30 Best Recipes That Use Liquid Smoke

Try these recipes that use liquid smoke when you want to add smoky magic to your menu!

We can’t all cook with a real smoker, after all. But thanks to these simple recipes, you don’t need one!

Easy & Delicious Recipes That Use Liquid Smoke

Ever heard of liquid smoke?

Well, it will become your new secret weapon in the kitchen! This magical condiment adds a rich, smoky touch to dishes needing no actual smoke. 

And no expensive smoker grills either. 

Let’s dive into some mouth-watering recipes that use liquid smoke. And you can fire up your meals… smoke-free!

1.  Slow Cooker Smoked Brisket

Smoky brisket has never been easier to whip up. Even without a smoker or wood chips! With your trusty slow cooker and minimal effort, you’re on your way to meaty heaven. 

You create the juiciest, tender beef brisket that tastes like it’s been slow-smoked all day. 

And the secret? Just a few ingredients and a slow cooker. But this is the kicker: opt for a fresh brisket from your local butcher. 

2. Smoky BBQ Baked Beans

Picture this: a medley of beans, a splash of smokiness, plus a kick of jalapenos. That totally describes these BBQ beans! 

These beans pair perfectly with your smoked mains. And they burst with smoky goodness. It’s a perfect go-to for all summer gatherings. 

The secret? Low and slow cooking—it’s the golden ticket to flavor-packed beans.

3. Smoky Pan Fried Chickpeas

These smoky pan-fried chickpeas are savory, sweet, sticky, and utterly irresistible! 

These chickpeas only take about 20 minutes from pan to plate. And every bite is bathed in only five flavor-packed ingredients. 

Perfect as a protein-rich side, salad toss-in, or on toast. 

The magic lies in tamari, maple syrup, and liquid smoke. They all infuse the chickpeas with deep flavors without the risk of burning dry spices.

4. Smoked Pork Shoulder

This tender smoked pork shoulder recipe is packed with flavor. Making it the ideal centerpiece for any gathering. And the leftovers are just as delicious!

Pair it with coleslaw and smoked baked beans for a complete cookout spread.

But what makes this recipe so tasty? The remarkable pork rub is slow-cooked, so it forms a delectable bark-like crust. Yum!

5. Smoked Tofu

Creating your own smoked tofu at home is a cinch! And it’s made with just four ingredients!

Smoked tofu is a must-have in vegan recipes – and for good reason! It’s packed with flavor, and it is versatile. 

But what if you can’t find it in your local store? Don’t worry… I’ve got you covered. 

Making it at home is simple AND even tastier than the store-bought version. 

6. Smoked Dal Makhani 

Dal Makhani is a lentil dish and a beloved staple in Punjabi cuisine. It’s hard not to fall for its rich, creamy texture. 

You get smoky a flavor with pure liquid smoke. Although the traditional charcoal method works too. 

Pair it with Tandoori chicken and onion kulcha- it’s pure bliss!

7. Instant Pot Sloppy Joes

Dare I say that this is the ultimate Instant Pot sloppy Joe recipe? Yes, I dare. After all, it features tender beef in a smoky sauce piled on buttery buns. 

Yum!

This trusted favorite will even have the pickiest of eaters swooning. And it’s all thanks to an Instant Pot. 

Saucier, quicker, but just as delicious, expect a blend of smoky sweetness, spices, and peppers. Oh, and some seriously juicy beef.

8. Costco Smoked Salmon

Craving that Costco Smoked Salmon? This recipe provides the magic to recreate Kirkland’s delight at home- no smoker needed! 

With a dry brine and some liquid smoke, your salmon transforms into something insanely good. 

Smoked salmon is a love language! Slathered on bread with red onions and cream cheese… it’s heavenly! 

9. Air Fryer Smoked Chicken Thighs

Fancy smoked chicken thighs but lack a smoker? Fear not! These delectable, air fryer-smoked chicken thighs are here to sweep you off your feet. 

They’re infused with various spices, homemade BBQ sauce, and that vital ingredient – liquid smoke.

This swift method mirrors the smoky flavor of a traditional smoker. And it’s ten times faster. Easy peasy!

