21 grilling recipes that make store-bought BBQ look like a sad, saucy disappointment

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There’s no pile of napkins big enough to clean up after the mess store-bought BBQ makes of a cookout. These grilling recipes don’t need dressing up or drowning in extra sauce because they know how to handle themselves. With the right char and just enough patience, they hit that line between cooked and overcooked without guessing. They don’t show off, but they sure make the packaged stuff look like it came to the wrong party.

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.

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.

For a steak that stands out, Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter brings a whole new level of richness to the grill. With a perfectly seared outside and a juicy inside, it’s a steak lovers’ dream. The cowboy butter adds a tangy and creamy twist. Forget store-bought BBQ, this is the real deal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

Traeger Smoked Garlic

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

When you want to add a punch of flavor without overwhelming your meal, try Traeger Smoked Garlic. It infuses a mild smokiness that complements anything it’s paired with. It’s the perfect ingredient for adding depth without taking over the dish. Store-bought sauces don’t even come close to this level of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Garlic

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.

If you’re looking to take your grilling game to the next level, Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops will do just that. Tender, juicy chops cooked to perfection, bringing out the rich flavors of the meat. They offer a delicious twist that’s anything but ordinary. Store-bought BBQ can’t touch this kind of meat experience.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops

Quick Smoked Tomatoes

Smoked tomatoes served on a white rectangular plate.
Quick Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Quick Smoked Tomatoes bring the perfect balance of smoky sweetness and bright, fresh flavor. This side dish transforms simple tomatoes into a powerhouse of taste. You won’t find anything this flavorful in a jar or bottle from the store. They pair perfectly with any grilled meat, enhancing the meal without overshadowing it.
Get the Recipe: Quick Smoked Tomatoes

Big Mac Tacos

Two Big Mac tacos filled with ground beef, shredded lettuce, and pickles, and drizzled with a creamy sauce, placed on a white plate.
Big Mac Tacos. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Think of the classic Big Mac, but with a grilled twist, Big Mac Tacos take everything you love and add a smoky edge. These tacos are packed with all the flavors you expect, just in a new, fun format. Forget the fast food version, this version is fresh and grilled to perfection. You’ll want to serve these at your next gathering, trust us.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Tacos

Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

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

If you’re after a salad that’s more than just leafy greens, try Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes. The smoky sweetness of grilled peaches gives a new life to this salad, perfectly complemented by juicy tomatoes. It’s light, fresh, and packed with flavor without relying on store-bought dressings. This salad is a great side for any grilling feast.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

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.

Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter combines two cooking methods to bring you the perfect steak. It’s a thick, juicy cut of meat that’s slowly smoked and then seared for a crispy exterior. The smoked garlic butter is the final touch that takes it over the top. Store-bought BBQ will seem like a bland option after you’ve tasted this.
Get the Recipe: Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

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

Light, fresh, and bursting with flavor, Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp are perfect for a quick grill session. With just the right amount of char and a kick of seasoning, they hit all the right notes. These shrimp make any meal feel like a special occasion. Store-bought shrimp can’t offer the same smokiness or tenderness.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Smoked Brussels Sprouts

Smoked Brussels Sprouts with bacon on a white plate.
Smoked Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re craving something that goes beyond the usual BBQ side, Smoked Brussels Sprouts bring an unforgettable twist to the table. These bite-sized veggies develop a perfect smoky flavor that no store-bought dish can match. They’re tender on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside, offering a texture that’ll have you coming back for more. This recipe is a great example of how simple ingredients can upgrade any grilling session.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brussels Sprouts

Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

A pulled pork sandwich with fries on a slate board.
Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese. Photo Credit: Grill What You Love.

If you’re into comfort food with a smoky twist, Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese is a game-changer. The grilled cheese you know and love gets an upgrade with pulled pork and smoky flavor. It’s everything you want in a sandwich, but better. Say goodbye to store-bought BBQ and hello to this delicious creation.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

Smoked Queso

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

Forget the bland, pre-packaged dips; Smoked Queso offers a rich, creamy experience that takes your appetizer game up a notch. The smoky infusion adds a depth you just can’t get from store-bought versions. It’s smooth, savory, and perfectly melted, making it a must-have dip for any gathering. This queso is the kind of thing that gets people talking.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Queso

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.

