Grilling doesn’t stop just because it’s fall, and these 33 recipes make sure of that. They keep the smoke rolling, the crowd hungry, and the vibe just right for chilly evenings. It’s the perfect excuse to stay outside a little longer, soaking up the crisp air with plates that keep everyone coming back. If the grill had feelings, it’d be pretty proud.
Southern Style Pickled Shrimp
Shrimp lovers have something to look forward to when this is on the menu. Southern Style Pickled Shrimp mixes bold flavors while remaining light yet intriguing. This option works great for outdoor get-togethers because it’s unique, refreshing, and perfectly shares the spotlight with heavier dishes. It’s an easy conversation starter for guests and a great way to bring a touch of the coast to the cookout.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp
BLT Pasta Salad – With Bacon!
Few things grab attention at a cookout like bacon, and this dish builds an entire salad around it. BLT Pasta Salad – With Bacon! combines crispy bites, creamy layers, and the texture of pasta to make an outstanding side. It pairs well with grilled mains, but it’s also strong enough to earn a spot on its own. This one will have folks circling the table for another serving.
Get the Recipe: BLT Pasta Salad – With Bacon!
Corn Pudding Casserole
A creamy and hearty option is always a hit when it’s cooked to perfection. Corn Pudding Casserole is an easy addition to any outdoor menu, especially since it pairs well with so many cookout staples. Its texture is somewhere between a casserole and a pudding, which adds a fun twist to the lineup of usual sides. Make sure guests get a scoop because it’s guaranteed to disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Corn Pudding Casserole
Smoked Berry Crisp
Grilled desserts aren’t common at cookouts, so this one always surprises the crowd. Smoked Berry Crisp takes fresh fruit and adds a smoky depth that blends perfectly with its sweet, crumbly topping. The unique flavor twist makes it a go-to for anyone wanting to indulge without overdoing it. Cookouts aren’t just about meat, and this dish proves desserts belong outdoors, too.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Berry Crisp
Thai Noodle Salad with Mango and Spicy Peanut Dressing
When a cooler option is needed to balance the BBQ, noodles can be the answer. Thai Noodle Salad with Mango and Spicy Peanut Dressing steps in with its bold, spicy-sweet profile that’s hard to overlook. It’s one of those dishes that catches interest with its vibrant look even before the first bite. This one works just as well as a main for lighter eaters or to back up smoky meats.
Get the Recipe: Thai Noodle Salad with Mango and Spicy Peanut Dressing
Blackstone Griddle Texas BLT
Getting hands-on at a cookout is half the fun, and this griddle creation keeps everyone curious. Blackstone Griddle Texas BLT brings together the crunchy, smoky layers of a classic sandwich with the charm of griddle cooking. Each bite feels hearty and layered, offering a twist on the go-to bacon sandwich. It’s a crowd-pleasing option that feels made for hanging out around the grill.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Griddle Texas BLT
Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad
A refreshing, crunchy side never hurts at a smoke-filled cookout. Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad keeps things simple yet flavorful with its bold crunch and tangy marinade. It’s lighter than the heavier grill items, but that balance is what makes it appealing. Serve it as a cool reset between rounds of grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad
Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is already a classic, but this twist gives it something extra. Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob delivers that familiar sweetness with a smoky char that sets it apart from the plain version. This one works directly over the flame, letting the smoke sink deep into each bite. Even the simplest cookouts benefit when this makes it to the table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
Classic Creamy Key Lime Pie
After smoky goodness, a bright dessert brings things full circle. Classic Creamy Key Lime Pie is the cool and tangy finisher that doesn’t try too hard to steal the show. It’s perfectly balanced with creaminess and just enough citrus bite to feel refreshing. This pie gets plenty of attention once it’s sliced and served.
Get the Recipe: Classic Creamy Key Lime Pie
Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers
Keeping things bite-sized is always cookout-friendly. Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers combine juicy, flavorful cuts of meat with the vibrant crunch of grilled veggies. This option offers balance and variety while being simple to enjoy straight off the stick. Plus, it’s customizable and makes for a fun, interactive addition that matches its smoky, charred essence.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak & Veggie Skewers
Blueberry Rhubarb Crumble Bars
Sometimes, a dessert bar is easier than cutting into a pie, and that’s where these come in. Blueberry Rhubarb Crumble Bars feel portable, shareable, and packed with sweet-tart flavors. The rhubarb adds a little edge that pairs perfectly with their buttery crumble top. They’re a convenient dessert that rounds out any outdoor gathering.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Rhubarb Crumble Bars
Epic Nacho Snack Board
Snack boards at cookouts keep the crowd engaged between mains, and this one stands out in size and variety. Epic Nacho Snack Board layers chips, toppings, and loads of flavor, making everyone lean in for more. It’s a mix-and-match masterpiece where no two bites are the same. This dish is all about keeping things fun and packed with choices.
Get the Recipe: Epic Nacho Snack Board
Classic Red Potato Salad with Pickles
Hearty and tangy options like this rarely go unnoticed at gatherings. Classic Red Potato Salad with Pickles might not be fancy, but it’s one the crowd always returns to. The creamy dressing, combined with the tang of pickles, adds a nice twist to what could otherwise be a predictable side. Serve it chilled for the ultimate contrasting texture during a warm day spent outdoors.
Get the Recipe: Classic Red Potato Salad with Pickles
Grilled Fruit Quesadillas
When you think of grilling, desserts might not come to mind, but this breaks expectations. Grilled Fruit Quesadillas bring something new to the table with their mix of caramelized fruit and a touch of sweetness. They’re incredibly easy to enjoy, portable, and pair well with everything from ice cream to whipped cream at dessert. This is one to remember when you want an option that’s unique and straightforward.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Fruit Quesadillas
Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies
When the grill is busy, it’s smart to have a dessert option that doesn’t need cooking. Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies are simple, sweet, and a big win for anyone looking to skip traditional prep. They’re quick to pull together but still hit the sweet spot for gatherings. You’ll catch people grabbing extras, especially since they don’t need knives or forks.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies
Tomato Bruschetta
No matter how smoky or heavy the main dishes are, lighter bites always find their place. Tomato Bruschetta combines fresh flavors on toasted slices that feel effortless but pack flavor into every bite. Great as an appetizer, it’s something people keep reaching for while the grill sizzles in the background. A tray of these disappears quickly, fueling the wait in the best way possible.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta
Pickled Watermelon Rind
Nothing says resourceful like turning scraps into something highly memorable. Pickled Watermelon Rind brings a tangy twist to the menu, proving that every part of the watermelon can shine. Its crunch and sharp flavor complement grilled and smoked items perfectly. This unique dish feels like a creative move that catches the curiosity of guests.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Watermelon Rind
Grilled Ratatouille
Bringing vegetables to the grill doesn’t always mean compromise, and this dish proves it. Grilled Ratatouille transforms a mix of veggies into a charred and flavor-filled option that stands well next to meats. It’s colorful, versatile, and a hit among those looking for a well-rounded plate. Once it’s plated, it feels like a dish everyone can agree on.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille
Lemon Dill Salmon Foil Packets
Grilled seafood always adds variety to the menu, and this delivers it neatly in a packet. Lemon Dill Salmon Foil Packets are not only flavorful but also incredibly convenient for outdoor cooking. The steaming process locks in the moisture while enhancing the natural richness of the fish. With easy cleanup added to the list, it’s a smart and tasty choice for serving seafood outdoors.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Dill Salmon Foil Packets
Smoked Eye of Round
Smoking beef brings out its best flavors when done right. Smoked Eye of Round is tender, smoky, and full of subtle seasoning that lets the meat shine. It’s a strong centerpiece for anyone looking to impress without overpowering the rest of the meal. Getting the smoke just right turns this into a can’t-miss option.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Eye of Round
Grilled Lime-Garlic Chicken Breasts
For a flavorful and lighter protein option, this one is always a winner. Grilled Lime-Garlic Chicken Breasts marry smoky char with the punch from the marinade, making them juicy and irresistible. This option holds its own whether served alongside a salad or as part of a larger meal. Plus, it’s versatile and pairs well with nearly everything else on the spread.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lime-Garlic Chicken Breasts
Fried Green Tomatoes
Cooking outside doesn’t always mean grilling, and these crispy bites prove it. Fried Green Tomatoes pack a crunch that’s perfect as a side dish or a quick appetizer. The fresh slices pair perfectly with their well-seasoned coating, making them an easy favorite. They’re proof that simple dishes still shine in a cookout setting.
