19 BBQ recipes that were made for paper towels, folding chairs, and that one friend who always brings beer

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If the vibe is sticky fingers, plastic forks, and someone arguing over which playlist is better, these 19 recipes are right at home. They’re the kind of dishes that get passed around with a nod, not a story. You won’t find anything fussy, but you will hear someone say, “Who made this?” while holding the last piece. Perfect for that kind of day where the sun’s out, no one’s in a rush, and there’s always one guy standing too close to the smoke.

Grilled chicken on a wooden board with cilantro and tomatoes in the back.
Grilled Lime-Garlic Chicken Breasts. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Blackstone Griddle Texas BLT

Two halves of Texas BLT on a black plate.
Blackstone Griddle Texas BLT. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Nothing about this meal says quiet night in, Blackstone Griddle Texas BLT is made for loud laughs, paper plates, and seconds. It’s the kind of thing you throw on when folks are standing around waiting for something hot and quick. There’s just something about the mix of crunch and smoke that works when you’re standing on grass holding a cold one. It’s easy to grab, hard to share, and even harder to stop at just one.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Griddle Texas BLT

Grilled Radishes With Jalapeño Dipping Sauce

A plate with grilled radishes, a bowl of creamy dipping sauce, lime halves, jalapeño, and a striped cloth on a white surface.
Grilled Radishes With Jalapeño Dipping Sauce. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

When you’re ready for a unique BBQ experience, Grilled Radishes With Jalapeño Dipping Sauce might be just what you need. This dish brings out the perfect combination of spicy heat and crispiness. The dipping sauce adds just enough kick, making it the perfect side to any grilled meat. It’s the kind of dish that gets everyone talking while they snack between bites of their main meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Radishes With Jalapeño Dipping Sauce

Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers

A wooden round serving board is covered with white parchment paper, displaying numerous grilled steak and veggie skewers arranged horizontally across it.
Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

If you need something that earns a nod from the picky eater and the guy holding the grill tongs, Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers usually gets the job done. They’re built for folding chairs and low-stakes backyard bragging about who grilled theirs better. You don’t need a fork or a napkin until later, which makes them perfect for leaning against the cooler while talking trash.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers

Korean Galbi Ribs

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

If you’re looking to impress with a BBQ classic, Korean Galbi Ribs should be on your list. These ribs bring a combination of tender meat with just the right amount of sweet and savory. You’ll have people reaching for a second helping without hesitation. The sauce sticks perfectly, making every bite a standout.
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.

Just when everyone’s full and leaning back, Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers show up and reset the whole mood. These things are sweet in a way that doesn’t ask for a plate or a plan, just a free hand and a second of your time. They’re great when the fire’s low, the music’s up, and no one’s rushing anything. It’s the kind of snack that gets passed around fast and disappears even faster.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers

Grilled Ratatouille

Close-up shot of Grilled Ratatouille on a black plate.
Grilled Ratatouille. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

When you want something a little more veggie-forward, Grilled Ratatouille brings everything together beautifully. This dish features a mixture of fresh vegetables grilled until they’re perfectly tender. The great thing about this dish is how much flavor the grill adds to the veggies. It’s an easy way to balance out all the meat-heavy dishes at your BBQ.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille

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.

Everyone loves the smoky flavor of Grilled Pork Souvlaki. These skewers are marinated and grilled to perfection, making them a hit at any gathering. The meat stays juicy and tender while the char from the grill adds a nice touch. Perfect for anyone who loves easy-to-eat, flavor-packed food.
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.

Smoked Berry Crisp is a dessert that makes a bold statement with minimal effort. The smoky flavor adds a unique depth to the sweetness of the berries, making it stand out from other desserts. Topped with a crumbly crisp, it’s a dessert you’ll want to serve warm. It pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or just on its own.
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.

If you’re a fan of steak, then Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter will take it to the next level. The reverse sear technique ensures your steak is perfectly cooked throughout, while the garlic butter adds a rich finish. It’s a dish that impresses without being complicated. Pair it with some grilled veggies for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter

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.

For a side dish that’s just as exciting as your main course, Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad is a great choice. The char from the grill on the asparagus and potatoes adds an extra layer of flavor. Tossed with a light dressing, it’s the perfect accompaniment to your BBQ meats. It’s hearty enough to satisfy but not overwhelming.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad

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.

You don’t need to go far to get your hands on something with a little kick. Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers packs heat and sweetness in every bite. Whether it’s game day or just a laid-back hangout, these skewers will quickly become a favorite. Perfect for anyone who enjoys something bold without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Spicy Grilled Harissa-Honey Chicken Skewers

Traeger Smoked Garlic

Close-up of roasted garlic cloves.
Traeger Smoked Garlic. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Smoky, garlicky goodness is what you get with Traeger Smoked Garlic. It’s the kind of side dish you’d want on the table next to those ribs you’re grilling. A bit of smoke, a bit of garlic, and a whole lot of flavor without much work. This recipe makes it easy to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Garlic

Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

A plate of Thai pork & Green beans with rice, topped with a fried egg, served with chopsticks on the side.
Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Throw some pork on the grill and you’ve got the start of something good. Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle is all about that sizzling sound when it hits the griddle. It combines a savory kick with fresh green beans for the kind of dish that’ll have you coming back for more. It’s quick, easy, and has just the right amount of heat.
Get the Recipe: Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

A plate with Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes.
Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

When you’re tired of the usual, try Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes to mix things up. This dish keeps things fresh with grilled peaches and juicy tomatoes in every bite. It’s a simple side, but the grill gives it that extra edge that makes it stand out. Whether you’re serving it with steak or just on its own, it’s bound to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa

Grilled pork chops with pineapple salsa on a white plate.
Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

No need for fancy cooking to make Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa the star of the evening. The pork chops are just what you want on a lazy afternoon, juicy with that grilled flavor. Pair it with the tangy pineapple salsa and you’ve got a meal that won’t disappoint. Simple but flavorful, this dish checks all the boxes.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimps on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

When you need something light and full of flavor, Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp hits the spot. Perfectly grilled shrimp with a Mediterranean vibe, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time. It’s one of those recipes where everything just clicks from the first bite. Fresh, tasty, and easy to prepare, what more do you need?
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings

A plate of chicken wings on a white plate with a slice of mango.
Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

If you want wings that stand out from the usual, Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings is the way to go. A touch of sweetness from the mango and the smoky chipotle give these wings a flavor profile that’s hard to beat. They’re perfect for sharing, or for keeping all to yourself. These wings aren’t your typical snack, they’ve got something special.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings

Grilled Corn Guacamole

Corn guacamole with tortilla chips on a plate.
Grilled Corn Guacamole. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Not just any guacamole, Grilled Corn Guacamole brings the party with that grill flavor. The corn adds a little crunch while the guac still keeps things creamy and fresh. It’s an easy dish to whip up, but the grilled corn makes it feel a little more fancy. Pair it with some tortilla chips and you’ve got yourself a snack everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn Guacamole

Grilled Lime-Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled chicken on a wooden board with cilantro and tomatoes in the back.
Grilled Lime-Garlic Chicken Breasts. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

If you’re in the mood for grilled chicken that’s anything but ordinary, Grilled Lime-Garlic Chicken Breasts is where you should look. The marinade is packed with zing from lime and garlic, and it’s perfect for chicken that’s juicy and full of flavor. Grilling it just adds a smoky element that takes it up a notch. It’s a simple recipe that makes a big impression every time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lime-Garlic Chicken Breasts

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