Sous Vide Smoking / BBQ: Temperature & Time Guide
Smokers are great for flavor and terrible for control — temperatures drift and the bark comes at the cost of texture. Sous vide plus a 30-60 minute smoke gives you both: perfect texture and real smoke.
Our top pick
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
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Quick comparison
| Pick | Why we like it | |
|---|---|---|
| Anova Precision Cooker 3.0 | A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking. | View → |
| Instant-read meat thermometer | Use one to verify your water bath and spot-check the finish — a $15 probe removes all guesswork. | View → |
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
Editor’s PickA circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
- + On-device temperature control
- + 1100W heats fast
- + Recipe library for temps
- − Premium price
- − Some app features paywalled
Free shipping on eligible items
Use one to verify your water bath and spot-check the finish — a $15 probe removes all guesswork.
- + Verifies actual temperature
- + Cheap insurance
- − Not needed if your circulator is accurate
Free shipping on eligible items
Buying advice
Smoke alone for: ribs and brisket if you have time and experience. Sous vide + smoke for: the best of both — cook to temp sous vide, chill, then smoke at 200°F for 30-60 minutes to add smoke without cooking further.
FAQ
Can sous vide replace a smoker?
Not entirely — it can't add real smoke. But it can control the cook, then a short smoke adds the flavor with far less babysitting.
How do I smoke after sous vide?
Chill the cooked meat, then smoke at 180-225°F for 30-60 minutes just to absorb smoke — the interior stays at the right doneness.
What if I don't have a smoker?
Smoked salt, liquid smoke in the bag, or a smoke gun are all partial substitutes.
Ready to cook perfectly?
Our top pick for this guide — check today’s price and clip any on-page coupon on Amazon:
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Want exact temps and times? Use our free sous vide calculators.