWiFi Connectivity<\/h3>\r\nYes, the Ironwood XL connects to the internet\u2014a feature the Traeger team cleverly calls \"WiFire Connectivity.\" Users can link their phone and grill through an app, where they\u2019re able to adjust the smoker\u2019s internal temperature and gauge food\u2019s doneness.\r\nPellet Sensor<\/h3>\r\nThe hardwood pellets go into a hopper on the right side of the grill, where they burn and produce the necessary smoke. The pellet sensor notifies the user when the grill is low on pellets and needs to be refilled, so you\u2019ll never run out of fuel mid-smoke.\r\nSuper Smoke Mode<\/h3>\r\nThe Super Smoke mode works under 225 degrees, allowing the meat to cook lower and slower\u2014and smokier. This function introduces a heavier concentration of smoke, imparting the desired smoky flavor to the highest degree and ultimately providing a better bark (i.e., the crust of black char on the outside of the meat).\r\nMeat Probe<\/h3>\r\nWe\u2019re big into\u00a0meat thermometers<\/a>\u00a0at\u00a0Taste Recipes<\/em> HQ. The Traeger Ironwood XL comes with two probes, which come in handy if you\u2019re making two types of meat at once. We put our full faith in these Traeger probes, and their readings were quick and seemingly accurate.\r\nGrease and Ash Bucket<\/h3>\r\nThe built-in grease and ash bucket successfully collects the dregs from each smoking session, making for easy cleanup. You shouldn't have to do this often, either. After smoking seven types of meat, grease only filled about a quarter of the bucket.\r\nHow We Tested the Traeger Ironwood XL<\/h2>\r\nWe've been testing the Traeger Ironwood XL in our Milwaukee office since July 2023. We formally re-tested it in July 2024, along with 10 other pellet grill models.\r\nAssembly and Setup<\/h3>\r\nThe first step in testing the Traeger Ironwood XL was assembling the pellet grill. Weighing 199 pounds, it arrived on a wood pallet. The instruction manual was easy to follow with plenty of helpful tips. The assembly pack included an Allen wrench and screwdriver, but we suggest using your own if you have them\u2014the Traeger tools are a bit flimsy. <\/span>Many small parts and several steps make the assembly process quite time intensive, but the results are worth the effort.\r\n\r\nOnce assembled, it's simple to fill the hopper on the right side with a full 20-pound bag of wood pellets, flip the power switch, ignite and get cooking.\r\nCooking Tests<\/h3>\r\n![\"Traeger](\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/TOHA24_Traeger-Ironwood-XL_Taste-of-Home_02_KSedit.jpg\")
\r\n\r\nWe performed four cooking tests on the Traeger Ironwood XL. First up was one of the most popular meats to cook on a smoker: pork shoulder. This cut gets incredibly tender after hours of low-and-slow cooking time. We processed a pork shoulder at 275 degrees Fahrenheit for nine hours, which resulted in a beautiful red smoke ring. Since it was wrapped in foil partway through the cooking process to keep it from drying out, the smoky flavor was minimal.\r\n\r\nWe also brined and smoked salmon at 190 degrees Fahrenheit for about two hours. The grill put out a lot of smoke during this test at the low temperature, resulting in salmon that was very moist and had a nice smoky flavor and beautiful finish. We then grilled shucked corn on the cob with herb butter, which ended up with a subtle smoky taste after 45 minutes of cooking. Three chicken breasts were smoked at 225 degrees Fahrenheit for one and a half hours, resulting in moist chicken with a bit of bark on the bottom and a very smoky flavor. Finally, we tried out the grill at the highest temperature, searing pork chops at 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Throughout this test, the temperature fluctuated a bit, losing some heat. After two and a half minutes, the pork chops had some nice color, and the final cooked meat was pretty moist.\r\nBonus Features<\/h3>\r\nThroughout the testing and cooking process, the team loved the courtesy lights on the unit, making it easier to see food. The large cooking area was also quite handy. The touchscreen menu on the grill walks you through your cooking process, and you can connect the grill to the app, which will show you how much cooking time is left based on your wood pellet levels and allow you to shut down the grill remotely. It also has a timer and temperature control. Overall, it proved to be consistent with even heat throughout the cooking process.\r\nCleanup<\/h3>\r\n![\"Traeger](\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/TOHA24_Traeger-Ironwood-XL_Taste-of-Home_04_KSedit.jpg\")
\r\n\r\nThe grill cools down quickly, so you can get right to cleaning. No special cleaning liquids or implements come with the smoker, but Traeger sells its own branded cleaner<\/a> separately. However, we found any ol\u2019 soap will do the trick.\r\n\r\nWe lifted the racks out of the smoker and soaked them in the sink with hot, soapy water. After a few minutes, a stiff grill brush<\/a> was able to remove the stuck-on bits with ease. Cleaning the liner (the base of the interior of the smoker) was a bit trickier. There are no disposable drip trays compatible with the Ironwood XL, which would\u2019ve made cleanup a cinch. As such, it took a bit of elbow grease to remove all the splatters and food particles. Afterward, the liner had a bronze tint to it, which doesn\u2019t bother me, but it certainly didn\u2019t look brand new, even after just a few uses.\r\n\r\n![\"Traeger](\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/TOHA24_Traeger-Ironwood-XL_Taste-of-Home_03_KSedit.jpg\")
\r\n\r\nAs stated above, the grease and ash bucket does a great job collecting waste. The foil bucket liner needn\u2019t be changed after each use, but keep an eye on it, and toss it in the trash when it\u2019s full.\r\nPros<\/h3>\r\n\r\n \t- Roomy with plenty of cooking space<\/li>\r\n \t
- Advanced, accurate technology while still beginner-friendly<\/li>\r\n \t
- Produces substantial smoky flavor, especially with Super Smoke mode<\/li>\r\n \t
- Helpful grease catch with liners<\/li>\r\n \t
- Locking wheels to hold in place<\/li>\r\n \t
- Generous side shelf for ample work surface<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
Cons<\/h3>\r\n\r\n \t- Size makes it difficult to clean<\/li>\r\n \t
- Tedious setup<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
What Other Reviewers Had to Say<\/h2>\r\nThe grandeur of the\u00a0Traeger Ironwood XL<\/a> is not all smoke (and mirrors), and other satisfied customers say so too.\r\n\r\nReviewer Nick F. was new to the hobby before purchasing his smoker. In fact, he\u2019d never even used one. No big deal! \"In the few weeks since I received and began using my Traeger Ironwood XL, I have successfully smoked chickens, ribs and, of course, brisket,\" he says. \"This grill has so many features that with a little practice, you can produce expert results. I love it.\"\r\n\r\nDespite having a large and dedicated fanbase, not everyone loves Traeger. The Ironwood XL has garnered some less-than-favorable reviews, with some pellet grill enthusiasts cautioning others to try different brands instead. It's common for people to recommend Camp Chef, Yoder, and Recteq over Traeger. If you're wondering, \"Is the Traeger Ironwood XL that bad?\" our answer is no, the opposite, actually---and so many buyers agree.\r\n\r\nAJ L., for example, is an experienced smoker but still impressed by the Ironwood's performance: \"It has the most smoky flavor that I\u2019ve had to date off a pellet grill, even without the use of Super Smoke. I\u2019ve had the Ironwood XL for a couple of months now, and I use it two to three times a week.\"\r\n\r\nBeyond its actual smoking capabilities, other users were most excited about the technology of it all. \"I just got this last Tuesday,\" Andy U. says. \"Let\u2019s just say it\u2019s a work of art. The technology is awesome! I had one question and went to Traeger Chat, and within five minutes, my problem was resolved.\"\r\nProduct Comparison<\/h2>\r\nTraeger Ironwood XL vs. Timberline XL<\/h3>\r\nFirst up, we'll compare the ultra-capable Ironwood XL to the Timberline XL<\/a>. We tested the Traeger Timberline<\/a> and were blown away by its performance and special features. The main difference between the Timberline, which we tested, and the Timberline XL, is the cooking surface area. The XL has a 1,320-square-inch cooking surface while the regular Timberline has an 880-square-inch surface. The first thing you'll probably notice about the Ironwood XL versus Timberline XL is the price tag. The Timberline XL costs about $3,800, while the Ironwood XL costs about $2,000. What does that extra $1,800 get you? About 400 additional square inches of cooking space, plus an induction burner, more vertical space between grates (and a third grate), a removeable bamboo cutting board, and additional storage space.\r\nTraeger Ironwood XL vs. Camp Chef Woodrige Pro<\/h3>\r\nThe Camp Chef Woodridge Pro has a nearly cult-like following. (Not so different from the \"Traegerhood,\" eh?) Customers love its smoke box and consistent temperature control. We haven't tested the Woodridge Pro ourselves, but according to the sheer volume of rave reviews online, we assume it will be a strong contender with the Ironwood XL. We'll be back to update our comparison after we get grilling on it.\r\nFinal Verdict<\/h2>\r\nIf you\u2019re serious about smoking, don\u2019t be put off by the imposing footprint. The Ironwood XL creates shockingly little mess, so it can go on a patio, deck or even grass. If you want this stunner, you\u2019ll find the space for it! As for those just starting out with this smoky pastime, the Traeger Ironwood XL is great for you, too, albeit a splurge. It\u2019s intuitive and multi-functional, and it doesn\u2019t require what I like to call \"babysitting.\"\r\n\r\nThe generously sized cooking surfaces accommodate all personal and entertaining needs. That trademark smoky flavor is one of our all-time favorite things, and the Traeger Ironwood XL is a surefire way to savor it.\r\nWhere To Buy the Traeger Ironwood XL<\/h2>\r\n[SINGLE_AFFILIATE_PRODUCT superlative=\"We Tried It\" product_name=\"Traeger Ironwood XL\" image=\"2039537\" pr_name=\"Ace Hardware\" pr_url=\"https:\/\/acehardware.dttq.net\/xk0kyy\" pr_display_text=\"Shop on Ace Hardware\" retailers_2_name=\"Home Depot\" retailers_2_url=\"https:\/\/homedepot.sjv.io\/9Lnrj3\" retailers_2_display_text=\"Shop on Home Depot\" retailers_3_name=\"BBQ Guys\" retailers_3_url=\"https:\/\/bbqguys.sjv.io\/JKb4r7\" retailers_3_display_text=\"Shop on BBQ Guys\" retailers_4_name=\"Amazon\" retailers_4_url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0B9ZZ2BGW\/?tag=tohmke-20\" retailers_4_display_text=\"Shop on Amazon\" \/]\r\n\r\nTime to start smoking, cooking and baking on a pellet grill? The Traeger Ironwood XL can be found on Ace Hardware<\/a> for $2,000. The pellet grill is also available at The Home Depot<\/a>, BBQ Guys<\/a> and Amazon<\/a>.\r\nFAQ<\/h2>\r\nHow do you turn on the Traeger Ironwood XL?<\/h3>\r\nFirst up, make sure the Traeger Ironwood XL is connected to power. Flip the power switch, and then turn the control knob. Once the display reads the desired temperature, press and hold the control knob to ignite and allow the grill to preheat to your desired cooking temperature.\r\nHow do you clean a Traeger Ironwood XL?<\/h3>\r\nIt's important to clean your Traeger grill to keep it in tip-top shape. Grease collects in the ash and grease keg underneath the grill, which you can easily dump out when full. The grill grates and interior of the grill chamber should be kept clean and free of grease, as well. Traeger's grill cleaner is the ultimate Traeger accessory<\/a>, making cleanup that much easier. You can also choose to use dish soap.\r\nHow long does a 20-lb. bag of pellets last in a Traeger grill?<\/h3>\r\nA 20-pound bag of wood pellets can last for up to 20 hours of cook time, depending on the temperature of the grill and how often you use it. In short, you should be able to get in a handful of lengthy smoking seshes before the hopper needs refilling. (This is why the pellet sensor is so handy!)\r\nCan you leave pellets in Traeger overnight?<\/h3>\r\nIf the weather is dry, you can leave pellets in your Traeger overnight and even for a few days. For wet weather or more extended periods of time, remove the pellets from the hopper and store them in an airtight container.\r\nIs the Traeger Ironwood XL worth the money?<\/h3>\r\nAfter thoroughly testing the Ironwood XL, we give you a resounding 'yes'! We think this pellet grill is a worthy investment for pellet grill enthusiasts of all levels. If you're a beginner, you will grow into the incredible features on this grill. If you're already a pro, you'll love the versatility, accuracy and consistency.\r\nIs Traeger better than Pit Boss?<\/h3>\r\nOur test kitchen team has extensively tested Pit Boss and Traeger pellet grills<\/a>, and our verdict is that Traeger is the better brand in most instances. We like the Pit Boss pellet grill for its affordable price point, but we found that its performance fell short when considering build quality and food outcomes. Traeger pellet grills have consistently wowed us, and we recommend them without hesitation<\/a>. The only real downside to Traeger grills and smokers are the price tags.\r\nWhy You Should Trust Us<\/h3>\r\nThe Taste Recipes<\/em> Product Testing Team tested the Traeger Ironwood XL, along with other Traeger grill models, with grilling expert Catherine Ward taking the lead. This test looked at Pit Boss vs. Traeger and RecTeq vs. Traeger<\/a> and evaluated the differences between pellet vs. gas grills<\/a> and pellet vs. charcoal grills<\/a>. The pellet grills were thoroughly evaluated for ease of assembly, cooking performance, design, special features and ease of cleaning.\r\n\r\nI am a writer specializing in food and lifestyle, with a specific passion for outdoor cooking and grilling. While I love to keep my eye on the latest food trends and kitchen gadgets, I focus on established products so I can recommend items that are worth the investment and will last, including pizza ovens<\/a>, fire pits, grills and smokers. The Traeger Ironwood XL is also a grill I have tested personally in my own backyard.\r\n\r\n[cf]skyword_tracking_tag[\/cf]","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Consider this your (smoke) signal to buy a pellet grill! In our testing, the Traeger Ironwood XL delivered meatloaf, pork shoulder and chicken tenders with mouthwatering results.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7342,"featured_media":2039516,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"ep_exclude_from_search":false,"footnotes":""},"tags":[304185,303853,303797,303845,341575,303868,304150],"categories-v2":[341632,309467,308460,308432,308456,308467,309434],"coauthors":[336427],"acf":{"long_pin_file":false,"ncv_override_generic_settings_option":false,"ncv_autoplay_option":"","ncv_stickyplay_option":"","ncv_ads_option":"","ncv_mute_option":"","ncv_comscore_option":"","ncv_autoplay_mobile_option":"","ncv_viewable_threshold_option":"","ncv_sticky_offset_option":"","ncv_autopause_option":"","ncv_sticky_offset_mobile_option":"","ncv_autopause_mobile_option":"","ncv_sticky_mobile_option":"","ncv_remove_player_option":false,"ncv_moat_option":"","long_pin":""},"yoast_head":"\n
Traeger Ironwood XL Tested Review: 2025<\/title>\n\n\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/traeger-ironwood-xl-review\/\" \/>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Traeger Ironwood XL Tested Review: 2025","description":"For impressive smoke rings, smoldering flavor and crispy bark, the high-tech Traeger Ironwood XL pellet grill should be your go-to.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/traeger-ironwood-xl-review\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Traeger Ironwood XL Review: We Tried the Pellet Grill and It Smokes Competitors","og_description":"For impressive smoke rings, smoldering flavor and crispy bark, the high-tech Traeger Ironwood XL pellet grill should be your 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the brand\u2019s magazine and special issues. It was during this time she tapped into her love language, gifts, and spearheaded the print holiday gift guides in 2021 and 2022. She\u2019s thrilled to continue creating gift guides full time for the shopping team, in addition to testing and reviewing products, spotlighting viral gadgets and editing freelanced content. A midwestern transplant from the San Francisco Bay Area, she enjoys hiking, crafting and\u2014you guessed it!\u2014shopping and cooking.","sameAs":["https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/annamarie-higley\/"],"url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/author\/ahigley\/"}]}},"publishpress_future_action":{"enabled":false,"date":"2025-06-30 20:52:18","action":"draft","terms":[],"taxonomy":"category"},"canonical_url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/traeger-ironwood-xl-review\/","tmbi_first_associated":[{"term_id":146007,"name":"Tasteofhome.com","slug":"toh-com","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":146007,"taxonomy":"tmbi_first_associated","description":"11","parent":145947,"count":1560,"filter":"raw","term_order":"0"}],"author_details":{"1530966":{"ID":"1530966","display_name":"Molly Allen","first_name":"Molly","last_name":"Allen","user_login":"molly-allen","user_email":"mollyallenmedia@gmail.com","linked_account":"mollyallenmedia","website":"","description":"<p>A former bakery owner and event planner, Molly is a freelance writer specializing in food and beverage, lifestyle, holidays and parties. She brings her years of experience and industry knowledge to <em>Taste Recipes<\/em> readers, drawing on her former life at the bakery to explain the difference between cake and yeast doughnuts, how to make blue velvet cake and the best cheese board pairings for a delicious spread. Obsessed with homemade dough and pizza, Molly has tested nine different pizza oven models across multiple brands. She loves to keep an eye on the latest food trends and kitchen gadgets, while expanding her knowledge of cooking outdoors on smokers, grills, pizza ovens and fire pits.<\/p>","twitter":"","instagram":"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/mollyallenmedia\/","facebook":"","public_email":"","linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/molly-allen-65b7a652\/","tiktok":"","youtube":"","location":"Hood River, OR","school_and_year":"Central Washington University","education":"<p>Central Washington University, bachelor's in English language and literature<\/p>","highlights":"<ul>\r\n<li class=\"ewa-rteLine\">10 years of experience as a freelance writer and photographer specializing in recipes, stories about food and shopping guides<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"ewa-rteLine\">Former bakery owner and event planner<\/li>\r\n<li>Pizza oven expert having tested nine different models<\/li>\r\n<li>Passion for grilling and cooking on smokers and fire pits<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"ewa-rteLine\">Writer for <em>Taste Recipes, Good Housekeeping, Eater, The Kitchn, Simply Recipes<\/em> and <em>Food & Wine<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>","expertise":"Recipe development; cooking techniques; baking; beer, wine & cocktails; product testing; food news; grocery shopping; restaurants","short_bio":"<p>Now a freelance writer and photographer specializing in stories about food and drink, Molly is a former bakery owner who brings her years of first-hand expertise to <em>Taste Recipes <\/em>and other food-centric publications. She is a pizza oven expert having tested nine different models. She also has a passion for grilling and cooking on smokers and fire pits. When she isn\u2019t baking, she enjoys testing new gadgets, exploring the latest food trends and cooking outdoors.<\/p>","user_nicename":"molly-allen","type":"guest-author","nickname":""}},"images":{"2039512":{"image_url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/TOHA24_Traeger-Ironwood-XL_Taste-of-Home_01_KSedit.jpg","post_data":{"ID":2039512,"post_author":"7948","post_date":"2024-09-04 13:52:07","post_date_gmt":"2024-09-04 18:52:07","post_content":"","post_title":"Toha24 Traeger Ironwood Xl Taste Of Home 01 Ksedit","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"inherit","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"toha24_traeger-ironwood-xl_taste-of-home_01_ksedit","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-02-06 03:26:43","post_modified_gmt":"2025-02-06 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impressive smoke rings, smoldering flavor and crispy bark, the high-tech Traeger Ironwood XL pellet grill should be your go-to.","_yoast_wpseo_focuskw":"traeger ironwood xl","dek":["Consider this your (smoke) signal to buy a pellet grill! In our testing, the Traeger Ironwood XL delivered meatloaf, pork shoulder and chicken tenders with mouthwatering results."],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7342"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1899571"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2132718,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571\/revisions\/2132718"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2039516"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1899571"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1899571"},{"taxonomy":"categories-v2","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories-v2?post=1899571"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=1899571"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Touchscreen<\/h3>\r\nMany of us are rightfully a little skeptical of touchscreens, especially on outdoor appliances. Who hasn\u2019t wrestled with a particularly insensitive one? Thankfully, the sizable, full-color digital display included on the Traeger Ironwood XL works beautifully and is super intuitive to use. We love that it continuously displays the interior temperature of the grill. However, because of the touchscreen, the grill requires an outlet, so make sure you have outdoor power before splurging.\r\nWiFi Connectivity<\/h3>\r\nYes, the Ironwood XL connects to the internet\u2014a feature the Traeger team cleverly calls \"WiFire Connectivity.\" Users can link their phone and grill through an app, where they\u2019re able to adjust the smoker\u2019s internal temperature and gauge food\u2019s doneness.\r\nPellet Sensor<\/h3>\r\nThe hardwood pellets go into a hopper on the right side of the grill, where they burn and produce the necessary smoke. The pellet sensor notifies the user when the grill is low on pellets and needs to be refilled, so you\u2019ll never run out of fuel mid-smoke.\r\nSuper Smoke Mode<\/h3>\r\nThe Super Smoke mode works under 225 degrees, allowing the meat to cook lower and slower\u2014and smokier. This function introduces a heavier concentration of smoke, imparting the desired smoky flavor to the highest degree and ultimately providing a better bark (i.e., the crust of black char on the outside of the meat).\r\nMeat Probe<\/h3>\r\nWe\u2019re big into\u00a0meat thermometers<\/a>\u00a0at\u00a0Taste Recipes<\/em> HQ. The Traeger Ironwood XL comes with two probes, which come in handy if you\u2019re making two types of meat at once. We put our full faith in these Traeger probes, and their readings were quick and seemingly accurate.\r\nGrease and Ash Bucket<\/h3>\r\nThe built-in grease and ash bucket successfully collects the dregs from each smoking session, making for easy cleanup. You shouldn't have to do this often, either. After smoking seven types of meat, grease only filled about a quarter of the bucket.\r\nHow We Tested the Traeger Ironwood XL<\/h2>\r\nWe've been testing the Traeger Ironwood XL in our Milwaukee office since July 2023. We formally re-tested it in July 2024, along with 10 other pellet grill models.\r\nAssembly and Setup<\/h3>\r\nThe first step in testing the Traeger Ironwood XL was assembling the pellet grill. Weighing 199 pounds, it arrived on a wood pallet. The instruction manual was easy to follow with plenty of helpful tips. The assembly pack included an Allen wrench and screwdriver, but we suggest using your own if you have them\u2014the Traeger tools are a bit flimsy. <\/span>Many small parts and several steps make the assembly process quite time intensive, but the results are worth the effort.\r\n\r\nOnce assembled, it's simple to fill the hopper on the right side with a full 20-pound bag of wood pellets, flip the power switch, ignite and get cooking.\r\nCooking Tests<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\nWe performed four cooking tests on the Traeger Ironwood XL. First up was one of the most popular meats to cook on a smoker: pork shoulder. This cut gets incredibly tender after hours of low-and-slow cooking time. We processed a pork shoulder at 275 degrees Fahrenheit for nine hours, which resulted in a beautiful red smoke ring. Since it was wrapped in foil partway through the cooking process to keep it from drying out, the smoky flavor was minimal.\r\n\r\nWe also brined and smoked salmon at 190 degrees Fahrenheit for about two hours. The grill put out a lot of smoke during this test at the low temperature, resulting in salmon that was very moist and had a nice smoky flavor and beautiful finish. We then grilled shucked corn on the cob with herb butter, which ended up with a subtle smoky taste after 45 minutes of cooking. Three chicken breasts were smoked at 225 degrees Fahrenheit for one and a half hours, resulting in moist chicken with a bit of bark on the bottom and a very smoky flavor. Finally, we tried out the grill at the highest temperature, searing pork chops at 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Throughout this test, the temperature fluctuated a bit, losing some heat. After two and a half minutes, the pork chops had some nice color, and the final cooked meat was pretty moist.\r\nBonus Features<\/h3>\r\nThroughout the testing and cooking process, the team loved the courtesy lights on the unit, making it easier to see food. The large cooking area was also quite handy. The touchscreen menu on the grill walks you through your cooking process, and you can connect the grill to the app, which will show you how much cooking time is left based on your wood pellet levels and allow you to shut down the grill remotely. It also has a timer and temperature control. Overall, it proved to be consistent with even heat throughout the cooking process.\r\nCleanup<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\nThe grill cools down quickly, so you can get right to cleaning. No special cleaning liquids or implements come with the smoker, but Traeger sells its own branded cleaner<\/a> separately. However, we found any ol\u2019 soap will do the trick.\r\n\r\nWe lifted the racks out of the smoker and soaked them in the sink with hot, soapy water. After a few minutes, a stiff grill brush<\/a> was able to remove the stuck-on bits with ease. Cleaning the liner (the base of the interior of the smoker) was a bit trickier. There are no disposable drip trays compatible with the Ironwood XL, which would\u2019ve made cleanup a cinch. As such, it took a bit of elbow grease to remove all the splatters and food particles. Afterward, the liner had a bronze tint to it, which doesn\u2019t bother me, but it certainly didn\u2019t look brand new, even after just a few uses.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAs stated above, the grease and ash bucket does a great job collecting waste. The foil bucket liner needn\u2019t be changed after each use, but keep an eye on it, and toss it in the trash when it\u2019s full.\r\nPros<\/h3>\r\n\r\n \t- Roomy with plenty of cooking space<\/li>\r\n \t
- Advanced, accurate technology while still beginner-friendly<\/li>\r\n \t
- Produces substantial smoky flavor, especially with Super Smoke mode<\/li>\r\n \t
- Helpful grease catch with liners<\/li>\r\n \t
- Locking wheels to hold in place<\/li>\r\n \t
- Generous side shelf for ample work surface<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
Cons<\/h3>\r\n\r\n \t- Size makes it difficult to clean<\/li>\r\n \t
- Tedious setup<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
What Other Reviewers Had to Say<\/h2>\r\nThe grandeur of the\u00a0Traeger Ironwood XL<\/a> is not all smoke (and mirrors), and other satisfied customers say so too.\r\n\r\nReviewer Nick F. was new to the hobby before purchasing his smoker. In fact, he\u2019d never even used one. No big deal! \"In the few weeks since I received and began using my Traeger Ironwood XL, I have successfully smoked chickens, ribs and, of course, brisket,\" he says. \"This grill has so many features that with a little practice, you can produce expert results. I love it.\"\r\n\r\nDespite having a large and dedicated fanbase, not everyone loves Traeger. The Ironwood XL has garnered some less-than-favorable reviews, with some pellet grill enthusiasts cautioning others to try different brands instead. It's common for people to recommend Camp Chef, Yoder, and Recteq over Traeger. If you're wondering, \"Is the Traeger Ironwood XL that bad?\" our answer is no, the opposite, actually---and so many buyers agree.\r\n\r\nAJ L., for example, is an experienced smoker but still impressed by the Ironwood's performance: \"It has the most smoky flavor that I\u2019ve had to date off a pellet grill, even without the use of Super Smoke. I\u2019ve had the Ironwood XL for a couple of months now, and I use it two to three times a week.\"\r\n\r\nBeyond its actual smoking capabilities, other users were most excited about the technology of it all. \"I just got this last Tuesday,\" Andy U. says. \"Let\u2019s just say it\u2019s a work of art. The technology is awesome! I had one question and went to Traeger Chat, and within five minutes, my problem was resolved.\"\r\nProduct Comparison<\/h2>\r\nTraeger Ironwood XL vs. Timberline XL<\/h3>\r\nFirst up, we'll compare the ultra-capable Ironwood XL to the Timberline XL<\/a>. We tested the Traeger Timberline<\/a> and were blown away by its performance and special features. The main difference between the Timberline, which we tested, and the Timberline XL, is the cooking surface area. The XL has a 1,320-square-inch cooking surface while the regular Timberline has an 880-square-inch surface. The first thing you'll probably notice about the Ironwood XL versus Timberline XL is the price tag. The Timberline XL costs about $3,800, while the Ironwood XL costs about $2,000. What does that extra $1,800 get you? About 400 additional square inches of cooking space, plus an induction burner, more vertical space between grates (and a third grate), a removeable bamboo cutting board, and additional storage space.\r\nTraeger Ironwood XL vs. Camp Chef Woodrige Pro<\/h3>\r\nThe Camp Chef Woodridge Pro has a nearly cult-like following. (Not so different from the \"Traegerhood,\" eh?) Customers love its smoke box and consistent temperature control. We haven't tested the Woodridge Pro ourselves, but according to the sheer volume of rave reviews online, we assume it will be a strong contender with the Ironwood XL. We'll be back to update our comparison after we get grilling on it.\r\nFinal Verdict<\/h2>\r\nIf you\u2019re serious about smoking, don\u2019t be put off by the imposing footprint. The Ironwood XL creates shockingly little mess, so it can go on a patio, deck or even grass. If you want this stunner, you\u2019ll find the space for it! As for those just starting out with this smoky pastime, the Traeger Ironwood XL is great for you, too, albeit a splurge. It\u2019s intuitive and multi-functional, and it doesn\u2019t require what I like to call \"babysitting.\"\r\n\r\nThe generously sized cooking surfaces accommodate all personal and entertaining needs. That trademark smoky flavor is one of our all-time favorite things, and the Traeger Ironwood XL is a surefire way to savor it.