From Charcoal to Gas, 31 Barbecue Recipes Work No Matter What’s Under the Grates

Grilling season doesn’t care whether you use charcoal, gas, or a little bit of both. These 31 barbecue ideas make it easy to get bold flavor without overthinking the setup. Perfect for backyard gatherings or casual weeknight cookouts, they work no matter what’s under the grates. Each option brings smoky, grilled goodness that makes everyone go back for seconds.

A plate of Thai pork & Green beans with rice, topped with a fried egg, served with chopsticks on the side.
Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled Radishes With Jalapeño Dipping Sauce

A plate with grilled radishes, a bowl of creamy dipping sauce, lime halves, jalapeño, and a striped cloth on a white surface.
Grilled Radishes With Jalapeño Dipping Sauce. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Trying something different on the grill is always a fun idea. Grilled Radishes With Jalapeño Dipping Sauce turns ordinary vegetables into a bold and smoky appetizer option. The radishes get a nice char that adds depth to their natural flavor. It’s a great dish for those who like to mix vegetables with exciting accompaniments. Perfect for casual hangouts or full barbecue spreads when you want variety.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Radishes With Jalapeño Dipping Sauce

Lemon Dill Salmon Foil Packets

A close-up, slightly high-angle shot of a single Lemon Dill Salmon Foil Packets , seasoned with lemon and dill, still nestled in its aluminum foil packet on a light gray plate, with a silver fork to its right.
Lemon Dill Salmon Foil Packets. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Foil packet meals are a smart way to keep things simple while keeping everything flavorful. Lemon Dill Salmon Foil Packets are quick to prepare and great for outdoor cooking. The foil helps lock in the flavor and makes cleanup easier afterward. Whether for small family dinners or backyard gatherings, it’s always a reliable choice for fish lovers. This recipe pairs convenience with a hint of freshness.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Dill Salmon Foil Packets

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Grilled Lime Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled lime-garlic chicken breasts with visible char marks on a white rectangular plate, with vine tomatoes in the background.
Grilled Lime Garlic Chicken Breasts. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Chicken done on a grill often brings out a smoky and bold taste. Grilled Lime Garlic Chicken Breasts are a standout option for weekday meals or weekend cookouts. Cooking them just long enough ensures a juicy bite every time. Pair them with simple sides for a complete plate or keep them as the main star of the spread. This recipe is easy to prepare yet offers something memorable for everyone to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lime Garlic Chicken Breasts

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips with mushroom gravy over mashed potatoes, garnished with chives on a white plate.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Transforming restaurant-style meals into backyard barbecue fun can be simple. Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips delivers that steakhouse flavor without needing a trip. Cooking them perfectly gives that tender, rich bite you want with grilled beef. Serve them for a casual meal or when hosting friends in your backyard. This is a dish that feels special and is sure to get rave reviews around the table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Smoked Meatballs

Smoked meatballs in a dish with grilled bread.
Smoked Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Meatballs aren’t just for the oven when you can make them even better outside. Smoked Meatballs combine classic textures with a smoky essence that grilling adds effortlessly. Preparing them for dinners or weekend gatherings feels creative and fresh. It’s a dish that works well with pasta or as appetizers served on their own. Adding these to your lineup will definitely bring something different to the grill.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Meatballs

Smoked Dry Rubbed Wings

Smoked dry rubbed chicken wings on a white plate with garlic.
Smoked Dry Rubbed Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Wings cooked on the grill are made for backyard cookouts. Smoked Dry Rubbed Wings keep it straightforward with bold flavors that come through in every bite. Getting that smoky essence into them takes this recipe up a notch. Pair them with sauces or sides of your choice, depending on the occasion. Great for small gatherings or when you just want something easy yet unforgettable at the grill.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Dry Rubbed Wings

Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers

A wooden round serving board is covered with white parchment paper, displaying numerous grilled steak and veggie skewers arranged horizontally across it.
Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Combining steak and vegetables on skewers is a smart way to keep things flavorful and fun. Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers give you that charred perfection with a mix of textures on each stick. Hosting a barbecue or enjoying a casual dinner is made simple with this recipe. It’s a reliable favorite that balances meat and freshness together. Everyone can appreciate the convenience and ease of serving skewers.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers

Grilled Ratatouille

Close-up shot of Grilled Ratatouille on a black plate.
Grilled Ratatouille. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Vegetable dishes can bring something unique to the grill. Grilled Ratatouille takes a traditional recipe and gives it a smoky, charred touch that’s ideal for summer or backyard gatherings. Cooking the veggies carefully creates a soft yet crisp bite in every piece. It’s a smart way to bring variety to your barbecue lineup without much effort. This recipe pairs well with nearly any other dish on the table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille

Smoked Tomatoes

Smoked tomatoes in a dish with grilled bread.
Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tomatoes get a bold makeover with Smoked Tomatoes, adding deep flavor to this simple ingredient. They pair well with meats, pasta, or even as a topping for burgers, bringing versatility to your barbecue. Smoking makes the tomatoes flavorful without losing their original texture. Adding this recipe to your lineup gives a fresh, smoky twist to traditional grilling favorites. They’re a light but impactful addition to any barbecue table.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomatoes

Grilled Fruit Quesadillas

Four pieces of Fruit Quesadillas on a white plate.
Grilled Fruit Quesadillas. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Adding sweet and smoky notes together can make meals interesting. Grilled Fruit Quesadillas combine the grill’s essence with the brightness of fruit for a dessert or snack option. Preparing them feels simple yet creative, made to surprise guests with their fun twist. The grilling process gives them a slight crispness that pairs perfectly with each bite.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Fruit Quesadillas

Smoked Spaghetti Squash

A baked spaghetti squash half filled with cooked strands, garnished with chopped parsley, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Smoked Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Recipes that use vegetables in new ways keep things exciting for grill enthusiasts. Smoked Spaghetti Squash adds depth to an already versatile ingredient and gives a smoky note to every scoop. Grilling it makes for a tender yet textured result that’s great on its own or added into larger meals. Whether as a side dish or something unique for plant-based eaters, it’s a smart grill recipe everyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Spaghetti Squash

Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob

Three ears of husked corn were arranged on a dark slate plate.
Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Corn cooked outside is always a hit at barbecues and gatherings. Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob takes this popular ingredient and adds the depth of smoky flavor. Cooking it carefully ensures great texture with every bite and brings something extra to your plate. Whether served alone or paired with other dishes, it fits perfectly for cookouts large or small.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob

Pork Belly Burnt Ends

A plate of smoked pork belly burnt ends with tomatoes and pickles.
Pork Belly Burnt Ends. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Experimenting with cuts of meat on the grill can make meals exceptional. Pork Belly Burnt Ends deliver tenderness and bold flavor with a texture that’s hard to match. Preparing them for friends or family makes any barbecue feel like an indulgence. Serve these as a centerpiece dish or a flavorful side while everyone enjoys the unique offering. Grilling them takes this dish into a league all its own.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Blackstone Griddle Texas BLT

Two halves of Texas BLT on a black plate.
Blackstone Griddle Texas BLT. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Sandwiches on the grill mean adding warmth and new textures to a familiar recipe. Blackstone Griddle Texas BLT brings together grilled components for a bold take on a classic meal. Cooking the bread with just enough crispness enhances the dish without overwhelming it. Offer this during a casual lunch or as part of a larger gathering spread to impress others.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Griddle Texas BLT

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

A platter of Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites.
Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Small bites on the grill can pack big flavor without much effort. Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites are perfect for parties or as quick snacks in between larger meals. Grilling them makes them crisp on the outside while keeping them flavorful on the inside. Serving them to guests feels satisfying without being complicated. A recipe that works for casual backyard meals or as barbecue appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