10. Smoked Mac and Cheese

Looking for a comforting twist on a favorite? Whip up this creamy smoked mac and cheese! No smoker grill is necessary. 

If you are craving comfort food, this dish ticks all the boxes. It features pasta and cheese in a velvety, smoky sauce.

Ideal for a potluck or a holiday side- you can even freeze it for later. Flexibility is the name of the game! 

11. Vegan Portuguese Caldo Verde

Fancy trying some Portuguese food? Whip up this Caldo Verde! Bonus – it is plant-based! 

This Portuguese classic is a vegan, collard-packed soup with a tasty modern spin. 

Caldo Verde, or ‘green broth’, is loaded with pureed onion, garlic, and potatoes. And it is teeming with sliced collard greens. 

Traditionally, a garnish of chouriço (similar to chorizo, but cured) seals the deal. But this vegan version uses sun-dried tomatoes instead. 

12. Air Fryer Beef Jerky

Looking for a tasty, fuss-free snack? Get ready to fall in love with this air fryer beef jerky! This delicacy is steeped in a simple marinade, adding just the right zest. 

The best part? No intricate cutting is required – your local butcher’s got that covered! Just ask for thinly sliced flank steak. 

After a marinade-soaked night in the fridge, these strips are ready for their air fryer debut. Homemade, effortless, and irresistibly tasty, it’s snacking done right!

13. Instant Pot Smoky BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Who’s up for a simple, tasty meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than this Instant Pot pulled pork. 

It’s so effortless, yet it tastes like it comes straight from a BBQ restaurant.

This smoky dish merges sweet and savory in a hearty, mouth-watering meal. And don’t fear the liquid smoke – it’s a flavor bomb in a tiny bottle.

14. Vegan Fakin’ Bacon

Embrace the plant-based life with this vegan Fakin’ Bacon. 

It tastes surprisingly similar to the real deal. And it’s packed with nutritious ingredients that won’t give you health worries.

No high cholesterol, clogged arteries, or heart attacks here!

You can toss these crispy wonders onto any salad. Or, stack it on an FBLT sandwich. 

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (unlikely), you can jazz up a baked potato. Why not double the batch and stock up your freezer? 

Bon appetit!

15. Smoky Maple BBQ Popcorn

Meet your new favorite snack: vegan BBQ popcorn! It’s a smoky, sweet, spicy, savory medley combining smoked paprika, chipotle, and maple syrup. 

Crunchy and mess-free, it’s a treat you can’t resist finishing! 

Ideal for daily munching, this popcorn also makes a brilliant festive gift. Whip up a batch for your next movie night! 

16. Vegan Smoked Salmon (Carrot Lox)

Who’s ready for a vegan treat that’s simple, yet unbelievably flavorful? Meet your new favorite – vegan smoked salmon made from carrots!

Think of a scrumptious Everything Bagel, vegan cream cheese, and carrot Lox. 

It’s so straightforward yet tastes like it comes straight from a gourmet cafe.

17. Slow Cooker Smoked Queso

Looking for a dip that stands out? Try this slow-cooker smoked queso! 

Its smoky flavor, two cheese types, veggies, and pantry basics make it a game-day hit. Actually, it is pretty great at a potluck too. 

Trust me, everyone will love it!

One magic ingredient transforms ordinary queso into a smoky sensation – liquid smoke. Mixed with everything else, it creates the finest smoked queso dip around!

18. Vegan Collard Greens

If you’re craving soul food, you must try these vegan collard greens! Tender, smoky, and cooked to perfection, no soul food dinner is complete without them!

Collards often feature ham hocks or bacon and are served with cornbread. But guess what? You can make them vegan, and they’re just as tasty!

Cooked collards are tender, almost silky. And they adopt other flavors, proving you don’t need meat to make them delicious!

19. Smoked Tomato Confit

This smoked tomato confit is a twist on the classic, with tomatoes absorbing smoky flavors. It is divine. 

You only need some ripe summer tomatoes. This recipe is simple, gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan.

No smoker? No problem – you only need a little liquid smoke!

