Summer is here, and that means it’s time to fire up the grill! With the sun shining and warm evenings ahead, nothing beats the joy of cooking outdoors. I created this post to help you enjoy delicious BBQ meals without stressing over complicated techniques or lengthy prep times. After all, who wants to spend hours in the kitchen when you could be outside having fun with family and friends?
If you’re a beginner in the BBQ game or have kids who are picky eaters, this post is for you. You might be wondering what to cook that everyone will enjoy and that won’t take all day to prepare. Worry no more! I’ve gathered 15 easy BBQ recipes that anyone can make, from classic BBQ ribs to sweet and tangy meatballs. These recipes are designed to be simple, tasty, and perfect for outdoor cookouts with your loved ones.
In this collection, you’ll find a variety of flavors and ingredients that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for juicy honey garlic chicken skewers or delicious veggie burgers, these recipes will satisfy everyone at the table. Plus, I’ll share some handy grilling tips and beginner BBQ techniques to boost your confidence and make outdoor entertaining a breeze. Get ready to impress your family with simple marinade recipes and easy dishes that will turn your summer cookouts into memorable feasts!
So grab your apron and let’s dive into these mouth-watering BBQ recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds and make you the star of your next cookout!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 15 easy BBQ recipes perfect for beginners, featuring flavorful options like honey garlic chicken and veggie burgers.
– Learn practical grilling tips to boost your confidence in outdoor cooking, from temperature control to timing.
– Explore simple marinade recipes that enhance the taste of your meats and veggies without complicated steps.
– Find creative summer cookout ideas that appeal to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone enjoys the meal.
– Master beginner BBQ techniques that make grilling approachable and fun for the whole family.
Contents
- 1. Classic BBQ Ribs
- 2. Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers
- 3. Veggie Burger Bliss
- 4. Sweet and Tangy BBQ Meatballs
- 5. Spicy Grilled Shrimp Tacos
- 6. Cheesy Grilled Corn on the Cob
- 7. BBQ Chicken Pizza
- 8. Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon
- 9. Easy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
- 10. Mediterranean Grilled Veggies
- 11. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
- 12. Grilled Caprese Salad Skewers
- 13. BBQ Baked Potatoes
- 14. Skewered Sausage Bites
- 15. Grilled Fruit Kabobs
1. Classic BBQ Ribs
Want ribs that taste smoky and fall from the bone? This beginner guide helps you nail the flavor with ease.
You start with a simple rub to wake up the meat. Remove the silvery membrane so the spices soak in. Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mix over every rack. Heat your grill to a steady medium. Lay ribs bone side down and cook about two hours, turning as needed. For extra tenderness, wrap in foil during the first hour. Finish with a saucy glaze and a short rest before slicing.
Ingredients:
2 racks of baby back ribs
1 cup BBQ sauce
2 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Remove the silver skin from the ribs for better flavor absorption.
3. In a bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the ribs.
4. Place ribs on the grill, bone side down, and cook for 2 hours covered, turning occasionally.
5. Brush BBQ sauce on the ribs and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Remove from grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
FAQs:
Can I cook these ribs in the oven? Yes, wrap in foil and bake at 300°F for 2.5 hours before grilling.
2. Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers
Craving a kid-friendly grill option that cooks fast? These honey garlic skewers deliver fun flavor with minimal mess.
Start with a simple marinade of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of ginger. Let the chicken soak for at least 15 minutes to soak in the sweet-salty glaze. Thread pieces onto skewers that have been soaked if you use wood. Grill on medium high until the meat is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side, basting with the leftover marinade for shine. Serve with veggies or rice for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp ginger powder
Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger powder to create the marinade.
2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade, cover, and let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
5. Grill skewers for about 5-7 minutes on each side, basing with leftover marinade until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve with fresh vegetables or rice.
FAQs:
Can I use other meats? Yes! This marinade is great for shrimp or veggies too.
Honey garlic chicken skewers prove bbq recipes easy can taste amazing fast. Marinade with honey, soy, garlic, and ginger, soak 15 minutes, then grill 5–7 minutes per side and baste for shine. Perfect for kid-friendly family nights with less mess.
3. Veggie Burger Bliss
Looking for a hearty option that even meat lovers will enjoy? These veggie burgers bring big flavor without meat.
The patties blend black beans, quinoa, corn, and a touch of cumin for a sturdy bite. They’re easy to form and hold together on the grill. A quick sizzle on medium heat gives a crispy edge while keeping the center tender. Build the burgers with buns and your favorite toppings. This dish proves that plants can shine on the grill.
Ingredients:
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup cooked quinoa
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup corn
1/4 cup chopped onions
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Burger buns and toppings of choice
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mash black beans and combine with quinoa, breadcrumbs, corn, onion, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Form the mixture into patties.