Smoked Berry Crisp

A spoon lifts a portion of Smoked Berry Crisp from a bowl.
Smoked Berry Crisp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Turning dessert into something grilled adds excitement to the barbecue. Smoked Berry Crisp pairs a smoky note with the sweetness of berries for a unique finish to any meal. Cooking it outside transforms this traditional dish into a fun talking point among guests. It’s simple yet flavorful enough to become a favorite for gatherings. Everyone can enjoy it as a memorable end to a great cookout.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Berry Crisp

Grilled Feta

Grilled Feta with Herbs in a black serving dish with toasted bread and a lemon wedge.
Grilled Feta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Barbecues become more exciting with Grilled Feta, adding a smoky touch to a classic favorite. This recipe gives the cheese a firm yet flavorful finish, ideal for dipping or spreading. It’s simple to make and fits perfectly into a menu filled with meats and veggies. Even leftovers keep their bold taste, making them a great addition to salads or wraps. Pairing this dish with fresh bread or crackers brings the barbecue experience full circle.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Feta

Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings

Smoked and glazed peach-chipotle chicken wings on a black plate.
Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoke adds boldness to juicy wings while mixing sweet and spiced flavors. Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings turn casual snacks into something you’ll want to serve at every gathering. They’re perfect for an easy barbecue, and the grill creates a beautiful char that enhances every bite. Serving them fresh is ideal, but leftovers reheat and keep their unique taste and texture intact.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings

Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs

A close-up of a dish featuring colorful tortellini mixed with meatballs, spinach, and chopped red bell peppers, topped with melted cheese, served in a white bowl.
Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pasta takes on a bold new feel with Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs, creating a rewarding mix of textures and flavors. Griddling adds a smoky depth to the dish that sets it apart from typical pasta recipes. It’s perfect for serving to a crowd or enjoying as a family-style meal. Meatballs stay juicy, while the pasta holds its firm texture, making leftovers just as enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs

Smoked Peaches with Spiced Rum Whipped Cream

Smoked peaches topped with spiced rum whipped cream on a platter.
Smoked Peaches with Spiced Rum Whipped Cream. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combining sweet fruit with a smoky edge turns dessert into something unforgettable. Smoked Peaches with Spiced Rum Whipped Cream pairs the natural richness of fruit with soft whipped cream for a dessert that feels light yet indulgent. Grilling the peaches caramelizes them slightly, enhancing their flavor in every bite. It’s quick to prepare and creates a memorable end to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Peaches with Spiced Rum Whipped Cream

Bacon Fried Corn

Bacon Fried Corn in a serving bowl.
Bacon Fried Corn. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoky, crisp bites paired with tender corn make this recipe a standout side. Bacon Fried Corn brings smoky richness to simple ingredients without needing much prep time. It’s perfect alongside grilled meat or even served on its own when you need something light but flavorful. The grill adds depth, while the bacon gives texture that complements the dish perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn

Smoked Shotgun Shells

Smoked shotgun shells on a white plate.
Smoked Shotgun Shells. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked appetizers reach a new level with Smoked Shotgun Shells, packing bold flavors into a fun shape. They hold up well on the grill, allowing the ingredients inside to cook perfectly. Guests will love how easy they are to enjoy, making them a standout choice for parties. Leftovers taste just as rich when reheated, making them practical for a second meal. Adding something creative like this to the barbecue keeps everyone excited.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Shotgun Shells

Bacon-Wrapped Burgers

Bacon-Wrapped Burger on a black plate.
Bacon-Wrapped Burgers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Wrapping smoky bacon around juicy burgers makes these an easy hit at any barbecue. Bacon-Wrapped Burgers combine two favorites into one unforgettable bite. They pair well with toasted buns, fresh toppings, or even lettuce wraps for a lighter take. The grill locks in flavor and adds texture, giving every bite a great balance of smoky and juicy.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Burgers

Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

A stack of chicken and pineapple on a vertical skewer on a cutting board.
Smoked Chicken Al Pastor. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Slow grilling and layers of flavor make this dish stand out. Smoked Chicken Al Pastor brings tender chicken to the table with a bold, smoky twist that works wonderfully in tacos or bowls. The grill ensures the chicken stays juicy while adding depth to the recipe as everything cooks together. It’s a great pick for gatherings or meal prepping ahead of time.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

Blackstone Smash Burger

A burger held in two hands.
Blackstone Smash Burger. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bringing high heat to every patty gives this recipe amazing texture and flavor. Blackstone Smash Burger creates thin, crispy burgers that stay juicy while being quick to grill. Ready fast and perfectly customizable, they’re ideal for casual meals or larger gatherings with friends and family. They reheat well and remain flavorful even as leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Smash Burger

Traeger Smoked Leg of Lamb

Whole cooked leg of lamb on a board with a knife.
Traeger Smoked Leg of Lamb. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Slow smoking builds deep, rich flavors for this impressive centerpiece. Traeger Smoked Leg of Lamb is perfect for family gatherings or sharing with guests during casual cookouts. It takes minimal hands-on effort thanks to the slow smoking process, leaving the grill to do all the work. The lamb comes out tender and flavorful, ready to be sliced and paired with your favorite sides.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Leg of Lamb

Texas-Style Carne Asada

A sliced and grilled Carne asada on a wooden cutting board.
Texas-Style Carne Asada. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

High-heat grilling brings out the smoky char that makes this recipe shine. Texas-Style Carne Asada turns classic cuts into tender, flavorful slices that are great for tacos, bowls, or served alone. The simplicity of grilling ensures the bold flavors are locked into every bite. Great for feeding crowds or keeping on hand for meal prep, this recipe fits almost every occasion.
Get the Recipe: Texas-Style Carne Asada

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

Grilled chicken breast on a white plate with fork and knife, sliced tomatoes, lemon halves, cilantro, and salt and pepper shakers on a checkered cloth.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Simple ingredients combined with rich grilling techniques turn chicken into something special. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken delivers perfectly tender, flavorful meat that pairs beautifully with sides or works as a stand-alone meal. It’s an excellent choice for quick dinners or prepping ahead for lunches during the week. The char from the grill adds texture while bringing out the fresh flavors that shine in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

Korean Galbi Ribs

Korean Galbi Ribs on a slate platter with red chopsticks beside them.
Korean Galbi Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Sweet and smokiness make these ribs an unforgettable barbecue option. Korean Galbi Ribs bring tender meat and bold flavors straight to the grill for a crowd-favorite recipe. They’re great for sharing, whether you’re feeding a few people or a large party looking for something special. Save the leftovers for lunches, snacks, or repurposing into other dishes.
Get the Recipe: Korean Galbi Ribs

Grilled California Chicken Burger

A grilled California chicken burger with lettuce, tomato, cheese, and ham on a bun, served with potato chips on a white plate.
Grilled California Chicken Burger. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Juicy chicken paired with smoky char delivers a burger worth talking about. Grilled California Chicken Burger combines grilled meat and toppings in a way that feels fresh and satisfying. Easy to assemble and great for customizing, this recipe works perfectly as a casual lunch or dinner option. High heat locks in bold flavor while keeping the texture tender and juicy.
Get the Recipe: Grilled California Chicken Burger

Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

A plate of Thai pork & Green beans with rice, topped with a fried egg, served with chopsticks on the side.
Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Adding rich flavors and crisping everything to perfection makes this recipe unique. Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle mixes bold meat with tender greens for a meal that feels balanced and filling. The griddle locks in smoky flavors while creating great texture in every bite. It’s excellent for casual meals or prepping for the week, staying quick and simple without losing boldness.
Get the Recipe: Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

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