Searching for a pellet grill? We tested multiple brands, and the Traeger 575 was our top budget-friendly pick. Here's why.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.Learn more.
Traeger Pro 575 Review: Our Favorite Budget-Friendly Pellet Grill
Updated Sep. 14, 2024
Pellet grills came on the market to offer a simpler method for achieving wood-fired flavor, especially when compared to charcoal or gas grills. Traeger has been making pellet grills in all different sizes with varying features for years. Some of the brand’s most iconic models, like the Ironwood and Timberline, can get pretty pricey. But if you’re looking to get into outdoor smoking without breaking the bank, you can’t go wrong with the Traeger Pro 575.
As a grilling enthusiast, I have put multiple Traegers to the test. Our Product Testing Team also recently reviewed four Traeger grills, as well as the best pellet grill models from Pit Boss, Recteq, Weber and Yoder. Grilling expert Catherine Ward led the charge. Throughout testing, she found the Traeger Pro 575 produces juicy meat with a user-friendly interface and easy cleanup. Here’s why it’s our best budget pick.
What is the Traeger Pro 575?
The Traeger Pro 575 is part of Traeger’s Pro lineup. Meant for backyards, decks and patios, it’s a step up from the portable Traeger Tailgater. The grill is constructed from black, powder-coated steel for excellent durability. Like all other Traeger models, it has two stationary legs and two legs with large rolling casters for moving positions as needed.
The hopper is on the right-hand side of this grill and can hold up to 18 pounds of wood pellets. The small screen for temperature control and ignition is located on the front of the hopper. Once ignited, it can go up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. With 575 square inches of cooking space and two tiers, it’s still plenty of space for feeding a crowd, whether you’re stacking it full of burgers or smoking a brisket or pork shoulder. The other pellet grill in the Pro line-up, the Traeger Pro 780, offers the same design and features but with 780 square inches of cooking space.
While cooking, the grill’s WiFi capabilities connect to the Traeger app so you can keep an eye on what you’re cooking or start the shutdown cycle.
VIA MERCHANT
We Tried It
Traeger Pro 575
How We Tested the Traeger Pro 575
Our Product Testing Team received the Traeger Pro 575 on a pallet and had to first assemble it. Following the user-friendly manual, it was easy enough to put together, though it required a lot of pieces and steps.
We then put the Traeger Pro 575 through a series of cooking tests to assess how well it performs. We smoked salmon at 190 degrees Fahrenheit for two hours, which resulted in a moist, smoky flavor and beautiful appearance. Two hours of smoking chicken breasts at 225 degrees Fahrenheit led to a beautiful mahogany color and great moisture. A pork shoulder cooked at 275 degrees was very juicy and moist with a nice red smoke ring. The pellet grill performed well at lower temperatures across all three tests.
However, the Pro 575 didn’t perform as well at higher temperatures. It took 30 minutes for the Traeger to get up to a temperature of 500 degrees Fahrenheit. And even at that heat, there was little to no searing and it produced pale-looking meat.
When it was time to empty pellets from the hopper, it was simple to unscrew the fastener and allow the leftover pellets to empty into a container. This is particularly useful if you like to pair specific pellets with different foods. The team found the clean-out process of this Traeger model was easier in comparison to other models. Traeger accessories, like the Traeger grill cleaner spray, make the process even simpler.
Pros
- Approachable price point
- Easy to assemble
- Simple to clean compared to other models
- Delicious food results, especially at lower temperatures
Cons
- Smaller control screen
- Not ideal for searing and high-temp cooking
FAQ
How do you start a Traeger Pro 575?
With the pellet hopper filled and the power switch flipped to on, turn the temperature dial. When the desired temperature reads on the screen, press ignite to begin the preheating process.
Does the Traeger Pro 575 have Super Smoke?
While foods cooked on a Traeger are smoke-kissed, some models have a Super Smoke function that infuses even more smoke at a lower temperature for a stronger flavor. However, the Traeger Pro 575 doesn’t have that function. “Pellets will never be as smoky tasting as real hardwood,” says testing lead Catherine Ward. She suggests placing a smoke box (a great gift for grillers!) inside the grill if you want a more robust flavor.
Why You Should Trust Us
The Traeger Pro 575 was put to the test by the Taste of Home Product Testing Team alongside 10 other pellet grill models. Each pellet grill was thoroughly evaluated for ease of assembly, cooking performance, design, special features and ease of cleaning. To ensure readers get the most bang for their buck, we also evaluated popular brands side by side, like Traeger vs. Recteq.
I 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 that will last, including pizza ovens, fire pits, grills and smokers. I have personally tested and used the Traeger Timberline and Traeger Ironwood for two years in my own backyard.
Where To Buy the Traeger Pro 575
VIA MERCHANT
We Tried It
Traeger Pro 575
Planning your smoked food menu? The Traeger Pro 575 is $800 and can be purchased on Traeger’s website. It is also available on Amazon, Ace Hardware and BBQ Guys.
Originally Published: September 14, 2024
