Some parties have games, music, and folding chairs that always sink into the grass. But when the grill is the main event, nobody notices the rest. These 17 BBQ plates brought the heat, the smoke, and somehow turned the grill into the unofficial host. People circled like they were waiting for concert tickets. And every plate that came off that grill went out faster than someone dodging cleanup duty.
Grilled Radishes With Jalapeño Dipping Sauce
Putting veggies on the grill gives them an edge, and it shows with Grilled Radishes With Jalapeño Dipping Sauce. Smokiness from the grill turns these little roots into something bold, while the dipping sauce adds a kick to every bite. It’s the perfect way to add something fresh yet smoky to your BBQ spread. These can easily keep the party balanced, standing out in a sea of meat.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Radishes With Jalapeño Dipping Sauce
Traeger Smoked Garlic
Smoke and garlic go hand in hand when you’re grilling, and Traeger Smoked Garlic is the perfect example. The smoky flavor takes over in the best way and transforms what usually stays in the background. It’s a simple addition that can make anything else on your plate shine. Whether you mix it in or spread it on, it’s one of those must-haves when grilling is center stage.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Garlic
Grilled Ratatouille
Veggies don’t get forgotten when Grilled Ratatouille is on the table. Grilling them adds layers of flavor that go far beyond what you’d expect from simple veggies. With a mix of natural sweetness and smoky char, this dish always holds its own. There’s no better way to keep things balanced at a BBQ while still keeping that grill fired up.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille
Smoked Chicken Thighs
BBQ is all about smoke and flavor, and Smoked Chicken Thighs hit both marks perfectly. The slow-smoking process makes sure every bite is tender and packed with deep smokiness. These are ideal for any gathering where the grill is front and center, combining boldness and heartiness. They’re a crowd-pleaser that keeps the focus on the star of any BBQ, smoke, and fire.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Thighs
Bacon-Wrapped Burgers
Nothing gets more attention at the grill than Bacon-Wrapped Burgers, with their juicy core and smoky, crispy outer layer. Wrapping them in bacon gives extra flavor and texture, while grilling takes it all up a notch. There’s no way these don’t steal the show when they hit the plate. Whether you’re grilling for friends or family, these keep things bold and unmistakably BBQ-focused.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Burgers
Grilled Lime Garlic Chicken Breasts
Tangy, smoky, and perfect for a BBQ, Grilled Lime Garlic Chicken Breasts hit all the right notes. The grilling process locks in bold flavors while allowing the chicken to stay juicy. These are versatile enough to pair with any side, making them a great main for the grill-heavy table. Each bite brings just enough smokiness to remind you where it’s been cooked, on the grill.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lime Garlic Chicken Breasts
Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle
A little spice and a whole lot of flavor make Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle an unforgettable plate for BBQ lovers. Using the griddle lets everything sear up perfectly while locking in boldness. The mix of textures and the slight heat are what keep this dish exciting and balanced. It’s one of those crowd favorites that fits seamlessly at a grill party.
Get the Recipe: Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle
Traeger Smoked Turkey
When it comes to smoked classics, Traeger Smoked Turkey is hard to beat. The smoke-infused flavor is what makes this BBQ option stand out, as it turns a traditional dish into something loaded with depth. It’s tender enough to carry the meal but strong enough to share the spotlight with all the sides. There’s no better way to keep it smoky and memorable when grilling is the theme.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Turkey
Big Mac Tacos
Big Mac Tacos are the fusion dish you didn’t know you needed. The iconic taste paired with the grill gives them a unique edge. They’re unexpected yet irresistible, making them the perfect dish to spark conversations around the grill. These tacos combine fun and grilling in a way that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Tacos
Smoked Asparagus
Taking veggies from the ordinary to BBQ-worthy is easy with Smoked Asparagus. Smoky notes from the grill complement its natural flavor without overwhelming it. The simplicity of this dish is what keeps it standing out on a plate full of BBQ options. It’s fresh but smoky enough to hold its spot next to bigger and bolder dishes.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Asparagus
Texas-Style Carne Asada
Bold and smoky is the heart of BBQ, and Texas-Style Carne Asada fits the vibe perfectly. The open flame adds a crust that’s all about flavor while keeping the inside tender. This dish is ideal for cutting up and serving to a crowd, letting everyone grab a handful of smoky perfection. It’s all about sharing something full of character and keeping the grill at the party’s center.
Get the Recipe: Texas-Style Carne Asada
Smoked Meatloaf
Kicking up a classic, Smoked Meatloaf brings a BBQ twist to what’s usually a comfort food. Smoking gives an added layer that’s hard to find with just baking, delivering boldness in every slice. It’s hearty enough for any BBQ setup while still being familiar and approachable. There’s something nostalgic yet fresh about serving up meatloaf straight from the smoker.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Meatloaf
Korean Galbi Ribs
The grill gets international treatment with Korean Galbi Ribs, bringing smoky, juicy bites packed with bold flavor. Every rib soaks in that smoky char, balancing boldness with tender moments. They’re easily a standout element at any BBQ gathering, especially when the grill is the main event. Putting these on the table guarantees everyone appreciates what the grill can really do.
Get the Recipe: Korean Galbi Ribs
Smoked Carver Ham
Turning up the flavor on a BBQ classic, Smoked Carver Ham amps up smokiness in every slice. Smoking it adds such depth that it quickly becomes a centerpiece on the grill table. Every bite feels rich yet balanced, especially as it keeps the perfect smoky edge from the grilling process. Carving it up fresh from the smoker guarantees it’ll be the highlight of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Carver Ham
Blackstone Griddle Texas BLT
Blackstone Griddle Texas BLT is all about crispy sear and bold flavors. Using the griddle ensures every piece is perfectly toasted while locking in the textures. This is one of those dishes that’s surprisingly simple yet stands out when the grill is at the party’s center. It’s a good choice to pair with smokier mains for a well-rounded BBQ spread.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Griddle Texas BLT
Smoked Mac & Cheese
Smoky and rich without being overpowering, Smoked Mac & Cheese makes BBQ sides worth the hype. Smoking it gives it that edge that matches perfectly with everything else from the grill. It’s creamy, smoky, and undeniably a crowd-hit, especially when served hot. This side dish knows how to hold its own on a plate filled with BBQ classics.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese
Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers
Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers offer a mix of bold and smoky. Grilling locks in tender bites while adding complexity to the sweet and slightly spicy flavors. These skewers shine both on their own and as part of a grilling lineup. Every BBQ could use a dish that keeps everyone grabbing for just one more.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers