27 bbq recipes that are already all over everyone’s Memorial Day weekend plans

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Need some inspiration for your next BBQ session? This list of 27 recipe choices is buzzing with ideas that people are already excited about for Memorial Day weekend. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or just want to try something new, you’ll find plenty of ways to grill that don’t feel complicated or over the top. There are choices to fit quiet nights, busy weekends, and everything in between.

You can pick a recipe for a special weekend, or just bring a little BBQ vibe to your everyday meals. The easy list means you’re never stuck on what to try next. Check it out and see which BBQ idea fits your day.

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

Grilled Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Mezcal BBQ Sauce

A plate of Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill-Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Mezcal BBQ Sauce.
Grilled Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Mezcal BBQ Sauce. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

I enjoyed making this recipe for lunch after a long walk, and this Grilled Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Mezcal BBQ Sauce fills up my plate without taking much effort. Sometimes, I like taking in the scent as it cooks outside, making cleanup much simpler than baking indoors. This works great for days when I do not want to fuss.

This is best served with a simple green side or bread for soaking up the extra sauce. Try it out for a relaxed dinner or even leftovers when the mood strikes. Bringing this recipe into your schedule means you can skip fancy techniques yet have something just right for repeat meals.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Mezcal BBQ 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.

After a quiet day, grilling is a way to unwind and get a balanced meal all at once, and these Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers feel perfect for such evenings. Sometimes, these make me think of long weekends, but they are just as practical for a weeknight when I want something filling. Whenever I make these, I find they are simple to reheat, too. Even as leftovers, they keep a nice texture and flavor.

These are often eaten hot off the grill, but they also work in wrap sandwiches or rice bowls for lunch. When you want something quick and not complicated, these are good to bring out. No need for special occasions; you just need a few minutes outside.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers

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.

I like pulling out this Grilled Feta for snacks or when making a lighter meal. Melting this on the grill is fast, and I usually serve it straight on a plate with crackers close by. Its subtle smoky flavor makes even plain bread better, and it feels a bit different from usual. This doesn’t need much extra besides maybe a cold drink.

You can have this recipe for a last-minute bite in the afternoon or at the center of a simple dinner, and it works for solo moments just as well. Slicing right into this feels easy and unpretentious. Top this on fresh bread, or cut it into a salad to keep things interesting in your daily routine. This is unfussy and friendly.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Feta

Grilled Pork Tenderloin

A close-up of a fork holding a juicy, cooked piece of meat with a browned exterior and tender interior.
Grilled Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

One afternoon, feeling too tired for lengthy prep, I made this Grilled Pork Tenderloin, and it worked really well for a simple evening meal. I realized cleanup was almost nothing, and this paired well with the typical sides I already had. Grilling this cuts down on oven heat, and leftovers go nicely into sandwiches. Keeping this handy is a time-saver during busy days.

If you want an easy dish you can dress up or down, this is a safe pick. Serve this with a baked potato or a quick salad for a no-fuss dinner. For another meal, slice and reheat this in tacos. This works well for laid-back evenings just as much as casual get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Tenderloin

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

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

Weeknight meals do not need to be boring, and this Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp proves you can have something handy without getting out a baking pan. I find myself choosing these when I want food ready fast, yet more interesting than my usual. These shrimp are great when I want to eat by myself or set out a few appetizers for a friend. Cleanup is quick, and the taste stays light.

You can enjoy these hot off the grill or piled over rice for a fast dinner. These can be served as a sandwich filling, too. You do not need a lot of time to get something different from your normal dinners. These shrimp feel just right for smaller meals and simple afternoons.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Easy Grilled Beef Burgers

A close-up of a hamburger with lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, ketchup, and a beef patty in a bun, served on a white plate.
Easy Grilled Beef Burgers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

I remember grilling these Easy Grilled Beef Burgers after a long workday and appreciating how little effort it took. A batch of these can quickly go from the grill to my plate, making dinner simple. These burgers are flexible, fitting well into sandwich buns or served on a plate alone. Leftovers of these keep for next-day lunches and pair well with a handful of chips.

