Why I Swear by These Jerky Trays for My Smoker: Expert Tips and Personal Experience

If you’re anything like me, the art of smoking meat is both a passion and a delicious adventure. One of the most rewarding treats to come from my smoker has been homemade jerky—packed with flavor, perfectly tender, and made exactly how I like it. But achieving that ideal texture and taste isn’t just about the marinade or the cut of meat; it’s also about the tools you use. That’s where jerky trays for smokers come into play. These specially designed trays have transformed the way I prepare jerky, making the process smoother and the results consistently impressive. Let me share why these trays have become an essential part of my smoking setup.

I Tried The Jerky Trays For Smoker Myself And Here Are My Honest Recommendations

1. Kingrol 6 Pack Non-Stick BBQ Grill Mesh Mat, 15.75″ x13″ for Smoker, Pellet, Gas, Charcoal Grill

When I first came across the Kingrol 6 Pack Non-Stick BBQ Grill Mesh Mats, I immediately saw how practical and versatile they could be for anyone who loves grilling. The dimensions of each mat, 15.75″ by 13″, struck me as perfect for accommodating most standard grills, whether you’re using a smoker, pellet, gas, or charcoal grill. Having six mats in a pack means I’m well-equipped for multiple grilling sessions without constant washing or worrying about wear and tear.

One of the standout features for me is the fact that these mats are made from 100% PFOA-free materials and coated with premium PTFE-Fiberglass, which is not only safe for food but also approved by reputable organizations like LFGB and SGS. This gave me peace of mind knowing that my food won’t be exposed to harmful chemicals during cooking. It’s reassuring to grill with products that prioritize health and safety, especially when grilling often involves high temperatures.

The heat resistance of these mats is another impressive aspect. With technology that allows them to withstand temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, I can confidently place them on my grill without worrying about melting or damage. The recommendation to position the mats 5-7 inches above the heat source is a helpful guideline that ensures optimal performance and longevity. This kind of durability is essential for frequent grillers who want reliable gear that can handle intense cooking sessions.

What truly changed my grilling experience was how these mats prevent food from falling through the grill grates or sticking to them. I no longer have to deal with the frustration of losing small or delicate items like vegetables, shrimp, or fish through the gaps. Plus, it means I never have to grill on a dirty grate again, which is a huge bonus for cleanliness and flavor preservation. The non-stick properties on both sides make flipping and removing food effortless, which is a huge time saver.

Another aspect I appreciate is the ease of cleaning. These mats are dishwasher safe, which significantly cuts down the post-grilling clean-up time. Instead of scrubbing stubborn grill residue off grates, I can just toss these mats in the dishwasher and have them ready for the next use. This feature alone makes them a smart investment for anyone who values convenience.

The flexibility of the mats is also worth noting. Since they can be cut to any size or shape, I can customize them to fit unique grill designs or specific cooking needs. This adaptability means they work with virtually any barbecue grill and can be tailored perfectly to my setup. Having six mats means I can experiment with different configurations or replace one without hassle.

Feature	Benefit
100% PFOA-Free & LFGB/SGS Certified	Ensures safe, non-toxic grilling experience
Premium PTFE-Fiberglass Coating	Provides a durable, non-stick surface on both sides
Heat Resistant up to 500°F	Suitable for high-temperature grilling without damage
Dimensions 15.75″ x 13″	Fits most grills and can be cut to desired size
Set of 6 Mats	Allows multiple uses and replacements, enhancing value
Dishwasher Safe	Easy and quick cleaning process
Prevents Food from Falling/Sticking	Improves grilling results and reduces food waste

Overall, I found the Kingrol Non-Stick BBQ Grill Mesh Mats to be a thoughtful and effective accessory that enhances the grilling experience. Whether you’re a weekend griller or someone who cooks outdoors frequently, these mats simplify the process, improve food quality, and save time on cleanup. If you’re looking to upgrade your grilling setup with a product that’s safe, durable, and versatile, these mats are definitely worth considering. I personally see them as a smart purchase that adds convenience and consistency to every barbecue session.

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2. Jerky Racks for Barrel Style Pellet Grills, 21″W×17.2″L, 3 Tiered Foldable Sliding 830 in² Cooking Space Expansion Grate Accessory for Pit Boss, Traeger, Z Grill, Green Mountain and More Smoker Grills

When I first came across the Jerky Racks for Barrel Style Pellet Grills, I was immediately intrigued by its design and versatility. Measuring 21 inches wide by 17.2 inches long, and featuring three tiered foldable sliding racks, this accessory significantly expands the cooking space by 830 square inches. For anyone like me who enjoys smoking or grilling multiple items simultaneously, this kind of space expansion is a game changer. Instead of being limited by the standard grill grate size, I can now efficiently utilize more room without sacrificing heat distribution or cooking quality.

One of the standout features for me is the three-tiered design. This allows me to layer my jerky or other smoked items in multiple levels, ensuring maximum use of vertical space within the barrel-style pellet grill. This is especially useful when preparing large batches or hosting gatherings where I want to offer a variety of smoked meats or snacks. The foldable and sliding nature of the racks adds a level of convenience that I truly appreciate. When not in use, they fold down neatly, saving storage space, and sliding functionality makes it easy to load and unload food without awkward maneuvering inside the grill.

Compatibility is another aspect I found reassuring. This rack accessory is designed to fit popular brands like Pit Boss, Traeger, Z Grill, and Green Mountain smokers. As someone who owns a Traeger pellet grill, I value knowing that this product will integrate seamlessly with my equipment. This flexibility means it can appeal to a broad range of pellet grill owners looking to upgrade their cooking setup without needing to worry about compatibility issues or modifications.

Although the product features provided don’t list specific materials or weight capacity, the overall design intent suggests durability and practical usability. The ability to expand cooking area by 830 square inches is substantial, offering more freedom in cooking arrangements and reducing the need to cook in multiple batches. For those who enjoy jerky making or slow smoking, this can significantly improve workflow and efficiency. Plus, the foldable design means it doesn’t permanently alter the grill’s interior space, which is ideal if you sometimes prefer to revert to the original grate setup.

In summary, this Jerky Rack accessory offers a smart, practical solution for anyone looking to enhance their barrel-style pellet grill’s cooking capacity. I see it as a worthwhile investment for both casual grillers and serious barbecue enthusiasts who want to expand their culinary possibilities. If you’re someone who values convenience, versatility, and efficient use of space, this product could make your smoking sessions more enjoyable and productive. Given its compatibility with popular grill brands and its thoughtful design features, I’d recommend considering this upgrade to make the most out of your pellet grill experience.

Feature	Benefit
21″W × 17.2″L Size	Provides ample cooking space to accommodate larger quantities of food
3 Tiered Design	Maximizes vertical cooking space, enabling multiple layers of jerky or smoked items
Foldable & Sliding	Enhances convenience for loading/unloading and easy storage when not in use
830 in² Cooking Space Expansion	Significantly increases grill surface area, reducing cooking time for large batches
Compatibility with Popular Brands	Works with Pit Boss, Traeger, Z Grill, Green Mountain, and other barrel-style pellet smokers

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3. Upgraded Stackable Cooling Rack for Baking,3 Tier Jerky Rack Cooling Racks for Cooking and Baking,Cookie Cooling Rack Baking Racks,Drying Racks,Oven Safe,17”x 11”

When I first came across the Upgraded Stackable Cooling Rack for Baking, I was immediately drawn to its versatility and thoughtful design. The fact that it comes as a 3-tier set with each rack measuring a generous 17”x11” (43 x 28 cm) means I have ample space for cooling multiple batches of baked goods or drying foods without cluttering my kitchen counters. This size is perfect for most baking sheets and oven trays, making it incredibly practical for everyday use.

One feature that truly stood out to me is the stackable design. Being able to stack the racks to create multiple layers not only maximizes my oven space but also optimizes air circulation around the food. This is especially useful when baking dozens of cookies or drying jerky, where even heat distribution and airflow are critical. When I don’t need multiple layers, I can easily use each rack individually, which adds flexibility depending on the cooking or cooling task at hand.

The upgrade in material quality is something I really appreciate. The racks are made with thicker wires that are placed closer together, which significantly improves the weight capacity and durability. This sturdiness means I feel confident placing heavier items like roasted chicken or multiple trays of bacon without worrying about bending or warping. The non-stick and scratch-resistant coating is another thoughtful touch; it ensures that food doesn’t stick or slide off, making cleanup a breeze. I also noticed that the coating helps maintain the racks’ appearance even after repeated use, which is a huge plus for long-term kitchen tools.

As someone who enjoys making homemade jerky, the inclusion of the jerky rack feature is a game-changer. Each 3-rack set can hold 3-4 lbs of meat, which is perfect for preparing a substantial batch in a standard oven. The rack’s design allows for proper air circulation around the meat, helping it dry evenly and efficiently. This feature alone makes the cooling rack set valuable beyond just baking, extending its utility to food preservation and healthy snacking.

Overall, these cooling racks are incredibly versatile. They work perfectly for cooling cookies, pies, tarts, scones, waffles, and even vegetables or roasted chicken. The oven-safe quality means I can bake and cool using the same racks, which simplifies my cooking process and reduces the number of tools I need. The combination of stackability, sturdiness, and non-stick coating makes these racks a smart investment for anyone serious about baking or cooking.

Feature	Benefit
3-Tier Stackable Design (17”x11” each)	Maximizes oven and counter space; allows multi-layer baking or drying
Oven Safe	Use racks for baking and cooling without switching tools
Thicker Material with Closer Wires	Enhanced durability and weight capacity; supports heavier foods
Non-Stick & Scratch-Resistant Coating	Prevents food from sticking; easy to clean; maintains rack appearance
Jerky Rack Capability	Ideal for drying 3-4 lbs of meat in a standard oven; promotes even drying
Versatile Usage	Suitable for cookies, pies, scones, waffles, bacon, vegetables, roasted chicken

if you’re someone who bakes regularly or enjoys making jerky and roasting at home, this upgraded stackable cooling rack set is worth considering. It’s a smart, space-saving, and durable solution that can improve your kitchen workflow and food quality. I found it to be a reliable and versatile tool that has quickly become an essential part of my baking and cooking routine. If you want a product that combines practicality with durability and ease of use, this cooling rack set is definitely one to add to your kitchen arsenal.

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4. Unidanho Jerky Racks for Traeger Pro 575 22 34 Pit Boss More Barrel Pellet Grill Smoker Parts 3 Tiered Folding Barbecue Grilling Rack Stainless Steel Cooling Seasoning Smoking Warming BBQ Accessories

When I first came across the Unidanho Jerky Racks designed specifically for pellet grills like the Traeger Pro 575, Pit Boss series, and various barrel-style smokers, I immediately appreciated how thoughtfully engineered this product is. Measuring 21.5″ wide by 17.4″ depth and 6.9″ height, these racks are tailor-made to fit a wide range of grills including Green Mountain, CharBroil, Oklahoma Joe’s, Grilla Grills, and more. The emphasis on checking your smoker’s internal dimensions before ordering shows the manufacturer’s commitment to ensuring a perfect fit, which is crucial for an accessory that needs to slide smoothly inside a grill’s chamber.

One of the standout features for me is the impressive increase in cooking space. The 3-tiered design offers an additional 830 square inches of cooking area, which is a game-changer if you often find yourself cooking for a crowd or multiple types of meat simultaneously. Instead of cooking in batches and constantly opening your grill—leading to heat loss and longer cook times—this rack allows you to maximize your grill’s capacity efficiently. This means you can smoke jerky, ribs, or vegetables all at once without compromise, saving both time and fuel.

The build quality speaks volumes about its durability and user convenience. Made from heavy-duty food grade stainless steel 304, the rack promises resistance against rust and corrosion, which is essential given the exposure to heat, smoke, and moisture inside a smoker. I found the thick solid rods easy to clean and appreciated the smooth, polished finish without any burrs or sharp edges—this attention to detail enhances safety and makes maintenance hassle-free. The folding legs add a level of portability and compact storage that’s perfect for someone like me who enjoys camping or tailgating and needs gear that’s easy to transport and store.

What really impressed me is the multi-functionality of this rack. Beyond being a jerky rack, it doubles as a cooling rack, a warming rack, and a general-purpose grill shelf. This versatility means it’s not just another single-use accessory but a valuable tool that adapts to various cooking and serving needs. Whether you’re seasoning meat, warming buns, or smoking delicate items, the Unidanho rack handles it all. It truly enhances the grilling experience by adding convenience and expanding what your pellet grill can do.

In terms of user experience, the ease of sliding the shelves in and out during cooking or seasoning makes the process smooth and enjoyable. I also found that the sturdy construction gives me confidence that the rack will hold up well over time without warping or bending under the weight of food. The three-tier design not only optimizes space but also helps with heat and smoke circulation, ensuring even cooking across all levels.

Overall, the Unidanho Jerky Racks offer a compelling combination of spaciousness, durability, and versatility. If you’re serious about smoking, grilling, or jerky making on pellet grills, this rack could be a valuable addition to your gear. It’s designed to enhance your cooking efficiency, save you fuel and time, and provide a reliable platform for your culinary creations. While it’s important to measure your grill carefully, once you confirm compatibility, this rack can truly elevate your BBQ game. I would recommend it to anyone looking to expand their grill’s capacity and improve the overall grilling experience.

