Regular readers of my blog know of my love for Traeger – I’m a long time fan of these pellet grills and love my Ironwood-series model as the perfect balance of features vs value. As the outdoor cooking world continues to evolve Traeger has long been a name synonymous with innovation, reliability, and flavor. With the introduction of their XL series, Traeger aims to redefine the boundaries of what’s possible with pellet grills. In this comprehensive review, we delve deep into the features, performance, and overall cooking experience offered by each model within the Traeger XL series. My hope is that this article will help you decide if the XL series is right for you – whether it be your first Traeger grill or a new model to add to your grilling stable.
Design and Build Quality:
The Traeger XL series boasts a robust construction designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor cooking. Crafted from high-grade stainless steel, these grills exude durability and sturdiness. The XL’s spacious cooking chamber provides ample room for large cuts of meat, whole poultry, and multiple racks of ribs, making it an ideal choice for hosting gatherings and events. Its sleek and modern design adds aesthetic appeal to any outdoor setting, while the powder-coated finish ensures resistance against rust and corrosion, enhancing longevity.
Cooking Performance:
At the heart of the Traeger XL series lies its state-of-the-art pellet grilling technology, which promises precision temperature control and consistent heat distribution. Equipped with advanced PID controllers, these grills offer unparalleled accuracy, allowing users to maintain their desired cooking temperatures with minimal fluctuations.
Traeger XL Models:
Traeger Ironwood XL:
The Traeger Ironwood XL model offers a cooking capacity of 885 square inches, providing ample space for large-scale cooking projects. With a temperature range of 165°F to 500°F, this grill is versatile enough to handle a wide range of cooking techniques, from low-and-slow smoking to high-temperature searing. The inclusion of Traeger’s signature WiFIRE technology allows for remote control and monitoring via a smartphone app, offering unmatched convenience and flexibility.
My personal preference is the Ironwood XL – it’s got more than enough cooking surface for my family’s needs and strikes a good balance between cost and value in my opinion.
Traeger Timberline XL 1300:
For those who demand even greater cooking capacity and have a larger budget, the Traeger XL 1300 model delivers with a whopping 1300 square inches of cooking space. Whether you’re catering for a crowd or preparing multiple dishes simultaneously, this grill has you covered. With the same advanced temperature control and WiFIRE technology found in the XL 885, users can expect consistent results with minimal effort.
This model is harder to find online because they don’t make as many and it’s often sold out, so you’re best bet is probably Home Depot, Ace Hardware, and the like if you can’t find it on Amazon.
Innovative Features:
One of the standout features of the Traeger XL series is its WiFIRE technology, which enables remote control and monitoring of the grill via a smartphone app. This game-changing innovation empowers users to adjust temperature settings, set timers, and receive real-time alerts from anywhere, providing unmatched convenience and peace of mind. Additionally, the TurboTemp feature accelerates the grill’s preheating process, reducing wait times and getting you cooking faster. Furthermore, the XL models come equipped with dual meat probes, allowing for precise monitoring of internal temperatures without the need for constant supervision.
Ease of Use and Maintenance:
Traeger has always prioritized user-friendliness, and the XL series is no exception. With simple controls and intuitive interfaces, these grills are suitable for both novice and experienced outdoor cooks alike. The inclusion of a pellet hopper clean-out feature streamlines maintenance, making it effortless to switch between different types of wood pellets or perform routine cleaning tasks. Moreover, the porcelain-coated grill grates are non-stick and easy to clean, ensuring hassle-free maintenance and prolonged durability.
Cooking Versatility:
From low-and-slow smoking to high-temperature grilling, the Traeger XL series excels in versatility, offering endless possibilities for culinary experimentation. With precise temperature control and customizable settings, users can unleash their creativity and explore a myriad of cooking techniques and recipes. Whether you’re craving juicy smoked ribs, perfectly seared steaks, wood-fired pizzas, or even baked desserts, the XL grills can handle it all with finesse, elevating your outdoor cooking game to new heights.
New Pop-and-Lock Accessory Rail:
Customize your cookspace with an array of attachments, from tool hooks to storage bins, on grills equipped with P.A.L. Pop-And-Lock accessory rails.
It’s a super convenient way to get quick access to all your gear.
Available ModFire Cooking Grate Options:
ModiFIRE cooking surfaces sit securely on your grill grates to immediately expand your cooking horizons.
Change out your OEM grates for cast iron, searing, and more.
Customer Satisfaction and Reviews:
I’m a personal owner of a Traeger grill and have used the brand for years. Although I have a kamado, high end gas grill, pizza oven, and griddle too, the Traeger is easily the #1 grill I use most often – it’s just so darn good.
But don’t just take my word for it feedback from customers who have experienced the Traeger XL series has been overwhelmingly positive. Users praise the grills for their exceptional build quality, reliable performance, and ability to deliver mouthwatering results consistently. The convenience of WiFIRE technology has been particularly well-received, with many users citing it as a game-changer in their outdoor cooking experience. Additionally, Traeger’s commitment to customer support and satisfaction further enhances the overall ownership experience, instilling confidence in the brand’s products.
Is the Traeger XL in your future?
The Traeger XL series stands as a testament to Traeger’s dedication to innovation, quality, and culinary excellence. With its robust construction, advanced features, and unparalleled cooking performance, these grills redefine the standard for outdoor cooking equipment. Whether you opt for the Ironwood XL or the Timberline XL 1300, you can expect a versatile and enjoyable cooking experience that will elevate your outdoor gatherings and delight your taste buds. Invest in a Traeger XL grill today and embark on a journey of culinary discovery like never before.