\r\nWhere To Buy the Traeger Ironwood XL<\/h2>\r\n[SINGLE_AFFILIATE_PRODUCT superlative=\"We Tried It\" product_name=\"Traeger Ironwood XL\" image=\"2039537\" pr_name=\"Ace Hardware\" pr_url=\"https:\/\/acehardware.dttq.net\/xk0kyy\" pr_display_text=\"Shop on Ace Hardware\" retailers_2_name=\"Home Depot\" retailers_2_url=\"https:\/\/homedepot.sjv.io\/9Lnrj3\" retailers_2_display_text=\"Shop on Home Depot\" retailers_3_name=\"BBQ Guys\" retailers_3_url=\"https:\/\/bbqguys.sjv.io\/JKb4r7\" retailers_3_display_text=\"Shop on BBQ Guys\" retailers_4_name=\"Amazon\" retailers_4_url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0B9ZZ2BGW\/?tag=tohmke-20\" retailers_4_display_text=\"Shop on Amazon\" \/]\r\n\r\nTime to start smoking, cooking and baking on a pellet grill? The Traeger Ironwood XL can be found on Ace Hardware<\/a> for $2,000. The pellet grill is also available at The Home Depot<\/a>, BBQ Guys<\/a> and Amazon<\/a>.\r\nFAQ<\/h2>\r\nHow do you turn on the Traeger Ironwood XL?<\/h3>\r\nFirst up, make sure the Traeger Ironwood XL is connected to power. Flip the power switch, and then turn the control knob. Once the display reads the desired temperature, press and hold the control knob to ignite and allow the grill to preheat to your desired cooking temperature.\r\nHow do you clean a Traeger Ironwood XL?<\/h3>\r\nIt's important to clean your Traeger grill to keep it in tip-top shape. Grease collects in the ash and grease keg underneath the grill, which you can easily dump out when full. The grill grates and interior of the grill chamber should be kept clean and free of grease, as well. Traeger's grill cleaner is the ultimate Traeger accessory<\/a>, making cleanup that much easier. You can also choose to use dish soap.\r\nHow long does a 20-lb. bag of pellets last in a Traeger grill?<\/h3>\r\nA 20-pound bag of wood pellets can last for up to 20 hours of cook time, depending on the temperature of the grill and how often you use it. In short, you should be able to get in a handful of lengthy smoking seshes before the hopper needs refilling. (This is why the pellet sensor is so handy!)\r\nCan you leave pellets in Traeger overnight?<\/h3>\r\nIf the weather is dry, you can leave pellets in your Traeger overnight and even for a few days. For wet weather or more extended periods of time, remove the pellets from the hopper and store them in an airtight container.\r\nIs the Traeger Ironwood XL worth the money?<\/h3>\r\nAfter thoroughly testing the Ironwood XL, we give you a resounding 'yes'! We think this pellet grill is a worthy investment for pellet grill enthusiasts of all levels. If you're a beginner, you will grow into the incredible features on this grill. If you're already a pro, you'll love the versatility, accuracy and consistency.\r\nIs Traeger better than Pit Boss?<\/h3>\r\nOur test kitchen team has extensively tested Pit Boss and Traeger pellet grills<\/a>, and our verdict is that Traeger is the better brand in most instances. We like the Pit Boss pellet grill for its affordable price point, but we found that its performance fell short when considering build quality and food outcomes. Traeger pellet grills have consistently wowed us, and we recommend them without hesitation<\/a>. The only real downside to Traeger grills and smokers are the price tags.\r\nWhy You Should Trust Us<\/h3>\r\nThe Taste Recipes<\/em> Product Testing Team tested the Traeger Ironwood XL, along with other Traeger grill models, with grilling expert Catherine Ward taking the lead. This test looked at Pit Boss vs. Traeger and RecTeq vs. Traeger<\/a> and evaluated the differences between pellet vs. gas grills<\/a> and pellet vs. charcoal grills<\/a>. The pellet grills were thoroughly evaluated for ease of assembly, cooking performance, design, special features and ease of cleaning.\r\n\r\nI am a writer specializing in food and lifestyle, with a specific passion for outdoor cooking and grilling. While I love to keep my eye on the latest food trends and kitchen gadgets, I focus on established products so I can recommend items that are worth the investment and will last, including pizza ovens<\/a>, fire pits, grills and smokers. The Traeger Ironwood XL is also a grill I have tested personally in my own backyard.\r\n\r\n[cf]skyword_tracking_tag[\/cf]","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Consider this your (smoke) signal to buy a pellet grill! 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the brand\u2019s magazine and special issues. It was during this time she tapped into her love language, gifts, and spearheaded the print holiday gift guides in 2021 and 2022. She\u2019s thrilled to continue creating gift guides full time for the shopping team, in addition to testing and reviewing products, spotlighting viral gadgets and editing freelanced content. A midwestern transplant from the San Francisco Bay Area, she enjoys hiking, crafting and\u2014you guessed it!\u2014shopping and cooking.","sameAs":["https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/annamarie-higley\/"],"url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/author\/ahigley\/"}]}},"publishpress_future_action":{"enabled":false,"date":"2025-06-30 20:52:18","action":"draft","terms":[],"taxonomy":"category"},"canonical_url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/traeger-ironwood-xl-review\/","tmbi_first_associated":[{"term_id":146007,"name":"Tasteofhome.com","slug":"toh-com","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":146007,"taxonomy":"tmbi_first_associated","description":"11","parent":145947,"count":1560,"filter":"raw","term_order":"0"}],"author_details":{"1530966":{"ID":"1530966","display_name":"Molly Allen","first_name":"Molly","last_name":"Allen","user_login":"molly-allen","user_email":"mollyallenmedia@gmail.com","linked_account":"mollyallenmedia","website":"","description":"<p>A former bakery owner and event planner, Molly is a freelance writer specializing in food and beverage, lifestyle, holidays and parties. She brings her years of experience and industry knowledge to <em>Taste Recipes<\/em> readers, drawing on her former life at the bakery to explain the difference between cake and yeast doughnuts, how to make blue velvet cake and the best cheese board pairings for a delicious spread. Obsessed with homemade dough and pizza, Molly has tested nine different pizza oven models across multiple brands. She loves to keep an eye on the latest food trends and kitchen gadgets, while expanding her knowledge of cooking outdoors on smokers, grills, pizza ovens and fire pits.<\/p>","twitter":"","instagram":"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/mollyallenmedia\/","facebook":"","public_email":"","linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/molly-allen-65b7a652\/","tiktok":"","youtube":"","location":"Hood River, OR","school_and_year":"Central Washington University","education":"<p>Central Washington University, bachelor's in English language and literature<\/p>","highlights":"<ul>\r\n<li class=\"ewa-rteLine\">10 years of experience as a freelance writer and photographer specializing in recipes, stories about food and shopping guides<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"ewa-rteLine\">Former bakery owner and event planner<\/li>\r\n<li>Pizza oven expert having tested nine different models<\/li>\r\n<li>Passion for grilling and cooking on smokers and fire pits<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"ewa-rteLine\">Writer for <em>Taste Recipes, Good Housekeeping, Eater, The Kitchn, Simply Recipes<\/em> and <em>Food & Wine<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>","expertise":"Recipe development; cooking techniques; baking; beer, wine & cocktails; product testing; food news; grocery shopping; restaurants","short_bio":"<p>Now a freelance writer and photographer specializing in stories about food and drink, Molly is a former bakery owner who brings her years of first-hand expertise to <em>Taste Recipes <\/em>and other food-centric publications. She is a pizza oven expert having tested nine different models. She also has a passion for grilling and cooking on smokers and fire pits. When she isn\u2019t baking, she enjoys testing new gadgets, exploring the latest food trends and cooking outdoors.<\/p>","user_nicename":"molly-allen","type":"guest-author","nickname":""}},"images":{"2039512":{"image_url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/TOHA24_Traeger-Ironwood-XL_Taste-of-Home_01_KSedit.jpg","post_data":{"ID":2039512,"post_author":"7948","post_date":"2024-09-04 13:52:07","post_date_gmt":"2024-09-04 18:52:07","post_content":"","post_title":"Toha24 Traeger Ironwood Xl Taste Of Home 01 Ksedit","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"inherit","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"toha24_traeger-ironwood-xl_taste-of-home_01_ksedit","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-02-06 03:26:43","post_modified_gmt":"2025-02-06 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impressive smoke rings, smoldering flavor and crispy bark, the high-tech Traeger Ironwood XL pellet grill should be your go-to.","_yoast_wpseo_focuskw":"traeger ironwood xl","dek":["Consider this your (smoke) signal to buy a pellet grill! In our testing, the Traeger Ironwood XL delivered meatloaf, pork shoulder and chicken tenders with mouthwatering results."],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7342"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1899571"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2132718,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571\/revisions\/2132718"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2039516"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1899571"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1899571"},{"taxonomy":"categories-v2","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories-v2?post=1899571"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=1899571"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Pellet Sensor<\/h3>\r\nThe hardwood pellets go into a hopper on the right side of the grill, where they burn and produce the necessary smoke. The pellet sensor notifies the user when the grill is low on pellets and needs to be refilled, so you\u2019ll never run out of fuel mid-smoke.\r\nSuper Smoke Mode<\/h3>\r\nThe Super Smoke mode works under 225 degrees, allowing the meat to cook lower and slower\u2014and smokier. This function introduces a heavier concentration of smoke, imparting the desired smoky flavor to the highest degree and ultimately providing a better bark (i.e., the crust of black char on the outside of the meat).\r\nMeat Probe<\/h3>\r\nWe\u2019re big into\u00a0meat thermometers<\/a>\u00a0at\u00a0Taste Recipes<\/em> HQ. The Traeger Ironwood XL comes with two probes, which come in handy if you\u2019re making two types of meat at once. We put our full faith in these Traeger probes, and their readings were quick and seemingly accurate.\r\nGrease and Ash Bucket<\/h3>\r\nThe built-in grease and ash bucket successfully collects the dregs from each smoking session, making for easy cleanup. You shouldn't have to do this often, either. After smoking seven types of meat, grease only filled about a quarter of the bucket.\r\nHow We Tested the Traeger Ironwood XL<\/h2>\r\nWe've been testing the Traeger Ironwood XL in our Milwaukee office since July 2023. We formally re-tested it in July 2024, along with 10 other pellet grill models.\r\nAssembly and Setup<\/h3>\r\nThe first step in testing the Traeger Ironwood XL was assembling the pellet grill. Weighing 199 pounds, it arrived on a wood pallet. The instruction manual was easy to follow with plenty of helpful tips. The assembly pack included an Allen wrench and screwdriver, but we suggest using your own if you have them\u2014the Traeger tools are a bit flimsy. <\/span>Many small parts and several steps make the assembly process quite time intensive, but the results are worth the effort.\r\n\r\nOnce assembled, it's simple to fill the hopper on the right side with a full 20-pound bag of wood pellets, flip the power switch, ignite and get cooking.\r\nCooking Tests<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\nWe performed four cooking tests on the Traeger Ironwood XL. First up was one of the most popular meats to cook on a smoker: pork shoulder. This cut gets incredibly tender after hours of low-and-slow cooking time. We processed a pork shoulder at 275 degrees Fahrenheit for nine hours, which resulted in a beautiful red smoke ring. Since it was wrapped in foil partway through the cooking process to keep it from drying out, the smoky flavor was minimal.\r\n\r\nWe also brined and smoked salmon at 190 degrees Fahrenheit for about two hours. The grill put out a lot of smoke during this test at the low temperature, resulting in salmon that was very moist and had a nice smoky flavor and beautiful finish. We then grilled shucked corn on the cob with herb butter, which ended up with a subtle smoky taste after 45 minutes of cooking. Three chicken breasts were smoked at 225 degrees Fahrenheit for one and a half hours, resulting in moist chicken with a bit of bark on the bottom and a very smoky flavor. Finally, we tried out the grill at the highest temperature, searing pork chops at 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Throughout this test, the temperature fluctuated a bit, losing some heat. After two and a half minutes, the pork chops had some nice color, and the final cooked meat was pretty moist.\r\nBonus Features<\/h3>\r\nThroughout the testing and cooking process, the team loved the courtesy lights on the unit, making it easier to see food. The large cooking area was also quite handy. The touchscreen menu on the grill walks you through your cooking process, and you can connect the grill to the app, which will show you how much cooking time is left based on your wood pellet levels and allow you to shut down the grill remotely. It also has a timer and temperature control. Overall, it proved to be consistent with even heat throughout the cooking process.\r\nCleanup<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\nThe grill cools down quickly, so you can get right to cleaning. No special cleaning liquids or implements come with the smoker, but Traeger sells its own branded cleaner<\/a> separately. However, we found any ol\u2019 soap will do the trick.\r\n\r\nWe lifted the racks out of the smoker and soaked them in the sink with hot, soapy water. After a few minutes, a stiff grill brush<\/a> was able to remove the stuck-on bits with ease. Cleaning the liner (the base of the interior of the smoker) was a bit trickier. There are no disposable drip trays compatible with the Ironwood XL, which would\u2019ve made cleanup a cinch. As such, it took a bit of elbow grease to remove all the splatters and food particles. Afterward, the liner had a bronze tint to it, which doesn\u2019t bother me, but it certainly didn\u2019t look brand new, even after just a few uses.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAs stated above, the grease and ash bucket does a great job collecting waste. The foil bucket liner needn\u2019t be changed after each use, but keep an eye on it, and toss it in the trash when it\u2019s full.\r\nPros<\/h3>\r\n\r\n \t- Roomy with plenty of cooking space<\/li>\r\n \t
- Advanced, accurate technology while still beginner-friendly<\/li>\r\n \t
- Produces substantial smoky flavor, especially with Super Smoke mode<\/li>\r\n \t
- Helpful grease catch with liners<\/li>\r\n \t
- Locking wheels to hold in place<\/li>\r\n \t
- Generous side shelf for ample work surface<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
Cons<\/h3>\r\n\r\n \t- Size makes it difficult to clean<\/li>\r\n \t
- Tedious setup<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
