On New Year’s Day many people prepare dishes thought to bring good fortune—corned beef, black-eyed peas, and similar traditional foods. I enjoy those dishes and often cook them myself, but I’m not especially superstitious.
To me, luck is more about a positive mindset, steady effort, and the willingness to make the best of whatever life hands you, even when things go wrong.
(Enough philosophy — let’s get to the food.)
Below is a curated selection of smoked recipes that are perfect for New Year’s Day. These dishes are crowd-pleasers, easy to prepare on a smoker, and ideal for sharing with family and friends.
If you have other smoked recipes you think belong on this list, please share them in the comments—I’d love to hear your favorites!
Smoked Corned Beef Rollups
Smoked corned beef rollups are an excellent way to use leftover corned beef or to enjoy a smoky twist on a classic. They’re simple to assemble, full of flavor, and great as an appetizer or main dish when served with sides.
Get the recipe ▸Smoked Corned Beef Rollups
Smoked Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Onions
These smoked Brussels sprouts are cooked low and slow to develop a deep, caramelized flavor. Combined with crisp bacon and sweet onions, they make a satisfying side that converts even skeptics into fans.
Get the recipe ▸Smoked Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Onions
Dutch’s Wicked Baked Beans
A rich, smoky version of baked beans created by a longtime pitmaster friend. These beans are hearty, full of depth, and pair perfectly with smoked meats for a complete New Year’s meal.
Get the recipe ▸Dutch’s Wicked Baked Beans
Smoked Onion Cola Ribs and Brats
These ribs and brats are smoked with an onion-and-cola combination that adds sweetness and depth. The technique yields tender meat with a glossy, flavorful finish—perfect for a celebratory meal.
Get the recipe ▸Smoked Onion Cola Ribs and Brats
Corned Beef Burnt Ends
Corned beef burnt ends deliver a bold, caramelized bite and are an exciting way to treat a corned beef brisket. They’re an indulgent, shareable option that often becomes the star of the table.
Get the recipe ▸Corned Beef Burnt Ends
How to Smoke Chicken
A straightforward tutorial that walks through butterflying and prepping a whole chicken, applying a flavorful rub and mayonnaise mixture, and smoking to tender, juicy results—great for easy entertaining.
Get the recipe ▸How to Smoke Chicken
Hot Smoked Salmon on a Stick
Hot smoked salmon skewers are easy to make and fun to serve. They cook quickly and offer a satisfying smoky crust while staying moist inside—an elegant option for a holiday spread.
Get the recipe ▸Hot Smoked Salmon on a Stick
Smoked Corned Beef Brisket (The Making of Pastrami)
Smoking a corned beef brisket is a fantastic way to celebrate New Year’s Day or St. Patrick’s Day. The smoky pastrami-style finish elevates the traditional brisket into something special for gatherings.
Get the recipe ▸Smoked Corned Beef Brisket (The Making of Pastrami)
Seared and Smoked Top Sirloin Steaks
Seared and smoked top sirloin steaks deliver a beautiful crust and smoky aroma. Dry-brining and a bold rub enhance natural beef flavor, producing steaks worthy of a special occasion.
Get the recipe ▸Seared and Smoked Top Sirloin Steaks