17 grilled recipes that skip the fuss and go straight for charred, smoky, sauce-smeared flavor

Photo of author

| Published:

Grilling doesn’t need to come with a long checklist or a pile of dishes. These 17 grilled recipes keep things simple, hit hard with smoky edges, and come out with that unmistakable straight-off-the-grill taste. No complicated steps or tiny garnish instructions—just the kind of meals people hover around. And if a little sauce ends up on your shirt, that just means you’re doing it right.

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

Bacon Fried Corn

Bacon Fried Corn in a serving bowl.
Bacon Fried Corn. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Satisfy your cravings with Bacon Fried Corn, a smoky and rich dish that combines the best of grilled flavor with crispy bacon goodness. It’s easy to prepare, and the charred corn kernels contribute a lovely texture. Ideal for a quick side dish, it pairs well with almost anything off the grill. A must-try for those who love the combination of smoky and crispy.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn

Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Smoked chicken wings with pickles on a black plate.
Smoked Dill Pickle Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re in the mood for something unique, Smoked Dill Pickle Wings offer a tangy twist on traditional barbecue wings. The smoky flavor infuses perfectly with the dill pickle tanginess, creating an unforgettable bite. These wings are perfect for a casual get-together, making them a great conversation starter. Worth trying for your next grilling session with friends.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

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.

Sweet meets savory with Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers, where grilling caramelizes the strawberries, adding an extra layer of flavor. Easy to assemble and a hit at any gathering, these skewers redefine dessert. Perfect for those who enjoy fruity and smoky flavors combined. Try these for a fun and different take on dessert.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers

Traeger Smoked Turkey

A smoked turkey on a wooden cutting board.
Traeger Smoked Turkey. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enhance your barbecue game with Traeger Smoked Turkey, a recipe that brings out deep, smoky flavors in every bite. It’s an excellent centerpiece for any meal, impressing guests with its rich taste. Cooking it on the grill ensures the turkey remains juicy and tender. A fantastic choice for special occasions or family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Turkey

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.

Go big with Texas-Style Carne Asada, which combines bold flavors with the unmistakable char of a good grill. This dish is all about enjoying robust, hearty bites full of smoky goodness. Perfect for any casual outdoor meal, it pairs easily with traditional sides. This grilled meat will certainly become a hit at your next barbecue.
Get the Recipe: Texas-Style Carne Asada

Korean Galbi Ribs

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

Experience something different with Korean Galbi Ribs, bringing a burst of sweetness and smokiness to your grill. These ribs are marinated to perfection, absorbing flavors that pop with every bite. Great for a memorable get-together with friends or family, they can be the star of your next barbecue. Add these to your grilled recipes collection for something unique.
Get the Recipe: Korean Galbi Ribs

Smoked Brisket Chili

Two bowls of smoked brisket chili, tomatoes, and bread.
Smoked Brisket Chili. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a smoky twist to a classic with Smoked Brisket Chili, combining the hearty warmth of chili with the depth of smoked brisket. The grilling process imparts intense flavor, making it a standout dish. Ideal for cozy evenings or any time you crave something comforting yet different. This recipe provides a lovely complexity that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brisket Chili

Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Lemon-Oregano Chicken Kabobs with a dipping sauce.
Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Fresh and flavorful, Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs bring vibrant and aroma directly from the grill to your plate. These kabobs are simple to prepare and perfect for a quick yet impressive meal. They offer a refreshing change from typical barbecue fare, making them an excellent choice for any gathering. Enjoy the balance of tangy lemon and aromatic oregano.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

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

Liven up your meals with Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes, blending sweet and savory elements in a refreshing dish. The grilling process adds a smoky depth to the peaches, complementing the fresh tomatoes beautifully. This salad is a fantastic addition to any meal, offering a unique and tasty option. Ideal for those looking to switch up their usual salad routine.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

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

Travel to the Mediterranean with Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp, a dish brimming with vibrant flavors. These shrimp are quick to grill and offer a light yet deeply flavorful option. They work well as a main course or an appetizer, perfect for impressing your guests. This recipe makes your usual barbecue more exciting and diverse.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Best Rub for Beef

A piece of steak on a cutting board with rub on it.
Best Rub for Beef. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Level up your beef grilling with Best Rub for Beef, designed to maximize flavor and bring out the meat’s natural goodness. Easily applied, this rub infuses the beef with smoky, rich notes that make each bite unforgettable. Perfect for any beef cut, it takes your grilling to the next level. This rub is a simple way to ensure your meat stands out.
Get the Recipe: Best Rub for Beef

Smoked Queso

Smoked queso in a black pot.
Smoked Queso. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice up your meals with Smoked Queso, a creamy and smoky dip that adds excitement to any gathering. The grilling imparts a unique flavor, making it more than just your ordinary queso. It’s great for gatherings, offering a sure crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this dip with chips or as a topping to bring extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Queso

Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

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

For a unique veggie option, Grilled Cauliflower Steaks offer a satisfying and flavorful bite straight from the grill. The charring process adds depth, transforming the cauliflower into something special. Ideal as a main or side dish, these steaks are simple to make and versatile. A great way to add some variety to your grilling repertoire.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

Smoked Berry Crisp

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

End your meals on a high note with Smoked Berry Crisp, where the fruit’s natural sweetness is amplified by a touch of smokiness. The grill transforms this dessert into a warm, inviting treat. It’s an excellent choice when you want something that’s both comforting and unique. Perfect for wrapping up any meal with a smoky-sweet finish.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Berry Crisp

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.

Add a burst of flavor to your meal with Grilled Lime-Garlic Chicken Breasts, bringing a tangy and aromatic experience to the table. These chicken breasts are easy to prepare, ensuring a quick and tasty dish. The grilling process enhances the lime and garlic, creating a meal that’s both simple and delicious. Great for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lime-Garlic Chicken Breasts

Smoked Carver Ham

Smoked sliced ham on a cutting board.
Smoked Carver Ham. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Impress your guests with Smoked Carver Ham, a recipe that yields succulent, flavor-packed results. The smoking process ensures the ham is juicy and full of rich taste. This dish works well for special occasions or holiday meals, standing out with its depth of flavor. Enjoy a ham that goes beyond the traditional with this method.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Carver Ham

Grilled Ratatouille

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

Embrace a veggie-forward dish with Grilled Ratatouille, offering all the classic flavors with an added smoky twist. The grill enhances each vegetable’s unique taste, bringing them together in a delicious medley. This dish is perfect as a side or a main, fitting into a variety of menus. A fresh and interesting way to incorporate more vegetables into your grilling.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.