What Other Reviewers Had to Say<\/h2>\r\nThe grandeur of the\u00a0Traeger Ironwood XL<\/a> is not all smoke (and mirrors), and other satisfied customers say so too.\r\n\r\nReviewer Nick F. was new to the hobby before purchasing his smoker. In fact, he\u2019d never even used one. No big deal! \"In the few weeks since I received and began using my Traeger Ironwood XL, I have successfully smoked chickens, ribs and, of course, brisket,\" he says. \"This grill has so many features that with a little practice, you can produce expert results. I love it.\"\r\n\r\nDespite having a large and dedicated fanbase, not everyone loves Traeger. The Ironwood XL has garnered some less-than-favorable reviews, with some pellet grill enthusiasts cautioning others to try different brands instead. It's common for people to recommend Camp Chef, Yoder, and Recteq over Traeger. If you're wondering, \"Is the Traeger Ironwood XL that bad?\" our answer is no, the opposite, actually---and so many buyers agree.\r\n\r\nAJ L., for example, is an experienced smoker but still impressed by the Ironwood's performance: \"It has the most smoky flavor that I\u2019ve had to date off a pellet grill, even without the use of Super Smoke. I\u2019ve had the Ironwood XL for a couple of months now, and I use it two to three times a week.\"\r\n\r\nBeyond its actual smoking capabilities, other users were most excited about the technology of it all. \"I just got this last Tuesday,\" Andy U. says. \"Let\u2019s just say it\u2019s a work of art. The technology is awesome! I had one question and went to Traeger Chat, and within five minutes, my problem was resolved.\"\r\nProduct Comparison<\/h2>\r\nTraeger Ironwood XL vs. Timberline XL<\/h3>\r\nFirst up, we'll compare the ultra-capable Ironwood XL to the Timberline XL<\/a>. We tested the Traeger Timberline<\/a> and were blown away by its performance and special features. The main difference between the Timberline, which we tested, and the Timberline XL, is the cooking surface area. The XL has a 1,320-square-inch cooking surface while the regular Timberline has an 880-square-inch surface. The first thing you'll probably notice about the Ironwood XL versus Timberline XL is the price tag. The Timberline XL costs about $3,800, while the Ironwood XL costs about $2,000. What does that extra $1,800 get you? About 400 additional square inches of cooking space, plus an induction burner, more vertical space between grates (and a third grate), a removeable bamboo cutting board, and additional storage space.\r\nTraeger Ironwood XL vs. Camp Chef Woodrige Pro<\/h3>\r\nThe Camp Chef Woodridge Pro has a nearly cult-like following. (Not so different from the \"Traegerhood,\" eh?) Customers love its smoke box and consistent temperature control. We haven't tested the Woodridge Pro ourselves, but according to the sheer volume of rave reviews online, we assume it will be a strong contender with the Ironwood XL. We'll be back to update our comparison after we get grilling on it.\r\nFinal Verdict<\/h2>\r\nIf you\u2019re serious about smoking, don\u2019t be put off by the imposing footprint. The Ironwood XL creates shockingly little mess, so it can go on a patio, deck or even grass. If you want this stunner, you\u2019ll find the space for it! As for those just starting out with this smoky pastime, the Traeger Ironwood XL is great for you, too, albeit a splurge. It\u2019s intuitive and multi-functional, and it doesn\u2019t require what I like to call \"babysitting.\"\r\n\r\nThe generously sized cooking surfaces accommodate all personal and entertaining needs. That trademark smoky flavor is one of our all-time favorite things, and the Traeger Ironwood XL is a surefire way to savor it.\r\nWhere To Buy the Traeger Ironwood XL<\/h2>\r\n[SINGLE_AFFILIATE_PRODUCT superlative=\"We Tried It\" product_name=\"Traeger Ironwood XL\" image=\"2039537\" pr_name=\"Ace Hardware\" pr_url=\"https:\/\/acehardware.dttq.net\/xk0kyy\" pr_display_text=\"Shop on Ace Hardware\" retailers_2_name=\"Home Depot\" retailers_2_url=\"https:\/\/homedepot.sjv.io\/9Lnrj3\" retailers_2_display_text=\"Shop on Home Depot\" retailers_3_name=\"BBQ Guys\" retailers_3_url=\"https:\/\/bbqguys.sjv.io\/JKb4r7\" retailers_3_display_text=\"Shop on BBQ Guys\" retailers_4_name=\"Amazon\" retailers_4_url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0B9ZZ2BGW\/?tag=tohmke-20\" retailers_4_display_text=\"Shop on Amazon\" \/]\r\n\r\nTime to start smoking, cooking and baking on a pellet grill? The Traeger Ironwood XL can be found on Ace Hardware<\/a> for $2,000. The pellet grill is also available at The Home Depot<\/a>, BBQ Guys<\/a> and Amazon<\/a>.\r\nFAQ<\/h2>\r\nHow do you turn on the Traeger Ironwood XL?<\/h3>\r\nFirst up, make sure the Traeger Ironwood XL is connected to power. Flip the power switch, and then turn the control knob. Once the display reads the desired temperature, press and hold the control knob to ignite and allow the grill to preheat to your desired cooking temperature.\r\nHow do you clean a Traeger Ironwood XL?<\/h3>\r\nIt's important to clean your Traeger grill to keep it in tip-top shape. Grease collects in the ash and grease keg underneath the grill, which you can easily dump out when full. The grill grates and interior of the grill chamber should be kept clean and free of grease, as well. Traeger's grill cleaner is the ultimate Traeger accessory<\/a>, making cleanup that much easier. You can also choose to use dish soap.\r\nHow long does a 20-lb. bag of pellets last in a Traeger grill?<\/h3>\r\nA 20-pound bag of wood pellets can last for up to 20 hours of cook time, depending on the temperature of the grill and how often you use it. In short, you should be able to get in a handful of lengthy smoking seshes before the hopper needs refilling. (This is why the pellet sensor is so handy!)\r\nCan you leave pellets in Traeger overnight?<\/h3>\r\nIf the weather is dry, you can leave pellets in your Traeger overnight and even for a few days. For wet weather or more extended periods of time, remove the pellets from the hopper and store them in an airtight container.\r\nIs the Traeger Ironwood XL worth the money?<\/h3>\r\nAfter thoroughly testing the Ironwood XL, we give you a resounding 'yes'! We think this pellet grill is a worthy investment for pellet grill enthusiasts of all levels. If you're a beginner, you will grow into the incredible features on this grill. If you're already a pro, you'll love the versatility, accuracy and consistency.\r\nIs Traeger better than Pit Boss?<\/h3>\r\nOur test kitchen team has extensively tested Pit Boss and Traeger pellet grills<\/a>, and our verdict is that Traeger is the better brand in most instances. We like the Pit Boss pellet grill for its affordable price point, but we found that its performance fell short when considering build quality and food outcomes. Traeger pellet grills have consistently wowed us, and we recommend them without hesitation<\/a>. The only real downside to Traeger grills and smokers are the price tags.\r\nWhy You Should Trust Us<\/h3>\r\nThe Taste Recipes<\/em> Product Testing Team tested the Traeger Ironwood XL, along with other Traeger grill models, with grilling expert Catherine Ward taking the lead. This test looked at Pit Boss vs. Traeger and RecTeq vs. Traeger<\/a> and evaluated the differences between pellet vs. gas grills<\/a> and pellet vs. charcoal grills<\/a>. The pellet grills were thoroughly evaluated for ease of assembly, cooking performance, design, special features and ease of cleaning.\r\n\r\nI am a writer specializing in food and lifestyle, with a specific passion for outdoor cooking and grilling. While I love to keep my eye on the latest food trends and kitchen gadgets, I focus on established products so I can recommend items that are worth the investment and will last, including pizza ovens<\/a>, fire pits, grills and smokers. The Traeger Ironwood XL is also a grill I have tested personally in my own backyard.\r\n\r\n[cf]skyword_tracking_tag[\/cf]","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Consider this your (smoke) signal to buy a pellet grill! 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impressive smoke rings, smoldering flavor and crispy bark, the high-tech Traeger Ironwood XL pellet grill should be your go-to.","_yoast_wpseo_focuskw":"traeger ironwood xl","dek":["Consider this your (smoke) signal to buy a pellet grill! In our testing, the Traeger Ironwood XL delivered meatloaf, pork shoulder and chicken tenders with mouthwatering results."],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7342"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1899571"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2132718,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571\/revisions\/2132718"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2039516"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1899571"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1899571"},{"taxonomy":"categories-v2","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories-v2?post=1899571"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=1899571"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Meat Probe<\/h3>\r\nWe\u2019re big into\u00a0meat thermometers<\/a>\u00a0at\u00a0Taste Recipes<\/em> HQ. The Traeger Ironwood XL comes with two probes, which come in handy if you\u2019re making two types of meat at once. We put our full faith in these Traeger probes, and their readings were quick and seemingly accurate.\r\nGrease and Ash Bucket<\/h3>\r\nThe built-in grease and ash bucket successfully collects the dregs from each smoking session, making for easy cleanup. You shouldn't have to do this often, either. After smoking seven types of meat, grease only filled about a quarter of the bucket.\r\nHow We Tested the Traeger Ironwood XL<\/h2>\r\nWe've been testing the Traeger Ironwood XL in our Milwaukee office since July 2023. We formally re-tested it in July 2024, along with 10 other pellet grill models.\r\nAssembly and Setup<\/h3>\r\nThe first step in testing the Traeger Ironwood XL was assembling the pellet grill. Weighing 199 pounds, it arrived on a wood pallet. The instruction manual was easy to follow with plenty of helpful tips. The assembly pack included an Allen wrench and screwdriver, but we suggest using your own if you have them\u2014the Traeger tools are a bit flimsy. <\/span>Many small parts and several steps make the assembly process quite time intensive, but the results are worth the effort.\r\n\r\nOnce assembled, it's simple to fill the hopper on the right side with a full 20-pound bag of wood pellets, flip the power switch, ignite and get cooking.\r\nCooking Tests<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\nWe performed four cooking tests on the Traeger Ironwood XL. First up was one of the most popular meats to cook on a smoker: pork shoulder. This cut gets incredibly tender after hours of low-and-slow cooking time. We processed a pork shoulder at 275 degrees Fahrenheit for nine hours, which resulted in a beautiful red smoke ring. Since it was wrapped in foil partway through the cooking process to keep it from drying out, the smoky flavor was minimal.\r\n\r\nWe also brined and smoked salmon at 190 degrees Fahrenheit for about two hours. The grill put out a lot of smoke during this test at the low temperature, resulting in salmon that was very moist and had a nice smoky flavor and beautiful finish. We then grilled shucked corn on the cob with herb butter, which ended up with a subtle smoky taste after 45 minutes of cooking. Three chicken breasts were smoked at 225 degrees Fahrenheit for one and a half hours, resulting in moist chicken with a bit of bark on the bottom and a very smoky flavor. Finally, we tried out the grill at the highest temperature, searing pork chops at 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Throughout this test, the temperature fluctuated a bit, losing some heat. After two and a half minutes, the pork chops had some nice color, and the final cooked meat was pretty moist.\r\nBonus Features<\/h3>\r\nThroughout the testing and cooking process, the team loved the courtesy lights on the unit, making it easier to see food. The large cooking area was also quite handy. The touchscreen menu on the grill walks you through your cooking process, and you can connect the grill to the app, which will show you how much cooking time is left based on your wood pellet levels and allow you to shut down the grill remotely. It also has a timer and temperature control. Overall, it proved to be consistent with even heat throughout the cooking process.\r\nCleanup<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\nThe grill cools down quickly, so you can get right to cleaning. No special cleaning liquids or implements come with the smoker, but Traeger sells its own branded cleaner<\/a> separately. However, we found any ol\u2019 soap will do the trick.\r\n\r\nWe lifted the racks out of the smoker and soaked them in the sink with hot, soapy water. After a few minutes, a stiff grill brush<\/a> was able to remove the stuck-on bits with ease. Cleaning the liner (the base of the interior of the smoker) was a bit trickier. There are no disposable drip trays compatible with the Ironwood XL, which would\u2019ve made cleanup a cinch. As such, it took a bit of elbow grease to remove all the splatters and food particles. Afterward, the liner had a bronze tint to it, which doesn\u2019t bother me, but it certainly didn\u2019t look brand new, even after just a few uses.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAs stated above, the grease and ash bucket does a great job collecting waste. The foil bucket liner needn\u2019t be changed after each use, but keep an eye on it, and toss it in the trash when it\u2019s full.\r\nPros<\/h3>\r\n\r\n \t- Roomy with plenty of cooking space<\/li>\r\n \t
- Advanced, accurate technology while still beginner-friendly<\/li>\r\n \t
- Produces substantial smoky flavor, especially with Super Smoke mode<\/li>\r\n \t
- Helpful grease catch with liners<\/li>\r\n \t
- Locking wheels to hold in place<\/li>\r\n \t
- Generous side shelf for ample work surface<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
Cons<\/h3>\r\n\r\n \t- Size makes it difficult to clean<\/li>\r\n \t
- Tedious setup<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
What Other Reviewers Had to Say<\/h2>\r\nThe grandeur of the\u00a0Traeger Ironwood XL<\/a> is not all smoke (and mirrors), and other satisfied customers say so too.\r\n\r\nReviewer Nick F. was new to the hobby before purchasing his smoker. In fact, he\u2019d never even used one. No big deal! \"In the few weeks since I received and began using my Traeger Ironwood XL, I have successfully smoked chickens, ribs and, of course, brisket,\" he says. \"This grill has so many features that with a little practice, you can produce expert results. I love it.\"\r\n\r\nDespite having a large and dedicated fanbase, not everyone loves Traeger. The Ironwood XL has garnered some less-than-favorable reviews, with some pellet grill enthusiasts cautioning others to try different brands instead. It's common for people to recommend Camp Chef, Yoder, and Recteq over Traeger. If you're wondering, \"Is the Traeger Ironwood XL that bad?\" our answer is no, the opposite, actually---and so many buyers agree.\r\n\r\nAJ L., for example, is an experienced smoker but still impressed by the Ironwood's performance: \"It has the most smoky flavor that I\u2019ve had to date off a pellet grill, even without the use of Super Smoke. I\u2019ve had the Ironwood XL for a couple of months now, and I use it two to three times a week.\"\r\n\r\nBeyond its actual smoking capabilities, other users were most excited about the technology of it all. \"I just got this last Tuesday,\" Andy U. says. \"Let\u2019s just say it\u2019s a work of art. The technology is awesome! I had one question and went to Traeger Chat, and within five minutes, my problem was resolved.\"\r\nProduct Comparison<\/h2>\r\nTraeger Ironwood XL vs. Timberline XL<\/h3>\r\nFirst up, we'll compare the ultra-capable Ironwood XL to the Timberline XL<\/a>. We tested the Traeger Timberline<\/a> and were blown away by its performance and special features. The main difference between the Timberline, which we tested, and the Timberline XL, is the cooking surface area. The XL has a 1,320-square-inch cooking surface while the regular Timberline has an 880-square-inch surface. The first thing you'll probably notice about the Ironwood XL versus Timberline XL is the price tag. The Timberline XL costs about $3,800, while the Ironwood XL costs about $2,000. What does that extra $1,800 get you? About 400 additional square inches of cooking space, plus an induction burner, more vertical space between grates (and a third grate), a removeable bamboo cutting board, and additional storage space.\r\nTraeger Ironwood XL vs. Camp Chef Woodrige Pro<\/h3>\r\nThe Camp Chef Woodridge Pro has a nearly cult-like following. (Not so different from the \"Traegerhood,\" eh?) Customers love its smoke box and consistent temperature control. We haven't tested the Woodridge Pro ourselves, but according to the sheer volume of rave reviews online, we assume it will be a strong contender with the Ironwood XL. We'll be back to update our comparison after we get grilling on it.