Get the Recipe: Fried Green Tomatoes
Grilled Teriyaki Mango Skewers
Sweet and savory get a chance to shine together in this cookout option. Grilled Teriyaki Mango Skewers combine rich, sticky flavors with the freshness of fruit in a way that surprises and impresses. The grilling process caramelizes the natural sugars of the mango, making each bite even more vibrant. These skewers are a perfect balance of light and bold, giving a unique twist to traditional grilling favorites.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Teriyaki Mango Skewers
Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle
Cooking on a griddle adds a unique layer of charm you don’t get over coals. Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle mixes big, bold flavors into a meaty and vibrant dish fit for any crowd. It’s fast cooking, so it’s easy to keep up with demand without skipping on flavor. This option quickly becomes a favorite for those looking for variety in a cookout.
Get the Recipe: Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle
Pizza Pasta Salad
Pasta salads at cookouts are a staple, but this one leans fun with its pizza-inspired twist. Pizza Pasta Salad keeps things simple but brings in familiar flavors that make it hard to pass up. It’s a crowd-pleaser, especially when paired with smoky grilled mains for balance. This dish is easy to plate up and keeps the lineup interesting.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad
Big Mac Tacos
Combining a fast-food favorite with a cookout staple makes this option a big win. Big Mac Tacos put together the flavors you love in a handheld format that’s fun and interactive. Each bite combines the richness of the classic with the portability of tacos, making it perfect for outdoor mingling. This is a conversation starter and sure to be a favorite on any grill day menu.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Tacos
Grilled Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Mezcal BBQ Sauce
Smoked pork tenderloin is a knockout option on its own, but the accompanying sauce takes it even further. Grilled Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Mezcal BBQ Sauce combines rich flavors and smoky undertones into a tender centerpiece. This dish feels full of effort without adding complexity to the event. It’s a surefire pick for making the cookout feel special.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Mezcal BBQ Sauce
Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
These potatoes bring crispy edges and tender insides together for an irresistible side dish. Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are cooked to perfection, with bold seasoning that pairs well with grilled meats. They’re filling, flavorful, and simple to prepare in large batches for groups. Perfect for loading up a plate, they’re an easy win at any cookout.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breasts
Wrapping chicken in bacon ensures every bite is packed with layers of flavor. Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breasts balance smoky, juicy, and slightly crispy textures in a way that feels effortless at the table. It’s a simple recipe that’s always met with excitement. This option defines what makes cookouts so special: big flavors that keep everyone hovering near the grill.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Breasts
Roasted Tomatillo Salsa
Preparing homemade salsa is as fun as it is flavorful with this recipe. Roasted Tomatillo Salsa brings a smoky, tangy twist to your lineup of dips and sides. Its bold flavor makes it perfect for serving with chips or as a topping on grilled dishes. It’s a small effort that pays off big at any outdoor table.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomatillo Salsa
Grilled Smoked Turkey Breast
A classic poultry option gets a smoky upgrade on the grill. Grilled Smoked Turkey Breast delivers perfectly moist slices with a rich, smoky flavor throughout. It’s a great alternative to the usual beef or pork centerpieces while being just as hearty. Once it’s sliced, it becomes an easy and crowd-pleasing option for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Turkey Breast
Smoked Beef Stew
Stew doesn’t always come to mind for smoky cookouts, but this one changes that. Smoked Beef Stew blends tender chunks with a smoky base that feels just right outdoors. It’s hearty without going overboard, offering a welcome change from traditional barbecue. People will be lining up with bowls for this warm option.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Stew
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Chicken on the grill is a classic, but the flavor combinations here make it exciting. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken keeps the meat juicy while layering in citrus and subtle herbs to complement the smoky char. It’s versatile enough to pair with any sides but bold enough to be the main attraction. Once plated, you’ll see how quickly this one disappears.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken