Planning a backyard BBQ is one of the joys of summer. The sun is shining, friends and family gather around and the smell of delicious food fills the air. Here’s how to design a well-thought-out menu to ensure your backyard BBQ gathering is a hit that can cater to all tastes and dietary preferences.
Start with the basics: The main event
Every BBQ needs a star of the show, and typically, that is the meat such as burgers, hot dogs, ribs and chicken complimented by a range of toppings and condiments. Think about variety and crowd-pleasers.
Burgers and hot dogs
These are BBQ staples for a reason. They’re easy to cook, customizable and loved by both kids and adults. Make sure you have a variety of toppings and condiments like ketchup, mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, lettuce, cheese and pickles. For a gourmet twist, offer sauteed mushrooms, caramelized onions and different cheeses like blue cheese or pepper jack.
Ribs and chicken
If you want to elevate your BBQ, ribs and chicken are fantastic choices. Marinate your chicken in advance and consider offering both BBQ and spicy options. Ribs, with their sticky, finger-licking goodness, can be prepared in a slow cooker beforehand to ensure they’re tender and then finished on the grill for that smoky flavor.
Vegetarian options
Don’t forget your vegetarian friends. Veggie burgers, grilled portobello mushrooms and vegetable kebabs are great options. You can also get creative with grilled halloumi cheese or tofu.
Sides that shine
The sides are just as important as the main dishes. A good variety ensures there’s something for everyone. Your side dishes should provide balance in flavors and textures that can elevate your guests’ BBQ experience.
Classic potato salad
No BBQ is complete without a hearty potato salad. Keep it classic with mayonnaise, mustard, hard-boiled eggs and pickles. For a lighter version, try a vinaigrette-based potato salad with fresh herbs.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch. You can go traditional with a creamy dressing or opt for a tangy vinegar-based slaw. Adding apples or raisins can give it a unique twist.
Grilled vegetables
Grilled veggies are a healthy and colorful addition to your menu. Bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant and asparagus all grill beautifully. A little olive oil, salt and pepper are all you need, but feel free to add herbs or a balsamic glaze.
Baked beans
Sweet, smoky and savory, baked beans are a BBQ classic. They can be made ahead and kept warm in a slow cooker, making them an easy addition.
Refreshing salads
A couple of fresh salads can also balance out the heaviness of the grilled items. They will not only add nutritional value to your dish but also a delicious crunch and texture. It’s a great way to make your BBQ healthier and flavorful.
Garden salad
A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers and red onions is a must. Offer a variety of dressings like ranch, vinaigrette and blue cheese so guests can customize their salads.
Pasta salad
Pasta salad is filling and can be made in endless variations. Try a Mediterranean pasta salad with olives, feta and sun-dried tomatoes, or a more traditional version with Italian dressing and colorful vegetables.
Snacks and appetizers
You’ll want some munchies available as guests arrive and mingle. Think about something that will pique their appetite for the main course. Be it a simple chips and dip with a little twist or a fancier option like shrimp skewers.
Chips and dips
Set out bowls of chips with an array of dips. Guacamole, salsa and queso are always hits. For something different, try a black bean dip or a roasted red pepper hummus.
Cheese and crackers
A simple cheese and cracker platter can keep guests satisfied while the grill heats up. Include a variety of cheeses and some fruit like grapes or apple slices.
Shrimp skewers
For a more upscale appetizer, shrimp skewers are quick to grill and can be marinated in garlic and lemon for a tasty treat. You can even go Hawaiian by mixing in some red peppers, pineapples and red onions.
Sweet endings
No BBQ is complete without a dessert. Aim for sweets that are easy to serve and eat outdoors. You can be inventive or go for classics, ensuring your friends and family are left satisfied by the end of the day.
Fruit salad
A fresh fruit salad is light and refreshing, perfect for a hot day. Use a mix of seasonal fruits like watermelon, berries and pineapple. A splash of lime juice and some fresh mint can elevate the flavors.
S’mores
If you have a fire pit or can safely set up a small bonfire, s’mores are a fun, interactive dessert. Set out all the essentials — graham crackers, chocolate bars and marshmallows — and let guests roast their own.
Brownies and cookies
Brownies and cookies are easy to make ahead and always crowd-pleasers. Offer different options like chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin and peanut butter cookies, along with classic brownies and maybe some blondies for a twist.
Beverages galore
Quench your guests’ thirst with a range of beverage options. Make sure you prepare non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks so you can cater to both kids and adults.
Non-alcoholic drinks
Lemonade, iced tea and soda should be readily available. A big pitcher of infused water with slices of cucumber, lemon or berries adds a refreshing touch.
Alcoholic drinks
For the adults, stock a cooler with a variety of beers and hard seltzers. A signature cocktail, like a fruity sangria or a spiked lemonade, can add a special touch. Don’t forget to have some wine on hand for those who prefer it.
Themed menu options
Adding a theme to your BBQ can make it even more fun and memorable. Here are a few themed menu ideas.
Tex-Mex fiesta
Spice up your BBQ with a Tex-Mex theme that brings bold flavors and vibrant colors to the table.
- Main event: Grilled steak and chicken fajitas with tortillas.
- Sides: Mexican street corn or “elote,” black bean and corn salad, chips with guacamole and salsa.
- Desserts: Churros with chocolate dipping sauce, fresh fruit with chili lime seasoning.
- Beverages: Margaritas, Mexican beer, horchata.
Mediterranean delight
Transport your guests to the sunny coasts of the Mediterranean with a menu full of fresh, flavorful dishes that are as healthy as they are delicious.
- Main event: Lamb kebabs, grilled chicken souvlaki.
- Sides: Greek salad, tabbouleh, hummus with pita bread.
- Desserts: Baklava, yogurt with honey and fresh fruit.
- Beverages: Red and white wine, ouzo, sparkling water with lemon.
American classic
Celebrate the flavors of a traditional backyard BBQ with a menu that features all-American favorites sure to please any crowd.
- Main event: Cheeseburgers, BBQ ribs.
- Sides: Classic potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans.
- Desserts: Apple pie, brownies.
- Beverages: Craft beers, root beer floats, lemonade.
Tips for a smooth BBQ
Hosting a BBQ can be a lot of fun, but it also requires some planning and organization to ensure everything runs smoothly. Having a well-thought-out plan will save you from the disaster of running around the kitchen, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones.
Plan ahead
Prepare as much as you can the day before. Marinades, salads and desserts can often be made in advance, saving you time and stress on the day of the BBQ.
Delegate tasks
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s having someone man the grill or asking guests to bring a side dish or dessert. Delegating can make the event more enjoyable for everyone.
Have fun
Remember, the best part of a BBQ is spending time with loved ones. Don’t get too caught up in the details. If something doesn’t go as planned, roll with it and enjoy the moment.
Final words
By following these tips and offering a well-rounded menu, you’re sure to host a backyard BBQ that’s memorable and delicious. So fire up the grill, put on some music and get ready to enjoy a fantastic day with great food and even better company.
Jennifer Allen is a retired professional chef and long-time writer. Her writing appears in dozens of publications, and she has two cookbooks, “Keto Soup Cookbook” and “Keto Diabetic Cookbook and Meal Plan.” These days, she’s busy in the kitchen, developing recipes for various publications and traveling, and you can find all her best recipes at Cook What You Love.
This article originally appeared on Grill What You Love.