Summer is barbecue season. As you get invitations to backyard BBQs, you may wonder what to bring to a BBQ party. With some tips on food, drinks, and other items, you’ll have the perfect barbecue contribution ready.
Foods to Bring to a BBQ
Food is the main event at any barbecue. Consider what foods the host is providing and what you can bring to complement their offerings.
Main Dish BBQ Foods
If the host isn’t providing the main meat dish, offering to bring something hearty is a great idea. Some BBQ-worthy main dish options include:
- Hamburgers and hot dogs
- Chicken wings or chicken kebabs
- Ribs
- Sausages
- Steak
- Pork chops
- Salmon
- Veggie burgers or skewers for non-meat eaters
Cooking up a main dish on the grill frees the host from having to do all the grilling. Offer to arrive early to get the food on the grill so it’s ready when guests are hungry.
Side Dishes
Even if the main course is covered, bringing a side dish or two allows you to contribute without showing up empty-handed. Some simple but delicious BBQ side options:
- Pasta salad
- Potato salad
- Coleslaw
- Baked beans
- Mac and cheese
- Corn on the cob
- Watermelon slices
Sides that can be made ahead of time are easy for you and keep the host from having to prepare everything on the day of the party.
Appetizers and Finger Foods
It’s nice to have appetizers or snacks for guests to munch on before the grill is fired up. Some easy BBQ appetizer ideas:
- Chips and salsa/guacamole
- Veggie tray
- Fruit skewers
- Caprese salad skewers
- Deviled eggs
- Sausage rolls
- Jalapeno poppers
- Meatballs
Pick up a tray of these at the supermarket or make them yourself for a unique homemade touch.
Desserts
A sweet treat is the perfect way to end a barbecue. Ideas for delicious BBQ desserts include:
- Fruit pie (apple, blueberry, cherry)
- Cookies
- Brownies
- Cupcakes
- Popsicles
- S’mores
Servingindividual portions like cupcakesor popsicles eliminates the need to slice and serve.
Drinks to Bring to a Barbecue
Keep guests refreshed by contributing drinks to the party.
Non-Alcoholic Drinks
Offering non-alcoholic beverages ensures everyone has something to sip on. Some options:
- Sodas (regular or diet)
- Lemonade or fruit punch
- Iced tea
- Sparkling water
- Juice boxes for kids
You can make lemonade or iced tea at home or pick up a few gallons at the store. Having both regular and diet/sugar-free varieties satisfies different preferences.
Beer and Wine
For adults, split a case of beer or rosé wine to share. Choose light, refreshing beers for outdoor drinking. For wine, crisp whites and fruity rosés pair perfectly with BBQ.
Signature Cocktails
Get creative with a signature cocktail for the party. Some crowd-pleasing options:
- * Mojitos: rum, lime juice, mint, club soda
- * Margaritas: tequila, lime juice, orange liqueur
- * Palomas: tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, club soda
- * Agua Fresca: tequila or rum, fruit puree, sparkling water
Pre-mixing cocktails in pitchers allows guests to serve themselves. Add crushed ice to keep drinks chilled outside.
Mocktails
For an alcohol-free cocktail, mix up fun mocktails. Combinations like fruit juice, lemonade, ginger beer, mint, and sliced fruit keep it interesting. Set up a mocktail bar so guests can mix and match flavors.
What Else to Bring to a BBQ
A few other items round out your barbecue contribution:
Condiments and Toppings
Ketchup, mustard, and relish are barbecue staples. You can also bring unique additions like sriracha, hot sauces, guacamole, grilled veggies, or aioli.
Disposable Plates, Cutlery and Napkins
These supplies ensure there are enough to go around. Get an assortment of plates and cutlery so people can grab what they need.
Sunscreen and Bug Spray
These often get forgotten but make time outdoors more comfortable. Bring family-size bottles that everyone can share.
Games and Activities
Outdoor games encourage mingling. Some fun options are cornhole, ladder ball, frisbees, spikeball, or oversized yard Jenga.
Speaker for Music
Create a festive barbecue vibe with upbeat playlists from your portable Bluetooth speaker.
Reusable Bags and Coolers
Use these to transport and keep cold all the delicious food and drinks. Bonus if they’re insulated bags.
With the right foods, drinks, and extras, you’ll be the guest who saves the BBQ! Arrive prepared so the host and other guests can simply relax and enjoy the party.
Frequently Asked Questions About What to Bring to a BBQ
What is the best BBQ dish to bring to a party?
Some top BBQ contribution ideas are main dishes like burgers, hot dogs, or chicken, side dishes like salads and veggies, and desserts like pies, cookies or brownies. Choose foods you can make ahead or easily transport.
Should I bring food for BBQ if asked not to?
Even if the host says not to bring anything, taking a small contribution like chips and dip or cookies is still a nice gesture. Or offer to help with setup or cleanup instead.
What can I bring to BBQ besides food?
Consider items like sunscreen, bug spray, games, plasticware, condiments, drinks, ice, coolers, speaker for music, etc. Things to make the party more comfortable, fun and stocked.
Is it OK to bring alcohol to someone’s BBQ?
It’s best to ask the host if you can contribute alcohol or any specific types they would like. Some may prefer to provide it themselves.
What should I not bring to a BBQ?
Avoid bringing foods that need lots of preparation, extra cooking, or utensils the host may not have. Don’t overdo it – the host likely has most basics covered.
Conclusion
When going to a BBQ, think about what will make the party a success while not overburdening the host. Bringing one or two items like a main dish, side, or drinks is perfect. If unsure what to contribute, coordinate with the host so your offerings complement what they’re providing. With some tasty foods, essentials like plates and sunscreen, and fun additions like games, you’ll be a BBQ bonus guest!