14 Unforgettable Grilling Foods for Backyard Bash

By Jess V December 17, 2023 Beginner Info 0 Comments

Looking to host the ultimate backyard bash? Get ready to fire up the grill and tantalize your taste buds with 14 unforgettable grilling foods. From juicy burgers to smoky ribs, grilled vegetables to seafood delights, there’s something for everyone.

Don’t forget the flavorful chicken skewers, grilled pizza, and even grilled fruit kabobs. Whether you’re a meat lover or a vegetarian, we’ve got you covered.

And don’t worry, we didn’t forget about the grilled desserts. Get ready to elevate your grilling game and impress your guests.

Juicy Burgers

You can’t go wrong with a juicy burger on the grill. It’s a classic and crowd-pleasing choice that never disappoints. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving a delicious meal, a juicy burger is the way to go. The sizzling sound as it hits the hot grates, the mouthwatering aroma that fills the air, and the satisfying taste of a perfectly cooked patty – it’s a sensory experience that brings people together.

When it comes to making a juicy burger, it’s all about the quality of the meat and the right cooking technique. Start with freshly ground beef that has a good fat content, around 80/20 ratio. The fat helps keep the burger moist and juicy during the grilling process. Season the patties with salt and pepper just before they hit the grill, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Grilling a burger gives it a smoky and charred flavor that simply can’t be replicated. Cook the patties over direct heat, flipping them only once to ensure a nice crust forms on both sides. The internal temperature should reach 160°F for a medium-well burger. Don’t forget to let the burgers rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the juices to redistribute and ensuring a moist and flavorful bite.

Whether you prefer traditional toppings like cheese, lettuce, and tomato, or want to get creative with unique combinations, the possibilities are endless. From classic cheeseburgers to gourmet creations, a juicy burger is a timeless favorite that never goes out of style. So fire up the grill and get ready to impress your guests with a mouthwatering burger that will leave them wanting more.

Smoky Ribs

Now it’s time to talk about smoky ribs.

Get ready to discover the best rib marinades that will take your grilling game to the next level.

You’ll also learn essential grilling technique tips and find out which must-have sides pair perfectly with these mouthwatering ribs.

Best Rib Marinades

Get ready to elevate your backyard grilling game with the best rib marinades for smoky ribs. Marinades are the key to infusing your ribs with flavor and creating that perfect smoky taste. To help you choose the best marinade for your next grilling session, here are some top options:

Marinade	Ingredients	Cooking Time
Classic BBQ	Ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper	4 hours or overnight
Honey Mustard	Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper	2 hours
Asian Glaze	Soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil	3 hours

These marinades will infuse your ribs with incredible flavor and make them the star of your backyard bash. Whether you prefer a classic BBQ taste, a tangy honey mustard kick, or an Asian-inspired glaze, these marinades will take your smoky ribs to the next level. So fire up the grill and get ready to impress your guests with these unforgettable flavors.

Grilling Technique Tips

Achieve smoky perfection by carefully basting your ribs with a flavorful marinade while grilling.

To start, preheat your grill to a medium heat. This will allow the ribs to cook evenly and develop a delicious smoky flavor.

Next, prepare your marinade by combining your choice of spices, herbs, and sauces. Make sure to choose ingredients that will complement the natural flavors of the ribs.

Once your grill is heated, place the ribs directly onto the grates. Close the lid and let them cook for about 30 minutes, turning them every 10 minutes and basting with the marinade each time. This will help infuse the ribs with the delicious flavors and create a beautiful glaze.

Finally, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your smoky and tender ribs!

Must-Have Rib Sides

To complement your smoky ribs, you’ll want to have some must-have rib sides for your backyard bash. These flavorful and delicious sides will perfectly complement the rich and smoky flavors of the ribs, leaving your guests craving for more.

Here are five must-have rib sides that will take your backyard bash to the next level:

Creamy Coleslaw: The refreshing crunch of coleslaw adds a perfect balance to the rich and savory ribs.
Baked Beans: The sweet and smoky flavors of baked beans pair perfectly with the smokiness of the ribs.
Cornbread: The slightly sweet and buttery cornbread is the ideal accompaniment to the tender and juicy ribs.
Mac and Cheese: The creamy and cheesy mac and cheese is a classic side dish that never fails to impress.
Grilled Vegetables: Grilling vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, adding a fresh and healthy element to your ribs feast.