\r\nFinal Verdict<\/h2>\r\nIf you\u2019re serious about smoking, don\u2019t be put off by the imposing footprint. The Ironwood XL creates shockingly little mess, so it can go on a patio, deck or even grass. If you want this stunner, you\u2019ll find the space for it! As for those just starting out with this smoky pastime, the Traeger Ironwood XL is great for you, too, albeit a splurge. It\u2019s intuitive and multi-functional, and it doesn\u2019t require what I like to call \"babysitting.\"\r\n\r\nThe generously sized cooking surfaces accommodate all personal and entertaining needs. That trademark smoky flavor is one of our all-time favorite things, and the Traeger Ironwood XL is a surefire way to savor it.\r\nWhere To Buy the Traeger Ironwood XL<\/h2>\r\n[SINGLE_AFFILIATE_PRODUCT superlative=\"We Tried It\" product_name=\"Traeger Ironwood XL\" image=\"2039537\" pr_name=\"Ace Hardware\" pr_url=\"https:\/\/acehardware.dttq.net\/xk0kyy\" pr_display_text=\"Shop on Ace Hardware\" retailers_2_name=\"Home Depot\" retailers_2_url=\"https:\/\/homedepot.sjv.io\/9Lnrj3\" retailers_2_display_text=\"Shop on Home Depot\" retailers_3_name=\"BBQ Guys\" retailers_3_url=\"https:\/\/bbqguys.sjv.io\/JKb4r7\" retailers_3_display_text=\"Shop on BBQ Guys\" retailers_4_name=\"Amazon\" retailers_4_url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0B9ZZ2BGW\/?tag=tohmke-20\" retailers_4_display_text=\"Shop on Amazon\" \/]\r\n\r\nTime to start smoking, cooking and baking on a pellet grill? The Traeger Ironwood XL can be found on Ace Hardware<\/a> for $2,000. The pellet grill is also available at The Home Depot<\/a>, BBQ Guys<\/a> and Amazon<\/a>.\r\nFAQ<\/h2>\r\nHow do you turn on the Traeger Ironwood XL?<\/h3>\r\nFirst up, make sure the Traeger Ironwood XL is connected to power. Flip the power switch, and then turn the control knob. Once the display reads the desired temperature, press and hold the control knob to ignite and allow the grill to preheat to your desired cooking temperature.\r\nHow do you clean a Traeger Ironwood XL?<\/h3>\r\nIt's important to clean your Traeger grill to keep it in tip-top shape. Grease collects in the ash and grease keg underneath the grill, which you can easily dump out when full. The grill grates and interior of the grill chamber should be kept clean and free of grease, as well. Traeger's grill cleaner is the ultimate Traeger accessory<\/a>, making cleanup that much easier. You can also choose to use dish soap.\r\nHow long does a 20-lb. bag of pellets last in a Traeger grill?<\/h3>\r\nA 20-pound bag of wood pellets can last for up to 20 hours of cook time, depending on the temperature of the grill and how often you use it. In short, you should be able to get in a handful of lengthy smoking seshes before the hopper needs refilling. (This is why the pellet sensor is so handy!)\r\nCan you leave pellets in Traeger overnight?<\/h3>\r\nIf the weather is dry, you can leave pellets in your Traeger overnight and even for a few days. For wet weather or more extended periods of time, remove the pellets from the hopper and store them in an airtight container.\r\nIs the Traeger Ironwood XL worth the money?<\/h3>\r\nAfter thoroughly testing the Ironwood XL, we give you a resounding 'yes'! We think this pellet grill is a worthy investment for pellet grill enthusiasts of all levels. If you're a beginner, you will grow into the incredible features on this grill. If you're already a pro, you'll love the versatility, accuracy and consistency.\r\nIs Traeger better than Pit Boss?<\/h3>\r\nOur test kitchen team has extensively tested Pit Boss and Traeger pellet grills<\/a>, and our verdict is that Traeger is the better brand in most instances. We like the Pit Boss pellet grill for its affordable price point, but we found that its performance fell short when considering build quality and food outcomes. Traeger pellet grills have consistently wowed us, and we recommend them without hesitation<\/a>. The only real downside to Traeger grills and smokers are the price tags.\r\nWhy You Should Trust Us<\/h3>\r\nThe Taste Recipes<\/em> Product Testing Team tested the Traeger Ironwood XL, along with other Traeger grill models, with grilling expert Catherine Ward taking the lead. This test looked at Pit Boss vs. Traeger and RecTeq vs. Traeger<\/a> and evaluated the differences between pellet vs. gas grills<\/a> and pellet vs. charcoal grills<\/a>. The pellet grills were thoroughly evaluated for ease of assembly, cooking performance, design, special features and ease of cleaning.\r\n\r\nI am a writer specializing in food and lifestyle, with a specific passion for outdoor cooking and grilling. While I love to keep my eye on the latest food trends and kitchen gadgets, I focus on established products so I can recommend items that are worth the investment and will last, including pizza ovens<\/a>, fire pits, grills and smokers. The Traeger Ironwood XL is also a grill I have tested personally in my own backyard.\r\n\r\n[cf]skyword_tracking_tag[\/cf]","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Consider this your (smoke) signal to buy a pellet grill! 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It was during this time she tapped into her love language, gifts, and spearheaded the print holiday gift guides in 2021 and 2022. She\u2019s thrilled to continue creating gift guides full time for the shopping team, in addition to testing and reviewing products, spotlighting viral gadgets and editing freelanced content. 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She loves to keep an eye on the latest food trends and kitchen gadgets, while expanding her knowledge of cooking outdoors on smokers, grills, pizza ovens and fire pits.<\/p>","twitter":"","instagram":"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/mollyallenmedia\/","facebook":"","public_email":"","linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/molly-allen-65b7a652\/","tiktok":"","youtube":"","location":"Hood River, OR","school_and_year":"Central Washington University","education":"<p>Central Washington University, bachelor's in English language and literature<\/p>","highlights":"<ul>\r\n<li class=\"ewa-rteLine\">10 years of experience as a freelance writer and photographer specializing in recipes, stories about food and shopping guides<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"ewa-rteLine\">Former bakery owner and event planner<\/li>\r\n<li>Pizza oven expert having tested nine different models<\/li>\r\n<li>Passion for grilling and cooking on smokers and fire pits<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"ewa-rteLine\">Writer for <em>Taste Recipes, Good Housekeeping, Eater, The Kitchn, Simply Recipes<\/em> and <em>Food & Wine<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>","expertise":"Recipe development; cooking techniques; baking; beer, wine & cocktails; product testing; food news; grocery shopping; restaurants","short_bio":"<p>Now a freelance writer and photographer specializing in stories about food and drink, Molly is a former bakery owner who brings her years of first-hand expertise to <em>Taste Recipes <\/em>and other food-centric publications. She is a pizza oven expert having tested nine different models. She also has a passion for grilling and cooking on smokers and fire pits. When she isn\u2019t baking, she enjoys testing new gadgets, exploring the latest food trends and cooking outdoors.<\/p>","user_nicename":"molly-allen","type":"guest-author","nickname":""}},"images":{"2039512":{"image_url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/TOHA24_Traeger-Ironwood-XL_Taste-of-Home_01_KSedit.jpg","post_data":{"ID":2039512,"post_author":"7948","post_date":"2024-09-04 13:52:07","post_date_gmt":"2024-09-04 18:52:07","post_content":"","post_title":"Toha24 Traeger Ironwood Xl Taste Of Home 01 Ksedit","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"inherit","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"toha24_traeger-ironwood-xl_taste-of-home_01_ksedit","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-02-06 03:26:43","post_modified_gmt":"2025-02-06 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impressive smoke rings, smoldering flavor and crispy bark, the high-tech Traeger Ironwood XL pellet grill should be your go-to.","_yoast_wpseo_focuskw":"traeger ironwood xl","dek":["Consider this your (smoke) signal to buy a pellet grill! In our testing, the Traeger Ironwood XL delivered meatloaf, pork shoulder and chicken tenders with mouthwatering results."],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7342"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1899571"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2132718,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571\/revisions\/2132718"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2039516"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1899571"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1899571"},{"taxonomy":"categories-v2","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories-v2?post=1899571"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=1899571"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
How We Tested the Traeger Ironwood XL<\/h2>\r\nWe've been testing the Traeger Ironwood XL in our Milwaukee office since July 2023. We formally re-tested it in July 2024, along with 10 other pellet grill models.\r\nAssembly and Setup<\/h3>\r\nThe first step in testing the Traeger Ironwood XL was assembling the pellet grill. Weighing 199 pounds, it arrived on a wood pallet. The instruction manual was easy to follow with plenty of helpful tips. The assembly pack included an Allen wrench and screwdriver, but we suggest using your own if you have them\u2014the Traeger tools are a bit flimsy. <\/span>Many small parts and several steps make the assembly process quite time intensive, but the results are worth the effort.\r\n\r\nOnce assembled, it's simple to fill the hopper on the right side with a full 20-pound bag of wood pellets, flip the power switch, ignite and get cooking.\r\nCooking Tests<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\nWe performed four cooking tests on the Traeger Ironwood XL. First up was one of the most popular meats to cook on a smoker: pork shoulder. This cut gets incredibly tender after hours of low-and-slow cooking time. We processed a pork shoulder at 275 degrees Fahrenheit for nine hours, which resulted in a beautiful red smoke ring. Since it was wrapped in foil partway through the cooking process to keep it from drying out, the smoky flavor was minimal.\r\n\r\nWe also brined and smoked salmon at 190 degrees Fahrenheit for about two hours. The grill put out a lot of smoke during this test at the low temperature, resulting in salmon that was very moist and had a nice smoky flavor and beautiful finish. We then grilled shucked corn on the cob with herb butter, which ended up with a subtle smoky taste after 45 minutes of cooking. Three chicken breasts were smoked at 225 degrees Fahrenheit for one and a half hours, resulting in moist chicken with a bit of bark on the bottom and a very smoky flavor. Finally, we tried out the grill at the highest temperature, searing pork chops at 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Throughout this test, the temperature fluctuated a bit, losing some heat. After two and a half minutes, the pork chops had some nice color, and the final cooked meat was pretty moist.\r\nBonus Features<\/h3>\r\nThroughout the testing and cooking process, the team loved the courtesy lights on the unit, making it easier to see food. The large cooking area was also quite handy. The touchscreen menu on the grill walks you through your cooking process, and you can connect the grill to the app, which will show you how much cooking time is left based on your wood pellet levels and allow you to shut down the grill remotely. It also has a timer and temperature control. Overall, it proved to be consistent with even heat throughout the cooking process.\r\nCleanup<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\nThe grill cools down quickly, so you can get right to cleaning. No special cleaning liquids or implements come with the smoker, but Traeger sells its own branded cleaner<\/a> separately. However, we found any ol\u2019 soap will do the trick.\r\n\r\nWe lifted the racks out of the smoker and soaked them in the sink with hot, soapy water. After a few minutes, a stiff grill brush<\/a> was able to remove the stuck-on bits with ease. Cleaning the liner (the base of the interior of the smoker) was a bit trickier. There are no disposable drip trays compatible with the Ironwood XL, which would\u2019ve made cleanup a cinch. As such, it took a bit of elbow grease to remove all the splatters and food particles. Afterward, the liner had a bronze tint to it, which doesn\u2019t bother me, but it certainly didn\u2019t look brand new, even after just a few uses.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAs stated above, the grease and ash bucket does a great job collecting waste. The foil bucket liner needn\u2019t be changed after each use, but keep an eye on it, and toss it in the trash when it\u2019s full.\r\nPros<\/h3>\r\n\r\n \t- Roomy with plenty of cooking space<\/li>\r\n \t
- Advanced, accurate technology while still beginner-friendly<\/li>\r\n \t
- Produces substantial smoky flavor, especially with Super Smoke mode<\/li>\r\n \t
- Helpful grease catch with liners<\/li>\r\n \t
- Locking wheels to hold in place<\/li>\r\n \t
- Generous side shelf for ample work surface<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
Cons<\/h3>\r\n\r\n \t- Size makes it difficult to clean<\/li>\r\n \t
- Tedious setup<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
