Summer is the perfect time for gathering around the grill and savoring the flavors of outdoor cooking. As a home cook who has spent years experimenting with BBQ recipes, I’ve come to believe that grilled food has a special way of bringing people together. It’s not just about the taste — it’s about the memories you create around the fire.

In this post, I’m sharing some of my absolute favorite grilling recipes — tried, tested, and loved in my kitchen. These dishes are simple, satisfying, and full of flavor, with helpful tips I’ve picked up through hands-on experience and a lot of trial and error.

You’ll find a variety of options here, from juicy chicken and tender beef to seafood, grilled veggies, and even plant-based alternatives. I’ve kept the ingredients accessible and the instructions clear, so whether you’re new to grilling or just looking for new inspiration, these recipes are here to guide you every step of the way.

Let’s fire up the grill and create something delicious together

Classic Beef Burgers

Juicy and full of flavor, Classic Beef Burgers are a must-have for any cookout. Made with seasoned ground beef and grilled to perfection, they’re served on toasted buns with your favorite toppings. Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner, these burgers deliver satisfying, mouthwatering results every time.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 4 burger buns
• Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, pickles, condiments

Instructions:

1. Combine ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Form into 4 patties slightly wider than the buns.
3. Grill over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side.
4. Toast buns and assemble with desired toppings.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

BBQ Chicken Thighs

Tender, juicy, and full of smoky-sweet flavor, BBQ Chicken Thighs are a backyard favorite. Marinated in tangy barbecue sauce and grilled until beautifully caramelized, they’re perfect for casual dinners or weekend get-togethers. The dark meat stays moist and flavorful every time.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Mix thighs with olive oil, paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate in BBQ sauce for 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Grill over medium heat for 6–8 minutes per side.
4. Baste with more BBQ sauce and grill until internal temp reaches 165°F.
5. Let rest, then serve.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Grilled Shrimp Skewers are fast, flavorful, and perfect for summer. Marinated in a garlic-lemon mix, the shrimp cook quickly over high heat for a smoky, charred finish. Serve with fresh herbs or dipping sauce for a vibrant, satisfying meal or appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions:

1. Toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Thread onto skewers.
3. Grill over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side.
4. Remove when pink and slightly charred.
5. Serve immediately.

Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

Crispy on the outside and juicy inside, Grilled Chicken Drumsticks are a BBQ classic. Seasoned and basted with sauce, they’re perfect for feeding a crowd. Easy to prep and hard to resist, they’re a go-to for cookouts or family dinners.

Ingredients:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper
• ½ cup BBQ sauce

Instructions:

1. Toss drumsticks in olive oil, spices, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill over medium heat for 25–30 minutes, turning often.
3. Baste with BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes.
4. Ensure internal temp reaches 165°F.
5. Let rest and serve.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled Corn on the Cob is sweet, smoky, and irresistibly juicy. Brushed with butter and grilled until charred, it’s a must-have summer side dish. Enjoy it simply with salt, or dress it up with herbs, cheese, or spicy mayo for a flavor-packed twist.

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• Salt, to taste
• Optional: lime, chili powder, cotija cheese

Instructions:

1. Brush corn with melted butter.
2. Grill over medium-high heat for 10–12 minutes, turning often.
3. Remove when charred and tender.
4. Sprinkle with salt or toppings.
5. Serve hot.

Grilled Veggie Kabobs

Colorful and full of flavor, Grilled Veggie Kabobs are a healthy and tasty addition to any BBQ spread. Packed with charred peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and onions, they’re easy to prep and cook in minutes. Serve as a main or side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 8 mushrooms
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs

Instructions:

1. Toss veggies with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs.
2. Thread onto skewers.
3. Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally.
4. Remove when lightly charred and tender.
5. Serve immediately.

BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are saucy, savory, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Shredded grilled or slow-cooked chicken is tossed in barbecue sauce and piled high on toasted buns. It’s comfort food with a smoky flavor in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• 4 sandwich buns
• Optional: coleslaw

Instructions:

1. Season chicken and grill or cook until fully done.
2. Shred and mix with BBQ sauce.
3. Toast buns and add chicken mixture.
4. Top with coleslaw if desired.
5. Serve warm.

Get the Recipe: BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Cedar Plank Salmon

Cedar Plank Salmon is smoky, tender, and rich in flavor. Grilled directly on a soaked cedar plank, the fish absorbs incredible aroma while staying moist. A touch of lemon and herbs elevates this elegant yet easy dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb salmon fillet
• 1 cedar plank (soaked 2 hours)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 tsp fresh dill or parsley
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill and place soaked plank on grates for 2 minutes.
2. Place salmon on a plank, drizzle with oil, and season.
3. Top with lemon slices and herbs.
4. Cover the grill and cook for 15–20 minutes.
5. Serve with lemon wedges.

Grilled Chicken Wings

Grilled Chicken Wings are crispy, smoky, and full of bold flavor. Perfect for parties or game day, they cook quickly on the grill and pair well with your favorite sauces. Serve them with ranch, blue cheese, or enjoy them straight off the grill.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken wings
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: BBQ or buffalo sauce

Instructions:

1. Toss wings in olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill over medium-high heat for 20–25 minutes, turning occasionally.
3. Brush with sauce during the last 5 minutes, if using.
4. Cook until crispy and fully cooked.
5. Serve hot.