With these must-have rib sides, your backyard bash will be a memorable and mouthwatering experience for all your guests.

Grilled Vegetables

Enhance your backyard bash with a variety of mouthwatering grilled vegetables. Grilling vegetables not only adds a delicious smoky flavor, but it also brings out their natural sweetness and creates a satisfyingly crispy texture.

Start by brushing your favorite veggies with olive oil and seasoning them with salt, pepper, and herbs. Bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant are excellent choices for grilling, as they hold their shape well and develop a rich charred exterior.

Corn on the cob is another crowd-pleaser, as grilling intensifies its sweetness and gives it a delightful smoky taste. For a unique twist, try grilling mushrooms and onions together. The heat caramelizes the onions and enhances the earthy flavor of the mushrooms.

Don’t forget to add some cherry tomatoes to the mix, as they burst with juicy goodness when grilled. Serve these flavorful grilled vegetables as a side dish or use them as toppings for burgers and sandwiches.

With these scrumptious options, your backyard bash will be an unforgettable culinary experience for everyone.

Seafood Delights

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with some mouthwatering seafood delights on the grill.

Indulge in the succulent flavors of grilled lobster tail, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection.

Sink your teeth into the juicy BBQ shrimp skewers, bursting with smoky goodness.

And don’t forget about the tender and flaky salmon fillet, grilled to perfection for a delightful dining experience.

It’s time to fire up the grill and bring the ocean to your backyard bash.

Grilled Lobster Tail

You can’t go wrong with grilled lobster tail for a delicious seafood delight at your backyard bash. Grilling lobster tail brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Here are five reasons why grilled lobster tail is the perfect addition to your menu:

Tender and juicy: Grilling preserves the delicate texture of the lobster tail, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.
Butter and garlic perfection: Brushing the lobster tail with melted butter and garlic enhances its rich taste and adds a delightful aroma.
Quick and easy: Grilling lobster tail is a breeze, taking only a few minutes per side to cook to perfection.
Impressive presentation: Grilled lobster tail makes for an elegant and visually stunning dish that will impress your guests.
Versatile: Enjoy grilled lobster tail as is, or serve it with a side of lemon wedges, melted butter, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Indulge in the decadence of grilled lobster tail and elevate your backyard bash to a whole new level.

BBQ Shrimp Skewers

Grilled lobster tail isn’t the only seafood delight that will impress your guests at your backyard bash; BBQ shrimp skewers are another mouthwatering option.

These succulent skewers are easy to make and packed with flavor. Start by marinating the shrimp in a tangy and slightly spicy BBQ sauce. Let them soak up the flavors for at least 30 minutes before threading them onto skewers.

The best part is that they cook quickly on the grill, taking only a few minutes per side. The result is perfectly grilled shrimp with a smoky char and a juicy, tender texture.

Serve them as an appetizer or as part of a main course. Either way, your guests will be begging for more of these incredible BBQ shrimp skewers.

Salmon Fillet Grilling

To prepare succulent salmon fillets on the grill, start by marinating them in a flavorful sauce and allowing them to soak up the delicious flavors. Once the fillets have marinated, follow these steps to achieve a perfectly grilled salmon:

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
Place the marinated fillets on the grill, skin-side down.
Grill for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Remove the fillets from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Grilled salmon fillets are a mouthwatering addition to any backyard bash. The smoky flavor from the grill, combined with the tangy marinade, creates a delightful seafood dish that will leave your guests craving for more.

Flavorful Chicken Skewers

For a mouthwatering addition to your backyard bash, try these flavorful chicken skewers.

Made with tender, juicy chicken marinated in a delicious blend of spices and herbs, these skewers will leave your guests craving for more.

Start by cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in the marinade, making sure they’re evenly coated.

Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and thread the chicken onto skewers.

Grill the skewers for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.

Serve these flavorful chicken skewers with a side of tangy tzatziki sauce or a zesty lemon herb dipping sauce for an irresistible combination.

Your guests will be raving about these delicious skewers long after the party is over. So fire up the grill and get ready to impress with these unforgettable chicken skewers.