3. Preheat grill to medium heat.
4. Grill patties for about 5-7 minutes on each side until crispy.
5. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and avocado.
Tips for Success:
– Add shredded cheese to the mix for extra flavor.
– Serve with sweet potato fries for a delicious combo.
FAQs:
– Can I freeze these patties? Yes, freeze uncooked patties for a quick meal later.
Men love a good grill moment, and bbq recipes easy can be veggie-friendly too. These veggie burgers—black beans, quinoa, and corn—hold together on the grill and stuff your bun with bold toppings. It’s plant-powered flavor that even meat lovers won’t miss.
4. Sweet and Tangy BBQ Meatballs
Bring a playful twist to your BBQ with meatballs that strike a balance between sweet and tangy.
They’re easy to make and crowd-pleasing, perfect for finger food. Use beef or turkey to fit your preference. Mix the meat with breadcrumbs, an egg, and a splash of BBQ sauce. Shape into small balls and cook until they’re cooked through. Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce for dipping. The kid in you will love these as a snack or a main.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1/4 cup chopped onions
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, BBQ sauce, onions, salt, and pepper.
3. Form the mixture into small meatballs.
4. Grill meatballs for 10-15 minutes, turning frequently, until cooked through.
5. Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
Tips for Success:
– Using lean meat helps reduce fat.
– Add spices like paprika or chili powder for extra kick.
FAQs:
– Can these meatballs be made in advance? Absolutely! They can be made and frozen, then reheated on the grill.
5. Spicy Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Turn up flavor with spicy grilled shrimp tacos. They’re bright, fast, and perfect for a weeknight feast.
Shrimp soak in a simple mix of olive oil, lime, and chili powder. A quick grill finishes them to pink perfection. Build tacos with a crunchy slaw and warm tortillas. Top with cilantro and a squeeze of lime. You get a light, zippy dish that the family will ask for again.
Ingredients:
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp chili powder
Corn tortillas
1 cup coleslaw mix
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, shrimp, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
2. Preheat the grill to high heat.
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through.
4. Assemble tacos with shrimp and coleslaw, garnishing with cilantro.
5. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Tips for Success:
– Use fresh shrimp for the best taste.
– Add avocado or salsa for a delicious twist.
FAQs:
– Can I prepare the shrimp ahead of time? Yes, marinate and refrigerate until ready to grill.
6. Cheesy Grilled Corn on the Cob
Summer comes alive with corn hot off the grill. This version adds a cheesy, creamy kick.
Grill gives the ears a light char, while mayo and Parmesan melt into a rich coating. The result is bold and kid friendly. Serve with a squeeze of lime for a bright finish. It’s simple enough for weeknights and special enough for parties.
Ingredients:
4 ears of corn, husked
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp chili powder
Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Grill corn for about 2-3 minutes on each side until slightly charred.
3. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Parmesan, and chili powder.
4. Once corn is cooked, brush the mayo mixture over each ear.
5. Serve with lime wedges.
Tips for Success:
– Soak corn in water for 30 minutes before grilling to enhance moistness.
– Experiment with different cheese toppings like feta or cotija.
FAQs:
– Can I cook corn in the oven? Yes, wrap in foil and bake at 400°F for about 25 minutes.
7. BBQ Chicken Pizza
Pizza gets a BBQ twist that kids love. It’s quick, fun, and easy to share.
Shred cooked chicken and toss with BBQ sauce. Spread this on a crust with mozzarella and sliced onions. Grill until the crust is crisp and the cheese bubbles. Finish with a handful of cilantro for a fresh finish. This simple dish makes pizza night feel different and exciting for the whole family.
Ingredients:
1 pizza crust (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup red onions, sliced
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill and roll out the pizza crust.
2. Mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a bowl.
3. Spread the BBQ chicken mixture on the pizza crust, then sprinkle with mozzarella and red onions.
4. Grill pizza on medium heat for 10-15 minutes until the crust is crispy and the cheese is bubbly.
5. Garnish with cilantro before slicing.
Tips for Success:
– Switch up the toppings with your family’s favorite ingredients.
– Use a grill-safe pizza stone for easier handling.
FAQs:
– Can I use other sauces? Absolutely! Ranch or pesto work great too.
8. Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon
Dessert can be quick and bright. Grilled pineapple with cinnamon hits the spot.
The natural sweetness caramelizes on the grill, giving warm, caramel notes. It’s a light finish that won’t weigh you down. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you like, for a contrast of texture and temperature. This treat is easy enough for kids to help with and fun to share.
Ingredients:
1 ripe pineapple, peeled and sliced into rings
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
Vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
3. Sprinkle the mixture evenly on the pineapple slices.
4. Grill pineapple for 2-3 minutes on each side until grill marks appear.
5. Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream.