You won’t find wings like these in any fast food joint. Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce are charred to perfection, giving them a crispy exterior and juicy interior. The buffalo sauce packs just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the flavor. These wings are a must-try for anyone looking to upgrade their grilling game.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce

Bacon-Wrapped Burgers

Bacon-Wrapped Burger on a black plate.
Bacon-Wrapped Burgers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

The combination of juicy burgers and crispy bacon makes Bacon-Wrapped Burgers a fan favorite. Grilled to perfection, the bacon crisps up just right while locking in all the beef’s flavor. These burgers put any regular patty to shame, giving you that savory, smoky edge. Once you try them, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for a plain burger.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Burgers

Smoked Shrimp

Two pans of smoked shrimp on a table.
Smoked Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Grilled shrimp are a classic, but Smoked Shrimp takes them to a whole new level. Infused with a deep smoky flavor, these shrimp come out perfectly tender and full of flavor. The smokiness brings out the natural sweetness of the shrimp, creating a bite that feels anything but ordinary. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself to something special.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Shrimp

Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Grilled corn on the cob pieces topped with cheese, chili powder, and cilantro, served on a black slate plate with lime wedges on the side.
Grilled Elote Corn Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Want to take corn on the grill to the next level? Grilled Elote Corn Ribs do just that, turning a simple ear of corn into a mouth-watering treat. The smoky char combined with a tangy seasoning will make your store-bought BBQ feel pretty dull in comparison. It’s the kind of side dish that steals the spotlight every time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Smoked Cream Cheese

Two slices of smoked cream cheese on a white plate.
Smoked Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking to impress with something simple yet unforgettable, Smoked Cream Cheese is the way to go. This easy-to-make dish picks up an incredible smoky flavor, transforming the cream cheese into a rich, savory spread. Whether served as a dip or on crackers, it’s one of those unexpected treats everyone will rave about. It’s the perfect snack for any grill or BBQ session.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cream Cheese

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 like a little heat with your sweet, Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings hit the sweet spot. These wings come off the grill with a bold flavor combo that gives you the perfect balance of smoky and spicy. The mango adds a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the chipotle’s smokiness. These wings turn any grill session into something special.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings

Smoked Mac & Cheese

A skillet filled with Smoked Mac & Cheese.
Smoked Mac & Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Mac & Cheese is no ordinary side dish, it’s the kind that will have people asking for seconds. The smoky flavor infuses into the creamy cheese, creating a dish that’s comforting and full of depth. This isn’t your average mac and cheese; the smoky twist brings something extra to the table. It’s an upgrade you didn’t know you needed.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese

Bacon Fried Corn

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

When you add bacon to corn, things get interesting. Bacon Fried Corn turns the usual grilled corn into a rich, smoky side dish that no one will forget. The bacon crisps up while mixing with the sweet corn, creating an irresistible combo. This is the kind of dish that goes perfectly with any grilling meal.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn

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.

For something a little different, Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle hits all the right notes. The combination of tender pork and crunchy green beans cooked on the griddle offers a unique twist to your usual grilling options. With just the right amount of heat and savory flavor, it’s a dish that will leave you craving more. It’s the perfect balance of spice and crunch, perfect for grilling enthusiasts.
Get the Recipe: Sizzling Thai Pork & Green Beans on the Blackstone Griddle

Smoked Tomato Salsa

Smoked Tomato Salsa in a black dish.
Smoked Tomato Salsa. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re tired of the same old salsa, Smoked Tomato Salsa is a game-changer. The smoky tomatoes blend perfectly with the seasonings, creating a fresh, tangy dip that upgrades any chip. This salsa is bold, tangy, and way more flavorful than anything you can find at the store. It’s the perfect balance of smoky and fresh in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomato Salsa

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