9 Must-Try BBQ Recipes for Every Grill Lover

As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.

When it comes to outdoor cooking, there's no need to sugarcoat it—BBQ is a culinary art form that brings people together. You're likely looking for some fresh ideas to elevate your grilling repertoire. From savory chicken thighs to vibrant vegetable kabobs, there's a world of flavors waiting for you. So, what's on the menu for your next cookout? Let's explore some must-try recipes that will impress your guests and ignite your passion for grilling.

Jump to: show

Key Takeaways

Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs offer rich flavor and tenderness, perfect for summer cookouts and versatile enough for platters or sandwiches.
Smoky Beef Brisket achieves a melt-in-your-mouth texture through low and slow cooking with a spice rub for deep flavor.
Spicy Grilled Sausages can be made with various meats and marinated for a quick, flavorful BBQ option that allows spice level customization.
Vegetable Kabobs with Chimichurri provide a colorful, healthy side, featuring grilled seasonal vegetables and a zesty herb sauce for added flavor.
Classic BBQ Ribs, cooked low and slow with a dry rub, are tender and flavorful, making them a must-try for any grill lover.

Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs

Grilled BBQ chicken thighs are a delicious and juicy option for any summer cookout or family gathering. The dark meat of the chicken thigh offers a rich flavor and remains tender, especially when marinated and grilled to perfection. The caramelization that occurs during grilling adds a beautiful char and enhances the overall taste, making this dish a perennial favorite among grill lovers.

To achieve the best results, it's important to marinate the chicken thighs ahead of time, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. You can use a store-bought BBQ sauce or whip up your own with a blend of spices, sweeteners, and tangy elements. Whether you serve them on a platter or use them in sandwiches, these grilled BBQ chicken thighs are sure to be a hit at your next barbecue.

Ingredients:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

Start by preparing the marinade for the chicken thighs. In a mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the thighs skin-side down on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.

Flip the thighs and continue grilling for another 6-8 minutes, basting with additional BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F when done. Once cooked, remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider brining the chicken thighs before marinating them in the BBQ sauce. A simple saltwater brine can enhance moisture retention during cooking.

Additionally, if you want a smokier flavor, consider adding wood chips to your grill, or using a smoker box if you're using a gas grill. Always let the chicken rest after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

Smoky Beef Brisket

To achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture and deep smoky flavor, it's essential to use a combination of spices for the rub and to slow-cook the brisket over indirect heat.

The key to a great brisket is low and slow cooking, allowing the meat to break down and absorb all those great smoky flavors. Follow this recipe closely, and you'll have a BBQ masterpiece that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:

5-7 pounds beef brisket
2 tablespoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons black pepper
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 cup beef broth
Wood chips (hickory or mesquite) for smoking

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the brisket. Trim excess fat, leaving about a quarter of an inch for flavor and moisture.

In a bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper. Rub this spice mixture generously all over the brisket. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

2. When you're ready to cook, preheat your grill to 225°F (107°C) for indirect cooking. Soak your wood chips in water for about 30 minutes, then drain.

Place the wood chips in a smoker box or directly onto your grill's heat source. Place the brisket on the grill grates away from the heat, and pour beef broth into a drip pan placed beneath the brisket to help maintain moisture. Close the lid and smoke the brisket for about 1.5 hours per pound or until it reaches an internal temperature of 195°F to 205°F (90°C to 96°C).

3. Once the brisket is cooked, remove it from the grill and wrap it tightly in aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing against the grain to serve.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, consider using a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the brisket closely. This will guarantee you achieve the perfect doneness without overcooking.

Additionally, if you have time, let the brisket rest for a longer period to allow the juices to redistribute, which will enhance its flavor and tenderness. Finally, don't forget to serve it with your favorite BBQ sauce and sides for the ultimate grilling experience!

Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers

Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers are a delightful addition to any BBQ gathering, combining the sweetness of honey with the savory flavor of garlic. These skewers aren't only easy to prepare but also cook quickly on the grill, making them a perfect choice for a last-minute appetizer or main dish. The juicy shrimp coated in a sticky honey garlic glaze will have your guests coming back for seconds.

To make these skewers even more appealing, you can add colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini. Not only do they enhance the flavor and texture of the dish, but they also add a visual pop to your grilling spread. Whether you're planning a casual backyard BBQ or an elegant dinner party, Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers are sure to impress!

Ingredients:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Skewers (wooden or metal)

Cooking Instructions:

In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they're well coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp for even cooking. Season with salt and pepper.

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Extra Tips:

For an even more intense flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice to the marinade or serving the skewers with a lime wedge on the side. If you want to make this dish a complete meal, serve the skewers over a bed of rice or alongside a fresh salad.

Always keep an eye on the grill to avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become tough if left on too long. Enjoy your flavorful Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers!