This is a good call for casual nights when you do not want to cook much. You can enjoy these with sides you have or on their own, making these practical for both one-person meals and spur-of-the-moment dinners. Try these for a backyard treat, or just to switch up your weekday dinner plans.
Get the Recipe: Easy Grilled Beef Burgers

Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork

Shredded Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Smoked Pulled Pork on a white plate.
Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Having slow-cooked meat ready for sandwiches makes lunchtime or dinner less stressful, and this Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork always delivers on those days. It is handy when I want hearty food but still want to save time. The smoky aroma clings to every piece, giving an easy flavor boost. There is something fulfilling about piling this on toasted bread or just eating it with a fork.

This can be enjoyed alone or paired with a salad for a lighter meal. It stores well, meaning it is ready to fill in gaps during busy weeks. Try using some as a topping on baked potatoes for a change. This adapts easily to both quiet meals and informal evenings.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Pulled Pork

Grilled Whole Chicken

A roasted chicken with barbecue sauce on a white plate, with green beans, corn on the cob, a glass of beer, and salt and pepper shakers in the background.
Grilled Whole Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

After grilling this Grilled Whole Chicken, I like how it brings steady flavor without a lot of work. Cutting into this at home works any time; a quiet night or an unexpected dinner with a sibling. Leftovers honestly taste just as good the next day in sandwich wraps or salads. The crisp skin always wins me over, especially with something cool to drink.

This is simple to serve, just pulling pieces apart and enjoying them as they are. Try pairing this with roasted vegetables or rice for a meal that feels complete. It works whether you are serving one person or a few. Bringing this to your table lets you enjoy a straightforward meal any day.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Whole Chicken

Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

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

Every time I make this Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes, I remember how quickly it comes together and how good it looks on the plate. It stands out at any meal, even as a weekday lunch for one. I usually eat this cold, after grilling, to keep things fresh and light. Leftovers fit neatly into a lunchbox for work or class.

You can put this salad right next to grilled meat or fish for a complete meal with little extra work. It goes well as a refreshing lunch or just a break from the usual veggies. Try serving this chilled. Adding this into your week keeps salads interesting and never too complicated for a small household.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

A plate of grilled chicken drumsticks garnished with chopped herbs, served with lemon slices.
Grilled Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilling in my backyard, I often pick these Grilled Chicken Drumsticks for their simplicity and how easy they are to eat. These make a strong option for a solo lunch, especially if you want food you can just grab. The leftovers are perfect the next day and taste good cold or reheated, straight from the fridge. Eating these on a porch or at the table is always relaxed.

You can try these on their own, or with mashed veggies or rice dishes if you want more. Carry a few for lunch outside, or serve several for a casual evening meal. These fit into nearly any everyday plan, being just as good for snacks as for sharing in pairs.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

Three pieces of grilled cauliflower steaks on a black plate.
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Turning a plain veggie into something memorable is easy with these Grilled Cauliflower Steaks. When I want something hearty without red meat, these are what I tend to choose. These grill up quickly, and cutting them into thick pieces makes serving simple. Pair these with a dipping sauce or set them on top of grains for a filling lunch.

These are a solid choice when you need a plant-based main that stands out, or even as a simple side. Serve these warm and finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you want. Most days, I have these alone, but you can add protein or a soup. These fit well in daily routines for something different without much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

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.

On nights when I crave a meal that feels a little different, these Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa deliver a quick, interesting dish that never leaves me bored. The smoky pork and sweet salsa pair in an easy way that works for both slow dinners and fast lunches. I’ve brought these to the table after a hectic day, and they always hit the mark without too much planning.

This recipe works great right alongside a pile of roasted potatoes or even just plain rice. The balance this brings fits well into everyday routines and occasional celebrations. Even if you are eating solo, it makes the meal special enough to remember and super quick to make again.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich served with a creamy pasta salad on side.
Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

I traded my usual lunch for this Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich and was pleasantly surprised by how well it held up; no complicated prep involved. Every bite brings together textures that just work, perfect for an easy afternoon. I sometimes pack up leftovers for a workday snack, and this stays tasty until my next break. Eating this outside feels especially right.

