Are you hosting or attending a BBQ and wondering what tasty treats to make? Grilling seasoned meats and veggies is a favorite summertime pastime for many, but coming up with creative recipes to wow your guests can be challenging. As BBQ connoisseurs, we have put together this definitive guide on what to make for your next cookout. Let’s fire up the grill and get cooking!
Mouthwatering BBQ Main Dishes
The star of any barbecue is succulent, smoky meat fresh off the grill. Try these crave-worthy recipes as your BBQ’s main event.
Juicy BBQ Pork Ribs
These fall-off-the-bone pork ribs are seasoned with a sweet and spicy dry rub, then slowly smoked for tender perfection. Brush on your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes of grilling. For extra flair, garnish with scallions. The crowd will go crazy for these!
Sizzling BBQ Chicken
Chicken legs, thighs, and wings shine when given the BBQ treatment. For crispy skin and moist meat, coat the chicken pieces with an oil-based rub recipe. Grill over indirect heat, turning occasionally, until cooked through. Check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part.
Show-Stopping BBQ Brisket
For the ultimate BBQ centerpiece, slowly smoke a whole beef brisket, allowing time for meltingly tender meat. A simple dry rub lets the robust beef flavor shine. Once rested, the brisket can be sliced for serving on buns. Your patience will pay off in this sublime BBQ dish.
Bursting BBQ Burgers
Fire up the grill to make your own gourmet burgers, packed with flavors like smoky bacon, sautéed onions, avocado, blue cheese crumbles, grilled pineapple rings, and more! Ground sirloin or chuck make juicy and robust patties. Serve on fresh buns with all your favorite fixings.
Delectable BBQ Sides and Appetizers
Every outstanding BBQ needs an array of finger-licking sides and starters. Grill up these recipes alongside the main courses.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Brush husked cobs with herbed butter or olive oil and grill until lightly charred, turning frequently. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, grated Parmesan, or your favorite spices. The sweet corn pairs perfectly with your saucy BBQ dishes.
Tangy BBQ Baked Beans
These require some advance prep, but the complex flavors are worth it! Sauté onion and bacon, then combine with beans, brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, and spices. Bake until thick and saucy. The sweet and tangy beans complement your savory grilled meats.
Caprese Skewers
Assemble colorful skewers with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic reduction before grilling until the cheese is melty. Your guests will devour these fast, so make extra!
Grilled Vegetable Platter
Slice zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and asparagus. Toss with olive oil and seasonings of your choice. Grill until tender, turning occasionally. Arrange the veggie skewers over a platter garnished with herbs. A healthy and delicious option!
Unforgettable BBQ Desserts
After all that savory goodness, cool off with sweet treats. Satisfy those dessert cravings with grilled fruits or creative no-bake options.
Grilled Peach Sundaes
Halve and pit peaches, brush with melted butter, then grill cut-side down until caramelized. Place peaches in bowls and top with ice cream, chocolate sauce, crushed nuts or cookies, and whipped cream. A fun summery twist on a classic!
Red, White and Blue Poke Cake
Layer a baked white cake with strawberries, cream cheese filling, and blueberries in a clear trifle bowl. Refrigerate overnight so the juices seep into the cake layers. Garnish with whipped cream before serving this festiveFourth of July-inspired dessert.
No-Bake Cheesecake Bites
Blend cream cheese, whipped cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Spoon into mini graham cracker crusts and refrigerate until set. Top with fruit like berries or pineapple slices. The mini sizes make for perfect handheld sweets.
Expert Tips for BBQ Success
Hosting an epic BBQ requires more than just tasty recipes. Use these pro tips for your most successful cookout yet:
- Prep as much as possible ahead of time – chop ingredients, make rubs and sauces, and pre-cook meats if needed. You’ll be less stressed once guests arrive.
- Stagger cooking times so you don’t need to man the grill non-stop. Get those ribs or brisket going early at a low temp.
- Have a meat thermometer on hand to check doneness and avoid under or overcooking.
- Keep sauces and condiments on the side so guests can customize to taste.
- Make sure you have enough seating and check weather forecasts. Have abackup plan if rain strikes.
- Ask friends and family to contribute side dishes, apps, drinks and desserts for a potluck-style gathering.
With mouthwatering recipes, elegant sides and appetizers, and festive desserts, your BBQ spread is sure to be a hit using our expert advice. Fire up the grill and get ready to wow your guests with your amazing barbecue creations. The only thing left is to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Happy grilling!