Tasty Bratwurst

You can’t go wrong with a juicy bratwurst at your backyard bash. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or hosting an intimate gathering, bratwursts are always a hit. Here are five reasons why they should be at the top of your grilling menu:

Versatility: Bratwursts can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them on a bun with sauerkraut and mustard for a classic combination, or slice them up and add them to a grilled vegetable skewer for a flavorful twist.
Juiciness: One bite into a bratwurst, and you’ll experience a burst of succulent juices. The combination of herbs, spices, and quality meat creates a tender and moist texture that’s hard to resist.
Flavor: Bratwursts are packed with savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. From traditional German seasonings to modern gourmet blends, there’s a bratwurst flavor for everyone to enjoy.
Ease of preparation: Grilling bratwursts is a breeze. Simply preheat your grill, place the sausages on the grates, and cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. It’s a quick and hassle-free option for your backyard bash.
Crowd-pleaser: Bratwursts are a crowd-pleasing choice that appeals to both young and old. Their familiar taste and satisfying texture make them a reliable option for any gathering.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Wondering how to add more deliciousness to your backyard bash? Look no further than grilled corn on the cob. This classic summer side dish is a crowd-pleaser and a must-have for any barbecue. The smoky flavor and charred kernels will have your guests coming back for seconds and thirds. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make!

To make the perfect grilled corn on the cob, start by soaking the corn in water for about 30 minutes. This helps to keep the corn moist while it grills. Once soaked, place the corn directly on the grill over medium-high heat. Rotate the corn occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. After about 10-15 minutes, the corn should be tender and slightly charred.

To take your grilled corn on the cob to the next level, try adding different toppings and seasonings. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Topping	Description
Butter and Parmesan	Classic combination for a rich flavor
Lime and Chili	Tangy and spicy for a kick
Garlic and Herb	Savory and aromatic
Bacon and Cheddar	Indulgent and satisfying
Mexican Street Corn	Traditional street food favorite

With these delicious toppings, your grilled corn on the cob will be the star of your backyard bash. Enjoy!

Mouthwatering Steaks

To continue the mouthwatering feast at your backyard bash, fire up the grill and get ready to sink your teeth into some juicy steaks. There’s nothing quite like the sizzle and aroma of a perfectly cooked steak. Here are five mouthwatering steak options to take your grilling game to the next level:

Ribeye: Known for its marbling and rich flavor, the ribeye is a true steak lover’s delight. Its tender, juicy meat melts in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.
Filet Mignon: If you’re looking for a steak that’s incredibly tender, the filet mignon is the one for you. Its buttery texture and mild flavor make it a popular choice among steak connoisseurs.
New York Strip: This steak is all about bold flavor. With its perfect balance of tenderness and meatiness, the New York strip delivers a satisfying bite that will leave your taste buds dancing.
T-Bone: The T-bone steak offers the best of both worlds. With a combination of tenderloin and strip steak in one cut, you’ll enjoy the tenderness of the filet mignon and the rich flavor of the New York strip.
Porterhouse: Similar to the T-bone, the porterhouse steak is a carnivore’s dream. It features a larger portion of tenderloin and strip steak, making it perfect for sharing or indulging in a hearty meal.

Whether you prefer a melt-in-your-mouth filet mignon or a flavorful ribeye, these mouthwatering steaks are sure to impress your guests and make your backyard bash unforgettable.

BBQ Pulled Pork

Now let’s talk about the key points when it comes to BBQ pulled pork.

The first question is, what makes the best BBQ sauce? Is it a tangy and spicy blend or a sweet and smoky one?

Second, should you use a slow cooker or a smoker to cook your pork to perfection?

These are the points we’ll be exploring in this discussion.

Best BBQ Sauce

For the best BBQ pulled pork, start by marinating your pork shoulder in a flavorful sauce overnight. This will ensure that the meat is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.

When it comes to choosing the best BBQ sauce for your pulled pork, there are a few options that will take your dish to the next level:

Sweet and tangy: A classic choice, this sauce combines the sweetness of brown sugar with the tanginess of vinegar and mustard.
Spicy and smoky: If you like a little heat, opt for a sauce that incorporates chipotle peppers and smoked paprika for a fiery kick.
Honey mustard: This sauce adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess, with the perfect balance of honey and mustard flavors.
Carolina-style: A vinegar-based sauce with a hint of heat, this tangy option pairs perfectly with pulled pork.
Kansas City-style: This sauce is thick, sweet, and smoky, with a complex flavor profile that will have your guests begging for more.

Choose the sauce that best suits your taste preferences and get ready to enjoy the best BBQ pulled pork you’ve ever had.

Slow Cooker or Smoker?