What Other Reviewers Had to Say<\/h2>\r\nThe grandeur of the\u00a0Traeger Ironwood XL<\/a> is not all smoke (and mirrors), and other satisfied customers say so too.\r\n\r\nReviewer Nick F. was new to the hobby before purchasing his smoker. In fact, he\u2019d never even used one. No big deal! \"In the few weeks since I received and began using my Traeger Ironwood XL, I have successfully smoked chickens, ribs and, of course, brisket,\" he says. \"This grill has so many features that with a little practice, you can produce expert results. I love it.\"\r\n\r\nDespite having a large and dedicated fanbase, not everyone loves Traeger. The Ironwood XL has garnered some less-than-favorable reviews, with some pellet grill enthusiasts cautioning others to try different brands instead. It's common for people to recommend Camp Chef, Yoder, and Recteq over Traeger. If you're wondering, \"Is the Traeger Ironwood XL that bad?\" our answer is no, the opposite, actually---and so many buyers agree.\r\n\r\nAJ L., for example, is an experienced smoker but still impressed by the Ironwood's performance: \"It has the most smoky flavor that I\u2019ve had to date off a pellet grill, even without the use of Super Smoke. I\u2019ve had the Ironwood XL for a couple of months now, and I use it two to three times a week.\"\r\n\r\nBeyond its actual smoking capabilities, other users were most excited about the technology of it all. \"I just got this last Tuesday,\" Andy U. says. \"Let\u2019s just say it\u2019s a work of art. The technology is awesome! I had one question and went to Traeger Chat, and within five minutes, my problem was resolved.\"\r\nProduct Comparison<\/h2>\r\nTraeger Ironwood XL vs. Timberline XL<\/h3>\r\nFirst up, we'll compare the ultra-capable Ironwood XL to the Timberline XL<\/a>. We tested the Traeger Timberline<\/a> and were blown away by its performance and special features. The main difference between the Timberline, which we tested, and the Timberline XL, is the cooking surface area. The XL has a 1,320-square-inch cooking surface while the regular Timberline has an 880-square-inch surface. The first thing you'll probably notice about the Ironwood XL versus Timberline XL is the price tag. The Timberline XL costs about $3,800, while the Ironwood XL costs about $2,000. What does that extra $1,800 get you? About 400 additional square inches of cooking space, plus an induction burner, more vertical space between grates (and a third grate), a removeable bamboo cutting board, and additional storage space.\r\nTraeger Ironwood XL vs. Camp Chef Woodrige Pro<\/h3>\r\nThe Camp Chef Woodridge Pro has a nearly cult-like following. (Not so different from the \"Traegerhood,\" eh?) Customers love its smoke box and consistent temperature control. We haven't tested the Woodridge Pro ourselves, but according to the sheer volume of rave reviews online, we assume it will be a strong contender with the Ironwood XL. We'll be back to update our comparison after we get grilling on it.\r\nFinal Verdict<\/h2>\r\nIf you\u2019re serious about smoking, don\u2019t be put off by the imposing footprint. The Ironwood XL creates shockingly little mess, so it can go on a patio, deck or even grass. If you want this stunner, you\u2019ll find the space for it! As for those just starting out with this smoky pastime, the Traeger Ironwood XL is great for you, too, albeit a splurge. It\u2019s intuitive and multi-functional, and it doesn\u2019t require what I like to call \"babysitting.\"\r\n\r\nThe generously sized cooking surfaces accommodate all personal and entertaining needs. That trademark smoky flavor is one of our all-time favorite things, and the Traeger Ironwood XL is a surefire way to savor it.\r\nWhere To Buy the Traeger Ironwood XL<\/h2>\r\n[SINGLE_AFFILIATE_PRODUCT superlative=\"We Tried It\" product_name=\"Traeger Ironwood XL\" image=\"2039537\" pr_name=\"Ace Hardware\" pr_url=\"https:\/\/acehardware.dttq.net\/xk0kyy\" pr_display_text=\"Shop on Ace Hardware\" retailers_2_name=\"Home Depot\" retailers_2_url=\"https:\/\/homedepot.sjv.io\/9Lnrj3\" retailers_2_display_text=\"Shop on Home Depot\" retailers_3_name=\"BBQ Guys\" retailers_3_url=\"https:\/\/bbqguys.sjv.io\/JKb4r7\" retailers_3_display_text=\"Shop on BBQ Guys\" retailers_4_name=\"Amazon\" retailers_4_url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0B9ZZ2BGW\/?tag=tohmke-20\" retailers_4_display_text=\"Shop on Amazon\" \/]\r\n\r\nTime to start smoking, cooking and baking on a pellet grill? The Traeger Ironwood XL can be found on Ace Hardware<\/a> for $2,000. The pellet grill is also available at The Home Depot<\/a>, BBQ Guys<\/a> and Amazon<\/a>.\r\nFAQ<\/h2>\r\nHow do you turn on the Traeger Ironwood XL?<\/h3>\r\nFirst up, make sure the Traeger Ironwood XL is connected to power. Flip the power switch, and then turn the control knob. Once the display reads the desired temperature, press and hold the control knob to ignite and allow the grill to preheat to your desired cooking temperature.\r\nHow do you clean a Traeger Ironwood XL?<\/h3>\r\nIt's important to clean your Traeger grill to keep it in tip-top shape. Grease collects in the ash and grease keg underneath the grill, which you can easily dump out when full. The grill grates and interior of the grill chamber should be kept clean and free of grease, as well. Traeger's grill cleaner is the ultimate Traeger accessory<\/a>, making cleanup that much easier. You can also choose to use dish soap.\r\nHow long does a 20-lb. bag of pellets last in a Traeger grill?<\/h3>\r\nA 20-pound bag of wood pellets can last for up to 20 hours of cook time, depending on the temperature of the grill and how often you use it. In short, you should be able to get in a handful of lengthy smoking seshes before the hopper needs refilling. (This is why the pellet sensor is so handy!)\r\nCan you leave pellets in Traeger overnight?<\/h3>\r\nIf the weather is dry, you can leave pellets in your Traeger overnight and even for a few days. For wet weather or more extended periods of time, remove the pellets from the hopper and store them in an airtight container.\r\nIs the Traeger Ironwood XL worth the money?<\/h3>\r\nAfter thoroughly testing the Ironwood XL, we give you a resounding 'yes'! We think this pellet grill is a worthy investment for pellet grill enthusiasts of all levels. If you're a beginner, you will grow into the incredible features on this grill. If you're already a pro, you'll love the versatility, accuracy and consistency.\r\nIs Traeger better than Pit Boss?<\/h3>\r\nOur test kitchen team has extensively tested Pit Boss and Traeger pellet grills<\/a>, and our verdict is that Traeger is the better brand in most instances. We like the Pit Boss pellet grill for its affordable price point, but we found that its performance fell short when considering build quality and food outcomes. Traeger pellet grills have consistently wowed us, and we recommend them without hesitation<\/a>. The only real downside to Traeger grills and smokers are the price tags.\r\nWhy You Should Trust Us<\/h3>\r\nThe Taste Recipes<\/em> Product Testing Team tested the Traeger Ironwood XL, along with other Traeger grill models, with grilling expert Catherine Ward taking the lead. This test looked at Pit Boss vs. Traeger and RecTeq vs. Traeger<\/a> and evaluated the differences between pellet vs. gas grills<\/a> and pellet vs. charcoal grills<\/a>. The pellet grills were thoroughly evaluated for ease of assembly, cooking performance, design, special features and ease of cleaning.\r\n\r\nI am a writer specializing in food and lifestyle, with a specific passion for outdoor cooking and grilling. While I love to keep my eye on the latest food trends and kitchen gadgets, I focus on established products so I can recommend items that are worth the investment and will last, including pizza ovens<\/a>, fire pits, grills and smokers. The Traeger Ironwood XL is also a grill I have tested personally in my own backyard.\r\n\r\n[cf]skyword_tracking_tag[\/cf]","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Consider this your (smoke) signal to buy a pellet grill! 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the brand\u2019s magazine and special issues. It was during this time she tapped into her love language, gifts, and spearheaded the print holiday gift guides in 2021 and 2022. She\u2019s thrilled to continue creating gift guides full time for the shopping team, in addition to testing and reviewing products, spotlighting viral gadgets and editing freelanced content. A midwestern transplant from the San Francisco Bay Area, she enjoys hiking, crafting and\u2014you guessed it!\u2014shopping and cooking.","sameAs":["https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/annamarie-higley\/"],"url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/author\/ahigley\/"}]}},"publishpress_future_action":{"enabled":false,"date":"2025-06-30 20:52:18","action":"draft","terms":[],"taxonomy":"category"},"canonical_url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/traeger-ironwood-xl-review\/","tmbi_first_associated":[{"term_id":146007,"name":"Tasteofhome.com","slug":"toh-com","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":146007,"taxonomy":"tmbi_first_associated","description":"11","parent":145947,"count":1560,"filter":"raw","term_order":"0"}],"author_details":{"1530966":{"ID":"1530966","display_name":"Molly Allen","first_name":"Molly","last_name":"Allen","user_login":"molly-allen","user_email":"mollyallenmedia@gmail.com","linked_account":"mollyallenmedia","website":"","description":"<p>A former bakery owner and event planner, Molly is a freelance writer specializing in food and beverage, lifestyle, holidays and parties. She brings her years of experience and industry knowledge to <em>Taste Recipes<\/em> readers, drawing on her former life at the bakery to explain the difference between cake and yeast doughnuts, how to make blue velvet cake and the best cheese board pairings for a delicious spread. Obsessed with homemade dough and pizza, Molly has tested nine different pizza oven models across multiple brands. She loves to keep an eye on the latest food trends and kitchen gadgets, while expanding her knowledge of cooking outdoors on smokers, grills, pizza ovens and fire pits.<\/p>","twitter":"","instagram":"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/mollyallenmedia\/","facebook":"","public_email":"","linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/molly-allen-65b7a652\/","tiktok":"","youtube":"","location":"Hood River, OR","school_and_year":"Central Washington University","education":"<p>Central Washington University, bachelor's in English language and literature<\/p>","highlights":"<ul>\r\n<li class=\"ewa-rteLine\">10 years of experience as a freelance writer and photographer specializing in recipes, stories about food and shopping guides<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"ewa-rteLine\">Former bakery owner and event planner<\/li>\r\n<li>Pizza oven expert having tested nine different models<\/li>\r\n<li>Passion for grilling and cooking on smokers and fire pits<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"ewa-rteLine\">Writer for <em>Taste Recipes, Good Housekeeping, Eater, The Kitchn, Simply Recipes<\/em> and <em>Food & Wine<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>","expertise":"Recipe development; cooking techniques; baking; beer, wine & cocktails; product testing; food news; grocery shopping; restaurants","short_bio":"<p>Now a freelance writer and photographer specializing in stories about food and drink, Molly is a former bakery owner who brings her years of first-hand expertise to <em>Taste Recipes <\/em>and other food-centric publications. She is a pizza oven expert having tested nine different models. She also has a passion for grilling and cooking on smokers and fire pits. When she isn\u2019t baking, she enjoys testing new gadgets, exploring the latest food trends and cooking outdoors.<\/p>","user_nicename":"molly-allen","type":"guest-author","nickname":""}},"images":{"2039512":{"image_url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/TOHA24_Traeger-Ironwood-XL_Taste-of-Home_01_KSedit.jpg","post_data":{"ID":2039512,"post_author":"7948","post_date":"2024-09-04 13:52:07","post_date_gmt":"2024-09-04 18:52:07","post_content":"","post_title":"Toha24 Traeger Ironwood Xl Taste Of Home 01 Ksedit","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"inherit","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"toha24_traeger-ironwood-xl_taste-of-home_01_ksedit","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-02-06 03:26:43","post_modified_gmt":"2025-02-06 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impressive smoke rings, smoldering flavor and crispy bark, the high-tech Traeger Ironwood XL pellet grill should be your go-to.","_yoast_wpseo_focuskw":"traeger ironwood xl","dek":["Consider this your (smoke) signal to buy a pellet grill! In our testing, the Traeger Ironwood XL delivered meatloaf, pork shoulder and chicken tenders with mouthwatering results."],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7342"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1899571"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2132718,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571\/revisions\/2132718"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2039516"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1899571"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1899571"},{"taxonomy":"categories-v2","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories-v2?post=1899571"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=1899571"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Cooking Tests<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\nWe performed four cooking tests on the Traeger Ironwood XL. First up was one of the most popular meats to cook on a smoker: pork shoulder. This cut gets incredibly tender after hours of low-and-slow cooking time. We processed a pork shoulder at 275 degrees Fahrenheit for nine hours, which resulted in a beautiful red smoke ring. Since it was wrapped in foil partway through the cooking process to keep it from drying out, the smoky flavor was minimal.\r\n\r\nWe also brined and smoked salmon at 190 degrees Fahrenheit for about two hours. The grill put out a lot of smoke during this test at the low temperature, resulting in salmon that was very moist and had a nice smoky flavor and beautiful finish. We then grilled shucked corn on the cob with herb butter, which ended up with a subtle smoky taste after 45 minutes of cooking. Three chicken breasts were smoked at 225 degrees Fahrenheit for one and a half hours, resulting in moist chicken with a bit of bark on the bottom and a very smoky flavor. Finally, we tried out the grill at the highest temperature, searing pork chops at 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Throughout this test, the temperature fluctuated a bit, losing some heat. After two and a half minutes, the pork chops had some nice color, and the final cooked meat was pretty moist.\r\nBonus Features<\/h3>\r\nThroughout the testing and cooking process, the team loved the courtesy lights on the unit, making it easier to see food. The large cooking area was also quite handy. The touchscreen menu on the grill walks you through your cooking process, and you can connect the grill to the app, which will show you how much cooking time is left based on your wood pellet levels and allow you to shut down the grill remotely. It also has a timer and temperature control. Overall, it proved to be consistent with even heat throughout the cooking process.\r\nCleanup<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\nThe grill cools down quickly, so you can get right to cleaning. No special cleaning liquids or implements come with the smoker, but Traeger sells its own branded cleaner<\/a> separately. However, we found any ol\u2019 soap will do the trick.\r\n\r\nWe lifted the racks out of the smoker and soaked them in the sink with hot, soapy water. After a few minutes, a stiff grill brush<\/a> was able to remove the stuck-on bits with ease. Cleaning the liner (the base of the interior of the smoker) was a bit trickier. There are no disposable drip trays compatible with the Ironwood XL, which would\u2019ve made cleanup a cinch. As such, it took a bit of elbow grease to remove all the splatters and food particles. Afterward, the liner had a bronze tint to it, which doesn\u2019t bother me, but it certainly didn\u2019t look brand new, even after just a few uses.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAs stated above, the grease and ash bucket does a great job collecting waste. The foil bucket liner needn\u2019t be changed after each use, but keep an eye on it, and toss it in the trash when it\u2019s full.\r\nPros<\/h3>\r\n\r\n \t- Roomy with plenty of cooking space<\/li>\r\n \t
- Advanced, accurate technology while still beginner-friendly<\/li>\r\n \t
- Produces substantial smoky flavor, especially with Super Smoke mode<\/li>\r\n \t
- Helpful grease catch with liners<\/li>\r\n \t
- Locking wheels to hold in place<\/li>\r\n \t
- Generous side shelf for ample work surface<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
Cons<\/h3>\r\n\r\n \t- Size makes it difficult to clean<\/li>\r\n \t
- Tedious setup<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
What Other Reviewers Had to Say<\/h2>\r\nThe grandeur of the\u00a0Traeger Ironwood XL<\/a> is not all smoke (and mirrors), and other satisfied customers say so too.\r\n\r\nReviewer Nick F. was new to the hobby before purchasing his smoker. In fact, he\u2019d never even used one. No big deal! \"In the few weeks since I received and began using my Traeger Ironwood XL, I have successfully smoked chickens, ribs and, of course, brisket,\" he says. \"This grill has so many features that with a little practice, you can produce expert results. I love it.\"\r\n\r\nDespite having a large and dedicated fanbase, not everyone loves Traeger. The Ironwood XL has garnered some less-than-favorable reviews, with some pellet grill enthusiasts cautioning others to try different brands instead. It's common for people to recommend Camp Chef, Yoder, and Recteq over Traeger. If you're wondering, \"Is the Traeger Ironwood XL that bad?\" our answer is no, the opposite, actually---and so many buyers agree.\r\n\r\nAJ L., for example, is an experienced smoker but still impressed by the Ironwood's performance: \"It has the most smoky flavor that I\u2019ve had to date off a pellet grill, even without the use of Super Smoke. I\u2019ve had the Ironwood XL for a couple of months now, and I use it two to three times a week.\"\r\n\r\nBeyond its actual smoking capabilities, other users were most excited about the technology of it all. \"I just got this last Tuesday,\" Andy U. says. \"Let\u2019s just say it\u2019s a work of art. The technology is awesome! I had one question and went to Traeger Chat, and within five minutes, my problem was resolved.\"\r\nProduct Comparison<\/h2>\r\nTraeger Ironwood XL vs. Timberline XL<\/h3>\r\nFirst up, we'll compare the ultra-capable Ironwood XL to the Timberline XL<\/a>. We tested the Traeger Timberline<\/a> and were blown away by its performance and special features. The main difference between the Timberline, which we tested, and the Timberline XL, is the cooking surface area. The XL has a 1,320-square-inch cooking surface while the regular Timberline has an 880-square-inch surface. The first thing you'll probably notice about the Ironwood XL versus Timberline XL is the price tag. The Timberline XL costs about $3,800, while the Ironwood XL costs about $2,000. What does that extra $1,800 get you? About 400 additional square inches of cooking space, plus an induction burner, more vertical space between grates (and a third grate), a removeable bamboo cutting board, and additional storage space.\r\nTraeger Ironwood XL vs. Camp Chef Woodrige Pro<\/h3>\r\nThe Camp Chef Woodridge Pro has a nearly cult-like following. (Not so different from the \"Traegerhood,\" eh?) Customers love its smoke box and consistent temperature control. We haven't tested the Woodridge Pro ourselves, but according to the sheer volume of rave reviews online, we assume it will be a strong contender with the Ironwood XL. We'll be back to update our comparison after we get grilling on it.\r\nFinal Verdict<\/h2>\r\nIf you\u2019re serious about smoking, don\u2019t be put off by the imposing footprint. The Ironwood XL creates shockingly little mess, so it can go on a patio, deck or even grass. If you want this stunner, you\u2019ll find the space for it! As for those just starting out with this smoky pastime, the Traeger Ironwood XL is great for you, too, albeit a splurge. It\u2019s intuitive and multi-functional, and it doesn\u2019t require what I like to call \"babysitting.\"\r\n\r\nThe generously sized cooking surfaces accommodate all personal and entertaining needs. That trademark smoky flavor is one of our all-time favorite things, and the Traeger Ironwood XL is a surefire way to savor it.\r\nWhere To Buy the Traeger Ironwood XL<\/h2>\r\n[SINGLE_AFFILIATE_PRODUCT superlative=\"We Tried It\" product_name=\"Traeger Ironwood XL\" image=\"2039537\" pr_name=\"Ace Hardware\" pr_url=\"https:\/\/acehardware.dttq.net\/xk0kyy\" pr_display_text=\"Shop on Ace Hardware\" retailers_2_name=\"Home Depot\" retailers_2_url=\"https:\/\/homedepot.sjv.io\/9Lnrj3\" retailers_2_display_text=\"Shop on Home Depot\" retailers_3_name=\"BBQ Guys\" retailers_3_url=\"https:\/\/bbqguys.sjv.io\/JKb4r7\" retailers_3_display_text=\"Shop on BBQ Guys\" retailers_4_name=\"Amazon\" retailers_4_url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0B9ZZ2BGW\/?tag=tohmke-20\" retailers_4_display_text=\"Shop on Amazon\" \/]\r\n\r\nTime to start smoking, cooking and baking on a pellet grill? The Traeger Ironwood XL can be found on Ace Hardware<\/a> for $2,000. The pellet grill is also available at The Home Depot<\/a>, BBQ Guys<\/a> and Amazon<\/a>.\r\nFAQ<\/h2>\r\nHow do you turn on the Traeger Ironwood XL?<\/h3>\r\nFirst up, make sure the Traeger Ironwood XL is connected to power. Flip the power switch, and then turn the control knob. Once the display reads the desired temperature, press and hold the control knob to ignite and allow the grill to preheat to your desired cooking temperature.\r\nHow do you clean a Traeger Ironwood XL?<\/h3>\r\nIt's important to clean your Traeger grill to keep it in tip-top shape. Grease collects in the ash and grease keg underneath the grill, which you can easily dump out when full. The grill grates and interior of the grill chamber should be kept clean and free of grease, as well. Traeger's grill cleaner is the ultimate Traeger accessory<\/a>, making cleanup that much easier. You can also choose to use dish soap.\r\nHow long does a 20-lb. bag of pellets last in a Traeger grill?<\/h3>\r\nA 20-pound bag of wood pellets can last for up to 20 hours of cook time, depending on the temperature of the grill and how often you use it. In short, you should be able to get in a handful of lengthy smoking seshes before the hopper needs refilling. (This is why the pellet sensor is so handy!)\r\nCan you leave pellets in Traeger overnight?<\/h3>\r\nIf the weather is dry, you can leave pellets in your Traeger overnight and even for a few days. For wet weather or more extended periods of time, remove the pellets from the hopper and store them in an airtight container.\r\nIs the Traeger Ironwood XL worth the money?<\/h3>\r\nAfter thoroughly testing the Ironwood XL, we give you a resounding 'yes'! We think this pellet grill is a worthy investment for pellet grill enthusiasts of all levels. If you're a beginner, you will grow into the incredible features on this grill. If you're already a pro, you'll love the versatility, accuracy and consistency.\r\nIs Traeger better than Pit Boss?<\/h3>\r\nOur test kitchen team has extensively tested Pit Boss and Traeger pellet grills<\/a>, and our verdict is that Traeger is the better brand in most instances. We like the Pit Boss pellet grill for its affordable price point, but we found that its performance fell short when considering build quality and food outcomes. Traeger pellet grills have consistently wowed us, and we recommend them without hesitation<\/a>. The only real downside to Traeger grills and smokers are the price tags.\r\nWhy You Should Trust Us<\/h3>\r\nThe Taste Recipes<\/em> Product Testing Team tested the Traeger Ironwood XL, along with other Traeger grill models, with grilling expert Catherine Ward taking the lead. This test looked at Pit Boss vs. Traeger and RecTeq vs. Traeger<\/a> and evaluated the differences between pellet vs. gas grills<\/a> and pellet vs. charcoal grills<\/a>. The pellet grills were thoroughly evaluated for ease of assembly, cooking performance, design, special features and ease of cleaning.\r\n\r\nI am a writer specializing in food and lifestyle, with a specific passion for outdoor cooking and grilling. While I love to keep my eye on the latest food trends and kitchen gadgets, I focus on established products so I can recommend items that are worth the investment and will last, including pizza ovens<\/a>, fire pits, grills and smokers. The Traeger Ironwood XL is also a grill I have tested personally in my own backyard.\r\n\r\n[cf]skyword_tracking_tag[\/cf]","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Consider this your (smoke) signal to buy a pellet grill! 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In our testing, the Traeger Ironwood XL delivered meatloaf, pork shoulder and chicken tenders with mouthwatering results."],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7342"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1899571"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2132718,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571\/revisions\/2132718"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2039516"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1899571"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1899571"},{"taxonomy":"categories-v2","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories-v2?post=1899571"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=1899571"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Cleanup<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\nThe grill cools down quickly, so you can get right to cleaning. No special cleaning liquids or implements come with the smoker, but Traeger sells its own branded cleaner<\/a> separately. However, we found any ol\u2019 soap will do the trick.\r\n\r\nWe lifted the racks out of the smoker and soaked them in the sink with hot, soapy water. After a few minutes, a stiff grill brush<\/a> was able to remove the stuck-on bits with ease. Cleaning the liner (the base of the interior of the smoker) was a bit trickier. There are no disposable drip trays compatible with the Ironwood XL, which would\u2019ve made cleanup a cinch. As such, it took a bit of elbow grease to remove all the splatters and food particles. Afterward, the liner had a bronze tint to it, which doesn\u2019t bother me, but it certainly didn\u2019t look brand new, even after just a few uses.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAs stated above, the grease and ash bucket does a great job collecting waste. The foil bucket liner needn\u2019t be changed after each use, but keep an eye on it, and toss it in the trash when it\u2019s full.\r\nPros<\/h3>\r\n\r\n \t- Roomy with plenty of cooking space<\/li>\r\n \t
- Advanced, accurate technology while still beginner-friendly<\/li>\r\n \t
- Produces substantial smoky flavor, especially with Super Smoke mode<\/li>\r\n \t
- Helpful grease catch with liners<\/li>\r\n \t
- Locking wheels to hold in place<\/li>\r\n \t
- Generous side shelf for ample work surface<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
Cons<\/h3>\r\n\r\n \t- Size makes it difficult to clean<\/li>\r\n \t
- Tedious setup<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
What Other Reviewers Had to Say<\/h2>\r\nThe grandeur of the\u00a0Traeger Ironwood XL<\/a> is not all smoke (and mirrors), and other satisfied customers say so too.\r\n\r\nReviewer Nick F. was new to the hobby before purchasing his smoker. In fact, he\u2019d never even used one. No big deal! \"In the few weeks since I received and began using my Traeger Ironwood XL, I have successfully smoked chickens, ribs and, of course, brisket,\" he says. \"This grill has so many features that with a little practice, you can produce expert results. I love it.\"\r\n\r\nDespite having a large and dedicated fanbase, not everyone loves Traeger. The Ironwood XL has garnered some less-than-favorable reviews, with some pellet grill enthusiasts cautioning others to try different brands instead. It's common for people to recommend Camp Chef, Yoder, and Recteq over Traeger. If you're wondering, \"Is the Traeger Ironwood XL that bad?\" our answer is no, the opposite, actually---and so many buyers agree.\r\n\r\nAJ L., for example, is an experienced smoker but still impressed by the Ironwood's performance: \"It has the most smoky flavor that I\u2019ve had to date off a pellet grill, even without the use of Super Smoke. I\u2019ve had the Ironwood XL for a couple of months now, and I use it two to three times a week.\"\r\n\r\nBeyond its actual smoking capabilities, other users were most excited about the technology of it all. \"I just got this last Tuesday,\" Andy U. says. \"Let\u2019s just say it\u2019s a work of art. The technology is awesome! I had one question and went to Traeger Chat, and within five minutes, my problem was resolved.\"\r\nProduct Comparison<\/h2>\r\nTraeger Ironwood XL vs. Timberline XL<\/h3>\r\nFirst up, we'll compare the ultra-capable Ironwood XL to the Timberline XL<\/a>. We tested the Traeger Timberline<\/a> and were blown away by its performance and special features. The main difference between the Timberline, which we tested, and the Timberline XL, is the cooking surface area. The XL has a 1,320-square-inch cooking surface while the regular Timberline has an 880-square-inch surface. The first thing you'll probably notice about the Ironwood XL versus Timberline XL is the price tag. The Timberline XL costs about $3,800, while the Ironwood XL costs about $2,000. What does that extra $1,800 get you? About 400 additional square inches of cooking space, plus an induction burner, more vertical space between grates (and a third grate), a removeable bamboo cutting board, and additional storage space.\r\nTraeger Ironwood XL vs. Camp Chef Woodrige Pro<\/h3>\r\nThe Camp Chef Woodridge Pro has a nearly cult-like following. (Not so different from the \"Traegerhood,\" eh?) Customers love its smoke box and consistent temperature control. We haven't tested the Woodridge Pro ourselves, but according to the sheer volume of rave reviews online, we assume it will be a strong contender with the Ironwood XL. We'll be back to update our comparison after we get grilling on it.\r\nFinal Verdict<\/h2>\r\nIf you\u2019re serious about smoking, don\u2019t be put off by the imposing footprint. The Ironwood XL creates shockingly little mess, so it can go on a patio, deck or even grass. If you want this stunner, you\u2019ll find the space for it! As for those just starting out with this smoky pastime, the Traeger Ironwood XL is great for you, too, albeit a splurge. It\u2019s intuitive and multi-functional, and it doesn\u2019t require what I like to call \"babysitting.\"\r\n\r\nThe generously sized cooking surfaces accommodate all personal and entertaining needs. That trademark smoky flavor is one of our all-time favorite things, and the Traeger Ironwood XL is a surefire way to savor it.\r\nWhere To Buy the Traeger Ironwood XL<\/h2>\r\n[SINGLE_AFFILIATE_PRODUCT superlative=\"We Tried It\" product_name=\"Traeger Ironwood XL\" image=\"2039537\" pr_name=\"Ace Hardware\" pr_url=\"https:\/\/acehardware.dttq.net\/xk0kyy\" pr_display_text=\"Shop on Ace Hardware\" retailers_2_name=\"Home Depot\" retailers_2_url=\"https:\/\/homedepot.sjv.io\/9Lnrj3\" retailers_2_display_text=\"Shop on Home Depot\" retailers_3_name=\"BBQ Guys\" retailers_3_url=\"https:\/\/bbqguys.sjv.io\/JKb4r7\" retailers_3_display_text=\"Shop on BBQ Guys\" retailers_4_name=\"Amazon\" retailers_4_url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0B9ZZ2BGW\/?tag=tohmke-20\" retailers_4_display_text=\"Shop on Amazon\" \/]\r\n\r\nTime to start smoking, cooking and baking on a pellet grill? The Traeger Ironwood XL can be found on Ace Hardware<\/a> for $2,000. The pellet grill is also available at The Home Depot<\/a>, BBQ Guys<\/a> and Amazon<\/a>.\r\nFAQ<\/h2>\r\nHow do you turn on the Traeger Ironwood XL?<\/h3>\r\nFirst up, make sure the Traeger Ironwood XL is connected to power. Flip the power switch, and then turn the control knob. Once the display reads the desired temperature, press and hold the control knob to ignite and allow the grill to preheat to your desired cooking temperature.\r\nHow do you clean a Traeger Ironwood XL?<\/h3>\r\nIt's important to clean your Traeger grill to keep it in tip-top shape. Grease collects in the ash and grease keg underneath the grill, which you can easily dump out when full. The grill grates and interior of the grill chamber should be kept clean and free of grease, as well. Traeger's grill cleaner is the ultimate Traeger accessory<\/a>, making cleanup that much easier. You can also choose to use dish soap.\r\nHow long does a 20-lb. bag of pellets last in a Traeger grill?<\/h3>\r\nA 20-pound bag of wood pellets can last for up to 20 hours of cook time, depending on the temperature of the grill and how often you use it. In short, you should be able to get in a handful of lengthy smoking seshes before the hopper needs refilling. (This is why the pellet sensor is so handy!)\r\nCan you leave pellets in Traeger overnight?<\/h3>\r\nIf the weather is dry, you can leave pellets in your Traeger overnight and even for a few days. For wet weather or more extended periods of time, remove the pellets from the hopper and store them in an airtight container.\r\nIs the Traeger Ironwood XL worth the money?<\/h3>\r\nAfter thoroughly testing the Ironwood XL, we give you a resounding 'yes'! We think this pellet grill is a worthy investment for pellet grill enthusiasts of all levels. If you're a beginner, you will grow into the incredible features on this grill. If you're already a pro, you'll love the versatility, accuracy and consistency.\r\nIs Traeger better than Pit Boss?<\/h3>\r\nOur test kitchen team has extensively tested Pit Boss and Traeger pellet grills<\/a>, and our verdict is that Traeger is the better brand in most instances. We like the Pit Boss pellet grill for its affordable price point, but we found that its performance fell short when considering build quality and food outcomes. Traeger pellet grills have consistently wowed us, and we recommend them without hesitation<\/a>. The only real downside to Traeger grills and smokers are the price tags.\r\nWhy You Should Trust Us<\/h3>\r\nThe Taste Recipes<\/em> Product Testing Team tested the Traeger Ironwood XL, along with other Traeger grill models, with grilling expert Catherine Ward taking the lead. This test looked at Pit Boss vs. Traeger and RecTeq vs. Traeger<\/a> and evaluated the differences between pellet vs. gas grills<\/a> and pellet vs. charcoal grills<\/a>. The pellet grills were thoroughly evaluated for ease of assembly, cooking performance, design, special features and ease of cleaning.\r\n\r\nI am a writer specializing in food and lifestyle, with a specific passion for outdoor cooking and grilling. While I love to keep my eye on the latest food trends and kitchen gadgets, I focus on established products so I can recommend items that are worth the investment and will last, including pizza ovens<\/a>, fire pits, grills and smokers. The Traeger Ironwood XL is also a grill I have tested personally in my own backyard.\r\n\r\n[cf]skyword_tracking_tag[\/cf]","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Consider this your (smoke) signal to buy a pellet grill! 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Traeger Ironwood XL Tested Review: 2025<\/title>\n\n\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/traeger-ironwood-xl-review\/\" \/>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Traeger Ironwood XL Tested Review: 2025","description":"For impressive smoke rings, smoldering flavor and crispy bark, the high-tech Traeger Ironwood XL pellet grill should be your go-to.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/traeger-ironwood-xl-review\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Traeger Ironwood XL Review: We Tried the Pellet Grill and It Smokes Competitors","og_description":"For impressive smoke rings, smoldering flavor and crispy bark, the high-tech Traeger Ironwood XL pellet grill should be your 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the brand\u2019s magazine and special issues. It was during this time she tapped into her love language, gifts, and spearheaded the print holiday gift guides in 2021 and 2022. She\u2019s thrilled to continue creating gift guides full time for the shopping team, in addition to testing and reviewing products, spotlighting viral gadgets and editing freelanced content. A midwestern transplant from the San Francisco Bay Area, she enjoys hiking, crafting and\u2014you guessed it!\u2014shopping and cooking.","sameAs":["https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/annamarie-higley\/"],"url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/author\/ahigley\/"}]}},"publishpress_future_action":{"enabled":false,"date":"2025-06-30 20:52:18","action":"draft","terms":[],"taxonomy":"category"},"canonical_url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/traeger-ironwood-xl-review\/","tmbi_first_associated":[{"term_id":146007,"name":"Tasteofhome.com","slug":"toh-com","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":146007,"taxonomy":"tmbi_first_associated","description":"11","parent":145947,"count":1560,"filter":"raw","term_order":"0"}],"author_details":{"1530966":{"ID":"1530966","display_name":"Molly Allen","first_name":"Molly","last_name":"Allen","user_login":"molly-allen","user_email":"mollyallenmedia@gmail.com","linked_account":"mollyallenmedia","website":"","description":"<p>A former bakery owner and event planner, Molly is a freelance writer specializing in food and beverage, lifestyle, holidays and parties. She brings her years of experience and industry knowledge to <em>Taste Recipes<\/em> readers, drawing on her former life at the bakery to explain the difference between cake and yeast doughnuts, how to make blue velvet cake and the best cheese board pairings for a delicious spread. Obsessed with homemade dough and pizza, Molly has tested nine different pizza oven models across multiple brands. She loves to keep an eye on the latest food trends and kitchen gadgets, while expanding her knowledge of cooking outdoors on smokers, grills, pizza ovens and fire pits.<\/p>","twitter":"","instagram":"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/mollyallenmedia\/","facebook":"","public_email":"","linkedin":"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/molly-allen-65b7a652\/","tiktok":"","youtube":"","location":"Hood River, OR","school_and_year":"Central Washington University","education":"<p>Central Washington University, bachelor's in English language and literature<\/p>","highlights":"<ul>\r\n<li class=\"ewa-rteLine\">10 years of experience as a freelance writer and photographer specializing in recipes, stories about food and shopping guides<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"ewa-rteLine\">Former bakery owner and event planner<\/li>\r\n<li>Pizza oven expert having tested nine different models<\/li>\r\n<li>Passion for grilling and cooking on smokers and fire pits<\/li>\r\n<li class=\"ewa-rteLine\">Writer for <em>Taste Recipes, Good Housekeeping, Eater, The Kitchn, Simply Recipes<\/em> and <em>Food & Wine<\/em><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>","expertise":"Recipe development; cooking techniques; baking; beer, wine & cocktails; product testing; food news; grocery shopping; restaurants","short_bio":"<p>Now a freelance writer and photographer specializing in stories about food and drink, Molly is a former bakery owner who brings her years of first-hand expertise to <em>Taste Recipes <\/em>and other food-centric publications. She is a pizza oven expert having tested nine different models. She also has a passion for grilling and cooking on smokers and fire pits. When she isn\u2019t baking, she enjoys testing new gadgets, exploring the latest food trends and cooking outdoors.<\/p>","user_nicename":"molly-allen","type":"guest-author","nickname":""}},"images":{"2039512":{"image_url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/TOHA24_Traeger-Ironwood-XL_Taste-of-Home_01_KSedit.jpg","post_data":{"ID":2039512,"post_author":"7948","post_date":"2024-09-04 13:52:07","post_date_gmt":"2024-09-04 18:52:07","post_content":"","post_title":"Toha24 Traeger Ironwood Xl Taste Of Home 01 Ksedit","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"inherit","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"toha24_traeger-ironwood-xl_taste-of-home_01_ksedit","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-02-06 03:26:43","post_modified_gmt":"2025-02-06 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impressive smoke rings, smoldering flavor and crispy bark, the high-tech Traeger Ironwood XL pellet grill should be your go-to.","_yoast_wpseo_focuskw":"traeger ironwood xl","dek":["Consider this your (smoke) signal to buy a pellet grill! In our testing, the Traeger Ironwood XL delivered meatloaf, pork shoulder and chicken tenders with mouthwatering results."],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7342"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1899571"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2132718,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1899571\/revisions\/2132718"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2039516"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1899571"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1899571"},{"taxonomy":"categories-v2","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories-v2?post=1899571"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=1899571"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
- \r\n \t
- Roomy with plenty of cooking space<\/li>\r\n \t
- Advanced, accurate technology while still beginner-friendly<\/li>\r\n \t
- Produces substantial smoky flavor, especially with Super Smoke mode<\/li>\r\n \t
- Helpful grease catch with liners<\/li>\r\n \t
- Locking wheels to hold in place<\/li>\r\n \t
- Generous side shelf for ample work surface<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
Cons<\/h3>\r\n
- \r\n \t
- Size makes it difficult to clean<\/li>\r\n \t
- Tedious setup<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n
What Other Reviewers Had to Say<\/h2>\r\nThe grandeur of the\u00a0Traeger Ironwood XL<\/a> is not all smoke (and mirrors), and other satisfied customers say so too.\r\n\r\nReviewer Nick F. was new to the hobby before purchasing his smoker. In fact, he\u2019d never even used one. No big deal! \"In the few weeks since I received and began using my Traeger Ironwood XL, I have successfully smoked chickens, ribs and, of course, brisket,\" he says. \"This grill has so many features that with a little practice, you can produce expert results. I love it.\"\r\n\r\nDespite having a large and dedicated fanbase, not everyone loves Traeger. The Ironwood XL has garnered some less-than-favorable reviews, with some pellet grill enthusiasts cautioning others to try different brands instead. It's common for people to recommend Camp Chef, Yoder, and Recteq over Traeger. If you're wondering, \"Is the Traeger Ironwood XL that bad?\" our answer is no, the opposite, actually---and so many buyers agree.\r\n\r\nAJ L., for example, is an experienced smoker but still impressed by the Ironwood's performance: \"It has the most smoky flavor that I\u2019ve had to date off a pellet grill, even without the use of Super Smoke. I\u2019ve had the Ironwood XL for a couple of months now, and I use it two to three times a week.\"\r\n\r\nBeyond its actual smoking capabilities, other users were most excited about the technology of it all. \"I just got this last Tuesday,\" Andy U. says. \"Let\u2019s just say it\u2019s a work of art. The technology is awesome! I had one question and went to Traeger Chat, and within five minutes, my problem was resolved.\"\r\n
Product Comparison<\/h2>\r\n
Traeger Ironwood XL vs. Timberline XL<\/h3>\r\nFirst up, we'll compare the ultra-capable Ironwood XL to the Timberline XL<\/a>. We tested the Traeger Timberline<\/a> and were blown away by its performance and special features. The main difference between the Timberline, which we tested, and the Timberline XL, is the cooking surface area. The XL has a 1,320-square-inch cooking surface while the regular Timberline has an 880-square-inch surface. The first thing you'll probably notice about the Ironwood XL versus Timberline XL is the price tag. The Timberline XL costs about $3,800, while the Ironwood XL costs about $2,000. What does that extra $1,800 get you? About 400 additional square inches of cooking space, plus an induction burner, more vertical space between grates (and a third grate), a removeable bamboo cutting board, and additional storage space.\r\n
Traeger Ironwood XL vs. Camp Chef Woodrige Pro<\/h3>\r\nThe Camp Chef Woodridge Pro has a nearly cult-like following. (Not so different from the \"Traegerhood,\" eh?) Customers love its smoke box and consistent temperature control. We haven't tested the Woodridge Pro ourselves, but according to the sheer volume of rave reviews online, we assume it will be a strong contender with the Ironwood XL. We'll be back to update our comparison after we get grilling on it.\r\n
Final Verdict<\/h2>\r\nIf you\u2019re serious about smoking, don\u2019t be put off by the imposing footprint. The Ironwood XL creates shockingly little mess, so it can go on a patio, deck or even grass. If you want this stunner, you\u2019ll find the space for it! As for those just starting out with this smoky pastime, the Traeger Ironwood XL is great for you, too, albeit a splurge. It\u2019s intuitive and multi-functional, and it doesn\u2019t require what I like to call \"babysitting.\"\r\n\r\nThe generously sized cooking surfaces accommodate all personal and entertaining needs. That trademark smoky flavor is one of our all-time favorite things, and the Traeger Ironwood XL is a surefire way to savor it.\r\n
Where To Buy the Traeger Ironwood XL<\/h2>\r\n[SINGLE_AFFILIATE_PRODUCT superlative=\"We Tried It\" product_name=\"Traeger Ironwood XL\" image=\"2039537\" pr_name=\"Ace Hardware\" pr_url=\"https:\/\/acehardware.dttq.net\/xk0kyy\" pr_display_text=\"Shop on Ace Hardware\" retailers_2_name=\"Home Depot\" retailers_2_url=\"https:\/\/homedepot.sjv.io\/9Lnrj3\" retailers_2_display_text=\"Shop on Home Depot\" retailers_3_name=\"BBQ Guys\" retailers_3_url=\"https:\/\/bbqguys.sjv.io\/JKb4r7\" retailers_3_display_text=\"Shop on BBQ Guys\" retailers_4_name=\"Amazon\" retailers_4_url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0B9ZZ2BGW\/?tag=tohmke-20\" retailers_4_display_text=\"Shop on Amazon\" \/]\r\n\r\nTime to start smoking, cooking and baking on a pellet grill? The Traeger Ironwood XL can be found on Ace Hardware<\/a> for $2,000. The pellet grill is also available at The Home Depot<\/a>, BBQ Guys<\/a> and Amazon<\/a>.\r\n
FAQ<\/h2>\r\n
How do you turn on the Traeger Ironwood XL?<\/h3>\r\nFirst up, make sure the Traeger Ironwood XL is connected to power. Flip the power switch, and then turn the control knob. Once the display reads the desired temperature, press and hold the control knob to ignite and allow the grill to preheat to your desired cooking temperature.\r\n
How do you clean a Traeger Ironwood XL?<\/h3>\r\nIt's important to clean your Traeger grill to keep it in tip-top shape. Grease collects in the ash and grease keg underneath the grill, which you can easily dump out when full. The grill grates and interior of the grill chamber should be kept clean and free of grease, as well. Traeger's grill cleaner is the ultimate Traeger accessory<\/a>, making cleanup that much easier. You can also choose to use dish soap.\r\n
How long does a 20-lb. bag of pellets last in a Traeger grill?<\/h3>\r\nA 20-pound bag of wood pellets can last for up to 20 hours of cook time, depending on the temperature of the grill and how often you use it. In short, you should be able to get in a handful of lengthy smoking seshes before the hopper needs refilling. (This is why the pellet sensor is so handy!)\r\n
Can you leave pellets in Traeger overnight?<\/h3>\r\nIf the weather is dry, you can leave pellets in your Traeger overnight and even for a few days. For wet weather or more extended periods of time, remove the pellets from the hopper and store them in an airtight container.\r\n
Is the Traeger Ironwood XL worth the money?<\/h3>\r\nAfter thoroughly testing the Ironwood XL, we give you a resounding 'yes'! We think this pellet grill is a worthy investment for pellet grill enthusiasts of all levels. If you're a beginner, you will grow into the incredible features on this grill. If you're already a pro, you'll love the versatility, accuracy and consistency.\r\n
Is Traeger better than Pit Boss?<\/h3>\r\nOur test kitchen team has extensively tested Pit Boss and Traeger pellet grills<\/a>, and our verdict is that Traeger is the better brand in most instances. We like the Pit Boss pellet grill for its affordable price point, but we found that its performance fell short when considering build quality and food outcomes. Traeger pellet grills have consistently wowed us, and we recommend them without hesitation<\/a>. The only real downside to Traeger grills and smokers are the price tags.\r\n
Why You Should Trust Us<\/h3>\r\nThe Taste Recipes<\/em> Product Testing Team tested the Traeger Ironwood XL, along with other Traeger grill models, with grilling expert Catherine Ward taking the lead. This test looked at Pit Boss vs. Traeger and RecTeq vs. Traeger<\/a> and evaluated the differences between pellet vs. gas grills<\/a> and pellet vs. charcoal grills<\/a>. The pellet grills were thoroughly evaluated for ease of assembly, cooking performance, design, special features and ease of cleaning.\r\n\r\nI am a writer specializing in food and lifestyle, with a specific passion for outdoor cooking and grilling. While I love to keep my eye on the latest food trends and kitchen gadgets, I focus on established products so I can recommend items that are worth the investment and will last, including pizza ovens<\/a>, fire pits, grills and smokers. The Traeger Ironwood XL is also a grill I have tested personally in my own backyard.\r\n\r\n[cf]skyword_tracking_tag[\/cf]","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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