Ready to fire up the grill? These 35 backyard grill must-makes bring bold flavor to any cookout, no matter the day. From juicy mains and simple sides to sweet grilled desserts, each recipe is easy to throw together and full of flavor. You don’t need a party or a plan—just a hot grill and a little time. Grab your tongs, step outside, and make something worth sticking around for.
Grilled Baby Bok Choy. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.
Lemon Marinated Chicken Kebabs
These lemon marinated chicken kebabs are a juicy, flavorful grilling option that’s easy to make. The marinade adds a fresh citrus kick, locking in moisture and enhancing the taste of each bite. Throw these kebabs on the grill for a quick, tasty meal that’s perfect for any summer evening.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Marinated Chicken Kebabs
Miso Glazed Salmon
Miso glazed salmon is a quick and delicious grilling recipe with a savory-sweet flavor. The miso glaze soaks into the fish, making it juicy and tender, while grilling gives it a smoky finish. Treat yourself to a seafood dinner that’s as easy as it is tasty.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Salmon
Banana Boats
Grilled banana boats are a fun and easy dessert that everyone will enjoy. The bananas turn gooey and sweet, stuffed with chocolate chips and marshmallows that melt perfectly on the grill. Whip up these indulgent treats the next time you’re craving something sweet and simple.
Get the Recipe: Banana Boats
Grilled Fruit Kebabs with Brown Sugar Caramel
These grilled fruit kebabs are a sweet and smoky treat that pairs perfectly with any cookout. Brown sugar caramel drizzled on top makes the fruit extra sweet and adds a delightful texture. Add a splash of sweetness to your outdoor spread with these mouthwatering fruit skewers.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Fruit Kebabs with Brown Sugar Caramel
Grilled Chicken Foil Packets
These grilled chicken foil packets are a convenient and flavorful way to cook chicken and veggies. The foil locks in moisture and infuses the meat with all the savory flavors, making every bite juicy. Skip the mess and make dinner as easy as wrapping everything up in foil.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Foil Packets
Orange Ginger Grilled Cornish Hens
These grilled Cornish hens are marinated in a zesty orange ginger glaze that adds a burst of flavor. The marinade infuses the meat with moisture, while grilling gives it a perfect char on the outside. Treat yourself to this simple yet flavorful twist on classic roasted chicken.
Get the Recipe: Orange Ginger Grilled Cornish Hens
Grilled S’mores Pizza
Grilled s’mores pizza is a fun dessert with Nutella, marshmallows, and graham crackers for a gooey, irresistible treat. The crust crisps up perfectly on the grill while the toppings melt into a delicious mess. Add this playful dessert to your next outdoor meal and watch it disappear.
Get the Recipe: Grilled S’mores Pizza
Grilled Baby Bok Choy
Grilled baby bok choy is a simple yet flavorful side dish that brings a smoky taste to this healthy veggie. The grilling process enhances the natural sweetness of the bok choy, while the savory marinade adds depth. Give this tasty veggie a smoky twist the next time you’re cooking outside.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Baby Bok Choy
Lime Marinated Grilled Chicken
This lime-marinated grilled chicken brings a zesty burst of flavor to your meal. The marinade soaks deep into the chicken, keeping it tender and juicy while grilling adds a perfect smoky touch. Make this tangy, easy chicken recipe the star of your next cookout.
Get the Recipe: Lime Marinated Grilled Chicken
Bacon Cheddar Stuffed Burger
These bacon cheddar stuffed burgers are packed with savory flavors that take burgers to the next level. The juicy patty is filled with melted cheese and crispy bacon, creating the ultimate grilling experience. Next time you’re grilling, take your burgers to new heights with these delicious, stuffed patties.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheddar Stuffed Burger
Chipotle Burger with Jalapeno Mayo
Chipotle burgers topped with spicy jalapeno mayo are the perfect combination of smoky and spicy flavors. The chipotle seasoning adds depth, while the creamy mayo brings a nice kick to each bite. Spice up your burger game with this bold and tasty recipe.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Burger with Jalapeno Mayo
Kefta Kebabs
Kefta kebabs are made with spiced ground beef, grilled to juicy perfection for a tasty bite. The spices give these kebabs a bold, savory flavor that’s perfect for any grill session. Skewer these tasty bites and enjoy a flavorful meal in no time.
Get the Recipe: Kefta Kebabs
Grilled Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Grilled chicken satay skewers are marinated in a flavorful sauce, then grilled until juicy and golden. The creamy peanut sauce adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the savory chicken perfectly. Serve up these skewers at your next BBQ for a dish that’s both delicious and fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Asian Marinated Steak
This Asian marinated steak is full of flavor with a perfect balance of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. The marinade tenderizes the meat while grilling brings out a delicious smoky finish. Treat yourself to a savory steak dinner that’s packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Asian Marinated Steak
Lemon-Marinated Kefir Chicken
Lemon-marinated kefir chicken is a juicy, tender dish that’s full of fresh, zesty flavor. The kefir adds a creamy texture that makes the chicken extra moist, while the lemon kick brings freshness. Enjoy this refreshing, easy-to-make chicken at your next meal.
Get the Recipe: Lemon-Marinated Kefir Chicken
Beer Boiled Brats
Beer boiled brats are soaked in beer to keep them tender and juicy, then grilled to perfection. The beer bath adds flavor while grilling gives the brats a smoky, crisp finish. Enjoy these juicy brats at your next BBQ and taste the difference beer makes.
Get the Recipe: Beer Boiled Brats
Chipotle Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob gets a smoky kick with chipotle butter, making it the perfect side for any cookout. The buttery, smoky flavor will take your corn to the next level. Serve this spicy, smoky corn alongside your main dishes for a side that stands out.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled Hawaiian Chicken
Grilled Hawaiian chicken is packed with flavors like ham, pineapple, and melted cheese. The teriyaki glaze adds a sweet and sticky finish, making this dish a tropical delight. Add this sweet and savory chicken to your next cookout for an unforgettable meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hawaiian Chicken
Orange Jalapeno Flat Iron Steak
This tender flat iron steak is marinated in a sweet and spicy orange jalapeno sauce that’s packed with flavor. Grilling seals in the juicy goodness, while the smoky char makes each bite irresistible. Fire up the grill and make this zesty steak your go-to next time you want something bold.
Get the Recipe: Orange Jalapeno Flat Iron Steak
Carne Asada
Carne asada features a smoky, citrusy marinade that elevates the flavor of the meat. The steak grills up juicy and tender, perfect for tacos or enjoyed on its own. Make this flavorful carne asada the highlight of your next grilling session.
Get the Recipe: Carne Asada
Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken
Maple mustard chicken is marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce that infuses the meat with flavor. The grilling process creates a crispy char while keeping the chicken juicy and tender. Try this easy and mouthwatering chicken recipe for a simple but delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken
Carne Asada Fries
Carne asada fries are topped with juicy steak, spicy pico, and creamy guacamole, creating the perfect hearty meal. The crispy fries pair perfectly with the tender steak, making this a filling dish for any occasion. Whip up these loaded fries at your next BBQ for a fun and flavorful feast.
Get the Recipe: Carne Asada Fries
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Grilled shrimp skewers are quick to make and pack a smoky, savory punch. The shrimp stay tender and juicy, making them the perfect seafood treat for grilling. Serve these succulent shrimp skewers at your next cookout and watch them disappear.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Ranchera Meat
Ranchera meat is perfect for grilling, with a rich, savory flavor that comes from a great marinade. Grilling brings out the smoky depth, creating a delicious char on the meat. Add this tender, juicy beef to your grilling routine for a flavorful meal every time.
Get the Recipe: Ranchera Meat
Mexican Street Corn
Mexican street corn is slathered with tangy sauce and sprinkled with cotija cheese for the perfect balance of creamy and spicy. The grilled corn brings out a smoky sweetness that enhances every bite. Serve this standout side at your next BBQ and make it the star of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn
Blackened Pork Chops
Blackened pork chops are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, packed with flavor. The perfect sear from the grill or cast-iron skillet gives them a smoky finish. Serve these delicious pork chops for an easy, flavorful meal that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Pork Chops
Waffle Grilled Cheese
Waffle grilled cheese is a fun twist on the classic sandwich, crisped up in a waffle iron for extra crunch. The gooey cheese inside melts perfectly, making each bite a satisfying treat. Try this easy and creative grilled cheese recipe for a meal everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Waffle Grilled Cheese
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Teriyaki chicken skewers are marinated in a sweet and savory homemade sauce, grilled to perfection. The smoky finish and juicy chicken make them a perfect choice for any cookout. Serve up these flavorful skewers next time you’re grilling and watch them go fast.
Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Gochujang Chicken
Gochujang chicken is marinated in spicy, umami-rich red chile paste for a bold flavor. Grilling gives the chicken a smoky kick that complements the deep, fermented flavors. Make this easy, spicy chicken recipe the star of your next grill session.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken
Ninja Woodfire Grilled Pork Tomahawk Chops
These pork tomahawk chops are grilled to juicy perfection, with a flavorful rub and smoky finish. The Ninja Woodfire Grill creates a rich taste that will have everyone coming back for more. Make these juicy, impressive chops the centerpiece of your next BBQ.
Get the Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Grilled Pork Tomahawk Chops
Grilled Rockfish Tacos
Grilled rockfish topped with quick pickled slaw and spicy avocado dressing makes for a fresh, flavorful taco. The smoky cedar plank infuses the fish with a unique depth, while the slaw and salsa brighten every bite. Make these fresh tacos your next grilling adventure.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Rockfish Tacos
Perfectly Perfect Barbecued Chicken Drumsticks
These barbecued chicken drumsticks are juicy and flavorful, with a perfect balance of smoky and sweet. The grilling gives them a crispy, caramelized finish while keeping them tender inside. Serve up these delicious drumsticks for a BBQ everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Perfect Barbecued Chicken Drumsticks
Beef Bulgogi Bowls
Beef bulgogi bowls feature marinated beef that grills quickly, staying tender and juicy. The savory marinade soaks into the meat, creating a rich flavor that’s perfect over rice. Make this quick, flavorful meal your go-to for a satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls
Pollo Asado
Pollo asado is made with chicken thighs marinated in a citrusy blend of cilantro, onion, and lime juice. The grilling process creates a smoky, juicy finish that’s packed with flavor. Try this easy and flavorful chicken recipe for your next cookout or weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Pollo Asado
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are marinated and grilled until tender and perfectly charred. The marinade infuses the veggies with flavor, making them a delicious side for any meal. Add this simple and tasty veggie dish to your grilling lineup for a healthy, flavorful addition.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables