19 BBQ recipes that turn a bag of charcoal into the best decision you’ve made all week

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Lighting the coals might be the easiest win you’ll get this week. These 19 BBQ recipes know how to hold their own on a grill and somehow turn paper plates into plates of honor. Whether you’re grilling solo or with a crowd pretending to help, this lineup brings the heat in more ways than one. And if someone asks for seconds, consider it a personal compliment.

Four pieces of Ninja Woodfire Grill Lemon-Herb Chicken served on a white rectangular plate.
Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers

Close-up shot of Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers on a Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill topped with cheesy onion on a plate.
Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

There’s nothing like a juicy burger, and Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers turn up the heat. The smoky flavor gets a nice kick from the richness of French onion goodness. These burgers aren’t your average meal; they’re a game-changer when it comes to fulfilling your hunger. Put them on the grill, and you’ll be digging in before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers

Quick Smoked Tomatoes

Smoked tomatoes served on a white rectangular plate.
Quick Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Quick Smoked Tomatoes bring a depth of flavor with minimal effort. The smoke infuses the tomatoes, enhancing their natural taste and making them perfect for a variety of dishes. These tomatoes are the secret ingredient you didn’t know you needed. Just fire up the grill, and let the smoke work its magic.
Get the Recipe: Quick Smoked Tomatoes

Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers

A rectangular white plate with four Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers garnished with chopped herbs.
Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

These skewers are the perfect combo of heat and sweetness. The char from the grill gives them that smoky flavor, while the harissa and honey bring the balance you crave. It’s an easy way to upgrade chicken and make it a standout dish. Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers will have you coming back for seconds, no question.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers

Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad

Close-up shot of Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad on a white plate.
Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Looking for a side that stands out? Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad brings the earthy goodness of grilled asparagus and potatoes together. The grill adds just the right amount of crisp while keeping everything tender. It’s a simple yet flavorful side dish that goes with almost anything.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad

Texas-Style Carne Asada

A sliced and grilled Carne asada on a wooden cutting board.
Texas-Style Carne Asada. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Texas-Style Carne Asada is all about big flavors and bold seasoning. When you fire up the grill, the steak gets that perfect smoky char while staying juicy on the inside. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that never disappoints, whether you’re grilling for one or a group. Trust us, it’s the kind of meal that makes you want to do it again and again.
Get the Recipe: Texas-Style Carne Asada

Grilled Fruit Skewers with Cherry Dip

Four pieces of grilled fruit skewers on a slate plate with a bowl of cherry dip.
Grilled Fruit Skewers with Cherry Dip. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

This dish make for a simple yet unforgettable treat. The grill brings out the natural sweetness of the fruit, and the cherry dip takes it to another level. Grilled Fruit Skewers with Cherry Dip is one of those dishes that everyone will want a bite of, making it perfect for any occasion. Easy to prep, and even easier to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Fruit Skewers with Cherry Dip

Korean Galbi Ribs

Korean Galbi Ribs on a slate platter with red chopsticks beside them.
Korean Galbi Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

For ribs with a twist, Korean Galbi Ribs offer a delicious balance of sweet and savory. These ribs are marinated to perfection, soaking up all the flavors before hitting the grill. They’re tender, juicy, and packed with that unmistakable smoky char. This dish is guaranteed to impress everyone at your table.
Get the Recipe: Korean Galbi Ribs

Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers

Three pieces of Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers on a white plate.
Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers turn the classic dessert into something fun and flavorful. The strawberries pick up just the right amount of smoky sweetness while staying juicy. It’s a simple twist on a beloved favorite that everyone will be asking for. You’ll want these at every grill session after trying them.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers

Grilled Pork Souvlaki

Ninja Woodfire Pork Souvlaki with Horiatiki Salad and pita bread on a white plate.
Grilled Pork Souvlaki. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

This dish brings a Mediterranean touch to your BBQ. The pork gets a crispy, smoky exterior while keeping its tenderness on the inside. It’s the perfect mix of seasoning and grilling that takes pork to the next level. Whether served alone or with a side, Grilled Pork Souvlaki is a meal that won’t last long on the plate.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Souvlaki

Smoked Berry Crisp

A spoon lifts a portion of Smoked Berry Crisp from a bowl.
Smoked Berry Crisp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

If you love a warm dessert, Smoked Berry Crisp hits all the right notes. The berries soak up that smoky flavor, while the crisp topping adds the perfect crunch. It’s a dessert that feels both cozy and upgraded, making it an ideal way to end any meal. Prepare to have everyone asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Berry Crisp

Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter

Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter on a plate with asparagus.
Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

For steak lovers, Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter is the ultimate indulgence. The reverse sear method ensures the steak cooks evenly, while the smoked garlic butter adds an irresistible richness. It’s a straightforward recipe that makes steakhouse-quality meals at home. Fire up the grill, and you’re in for something special.
Get the Recipe: Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter

Smoked Peaches with Spiced Rum Whipped Cream

Smoked peaches topped with spiced rum whipped cream on a platter.
Smoked Peaches with Spiced Rum Whipped Cream. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Peaches with Spiced Rum Whipped Cream is the kind of dessert that makes you wonder why you haven’t tried it sooner. The peaches come out perfectly tender with a hint of smoky sweetness, making each bite fulfilling. The spiced rum whipped cream adds a smooth, rich touch that perfectly balances the fruit. It’s a simple but impressive treat that’s sure to leave everyone talking.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Peaches with Spiced Rum Whipped Cream

Pork Belly Burnt Ends

A plate of smoked pork belly burnt ends with tomatoes and pickles.
Pork Belly Burnt Ends. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking for something tender yet crispy, Pork Belly Burnt Ends deliver just that. The seasoning is spot on, with a perfect balance of smoky and savory that keeps you going back for more. Each bite has a nice crisp on the outside and a melt-in-your-mouth texture on the inside. It’s the kind of dish that makes you appreciate good BBQ.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Smoked Dry Rubbed Wings

Smoked dry rubbed chicken wings on a white plate with garlic.
Smoked Dry Rubbed Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For anyone who loves wings, Smoked Dry Rubbed Wings are a game changer. The dry rub locks in all the savory goodness, and the smoke adds a deep, rich flavor that makes them stand out. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, these wings are perfect for any BBQ. These wings are a great way to enjoy something classic with a smoky twist.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Dry Rubbed Wings

Smoked Mac & Cheese

A skillet filled with Smoked Mac & Cheese.
Smoked Mac & Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you think mac & cheese couldn’t get any better, think again. Smoked Mac & Cheese adds a smoky depth to this comfort food classic. The cheese melts beautifully, while the smoky flavor enhances every bite. It’s the kind of side dish that could easily steal the show.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese

Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops

Three Grill Mediterranean Lamb Chops topped with gremolata on a white plate.
Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops bring bold flavors without being over-the-top. The grilling adds a nice char, while the seasonings give it a unique, savory taste that’s both hearty and fresh. Perfectly cooked, these lamb chops are juicy with a fulfilling texture. They’re an easy yet impressive choice when you want something a bit different.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

A platter of Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites.
Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These bites are a delicious, bite-sized snack that’s full of flavor. The smoked chicken gives them a subtle smokiness, while the tortilla adds the right amount of crunch. Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites are perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer. They’re a tasty way to bring a little BBQ flair to any dish.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

Grilled Feta

Grilled Feta with Herbs in a black serving dish with toasted bread and a lemon wedge.
Grilled Feta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for a new way to enjoy cheese? Grilled Feta takes the creamy goodness of feta and adds a smoky twist that you won’t forget. The grill brings out a depth of flavor that makes it a perfect addition to any plate. It’s a simple but surprisingly fulfilling way to enjoy feta.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Feta

Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken

Four pieces of Ninja Woodfire Grill Lemon-Herb Chicken served on a white rectangular plate.
Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

When it comes to grilled chicken, Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken stands out. The lemon and herbs create a fresh, vibrant flavor that pairs perfectly with the char from the grill. It’s juicy and tender, with just the right amount of seasoning. This dish is one you’ll want to make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken

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