Tips for Success:
– Use fresh, ripe pineapple for the best flavor.
– Experiment with other spices like nutmeg or ginger for a twist.
FAQs:
– Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, you can slice the pineapple and store it until grilling.
9. Easy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Drumsticks are a BBQ staple that stays juicy and tasty. They’re easy for beginners and fun for kids to grab.
Coat each drumstick with a simple mix of BBQ sauce and spices. Grill over medium heat until cooked through, turning often. The glaze clings to the meat, giving a rich finish. Rest a few minutes after the grill to lock in moisture. Serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Ingredients:
8 chicken drumsticks
1 cup BBQ sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat drumsticks with the sauce mixture.
4. Grill drumsticks for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked.
5. Serve hot with extra sauce on the side.
Tips for Success:
– For extra crispiness, cook for the last few minutes over direct heat.
– Let them rest for a few minutes off the grill to lock in moisture.
FAQs:
– Can I bake these instead? Yes, bake at 400°F for about 40 minutes.
10. Mediterranean Grilled Veggies
A bright mix of vegetables makes a tasty BBQ side. This Mediterranean style dish stays light and fresh.
Slice zucchini, bell pepper, eggplant, and red onion. Toss them with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Grill until tender and lightly charred. Serve warm as a side or on top of rice for a light bowl. A quick drizzle of olive oil finishes the dish with shine.
Ingredients:
1 zucchini, sliced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 eggplant, cubed
1 red onion, cut into wedges
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, toss all veggies in olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill veggies for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until tender.
4. Serve warm as a side dish or over rice.
Tips for Success:
– Use a grilling basket for smaller veggies.
– Add feta cheese for a delicious Mediterranean twist.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen vegetables? Fresh vegetables yield better flavor and texture.
11. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Pulled pork sandwiches make a hearty, shareable meal. They’re ideal for feeding a crowd with little work.
Slow cook pork shoulder with onion, BBQ sauce, and spices until it’s ultra tender. Shred the meat with forks and mix it with more sauce. Pile the warm pork on soft rolls and add extra sauce if you like. A little slaw on top adds crunch. This dish is forgiving and great for beginners who want big flavor.
Ingredients:
2 lbs pork shoulder
1 cup BBQ sauce
1 onion, sliced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Sandwich rolls for serving
Instructions:
1. Place pork shoulder in a slow cooker, topping it with sliced onions, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until tender.
3. Shred the pork using two forks and mix with the sauce.
4. Serve on sandwich rolls with additional BBQ sauce if desired.
Tips for Success:
– For extra flavor, sear the pork before slow cooking.
– Top with coleslaw for added crunch.
FAQs:
– Can I use a pressure cooker? Yes, cook on high for about 60 minutes.
12. Grilled Caprese Salad Skewers
Caprese skewers bring a fresh bite to any BBQ. They look pretty and taste bright.
Thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on skewers. Drizzle with olive oil and a touch of balsamic glaze. A pinch of salt and pepper ties the flavors together. They’re simple to make and great for passing around the table. Serve chilled or at room temperature for a light snack or starter.
Ingredients:
1 pint cherry tomatoes
8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
Fresh basil leaves
Olive oil
Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. On skewers, thread a cherry tomato, a basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball. Repeat until the skewer is filled.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
3. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Tips for Success:
– Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
– These can be made a few hours in advance for easy entertaining.
FAQs:
– Can I add other ingredients? Yes! Avocado or bell peppers work great too.
13. BBQ Baked Potatoes
Turn baked potatoes into a BBQ delight with a fun twist. They’re filling and easy to customize.
Wrap each potato in foil and set them on the grill. They’ll cook slowly and stay fluffy inside. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, and optional bacon bits for extra depth. This side fits with many main dishes and is a reliable crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
4 medium potatoes
1 cup shredded cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
2. Wrap each potato in foil and place on the grill.
3. Grill potatoes for about 45 minutes until tender.
4. Carefully unwrap, split open, and top with cheese, sour cream, green onions, and bacon bits.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
– For extra flavor, rub potatoes with olive oil before grilling.
– Experiment with different toppings to satisfy everyone’s tastes.
FAQs:
– Can I bake these in the oven? Yes, bake at 400°F for about 1 hour.
14. Skewered Sausage Bites
These sausage bites are quick to make and perfect for parties. They’re savory, filling, and pair well with many dips.
Thread smoked sausage, bell pepper, and onion on skewers. Grill until the vegetables soften and the sausage warms through. They’re easy to adapt with different sausage varieties for unique flavors. Serve with your preferred dipping sauces.
Ingredients:
1 lb smoked sausage, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 onion, cut into chunks
Skewers
BBQ sauce for dipping
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
2. On skewers, alternate threading sausage pieces, bell pepper, and onion.
3. Grill skewers for about 10-15 minutes until vegetables are tender and sausage is heated through.
4. Serve with BBQ sauce for dipping.
Tips for Success:
– Choose any variety of sausage for different flavors.
– Add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a nutritious boost.
FAQs:
– Can these be made ahead of time? Yes, prepare the skewers and refrigerate until ready to grill.
Fun fact: Skewered sausage bites can be on the table in under 15 minutes from prep to grill, a total crowd-pleaser for busy families. Great for kids to help with threading, and you can mix sausage varieties for new flavors every party—bbq recipes easy to master.
15. Grilled Fruit Kabobs
End your BBQ with a fun and healthy dessert. Grilled fruit kabobs bring sweetness without heavy sauces.
Thread strawberries, pineapple, and banana onto skewers. Brush with a light honey glaze and grill 3-5 minutes until the fruit is tender and marked by the grill. The caramel notes shine in every bite. Finish with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of yogurt for dipping.
Ingredients:
1 cup strawberries
1 cup pineapple chunks
1 cup banana pieces
1/4 cup honey
Skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
2. On skewers, alternate threading strawberries, pineapple, and banana.
3. Grill kebabs for 3-5 minutes until fruit is slightly softened and grill marks appear.
4. Drizzle with honey before serving.
Tips for Success:
– Experiment with different fruits like peaches or apples.
– Serve with yogurt for dipping for added fun!
FAQs:
– Can I make these in advance? Grilling is best just before serving for optimal flavor.
Conclusion
These 15 easy BBQ recipes are perfect for any family get-together, allowing everyone to get involved and enjoy the process. From savory meats to fresh veggies and delightful desserts, there’s something for every palate.
So gather your family, fire up the grill, and let the summer flavors take over! Share your favorite moments and recipes, and make this BBQ season memorable for everyone!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some bbq recipes easy for beginners that families can make together?
Start with crowd-pleasers like burgers, chicken skewers, hot dogs, and veggie kebabs.
These are classic bbq recipes easy for beginners and kid-friendly.
Try a simple marinade or dry rub to boost flavor: chicken can marinate 30 minutes to 2 hours; burgers just need salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic for a quick boost.
Grill over medium-high heat, flip once, and let meat rest a few minutes before serving.
For picky eaters, offer kid-friendly toppings and easy sides like corn on the cob or fruit skewers.
Pro tip: keep a short list of summer cookout ideas ready for busy days.
What basic grilling tips can help beginners get better results?
Preheat your grill to the right temperature and oil the grate to prevent sticking.
Use direct heat for burgers and chicken, and move larger cuts to indirect heat to avoid flare-ups.
Use a meat thermometer: chicken to 165 F, pork 145 F, beef 135-145 depending on doneness.
Let meat rest 5-10 minutes before slicing for juiciness.
Keep kids and pets away from hot surfaces and teach simple safety rules.
These are essential grilling tips for anyone just starting out and align with beginner BBQ techniques.
What kid-friendly summer cookout ideas can I try with these easy BBQ recipes?
Build a simple, kid-friendly menu that keeps little hands busy: mini burgers or chicken sliders, veggie and fruit skewers, corn on the cob, and easy dips for dipping veggies.
Set up a supervised ‘grill station’ and let kids help with toppings, assembling skewers, or serving themselves with supervision.
Serve pre-portioned sides like sliced watermelons and yogurt-dip veggies.
These ideas fit summer cookout ideas and are ideal for outdoor entertaining recipes.
How can I create simple marinade recipes that boost flavor without hours of prep?
Start with bright, family-friendly flavors: citrus-herb for chicken, soy-honey for a quick glaze, or a smoky tomato-based mix for vegetables.
Mix 3-4 ingredients and marinate chicken 30 minutes to 2 hours, beef or pork 1-4 hours, or shrimp 15-30 minutes.
Brush on during grilling for a tasty glaze and extra flavor.
Make extra marinade to baste and dip, and always pat meat dry before seasoning for better browning.
These simple marinade recipes are perfect for bbq recipes easy.
What beginner-friendly techniques help new grillers get perfect results outdoors?
Set up two zones on the grill: direct heat for searing and indirect heat for finishing large or fatty cuts.
Clean and oil the grates, and let meat come closer to room temperature before cooking.
Use a thermometer and a timer, and rest meat after cooking to lock in juices.
Start with small cuts to dial in timing, then move to chicken thighs or pork chops as you gain confidence.
Mastering these beginner BBQ techniques makes outdoor entertaining a breeze, with easy outdoor entertaining recipes and summer cookout ideas in reach.