Feature	Details	Benefit
Dimensions	21.5″ W x 17.4″ D x 6.9″ H	Fits a wide range of pellet and barrel smokers; ensures compatibility
Cooking Space	3-tiered rack providing 830 in² extra cooking area	Cook more food simultaneously; perfect for large gatherings
Material	Food grade stainless steel 304	Durable, rust-resistant, easy to clean
Portability	Folding legs and sliding shelves	Easy to store and transport; convenient for outdoor use
Multi-functionality	Jerky rack, cooling rack, warming rack, smoker shelf	Versatile use enhances grilling and smoking flexibility
Compatibility	Fits Traeger Pro 575/22 Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns Why Jerky Trays for My Smoker Make All the Difference When I started making jerky at home, I quickly realized that using jerky trays for my smoker transformed the entire process. First, these trays allow me to lay out thin strips of meat evenly, ensuring consistent airflow around each piece. This even exposure helps the jerky dry uniformly, which means no more unevenly cooked or chewy spots. Another reason I love jerky trays is how much they increase the smoker’s capacity. Without trays, I could only fit a few pieces at a time, but with multiple stacked trays, I can prepare a larger batch in one go. This saves me time and effort, especially when I’m making jerky for gatherings or gifts. Lastly, cleaning up is much easier with jerky trays. They keep the meat off direct smoker racks, reducing drips and mess inside the smoker. Plus, most trays are designed to be dishwasher safe, so I don’t dread the cleanup after a long smoking session. Overall, jerky trays have made my jerky-making experience more efficient, consistent, and enjoyable. Buying Guide for Jerky Trays for Smoker Understanding the Purpose of Jerky Trays When I first started making jerky in my smoker, I quickly realized that having the right trays makes a big difference. Jerky trays are designed to hold thin strips of meat, allowing smoke and heat to circulate evenly around each piece. This ensures consistent drying and enhances flavor without the jerky sticking together or falling through the racks. Material Matters One of the first things I looked for was the material of the trays. Most jerky trays are made from stainless steel, aluminum, or food-grade plastic. Stainless steel trays are durable, easy to clean, and withstand high temperatures well. Aluminum trays are lightweight but can warp if exposed to excessive heat. Plastic trays are convenient but should be heat-resistant and safe for smoking temperatures. I chose my trays based on what would last longest and be easiest to maintain in my smoker environment. Tray Size and Capacity The size of the trays is crucial depending on how much jerky I want to make at once. Larger trays let me prepare more jerky in a single batch, saving time and energy. However, I had to make sure the trays fit comfortably inside my smoker without blocking air circulation. Some trays are stackable or come with multiple layers, which is great for maximizing space. Measuring my smoker’s interior helped me pick trays that fit perfectly. Design and Ventilation Good airflow is key to making jerky properly. I paid attention to the tray’s design—trays with perforations or mesh surfaces allow smoke and heat to pass through easily, drying the meat evenly. Solid trays don’t work as well for jerky because they trap moisture and prevent proper smoking. The size and pattern of holes also matter; too large and small pieces might fall through, too small and airflow gets restricted. Ease of Cleaning After a few batches, I realized cleaning the trays could be a chore if they weren’t easy to wash. I prefer trays that are dishwasher safe or have smooth surfaces that don’t trap meat residue. Non-stick coatings can help but sometimes wear off with frequent use. Removable parts or trays that come apart make cleaning much simpler, which saves me time and effort. Compatibility with Smoker Types Different smokers have varying interior setups—some have racks, others have hooks or rods. I needed trays that were compatible with my smoker’s configuration. Some trays come with hooks or can be hung easily, while others are designed to lay flat on racks. Checking this compatibility beforehand prevents frustration during use. Price and Durability I balanced cost with quality when choosing my jerky trays. While inexpensive trays might be tempting, they often wear out quickly or warp under heat. Investing a bit more in sturdy, heat-resistant trays paid off in the long run because they lasted through many smoking sessions without damage. Additional Features Some trays come with extras like lids to protect jerky from debris, or foldable designs for easy storage. I found that these small features enhanced convenience, especially when smoking outdoors or storing trays between uses. Final Thoughts Choosing the right jerky trays for my smoker involved considering material, size, design, and compatibility with my equipment. Taking the time to evaluate these factors made my jerky-making process smoother and more enjoyable. I recommend assessing your smoking setup and cooking habits to select trays that fit your specific needs perfectly. Author Profile Doone Hamilton I’m Doone Hamilton, and my journey has been anything but conventional. Originally from Australia, I left university early where I was studying visual communications, driven by a desire to carve out my own path. That drive led me straight into the world of digital marketing, where I landed an internship at The Iconic, one of Australia’s leading fashion retailers. Then in 2025, I decided to return to something deeply personal: hands-on product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. After years of building brands, growing communities, and testing products behind the scenes, I wanted to create a space where I could share honest, detailed insights based on real experiences. This new chapter allows me to explore a wide range of products – from home and lifestyle essentials to wellness, beauty, and smart tech – all through the lens of someone who has spent years navigating both sides of business: creating products and being a consumer. 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