Spicy Grilled Sausages

To achieve the perfect spice level, you can use your favorite sausage variety, whether it's pork, chicken, or turkey. The key is to marinate them in a spicy blend of herbs and spices, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Once grilled, the sausages will develop a delicious char that complements their bold flavor.

Ingredients:

1 pound spicy Italian sausages (or your preferred type)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt to create a marinade. Add the sausages to the bowl, ensuring they're well-coated with the spice mix. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a stronger flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated sausages on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they're browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) for pork or chicken sausages. Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Extra Tips:

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sliced bell peppers and onions to the grill alongside your sausages. Toss them in a bit of olive oil and seasoning for a colorful and tasty side.

Additionally, serve the sausages with your favorite dipping sauces, such as mustard or spicy ketchup, to enhance the experience.

Remember to keep an eye on the sausages while grilling to prevent them from burning, as the sugar content in the marinade can cause them to char quickly. Enjoy your spicy grilled sausages!

Vegetable Kabobs With Chimichurri

Vegetable kabobs are a delightful and colorful addition to any BBQ, bringing a vibrant mix of flavors and textures to the grill. They aren't only a great way to enjoy a variety of seasonal vegetables but also a fantastic option for vegetarians and those looking to lighten up their meal. Paired with a zesty chimichurri sauce, these kabobs are sure to impress your guests and elevate your grilling game.

Creating vegetable kabobs allows for endless customization based on your favorite vegetables and spices. The chimichurri sauce, which is a fresh herb condiment from Argentina, adds an aromatic and tangy kick that complements the grilled veggies perfectly. This dish isn't only simple to prepare but also quick to cook, making it ideal for any summer cookout or family gathering.

Ingredients:

1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
1 bell pepper (any color), cut into chunks
1 red onion, cut into wedges
8 cherry tomatoes
1 cup mushrooms, halved
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Skewers (wooden or metal)

For Chimichurri Sauce:

1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper, to taste

To prepare the vegetable kabobs, start by soaking wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the veggies are evenly coated.

Thread the vegetable mixture onto the skewers, alternating the vegetables for a colorful presentation. For the chimichurri sauce, mix the parsley, cilantro, garlic, red pepper flakes, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined. Set aside while you grill the kabobs.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the vegetable kabobs for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and have nice grill marks. Once cooked, serve the kabobs drizzled with chimichurri sauce for a fresh and flavorful finish.

Extra Tips: When making vegetable kabobs, feel free to experiment with different vegetables like eggplant, asparagus, or even pineapple for a sweet twist. Marinating the veggies in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and your choice of herbs before grilling can enhance the flavor even more.

For a smokier taste, consider adding a handful of wood chips to your grill if you're using a charcoal grill. Enjoy your grilling!

Classic BBQ Ribs

When it comes to classic BBQ, few dishes evoke the same level of excitement and anticipation as a rack of tender, juicy ribs. Cooking ribs can seem intimidating, but with the right technique and a bit of patience, you can achieve that perfect smoky flavor and fall-off-the-bone texture that everyone loves.

Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal, these classic BBQ ribs are sure to impress.

To achieve the best results, it's important to start with quality ingredients and take your time with the cooking process. Using a combination of dry rub and BBQ sauce will give your ribs a beautiful crust and a sweet, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the natural richness of the meat.

Here's how to prepare and cook classic BBQ ribs that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:

2 racks of pork baby back ribs
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce

Cooking Instructions:

Start by preheating your grill to a low temperature, around 225°F (107°C). While the grill is heating up, prepare the ribs by removing the silver skin from the back of the ribs for better tenderness.

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to create a dry rub. Rub this mixture generously all over the ribs, ensuring they're well-coated.

Once the grill is ready, place the ribs bone side down on the grill grates. Close the lid and cook for about 3 hours, maintaining a steady low temperature.

After 2 hours, begin basting the ribs with BBQ sauce every 30 minutes until they're cooked through and caramelized. To check for doneness, the meat should be tender and have pulled back from the ends of the bones.

For a final touch, you can transfer the ribs to a higher heat for a few minutes to char them slightly, if desired.

Extra Tips:

For the best flavor, let the ribs marinate with the dry rub for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Additionally, consider using wood chips for smoking on your grill to infuse the ribs with a rich, smoky flavor. If you don't have a grill, these ribs can also be cooked in the oven at a low temperature and finished on the grill for that characteristic BBQ taste.

Enjoy your deliciously juicy classic BBQ ribs!

Grilled Corn on the Cob With Lime Butter

Grilled corn on the cob is a classic summer dish that elevates any barbecue gathering. The smoky flavor from the grill combined with the sweetness of the corn creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. This recipe features a zesty lime butter that adds an extra kick, making your grilled corn the highlight of the meal.

Preparing grilled corn on the cob is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, yet the end result is bursting with flavor. This dish can be served as a side or even as a light main dish, making it versatile for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a picnic in the park, this corn on the cob recipe is sure to impress your guests.