Try this sandwich with a simple iced tea or even with soup for a bigger meal. Great for spontaneous cravings or when sandwiches seem dull, bringing this into your routine makes lunch better. This is an easy way to shake up the day, suiting any lunch mood.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

A grilled steak with cowboy butter on a white plate.
Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Choosing something a little heartier for dinner, these Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter always feel rewarding after a busy day. The simple process works for a relaxed evening, whether I eat alone or with my partner. Even reheated, the butter stays full of flavor, and these pair easily with baked sides. Having leftovers means lunch takes just a few minutes to prepare.

You can pair these with any classic side dish or slice them thin for a next-day sandwich. This is a reliable pick for steak fans and works for any meal you want a touch more from. Bring these into your weekly line-up, and you’ll have something to look forward to often.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce

Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce on a white square plate.
Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

I treated myself to these Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce for a weekend snack and found they were just as good for a quick dinner. These are easy to grill and toss in sauce, filling in for takeout without much extra work. Having leftovers means lunch is ready, and they taste great hot or cold. It is hard to go wrong making these when you want finger food that actually feels like a meal.

Eat these straight from a platter or with a cool dip for extra flavor. These handle both snack cravings and mealtimes, fitting into a busy week or just a laid-back evening. Enjoy these in front of a game or as a quick lunch, you will want again.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce

Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo

Grilled Steak skewers on a white plate with chilis nearby.
Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Whenever I am after something quick and still appealing, these Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo hit the spot. These go fast on the grill, which lets me serve dinner in less than half an hour most nights. Even reheated, the flavors keep their punch, making for an easy lunch later. Skewers work well when I do not want to wash a ton of pans.

Serve these straight over rice, with flatbread, or on a salad for a fuller meal. Light prep makes these fit neatly into my usual week, perfect for nights when you do not want fuss but still want something different. Try these when you want to break out of your usual meal routine.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken on a white plate.
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

I remember feeling proud when I tried making this Grilled Bruschetta Chicken for a simple weekday dinner. It’s one of those recipes that fits into life so easily, whether you’re relaxing after work or eating with someone you care about. Bringing it to the table with a fresh salad, it always looks inviting and tastes even better cold the next day. Serving it sliced over toasted bread gives a twist you’ll want to repeat, especially during lunch breaks.

You’ll find that this recipe works for small groups or solo meals, making it perfect for anyone looking for a quick weeknight treat. Have it with a side of roasted potatoes, and keep leftovers for wraps.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bruschetta Chicken

Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables including zucchini, mushrooms, red onions, peppers, and squash, arranged on a rectangular black platter.
Grilled Vegetables. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Sometimes, I turn to these Grilled Vegetables when I need something quick for dinner or a side that’s simple yet filling. They’re easy to put together and add color to your plate, with enough texture to keep things interesting. I like serving them warm over rice, but they go well tossed with pasta as well. Eating them cold straight from the fridge makes a great midday snack for me after a walk or workout.

You’ll appreciate how flexible this recipe can be, fitting nicely into busy weekday routines or as part of a quiet meal at home. Serve it with grilled fish for a light supper or tuck leftovers into a wrap. It’s a smart way to use up vegetables, too.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables

Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri

A plate of sliced Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri, served on a white rectangular dish.
Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

My favorite solution for a quick dinner after work might be these Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri, thanks to their fast grilling time and big flavor. Even when I only feed myself, slicing these thin and topping with chimichurri never fails. These work great for lunch the next day as leftovers, either in a wrap or just plain. This pan-free option keeps weekdays manageable.

Pair these with simple potato sides or a crisp salad for a rounded meal. Try these when you crave something a little different, but do not want any fuss. These are just as good served for a quiet night in as for when you want something more.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hanger Steaks with Chimichurri

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.

One night after a busy day, I decided to make this Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken, and it quickly became my go-to for low-maintenance dinners. It’s light enough for lunch yet filling, and there’s something really easy about tossing any leftovers onto a salad for tomorrow. Offering a refreshing twist, it works for both cozy nights in and any time you want to share something homemade.

You can cook this recipe and serve it over simple rice or with a side of grilled flatbread. It’s great for meal prepping and packing lunches throughout the week. Try making it the next time you want a meal that feels easy but still tastes special.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken

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.

When looking for something a bit more special, I once made these Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops for a quiet weekend dinner and found them to be just right. This recipe brings a unique flavor and is easy to pair with roasted vegetables or rice. You’ll feel good serving them sliced on a plate with some extra bread on the side. It’s a meal that feels just as at home in everyday settings as when you want to share it.

You might enjoy how these lamb chops fit into a normal weeknight, making dinner feel more interesting without much hassle. Serve them with a simple salad and maybe keep some leftovers for sandwiches. It’s reliable and adds variety to your routine.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops

Grilled Dijon Rosemary Chicken Thighs

Grilled Dijon rosemary chicken thighs are arranged on a rectangular black slate platter, garnished with fresh rosemary, next to a white floral napkin on a wooden surface.
Grilled Dijon Rosemary Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Trying something new, I made these Grilled Dijon Rosemary Chicken Thighs on a lazy Sunday. They turned out juicy and flavorful, making me look forward to leftovers for lunch the next day. I often serve them whole with rice or slice them and layer them inside a pita for a lighter meal. Their taste sticks with you, and they reheat easily for surprising snacks in between meals.

This recipe is ideal for anyone wanting a filling dish that carries over into weekday lunches or solo dinners. Pair it with a simple potato salad for balance, and have a bite with friends or on your own. It’s timeless and always feels right at dinner time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Dijon Rosemary Chicken Thighs

Grilled Beef Finger Meat

Grilled Beef Finger Meat on a wooden cutting board.
Grilled Beef Finger Meat. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

After a workout, I decided to try making this Grilled Beef Finger Meat for an easy protein fix. It became something I reach for when I want straightforward food without fuss. I slice it and stack it inside a sandwich or serve it beside roasted vegetables, and it’s great chilled as a snack later in the week. Sharing it at home or eating alone, it always feels like a reliable option with minimal cleanup.

You’ll like how this recipe adapts to daily routines, from lunches at work to late-night meals. Try serving it with some bread for dipping and pack leftovers for quick meals. Its simplicity makes it a regular choice you can make anytime.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Beef Finger Meat

Grilled Ratatouille

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

During one quiet evening, I made this Grilled Ratatouille and found it was perfect for when you need a warm, flavorful meal. Serving it over steamed rice added a touch that made it feel hearty, and leftovers tasted even better layered into sandwiches. It’s easy enough for any day, but it has a way of making your meal feel a bit more interesting.

You can enjoy this recipe with pasta or just by itself for lunch, and it works for both solo meals and smaller groups. Keep it warm and scoop it onto crusty bread for breakfast or snack time. This is also great for sharing at a casual table when you want something different and simple.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille

Grilled Ribs on a Charcoal Grill

Close-up of Grilled ribs covered in sauce, garnished with chopped parsley, served on a white plate.
Grilled Ribs on a Charcoal Grill. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

My brother and I made these Grilled Ribs on a Charcoal Grill one evening, and it quickly became our weekend ritual. Cutting them and serving on a big plate, they make for easy sharing, but I often keep a few pieces to enjoy later with beans. The smoky taste fits right in with casual meals and doesn’t need a fancy setup, making it flexible for different occasions.

This recipe works just as well for solo dinners as it does for sharing with friends or family. Pair it with coleslaw or corn for balance, and freeze leftover ribs for future lunches. You’ll find its bold flavor suits both special events and ordinary days.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ribs on a Charcoal Grill

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 something simple after work, I made this Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad for a quick, filling dinner. It has just enough texture and flavor to feel like a meal, and I love taking leftovers to work for lunch. Serving it chilled with some bread makes it easy to eat during busy days, and it never feels heavy or complicated.

You’ll enjoy how this salad fits into everyday life, working for a solo meal or alongside your usual dinner. It can easily become part of your weekly routine without much effort. This recipe also brings a little variety to lunches or simple dinners when you want something different but easy.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad

Grilled Corn Guacamole

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

After a grocery run, I tried making this Grilled Corn Guacamole and realized it’s perfect for snacking or adding a little extra flavor to dinner. Spoon it over chips or spread it on toast for a quick meal, and it’s a regular in my fridge for lunches. Its taste and texture make it easy to serve for a casual meal after work, and I love having it handy for spontaneous cravings.

You’ll find this recipe suits small household meals or snack breaks just as much as larger events. Serve it with tacos or as a topping for grilled meats. It’s flexible and fits into a variety of routines, adding something special to everyday food.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn Guacamole

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