20 Amazing BBQ Dishes You Need to Try This Summer

Ready to take your summer grilling to the next level? Check out these 20 must-try BBQ dishes that are making waves across the U.S. This list has everything from juicy burgers to flavorful vegetarian options, ensuring there’s something for everyone at your next cookout. Get inspired and bring some seriously delectable flavors to your backyard gatherings!

Smoky Chipotle Ribs

Get ready to fire up the grill with these Smoky Chipotle Ribs! This dish combines tender, juicy pork ribs with a smoky chipotle flavor that packs a punch. The sweet and spicy marinade is easy to whip up, making it a fantastic option for your next summer BBQ. You’ll impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleaser that’s both simple to make and delicious to eat.

These ribs are perfect for any cookout, bringing the heat that’s trending in BBQ food ideas for 2025. They’re not just tasty; they’re also visually appealing, making them a highlight on any summer BBQ menu. So, whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or just looking for unique BBQ recipes to try, these Smoky Chipotle Ribs will elevate your grilling game!

Ingredients

• 2 racks of baby back ribs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chipotle chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better flavor absorption.
2. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and brown sugar. Rub this mixture generously over both sides of the ribs.
3. Grill the Ribs: Place the ribs on the grill and cook over indirect heat for about 2 hours, turning occasionally. Brush with BBQ sauce mixed with lime juice during the last 15 minutes of grilling.
4. Serve: Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Cut between the bones and serve with extra BBQ sauce if desired.

Grilled Pineapple with Honey Glaze

Grilled pineapple with a honey glaze is a delightful and simple dessert that brings a tropical twist to your summer BBQ menu. The natural sweetness of the pineapple caramelizes beautifully on the grill, enhanced by a sticky honey glaze that adds a touch of richness. This dish is not only easy to whip up, but it also pairs wonderfully with savory BBQ favorites, making it a must-try for your next cookout.

This recipe is a popular choice among trending BBQ food ideas for 2025, perfect for backyard barbecues or summer gatherings. With its vibrant flavor and eye-catching presentation, grilled pineapple is sure to become a staple in your list of unique BBQ recipes that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and sliced into rings
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• Pinch of salt
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium heat on the stovetop.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, lime juice, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Brush the honey mixture generously over the pineapple rings, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the pineapple rings on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is tender.
5. Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious addition to your summer BBQ dinner ideas!

Marinated Chicken Thighs

Marinated chicken thighs are a fantastic addition to any summer BBQ menu. They’re juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. When grilled, the skin gets crispy while the meat inside remains tender and moist, making every bite a delight.

This recipe is perfect for those looking for trending BBQ food ideas that promise to impress. With a simple marinade that infuses bold flavors, these chicken thighs can easily become a staple at your next backyard barbecue or outdoor gathering.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill, skin side down. Grill for about 6-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and browned. Flip and grill for another 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious marinated chicken thighs!

BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

BBQ pulled pork sandwiches are a summertime classic that brings together tender, smoky flavors wrapped in a soft bun. They’re incredibly easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd during backyard cookouts. The combination of slow-cooked pork, zesty BBQ sauce, and crunchy slaw creates a delightful harmony of textures and tastes.

These sandwiches are among the best BBQ recipes of 2025, making them a must-try for your summer BBQ menu ideas. Whether you’re looking for trending BBQ food ideas or unique BBQ recipes to impress your friends, pulled pork sandwiches deliver on all fronts. Get ready to savor this modern barbecue dish at your next gathering!

Ingredients

• 3-4 lbs pork shoulder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 8 hamburger buns
• 1 cup coleslaw
• Pickles for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: In a small bowl, mix together paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub this spice mix all over the pork shoulder.
2. Slow Cook: Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker. Pour 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce over the pork. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulled apart.
3. Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Mix in additional BBQ sauce to taste.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches: To serve, place a generous amount of pulled pork on the bottom half of each bun. Top with coleslaw and pickles, if desired. Place the top half of the bun on and enjoy!

Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers are the perfect dish for summer gatherings. These skewers pack a punch with bold flavors and a hint of smokiness, making them a delicious choice for any BBQ menu. They’re easy to prepare, so even novice grillers will shine when serving these tasty bites.

These skewers are not just about the heat; they offer a delightful balance of spices that elevate the shrimp’s natural sweetness. Pair them with a zesty dipping sauce for an extra kick, and you’ll find this dish is a crowd favorite at any backyard barbecue. Get ready to impress your guests with this simple yet flavorful addition to your summer BBQ menu!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

1. Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes.
3. Skewer the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp for even cooking.
4. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
5. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and slightly charred.
6. Serve: Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Classic Beef Brisket

Beef brisket is a BBQ classic that never fails to impress. With its rich, smoky flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, it’s the star of any summer cookout. While it does take some time to cook properly, the process is simple enough for anyone to master. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a curious beginner, this dish will have your friends and family coming back for seconds.

This recipe highlights the best BBQ practices and modern techniques to create a brisket that is tender and packed with flavor. Perfect for backyard barbecues or family gatherings, it’s a dish that showcases the top grilled food trends of 2025. So grab your grill, fire it up, and get ready to serve up a plate of juicy brisket that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 3-4 lbs beef brisket
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup beef broth
• Your favorite BBQ sauce

Instructions

1. Prep the Brisket: Trim excess fat from the brisket, leaving about 1/4 inch. Rub olive oil all over the meat.
2. Season: Combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Rub the spice mixture generously over the brisket.
3. Marinate: Let the brisket marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for better flavor.
4. Preheat the Grill: Set up your grill for indirect heat and preheat to 225°F (107°C).
5. Cook the Brisket: Place the brisket on the grill, fat side up. Cook for about 6-8 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 195°F (90°C).
6. Rest: Remove the brisket from the grill and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
7. Serve: Slice the brisket against the grain and serve with your favorite BBQ sauce on the side.

Charred Veggie Platter

Grilling veggies is a fantastic way to bring out their natural sweetness and smoky flavors. A charred veggie platter is simple to make and perfect for summer BBQs, whether you’re entertaining friends or just enjoying a meal outdoors. This dish combines a variety of vegetables that can easily be tossed on the grill, leading to vibrant and delicious results that everyone will love.

From bell peppers to zucchini, each vegetable adds its unique taste and texture to the mix. This trendy BBQ dish not only looks beautiful but also caters to a range of dietary preferences, making it a standout choice for a summer BBQ menu. Plus, with the right marinade, these veggies can become a true crowd-pleaser. Ready to impress? Check out this easy and tasty recipe for a charred veggie platter!

Ingredients

• 2 red bell peppers, sliced
• 2 yellow bell peppers, sliced
• 2 zucchinis, sliced into thick rounds
• 1 large red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Toss the Vegetables: Add the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, onion, cherry tomatoes, and corn kernels into the bowl. Toss well to coat the veggies in the marinade. Let sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Veggies: Place the marinated vegetables on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and arrange the veggies on a platter. Enjoy warm or at room temperature, perfect for your summer BBQ!

Cajun Style Sausages

Cajun Style Sausages are a fantastic choice for those looking to add some spice to their summer BBQs. With a perfect blend of seasonings, these sausages deliver a bold and zesty flavor that will have your guests coming back for more. They are easy to prepare, making them a great option for both novice and experienced grillers.

This recipe not only showcases the vibrant spices typical of Cajun cuisine but also offers a chance to experiment with grilling techniques. Perfect for your summer BBQ menu ideas, these sausages can be served on their own or as part of a larger spread featuring other trending BBQ food ideas. Everyone will love the smoky, hearty taste!

Ingredients

• 1 pound of pork sausage
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sausage: In a large bowl, combine the pork sausage with Cajun seasoning, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Shape the Sausages: Form the mixture into sausage links or patties, depending on your preference.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Sausages: Place the sausages on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy with your favorite BBQ sides!

Grilled Caesar Salad

Grilled Caesar Salad is a fresh twist on a classic meal, combining the smoky flavors of grilled romaine with the tangy richness of Caesar dressing. It’s light yet satisfying, perfect for those summer BBQ gatherings where you want something unique but simple to prepare.

This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a hit at any outdoor dining event. Plus, it’s an easy BBQ meal that brings a gourmet touch without requiring too much effort. Say goodbye to boring side salads and hello to a vibrant, modern barbecue dish!

Ingredients

• 2 heads of romaine lettuce, halved
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Croutons, for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the cut sides of the romaine lettuce with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the romaine on the grill, cut side down, and grill for about 2-3 minutes until charred.
4. Remove from the grill and drizzle with Caesar dressing while still warm.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and croutons before serving.

Mouthwatering BBQ Meatballs

These mouthwatering BBQ meatballs are a perfect addition to your summer grilling lineup. With a deliciously smoky flavor and a hint of sweetness, they bring a crowd-pleasing appeal to any backyard barbecue or summer party. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice for casual gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner.

Juicy and tender, these meatballs can be served as an appetizer or a main dish. They pair perfectly with classic BBQ sides and are sure to impress your guests. Don’t miss out on this chance to elevate your summer BBQ menu with these fun and flavorful meatballs!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until just combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Grill the meatballs for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
5. Brush the meatballs with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
6. Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is a summertime favorite that brings a burst of sweetness and a slight smoky flavor to your BBQ spread. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients that you probably already have at home. Whether you enjoy it plain, slathered in butter, or jazzed up with toppings, this dish is sure to please everyone at your gathering.

This vibrant side dish pairs well with any grilled meat or can stand alone as a delicious vegetarian option. With its simple preparation and mouthwatering taste, grilled corn is one of the best BBQ recipes for your summer menu. Get ready to impress your guests with this classic yet trendy BBQ food idea!

Ingredients

• 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the corn with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
3. Wrap each ear of corn in aluminum foil to keep it moist while grilling.
4. Place the wrapped corn on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until tender.
5. Remove from the grill, unwrap carefully, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve with lime wedges.

Herb-Infused Grilled Lamb Chops

Grilled lamb chops are a showstopper for any summer BBQ. Infused with aromatic herbs, these tender morsels offer a burst of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The combination of rosemary, thyme, and garlic gives them an irresistible taste that’s both savory and slightly sweet.

Not only are these lamb chops delicious, but they are also simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and some marinating time, you can impress your guests with minimal effort. Perfect for family gatherings or a casual dinner, they fit right in with trending BBQ food ideas for your summer BBQ menu.

Ingredients

• 8 lamb chops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chops: In a bowl, mix olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add the lamb chops to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled.
3. Grill the Chops: Remove the chops from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Grill the lamb chops for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust cooking time to your desired doneness.
4. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the lamb chops from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them tender and juicy.
5. Enjoy: Serve your herb-infused grilled lamb chops with your favorite sides for a delicious BBQ dinner that’s sure to impress.

Stuffed Bell Peppers on the Grill

Stuffed bell peppers make a delightful addition to any summer BBQ menu. Bursting with flavor, these colorful peppers can be filled with a variety of ingredients, offering a tasty and visually appealing dish. They’re simple to make, making them perfect for both novice and experienced grillers who want to try something new.

Grilling stuffed peppers adds a smoky note that enhances their natural sweetness. Whether you opt for a classic mix of rice, meat, and spices or get creative with quinoa and veggies, these treats are sure to impress your guests. Plus, they fit perfectly into the trending BBQ food ideas for 2025!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked rice (or quinoa)
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
2. Cook the Filling: In a skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the cooked rice, black beans, corn, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through.
3. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the meat mixture, pressing down lightly to pack it in. Top each pepper with shredded cheese.
4. Grill the Peppers: Place the stuffed peppers upright on the grill. Close the lid and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Teriyaki Glazed Salmon

Teriyaki glazed salmon is a delightful dish that brings together the rich, savory flavors of teriyaki sauce with the delicate taste of fish. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for summer grilling. The combination of sweet and salty notes will have your taste buds dancing, making it a must-try for your next backyard barbecue.

This dish is one of the trending BBQ food ideas that everyone can enjoy. It’s great for those looking for grilled seafood options that are both unique and flavorful. Serve it alongside fresh veggies or rice for a complete meal that will impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• 1 lemon, sliced (for serving)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, mix teriyaki sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Make sure it’s properly oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the marinade and place it on the grill, skin side down. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
4. Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and serve with lemon slices on the side. Enjoy your teriyaki glazed salmon with your favorite sides!

BBQ Chicken Pizza

BBQ Chicken Pizza is a delightful blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors that brings the grill right to your table. This modern barbecue dish is simple to make, making it a favorite for summer gatherings or laid-back weeknight dinners. With tender chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s sure to impress everyone in the family.

This recipe combines classic pizza elements with a fun BBQ twist, making it a standout in the realm of trending BBQ food ideas. Perfect for those looking to explore unique BBQ recipes, this dish is not just tasty—it’s also visually appealing, making it a hit on social media!

Ingredients

• 1 premade pizza crust
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• Olive oil for brushing

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Brush one side of the pizza crust with olive oil.
2. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until well coated.
3. Place the oiled side of the crust down on the grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes until the bottom is crispy and has grill marks.
4. Flip the crust and add the chicken mixture on top, followed by the red onion and mozzarella cheese.
5. Cover the grill and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Once done, remove from the grill and sprinkle with fresh cilantro before slicing and serving.

Zesty BBQ Jackfruit Tacos

Jackfruit tacos are an exciting twist on traditional BBQ fare. They’re packed with flavor and have a satisfying, meaty texture that even the most devoted carnivores will appreciate. These tacos are not only delicious, but they are also easy to make, making them a perfect addition to your summer BBQ menu ideas.

The combination of smoky spices with the natural sweetness of jackfruit creates an irresistible dish that shines at any cookout. Whether you’re entertaining friends or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these tacos will elevate your backyard barbecue recipes to a whole new level.

Ingredients

• 1 can young green jackfruit in water or brine, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Jackfruit: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Cook the Jackfruit: Add the drained jackfruit to the skillet and use a fork to shred it. Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly caramelized.
3. Warm the Tortillas: In a separate skillet, warm the corn tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or until pliable.
4. Assemble Tacos: Layer the jackfruit mixture onto each tortilla, top with avocado slices, and garnish with fresh cilantro.
5. Serve: Offer lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.

Grilled Watermelon Salad

Grilled watermelon salad is a refreshing and unique twist on traditional summer salads. The sweet, juicy watermelon gets a savory upgrade when grilled, introducing a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh herbs and tangy cheese. This dish is not only simple to make but also visually stunning, making it a perfect addition to your summer BBQ menu ideas.

This salad is a wonderful way to impress guests at your next backyard barbecue. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful experience, and it fits right into the trending BBQ food ideas for 2025. Enjoy it as a light appetizer or side dish, and capture those social media-worthy moments with vibrant colors on your plate!

Ingredients

• 4 cups watermelon, sliced into thick wedges
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 lime, juiced

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the watermelon wedges lightly with olive oil. Place them on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear.
3. Remove the grilled watermelon from the grill and let it cool slightly.
4. In a bowl, combine the grilled watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, chopped mint, lime juice, and balsamic vinegar. Toss gently to mix.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.

Sweet and Spicy BBQ Cauliflower Wings

Sweet and Spicy BBQ Cauliflower Wings offer a delicious twist on traditional wings, making them a perfect choice for both vegetarians and meat lovers. These crispy, flavorful bites pack a punch with their sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, balanced perfectly with a hint of spice. They’re straightforward to make, making them an easy addition to your summer BBQ menu.

Not only are these cauliflower wings a healthier option, but they also bring a unique flavor profile to any backyard barbecue. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to impress. Ideal for sharing or enjoying solo, these wings are a must-try among the top grilled food trends of 2025!

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
• Cooking spray or oil for baking

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, water, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, then place on the baking sheet.
4. Spray or drizzle the florets with cooking oil to help them crisp up. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
5. In a separate bowl, mix BBQ sauce with hot sauce if using. Toss the baked cauliflower in the sauce until well coated.
6. Return the sauced cauliflower to the oven for an additional 10 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

BBQ Bratwurst with Sauerkraut

BBQ bratwurst with sauerkraut is a summer staple that packs a punch of flavor. This dish highlights the savory goodness of juicy bratwurst sausages, perfectly grilled to a delightful crisp. Topped with tangy sauerkraut, it’s a straightforward recipe that brings a taste of German tradition to your backyard barbecue.

Ideal for casual gatherings, these bratwursts are easy to make and sure to please a crowd. You can enjoy them in a bun or on their own, paired with your favorite sides. This unique BBQ recipe is definitely trending for summer BBQ menus in 2025 and is a must-try for anyone looking to up their grilling game!

Ingredients

• 6 bratwurst sausages
• 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 6 hot dog buns
• Mustard and ketchup for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add sliced onions. Sauté until soft and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add drained sauerkraut to the skillet, stir in garlic powder and paprika, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through.
4. While the sauerkraut is cooking, place the bratwurst on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until they are browned and cooked through.
5. Serve the bratwurst in hot dog buns, topped with the sautéed sauerkraut and onions. Add mustard or ketchup if desired.

Peach BBQ Sauce Glazed Chicken

Peach BBQ Sauce Glazed Chicken is a delightful twist on traditional barbecue. The sweet and tangy peach sauce brings a burst of flavor that complements the smoky grilled chicken perfectly. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it a fantastic choice for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners.

This dish features juicy chicken pieces glazed with a homemade peach BBQ sauce that adds a fresh, fruity note to the classic savory barbecue taste. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your guests and elevate your summer BBQ menu ideas. Perfect for those exploring trending BBQ food ideas and looking to try unique BBQ recipes, this dish will surely become a staple in your backyard barbecue recipes.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 cups fresh or canned peaches, pureed
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peach Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the pureed peaches, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
2. Preheat the Grill: While the sauce is simmering, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
3. Grill the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper and place on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Glaze the Chicken: During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the peach BBQ sauce generously over the chicken, allowing it to caramelize slightly on the grill.
5. Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle any remaining sauce on top for extra flavor.