The Coals Are Ready—31 BBQ Recipes Are All That’s Missing

When the grill fires up, it’s like a beacon summoning everyone to the backyard. With 31 BBQ recipes ready to take over the menu, the coals won’t be the only thing heating things up. These dishes turn the grill into the center of attention, drawing crowds, second helpings, and maybe even a nosy neighbor. Light the fire, grab the tongs, and let the food do the talking.

A sliced and grilled Carne asada on a wooden cutting board.
Texas-Style Carne Asada. 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.

Grilling isn’t just for meat or fruit; vegetables can steal the spotlight, too. Grilled Radishes With Jalapeño Dipping Sauce are smoky with a hint of heat. They add a bold twist to your BBQ spread, whether as a starter or side. Try this if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Radishes With Jalapeño Dipping Sauce

Bacon-Wrapped Smoked Pork Loin

Smoked ham on a wooden cutting board.
Bacon-Wrapped Smoked Pork Loin. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Smoky flavors and crispy textures make Bacon-Wrapped Smoked Pork Loin a barbecue must. The rich, smoky flavor of the pork combines with the crisp bacon for an indulgent meal. This isn’t your everyday dinner; it’s the perfect centerpiece for a backyard cookout. It’s amazing how simple ingredients can shine so brightly.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Smoked Pork Loin

The Backyard Table

An e-book titled "The Backyard Table: Recipes for Summer Cookouts" by Chef Jenn Allen is displayed on a tablet, featuring a bowl of potato salad on the cover.

Get it NOW and level up your outdoor dining! The Backyard Table - Recipes for Summer Cookouts features 34 of Chef Jenn's BEST recipes for outdoor eating and entertaining.

You'll get ad-free recipes like:

  • Grilled Corn Guacamole
  • Grilled French Onion Burgers
  • Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
  • Blueberry Grunt
  • and so many more!

Every recipe is created, tested and loved by Chef Jenn and her family - there's no AI here!

Get it now, at a special introductory price of $7.99. That's over 50 pages of foodie love at your fingertips!

Buy Now!

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimps on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Bringing coastal vibes to your backyard is easy with seafood. Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp combines simplicity with a refreshing bite, making it a perfect BBQ pick. The flavors are light but not dull, ensuring variety on your plate. These shrimp skewers fit anywhere from parties to casual weekends.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

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 right can anchor any BBQ spread. Grilled Lime Garlic Chicken Breasts deliver a balance of smokiness and tang, giving plain chicken a serious upgrade. Juicy yet lightly crisped, they’re ideal for BBQ pros and beginners alike. They pair well with almost anything on the table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lime Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops

Three Grill Mediterranean Lamb Chops topped with gremolata on a white plate.
Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Lamb lovers will appreciate the smoky tenderness of Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops. Each chop feels like it was made to be grilled, offering rustic char notes. It’s one of those dishes that feels both special and hearty, the kind of BBQ option people ask for again. This one balances boldness with backyard simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops

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.

Desserts that use a smoker? Absolutely. Smoked Peaches With Spiced Rum Whipped Cream balance smoky warmth with a sweet, creamy topping. This isn’t just dessert; it’s an experience you’ll want to repeat often. A seriously easy way to bring something unexpected to your BBQ table.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Peaches with Spiced Rum Whipped Cream

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.

Craving a BBQ idea that breaks every stereotype? Blackstone Tortellini With Meatballs fuses grilled pasta and the boldness of meatballs in one skillet. It’s hearty and feels like a backyard twist on comfort food. Whether it’s a crowd or dinner for two, it combines smoky, saucy, and filling beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs

Grilled Pork Souvlaki

Ninja Woodfire Pork Souvlaki with Horiatiki Salad and pita bread on a white plate.
Grilled Pork Souvlaki. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Skewers are a BBQ winner, and Grilled Pork Souvlaki is always crowd-pleasing. Each skewered bite is juicy and well-cooked, holding the right amount of smokiness. It’s an easy-to-eat option for outdoor gatherings or a comforting grill idea at home. This takes street food vibes and gives them a backyard twist.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Souvlaki

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.