You can achieve mouthwatering BBQ pulled pork by using either a slow cooker or a smoker. Both methods have their advantages and can result in tender and flavorful meat.

If you choose to use a slow cooker, the process is simple and convenient. Just season the pork, place it in the slow cooker with your favorite BBQ sauce, and let it cook on low heat for several hours. The low and slow cooking method will tenderize the meat and infuse it with smoky flavors.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional approach, using a smoker can give you that authentic BBQ taste. The pork is cooked over a low, indirect heat for hours, allowing the smoke to penetrate the meat and create a deliciously smoky flavor.

Whichever method you choose, your BBQ pulled pork will be a hit at your backyard bash.

Grilled Shrimp

One delicious option for your backyard bash is grilling shrimp. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also add a touch of elegance to any gathering. Here are five reasons why grilled shrimp should be on your menu:

Versatility: Grilled shrimp can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even in a salad. You can season them with various spices and marinades to suit your taste.
Healthy Option: Shrimp are low in calories and high in protein, making them a nutritious choice. Grilling them allows the excess fat to drip away, making them even healthier.
Quick Cooking Time: Shrimp cook quickly on the grill, so you won’t have to spend hours in front of the barbecue. In just a few minutes, they’ll be perfectly cooked and ready to serve.
Impressive Presentation: Grilled shrimp are visually appealing and make a stunning presentation. Their vibrant color and charred grill marks will impress your guests.
Flavorful Delight: Grilling shrimp enhances their natural sweetness and adds a smoky, charred flavor. The combination of juicy shrimp and the subtle smokiness from the grill is simply irresistible.

Grilled Pizza

Now it’s time to talk about grilled pizza, a delicious twist on the classic favorite.

You’ll discover the best toppings for grilled pizza, adding a burst of flavor to every bite.

Plus, find the perfect pizza dough recipe that will result in a crispy yet chewy crust.

And don’t forget to explore the differences between grilling pizza and baking it in the oven, as each method brings its own unique taste and texture to the table.

Get ready to elevate your backyard bash with this unforgettable grilled pizza experience.

Toppings for Grilled Pizza

Grilling pizza frequently adds a delicious smoky flavor to the crust and toppings. When it comes to choosing toppings for your grilled pizza, the options are endless.

Here are some mouthwatering suggestions to take your pizza to the next level:

Fresh Mozzarella: The creamy, melted mozzarella pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor from the grill.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These little bursts of intense tomato flavor add a sweet and tangy element to your pizza.
Grilled Vegetables: From zucchini to bell peppers, grilling your veggies before topping your pizza adds a delightful charred taste.
Prosciutto: The salty, thinly sliced Italian ham adds a savory and indulgent touch to your grilled pizza.
Fresh Basil: This aromatic herb brings a vibrant and refreshing taste to your pizza, enhancing all the flavors.

With these tantalizing toppings, your grilled pizza will be a hit at your backyard bash.

Best Pizza Dough Recipe

When it comes to making the best pizza dough for grilled pizza, you’ll want a recipe that yields a crispy crust with just the right amount of chewiness. Here is a simple and foolproof pizza dough recipe that will take your grilled pizza to the next level:

Ingredients	Instructions
2 1/4 cups flour	1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
1 teaspoon yeast	2. Slowly add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients.
1 teaspoon salt	3. Mix until a dough forms, then knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes.
1 teaspoon sugar	4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
1 cup warm water	5. Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal portions and shape them into balls.

With this pizza dough recipe, you’ll achieve a perfectly grilled pizza with a crispy and chewy crust. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and flavors to create your own unforgettable backyard bash!

Grilling Vs. Oven-Baked Pizza

To continue exploring the differences between grilling and oven-baked pizza, let’s delve into the distinct flavors and textures that grilled pizza offers.

Grilled pizza brings a unique smoky flavor and a crispy crust that’s hard to replicate in an oven. The high heat of the grill creates a charred and slightly charred crust that adds a delightful crunch to each bite.

Additionally, the toppings on a grilled pizza tend to retain a fresh and vibrant taste due to the quick cooking time.

The combination of the smoky flavor, crispy crust, and fresh toppings makes grilled pizza a delicious and memorable option for any backyard bash.

Smoky flavor
Crispy crust
Charred edges
Fresh toppings
Quick cooking time

Grilled Fruit Kabobs

Add a burst of sweetness and a touch of smoky flavor to your backyard bash with these irresistible fruit kabobs. Grilling fruit brings out its natural sweetness and caramelizes the sugars, creating a delightful treat that will leave your guests craving for more.