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms are savory, juicy, and satisfying. Their meaty texture makes them a great vegetarian main or side. Marinated in a simple balsamic blend and grilled until tender, they’re delicious on their own or in sandwiches.

Ingredients:

• 4 large portobello mushrooms
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Clean mushrooms and remove stems.
2. Mix oil, balsamic, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush mushrooms and marinate for 15 minutes.
4. Grill for 4–5 minutes per side until tender.
5. Serve warm.

BBQ Beef Brisket

BBQ Beef Brisket is rich, smoky, and melt-in-your-mouth tender. Cooked low and slow on the grill or smoker, it’s deeply flavorful and perfect for gatherings. Slice it thin and serve with classic BBQ sides.

Ingredients:

• 3–4 lb beef brisket
• ¼ cup BBQ dry rub
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper
• Wood chips (optional, for smoke)

Instructions:

1. Rub brisket with spices, salt, and pepper.
2. Let rest at room temp for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat grill for indirect heat and add wood chips.
4. Grill brisket low and slow for 4–5 hours, basting with sauce.
5. Rest, slice, and serve.

Grilled Pineapple Slices

Grilled Pineapple Slices are sweet, juicy, and caramelized with smoky grill marks. This tropical treat is perfect as a side or light dessert. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and sliced
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brush pineapple slices with butter and sprinkle with brown sugar.
2. Grill over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side.
3. Serve warm with optional cinnamon or ice cream.

Korean BBQ Beef

Korean BBQ Beef is thinly sliced, marinated in a savory-sweet soy sauce blend, and grilled quickly for tender, flavorful results. Serve with rice, lettuce wraps, or kimchi for a restaurant-worthy meal at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb thinly sliced beef (ribeye or flank)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger

Instructions:

1. Mix the marinade ingredients and coat the beef.
2. Marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
3. Grill slices over high heat for 1–2 minutes per side.
4. Serve with rice or lettuce wraps.

BBQ Tofu Skewers

BBQ Tofu Skewers are smoky, protein-packed, and perfect for plant-based grilling. Marinated in a tangy BBQ sauce and grilled until crispy on the edges, they’re a flavorful meatless option everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 1 block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Skewers

Instructions:

1. Toss tofu in olive oil, BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper.
2. Thread onto skewers and marinate 20 minutes.
3. Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning to char all sides.
4. Brush with extra sauce and serve.

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Description:
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad combines smoky grilled chicken with crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons. It’s a fresh, hearty twist on the classic and perfect for summer lunches or light dinners.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 head of romaine lettuce
• ½ cup Caesar dressing
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• 1 cup croutons
• Olive oil, salt, pepper

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with oil, salt, and pepper; grill for 5–6 minutes per side.
2. Slice grilled chicken.
3. Toss chopped romaine with Caesar dressing.
4. Top with chicken, Parmesan, and croutons.
5. Serve chilled or room temperature.

Grilled Lobster Tails

Grilled Lobster Tails are rich, tender, and perfect for special occasions. With a simple garlic butter drizzle and smoky grill finish, they offer luxurious flavor without the fuss of boiling. Serve with lemon and herbs.

Ingredients:

• 2 lobster tails, split
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Lemon wedges
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Brush lobster meat with garlic butter, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill flesh-side down over medium heat for 5–6 minutes.
3. Flip and grill the shell-side until opaque and tender.
4. Drizzle with more butter and serve with lemon.

BBQ Meatball Sliders

BBQ Meatball Sliders are bite-sized, saucy, and addictive. Smoky grilled meatballs are nestled in soft slider buns and topped with melted cheese or pickles. Perfect for parties, game day, or fun family dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• Slider buns

Instructions:

1. Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Roll into small meatballs.
3. Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning until cooked through.
4. Toss in BBQ sauce.
5. Serve on buns with toppings.

Grilled Peaches with Honey

Grilled Peaches with Honey are sweet, juicy, and lightly caramelized—summer’s perfect dessert. Grilled to intensify their flavor, they pair beautifully with honey, yogurt, or ice cream. Simple, elegant, and ready in minutes.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp honey
• Optional: vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt

Instructions:

1. Brush peach halves with olive oil.
2. Grill cut-side down for 3–4 minutes.
3. Drizzle with honey and serve warm with toppings.

BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich

BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches are the ultimate plant-based comfort food. Pulled jackfruit absorbs smoky BBQ sauce beautifully, making it a delicious vegan alternative to pulled pork. Serve on buns with slaw or pickles.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans young green jackfruit (in water or brine), drained
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper
• 4 sandwich buns

Instructions:

1. Sauté jackfruit with oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add BBQ sauce and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
3. Shred jackfruit with a fork.
4. Serve on buns with slaw or pickles.

Grilled Flatbread Pizzas

Grilled Flatbread Pizzas are crispy, smoky, and endlessly customizable. Whether topped with veggies, meats, or cheese, they cook fast and deliver wood-fired flavor without an oven. Perfect for quick outdoor meals.

Ingredients:

• 2 flatbreads or naan
• ½ cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• Toppings of choice: pepperoni, mushrooms, peppers, etc.
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Brush flatbreads with olive oil.
2. Grill 1–2 minutes per side until slightly crisp.
3. Add sauce, cheese, and toppings.
4. Return to the grill, cover, and cook until the cheese melts.
5. Slice and serve hot.