20. Cilantro Lime Chicken

This cilantro lime chicken will have you craving every last bite! 

You only need a few ingredients – cilantro, lime juice, garlic, cumin, chili flakes, and honey. This dish is perfect for hectic weeknights or special feasts. 

Trust me, this will become a family hit. Its tangy sauce is finger-licking good… you’ll be cleaning your plate!

21. Smoked Meatloaf

In search of a fresh twist for your mealtime? Say goodbye to your usual meatloaf. This tempting oven-smoked meatloaf is here to steal the day!

Easy to make with simple ingredients, its smoky essence will become a new family favorite. 

From parties to family dinners, everyone will be smitten with this recipe’s smoky allure. Get ready to fall in love!

22. Cauliflower Tacos with Smoky Garlic Sauce

Searching for a crowd-pleaser at your next taco night? These roasted cauliflower tacos with smoky garlic sauce will NOT disappoint!

These tacos are allergy-friendly – vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free. Rest easy because everyone can enjoy them!

The best part? They’re a breeze to make. So, invite your friends over and tuck in!

23. Smoked Chicken Enchiladas

These amazing smoked chicken enchiladas are filled with shredded chicken and melting cheese.

But my favorite part is topping them with an enticing tangy sauce (recipe included). 

They’re easy to whip up, as this recipe doesn’t have complex steps. The enchilada sauce ensures a smoked flavor, no matter what kind of chicken you use.

Plus, they can feed a large group easily. So, these enchiladas are ideal for family meals, potlucks, or parties. Yum!

24. Smokey Mushroom Fajita

Craving a delightful twist on a classic? Give this mouth-watering mushroom dish, inspired by traditional Mexican Fajitas, a go! 

This dish spins classic fajitas into this sizzling, smoky dish. Instead of the traditional tortilla wraps, pack all the yumminess into a brioche bun.

Of course, if you prefer tortillas, go for it – they’re perfect for this feast!

25. Slow Cooker Glazed Smoked Ham

Savor the tenderness and sweet allure of this slow cooker glazed smoked ham. It’s enriched with brown sugar, honey, and liquid smoke. 

Pair it with potatoes – there’s no better side. It is the ideal centerpiece for your holiday dinner.

This smoked ham is easy to prepare. Glaze it and pop it in the oven or slow cooker. Done!

26. Tempeh Bacon

Looking for the king of vegan bacon?

Tempeh bacon might be your match! With its impressive protein content, tempeh makes for an ideal bacon substitute.

Bathe the tempeh in flavor to nail that smoky, salty, and sweet bacon essence.

So, grab some tamari, liquid smoke, black pepper, maple syrup, and cayenne for some heat. 

The result? Tender bacon strips with crispy edges, packed with flavor. This is perfect for brunch, scrambles, sandwiches, and more.

27. Grilled Burger

Get ready for a truly delectable grilled burger. Every bite is juicy, packed with flavor, smoky, and beautifully browned. Do burgers get any better than this?

This succulent, smoky burger patty can stand alone or be decked out with toppings. Don’t forget some tasty sauces and sides. 

You’ll love this recipe for its simplicity – just 4 ingredients! 

28. Not So Smoked Trout Dip

If you love smoked fish but lack a smoker, you will adore this trout dip!

Ideal for reusing leftover fish, it’s a brilliant way to maximize your meal’s potential. #costeffective

The best part? You can experiment with different fish for a unique taste every time. Delish!

29. Vegan Three Bean Chili

Nothing beats a comforting bowl of chili. And this recipe is something special. 

This heartening dish is a powerhouse of bold, spicy notes. And it will win over plant-based and meat-lovers alike. Oh, and it is simple to make. 

Savor it solo or let it star atop baked potatoes, salads, nachos, fries, or buns. The possibilities are endless!

30. Instant Pot Ribs

These instant pot ribs are the ultimate blend of convenience and delectability. 

The ribs are marinated in a homemade sweet and savory dry rub. They become perfectly tender in the pressure cooker. 

Why will you adore these Instant Pot Ribs? They’re tender in under an hour and are faster than a smoker or slow cooker. Done and dusted!