Summer is just around the corner, which means it’s time to fire up the grill and get the backyard barbecue started. Hosting a barbecue can be a lot of work, but with the right recipes, it can also be a lot of fun. The key to a successful barbecue is to have a variety of delicious dishes that will please everyone’s taste buds.
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice in the kitchen, here are some crowd-pleasing BBQ recipes that will wow your guests and have them asking for seconds.
Grilled Chicken Kabobs
Grilled chicken kabobs are always a hit at any BBQ party. Not only are they easy to make, but they also look great on the plate. To make the perfect grilled chicken kabobs, start by marinating your chicken in your favorite marinade for at least an hour before grilling.
Cut up veggies like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, and thread them onto skewers with the chicken. Brush them with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place them on the grill until they are fully cooked. Serve with a side of rice and salad, and your guests will be talking about your delicious kabobs for days.
Pulled Pork Sliders
Pulled pork sliders are another crowd-pleasing BBQ recipe that will satisfy your guests’ appetites. Start by seasoning your pork butt with your favorite dry rub, and then smoke the meat for several hours until it’s tender and juicy. Once the meat is done, shred it with a fork, and mix in your favorite BBQ sauce. Place the pulled pork onto small slider buns, add a dollop of coleslaw, and watch your guests go crazy.
For those who are looking to mix things up and add different flavor profiles to their pulled pork sliders, there are plenty of options. Experiment with different kinds of BBQ sauces such as sweet, tangy, smoky, or spicy. You can also opt for a sweeter approach by using hoisin sauce or dairy free Ketogenic teriyaki chicken sauce instead of BBQ sauce. Or, for a more traditional Mexican flavor, top your sliders with salsa and guacamole. The possibilities are endless! No matter what flavors you choose, these pulled pork sliders are sure to please any crowd.
Juicy Burgers
Nothing says barbecue like a juicy burger. To make your burgers extra flavorful, add some Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and paprika to the beef before grilling. Top with your favorite cheese and condiments, and serve on a soft bun. For a healthier option, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
To make sure your burgers come out juicy and delicious, it’s important not to overcook them. Start by preheating the grill on medium-high heat, then reduce the temperature once the burgers are on. Make sure you’re flipping the burgers often so they cook evenly on both sides.
To check if a burger is done, press the center of it with your finger. It should still be slightly pink and feel soft to the touch. Also, make sure you’re using a meat thermometer to check for doneness as temperature is the most reliable way to tell if a burger is cooked through.
Watermelon Feta Salad
The perfect BBQ recipe should have some light and refreshing sides to balance out the heavy main course. A watermelon feta salad is a perfect complement to any BBQ menu. All you need is some cubed watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onions, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Toss everything together in a bowl, and your guests will love the sweet and salty combination.
To make sure your watermelon is ripe and ready to eat, look for one that is symmetrical with a uniform shape. The watermelon should be heavy for its size, with a dull thud when tapped.
Additionally, the underside of the watermelon should have a creamy yellow spot where it sat on the ground as it ripened. You can also try smelling the watermelon, since a ripe melon should have a fragrant sweet smell. Finally, you can gently press your thumb into the rind – if it gives a bit and bounces back, then the watermelon is ripe and ready to eat!
Corn on the Cob
No barbecue is complete without grilled corn on the cob. Brush the corn with melted butter or olive oil and sprinkle it with salt and paprika. Grill until the corn is slightly charred and tender. For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Elotes, also known as Mexican street corn, is a delicious and popular dish that is sure to please any BBQ crowd. To make the perfect elotes, start by boiling four ears of sweet corn in salted water for about 5 minutes. Once cooked, brush each ear with mayonnaise and roll it in grated cotija cheese.
Next, sprinkle chili powder and lime juice over the top for a hint of heat and acidity. Finally, place them on an open grill and cook until all the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Serve with extra lime wedges for squeezing, and you’ll have a delicious dish that your guests won’t be able to resist.
Potato Salad
One of the most quintessential American BBQ dishes is potato salad. This classic side dish is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. Boil some potatoes until they’re tender, then mix them with your favorite ingredients like mayo, mustard, celery, onion, and parsley.
Chill the potato salad in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors blend together. Your guests will definitely enjoy this creamy and flavorful side dish.
Grilled Peach Cobbler
Ending your BBQ party with a dessert is a great way to finish off the night. Grilled peach cobbler is a perfect dessert recipe that you can make on the grill. Cut up some fresh peaches, toss them with cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar, and place them in a cast-iron skillet.
Top with crumbled buttery biscuits, and place it on the grill until the biscuits are golden brown. Serve it with ice cream or whipped cream, and your guests will leave with happy bellies.
Hosting a BBQ party doesn’t have to be stressful when you have these crowd-pleasing BBQ recipes up your sleeve. With these easy-to-make recipes, you’ll be able to impress your guests and leave them talking about your delicious food long after the party is over. So, fire up your grill and get cooking. Your guests are in for a real treat!