To make these grilled fruit kabobs, start by choosing a variety of fruits that are firm and can hold their shape on the grill. Pineapple, watermelon, peaches, and strawberries are all excellent choices. Cut the fruits into bite-sized pieces and thread them onto skewers, alternating the fruits to create a colorful and visually appealing presentation.

Before grilling, brush the fruit with a mixture of honey and lime juice to enhance the flavors. Preheat the grill to medium heat and place the fruit kabobs on the grill, turning occasionally, until they’re slightly charred and tender. The heat of the grill will intensify the natural sweetness of the fruits and add a smoky undertone.

Serve these grilled fruit kabobs as a refreshing and healthy dessert option at your backyard bash, and watch your guests enjoy every juicy and flavorful bite.

Vegetarian Grilling Options

Expand your grilling repertoire with an array of tantalizing vegetarian options that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. Grilling isn’t just for meat lovers anymore. Vegetarians can enjoy the smoky flavors and charred goodness too.

Here are some mouthwatering vegetarian grilling options to try:

Grilled Portobello Mushrooms: Marinate these meaty mushrooms in balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs, then throw them on the grill for a savory and satisfying meal.
Grilled Veggie Skewers: Skewer a variety of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Brush them with olive oil, sprinkle with your favorite seasonings, and grill until they’re tender and slightly charred.
Grilled Halloumi Cheese: This firm, salty cheese is perfect for grilling. Just slice it, brush it with olive oil, and grill until it develops a crispy exterior and a soft, gooey center.
Grilled Tofu: Tofu is a versatile protein that absorbs flavors well. Marinate it in your favorite sauce, then grill until it’s golden and slightly crispy on the outside.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Brush fresh corn with melted butter, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill until it’s tender and slightly charred. Serve with a squeeze of lime for a burst of flavor.

These vegetarian grilling options will add variety and deliciousness to your backyard bash. So fire up the grill and impress your guests with these unforgettable dishes.

Grilled Desserts

Get ready to sweeten up your backyard bash with some delectable grilled desserts. Adding a touch of smoky flavor to your favorite sweets can take your dessert game to a whole new level. Grilling desserts not only brings out the natural sweetness of the ingredients but also adds a unique charred taste that will leave your guests wanting more.

One classic grilled dessert that you must try is grilled peaches. Simply cut the peaches in half, remove the pits, and place them on a preheated grill. Let them cook for a few minutes on each side until they’re soft and slightly caramelized. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of honey for a simple yet incredibly delicious treat.

Another fantastic grilled dessert option is banana boats. Slit a banana lengthwise, stuff it with chocolate chips and mini marshmallows, wrap it in aluminum foil, and place it on the grill. Allow the heat to melt the chocolate and marshmallows, creating a gooey and irresistible dessert. Top it off with a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for an added crunch.

Don’t forget about grilled pineapple! Cut the pineapple into slices and grill them until they develop beautiful grill marks. The caramelization of the sugars in the pineapple creates a delightful contrast to its natural tanginess. Serve it with a scoop of coconut ice cream for a tropical twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Should I Marinate My Chicken Skewers Before Grilling?

You should marinate your chicken skewers for at least 2 hours before grilling. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and make them more delicious and tender.

What Is the Best Type of Wood for Smoking Ribs?

To get the best smoky flavor for your ribs, use hickory or mesquite wood. These types of wood impart a rich, distinct taste that will make your backyard bash unforgettable.

Can I Use a Gas Grill to Cook Grilled Fruit Kabobs?

Sure, you can use a gas grill to cook grilled fruit kabobs. Just preheat the grill, skewer your favorite fruits, and cook them until they’re deliciously charred. Enjoy your sweet and smoky treat!

Are There Any Vegetarian Options for Grilling Besides Grilled Vegetables?

Yes, there are other vegetarian options for grilling besides grilled vegetables. You could try grilling tofu, halloumi cheese, or portobello mushrooms. They all make delicious and satisfying dishes for your backyard bash.

How Do I Prevent My Grilled Corn on the Cob From Getting Too Charred?

To prevent your grilled corn on the cob from getting too charred, try soaking it in water for 15 minutes before grilling. This will help keep the kernels moist and prevent them from burning.

14 Unforgettable Grilling Foods for Backyard Bash

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