Bringing steakhouse vibes to your grill is never a bad idea. Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips capture everything you love about tender, juicy steak. These bites make BBQ simpler while still feeling a little fancy. Whether you serve them as a main or optional side dish, they hit the bullseye.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

A plate with Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes.
Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Consider adding some fruity freshness to your BBQ lineup with Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes. Grill marks add a smoky sweetness to peaches, and mixing those with savory elements creates a unique bite. It’s your answer to combining fruity and earthy in one plate. Great for diversifying barbecue sides without a pile of effort.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

Smoked Meatballs

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

Finger foods with big flavor are BBQ essentials. Smoked Meatballs hit the sweet spot of being bite-sized but bold in taste. They fit perfectly as appetizers before the main event or load up nicely into sliders. Whether game days or BBQ gatherings, these pack a satisfying punch; not too fussy, just perfect.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Meatballs

Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers

Three pieces of Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers on a white plate.
Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Turning dessert into finger food is a win with Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers. The grilling adds a smoky layer to the sweetness, turning simple ingredients into a fun, shareable treat. It’s everything you love about shortcake, only fit for a BBQ. Perfect for kids and adults alike at outdoor gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze on a round platter.
Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

BBQ chicken isn’t all the same, and this is worth trying. Smoked Chicken Legs With Red Pepper Glaze turns the basic drumstick into something bold and memorable. Slightly sweet but smoky enough to hold attention, they’re a crowd-pleaser for family grilling nights. Great for those wanting ease and standout flavor.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

A grilled steak with cowboy butter on a white plate.
Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Steaks are a grilling staple, but Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter take them to another level. The rich, smoky char of the grill paired with the butter’s bold flavors creates an irresistible combo. This dish turns a good steak into unforgettable. You’ll want to keep this recipe handy for any barbecue occasion.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Smoked jalapeno poppers on a platter.
Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice lovers, this is where smoky BBQ meets heat-packed snacking. Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers balance bold, stuffed flavors with just the right kick. It’s ridiculously easy to make them disappear from the plate first. Whether bold BBQ appetizers or a side idea, these bring excitement to any spread.
Get the Recipe: Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Lemon-Oregano Chicken Kabobs with a dipping sauce.
Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Skewers are easy, but this brings something different. Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs have a balance of smokiness and freshness that makes them versatile. They’re light enough for quick meals but work equally well for BBQs with friends. Great for when chicken just needs to be brought more to the grill.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs

Smoked Pulled Pork

Two cast iron skillets with smoked pulled pork in them.
Smoked Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Want a BBQ staple that never fails? Smoked Pulled Pork is classic for a reason, with juicy meat that pairs perfectly with almost anything. Whether served in sandwiches, tacos, or on its own, it’s a crowd favorite. It’s perfect for big gatherings or leftovers you’ll look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pulled Pork

Bacon Fried Corn

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

Corn is good, but Bacon Fried Corn is better when you mix smoky grill flavors with crisp, savory bites. The corn’s sweetness contrasts perfectly with the bacon’s smoky depth. It’s a sure upgrade to your usual sides, packed with textures and tastes that stick with you. A little twist on the classic makes a big difference.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn

Grilled Fruit Quesadillas

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

Sweet fruits tucked between crispy grilled quesadillas create a mix of flavors not often seen at barbecues. Grilled Fruit Quesadillas are as fun to make as they are to eat, making them a party favorite. Their unique taste adds variety to your spread without feeling complex. Perfect for anyone wanting sweetness off the grill.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Fruit Quesadillas

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

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

Bite-sized snacks like this are BBQ gold. Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites combine smoky meat and handheld convenience into an irresistible option for any gathering. They’re great for dipping, munching, and sharing while the grill’s still going. Easy to eat and packed with flavor in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

Grilled Teriyaki Mango Skewers

Three Grilled Teriyaki Mango Skewers with bell peppers, zucchini, and onions served on a bed of yellow rice on a white plate.
Grilled Teriyaki Mango Skewers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Sweet meets smoky in Grilled Teriyaki Mango Skewers, where the grill’s heat enhances tropical notes. The teriyaki sauce adds that bold kick, while the mango brings freshness to the table. It’s a BBQ idea that skips the usual and doubles down on creativity. Perfect for guests looking for something lighter yet still memorable.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Teriyaki Mango Skewers

Smoked Tomatoes

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

If you’re looking for something simple but unique, here’s an option for you. Smoked Tomatoes deliver smoky richness while keeping things light. They’re a great side dish that pairs just as well with steaks as they do with grilled sides. Once you try this, your regular tomato dishes might feel incomplete.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomatoes

Grilled Fruit Skewers with Cherry Dip

Four pieces of grilled fruit skewers on a slate plate with a bowl of cherry dip.
Grilled Fruit Skewers with Cherry Dip. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Dessert on a stick never gets old, and Grilled Fruit Skewers with Cherry Dip make it even better. The grill’s gentle char takes the natural sweetness to new heights, complemented by the creamy dip. They’re simple enough for a casual cookout but fun enough to stand out. A must-try for switching up your BBQ dessert options.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Fruit Skewers with Cherry Dip

Smoked Ribeye Roast

Sliced smoked ribeye beef on a cutting board.
Smoked Ribeye Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ramping up your BBQ mains doesn’t have to be complicated. Smoked Ribeye Roast offers rich, smoky flavors and tenderness without over-complicating things. It’s perfect for when you want something impressive but not stuffy. Serve this as your centerpiece, and let the meat do all the talking.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Ribeye Roast

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.

When you want seafood to shine, this is your go-to. Lemon Dill Salmon Foil Packets lock in flavor while staying light and fresh. Grilling them in foil means they cook perfectly without drying out, and they bring a nice balance to heavy BBQ dishes. A fantastic choice to mix up your grilling routine.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Dill Salmon Foil Packets

Smoked Turkey Thighs

Smoked turkey thigh on a white plate.
Smoked Turkey Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

All the depth of smoked turkey in an easy-to-grill format comes with Smoked Turkey Thighs. They’re full of flavor, tender inside, and perfectly charred on the surface. They also hold up well to all kinds of barbecue sides, cementing their role on any cookout menu. No one’s going to miss the usual stuff with these thighs around.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Turkey Thighs

Grilled California Chicken Burger

A chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, ham, cheese, and sauce on a brioche bun, sitting on a wooden board.
Grilled California Chicken Burger. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Looking for a lighter burger that doesn’t skimp on flavor? Grilled California Chicken Burger strikes the right balance of smoky, juicy, and fresh. It’s ideal for BBQs where variety is important and something hearty but different is needed. These burgers are anything but boring.
Get the Recipe: Grilled California Chicken Burger

Smoked Shotgun Shells

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

BBQ creativity doesn’t stop with Smoked Shotgun Shells, a fun, smoky option that’s impossible to ignore. These stuffed bites pack layers of bold flavor, and the grill only makes them better. They’re shareable yet hearty, great for feeding everyone at once. Toss a batch on and see them disappear before the others are ready.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Shotgun Shells

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.

Craving something that steps outside traditional BBQ flavors? Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans On The Blackstone Griddle brings bold, smoky notes mixed with fresh ingredients. It feels like street food, but easy to execute in your own backyard. Great for when you want something different on your menu.
Get the Recipe: Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

Smoked Berry Crisp

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

Fruit-based desserts are even better when they meet smoke. Smoked Berry Crisp is warm, lightly sweet, and full of texture thanks to the crumbly topping. It’s an easy yet impressive way to wrap up your BBQ meal. Best shared straight from the skillet with a group.
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.

Smoky cheese might not be your first BBQ thought, but Grilled Feta changes that easily. The heat slightly softens the salty cheese, adding a subtle char to each bite. Pair it with anything: a crusty slice, veggies, or on its own. It’s a bold new way to show BBQ isn’t just for meats and typical sides.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Feta

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup in two white bowls with garnishes nearby.
Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Soup from the grill? Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup makes it possible, turning rich smoky chicken into a warm one-pot wonder. It keeps the flavors hearty while introducing bold charred elements you can only get from the BBQ. Great for cool evenings or as the unexpected star at any BBQ gathering. Why stick to basics anyway?
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup

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.

Steak lovers can rejoice with this flavorful option. Texas-Style Carne Asada brings an authentic level of smokiness and tenderness that feels like BBQ perfection. It works beautifully as the centerpiece for tacos, platters, or just a memorable solo dish. Great for when you want your grill work to shine.
Get the Recipe: Texas-Style Carne Asada

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *