Your cookouts are about to level up because these 27 easy BBQ recipes deliver maximum flavor with minimum effort. Say goodbye to boring burgers and hello to mind-blowing ribs and unforgettable desserts cooked right over the flames.
1. Coffee Rubbed Homemade Burgers
You absolutely need to try these burgers at your next gathering because they are total conversation starters. A homemade sauce featuring Dr Pepper, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, ancho chili powder, and brewed coffee makes them incredibly special.
Trust me on the coffee rub addition as it adds a depth of flavor that will amaze your guests.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Stop boiling your corn and start tossing it directly on the grill for a superior taste. I love finishing mine with simple butter and salt, but you can certainly experiment with other spices.
Try adding Tajin or turning it into Mexican street corn with some cotija cheese.
3. Grilled Fruit Skewers
Move over meat and veggies because these fruit skewers are claiming the spotlight. The heat from the grill transforms the fruit into something completely new and exciting.
I suggest drizzling them with maple syrup and vanilla yogurt for a treat you will not be able to stop eating.
4. BBQ Chicken Sandwich
You can whip up this fun sandwich in just 30 minutes without breaking the bank. I find the rich creamy coleslaw pairs perfectly with the savory meat.
This chicken is so tasty that you might just want to eat it plain or toss it into a wrap instead.
5. Grilled Peppers
These flavorful peppers work beautifully as a sandwich topping or mixed into fajitas. You can keep them in large pieces placed directly on the grates or use a basket for easier cooking.
Either method yields delicious results that are great alongside brisket.
6. Steak Kabobs
Kabobs are fantastic for summer cooking because they are simple to prepare and taste amazing. I recommend loading up your skewers with plenty of vegetables for the best results.
You end up with a mouthwatering meal that looks as good as it tastes.
7. Grilled BBQ Chicken
Classic meals often taste the best when grilling season rolls around. I recommend using drumsticks for this recipe even though other cuts work fine too.
You get crispy juicy chicken coated in sauce that is simply irresistible.
8. Grilled Mushroom Burgers
Meaty mushroom burgers are unbeatable when you need a solid vegetarian option. Even meat lovers will enjoy this scrumptious recipe.
Make sure you marinate the mushrooms to boost the flavor and feel free to go wild with your favorite toppings.
9. Grilled S’mores Pizza
Take your dessert game to a new level by making s’mores in pizza form right on the grill. This creative recipe packs in marshmallows, Graham Crackers, and Nutella.
It is a fun twist on the campfire classic that everyone will devour.
10. Grilled Pork Chops with BBQ Rub
Everyone loves a good pork chop fresh off the grill. The dry rub here features a mix of garlic, onion, paprika, brown sugar, pepper, mustard, and cayenne.
Just remember to move the meat to indirect heat after you get a good sear.
11. Grilled Steak
Beef tastes incredible after a quick spin on the hot grates. This steak looks like a professional chef made it for a TV show.
It is hard to resist such a beautiful piece of meat.
12. Grilled Bananas
Switch to dessert mode once the burgers and dogs are done cooking. I load these bananas with nutmeg, cinnamon, and maple syrup for an otherworldly flavor profile.
Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect finish.
13. Brown Sugar Grilled Pineapple
Brown sugar glazed pineapple is a must-have dish for your summer table. You do not need fresh fruit to make this happen.
Canned pineapple works just fine and delivers that same great taste.
14. Crazy Amazing (and easy) BBQ Short Ribs
These short ribs are thick, meaty, and exceptionally tender. I absolutely adore how they melt in your mouth.
Serve them with plenty of homemade sauce and some cornbread to soak up every drop of juice.
15. Marinated BBQ Grilled Vegetables
Fresh grilled vegetables make for a scrumptious side dish. This version uses red onion, asparagus, bell peppers, eggplant, mushroom, and zucchini.
You cook them quickly over direct heat for a nice char and add the marinade afterwards.
16. Baja Style Mexican Hot Dogs
These Mexican hot dogs look insanely good with their fresh cucumber salsa and spicy aioli. Charred sausages are impossible to resist when topped with avocado slices.
Add some fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for a wow factor.
17. Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers
These protein-packed skewers are gluten-free and perfect for poolside dining. I love the combination of fruity pineapple chunks with crispy meat.
Just throw some grilled veggies on the plate to complete the meal.
18. Marinated Pork Ribs
This recipe is for anyone who wants ribs that drip with juice in every bite. The secret to mouthwatering flavor lies entirely in the marinade.
Letting the pork soak longer allows it to absorb maximum deliciousness.
19. Grilled Pineapple Barbecue Chicken
This dish screams summer and offers a savory-sweet flavor profile that everyone enjoys. Grilling pineapple brings out its natural sugars for a tangy and sweet result.
You should definitely make a big batch because it disappears fast.
20. Brisket
Brisket is an impressive cut of meat that can be tricky to cook right. This foolproof recipe ensures you get moist and tender results every time.
It starts with a dry rub and requires about three hours of cooking time, so plan accordingly.
21. Grilled Steak Tacos
Switch things up from standard beef dishes with these delicious steak tacos. They are completely customizable which makes them great for guests.
You can easily build the perfect taco exactly how you like it.
22. Barbecued Burgers
You can never go wrong with burgers when planning a barbecue menu. These feature a perfectly caramelized crunchy exterior that is absolutely craving-worthy.
The secret ingredient for perfection is instant oatmeal, and once you try it, you will stick with it.
23. Grilled Zucchini
This recipe saves the day when your garden is overflowing with summer squash. It is a Middle Eastern dish packed with lemon, garlic, and za’atar.
Finish it off with a drizzle of homemade yogurt sauce for a phenomenal side.
24. BBQ Pork (Char Siu)
This pork dish is super simple to prepare and works well all year round. It is based on a traditional Chinese style that delivers perfection in every bite.
I honestly think this might be my favorite recipe on the entire list.
25. Honey BBQ Chicken Kabobs
These juicy kabobs come loaded with a homemade sauce that is both tangy and sweet. They deliver everything you could want in tender grilled meat.
Feel free to add Sriracha if you prefer a little spicy kick.
26. Marinated Grilled Salmon
I am completely obsessed with making salmon on the grill during warm months. It feels like bringing a bit of the ocean right into my backyard.
The simple marinade combines olive oil, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, and soy sauce.
27. Grilled Brownies
You can certainly bake these in the oven, but they are a real showstopper on the grill. The warm fudgy texture pairs beautifully with strawberries and whipping cream.
It is an absolute delight that guests will love.