BBQ season is here, and it’s time to fire up the grill. Whether you’re planning a backyard cookout or a family dinner, these 30 BBQ recipes will satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

From juicy meats to grilled veggies and tasty sides, there’s something for every palate.

These recipes will help you create memorable meals that are sure to impress your guests. You’ll find a mix of classic favorites and new twists on traditional BBQ dishes.

Get ready to explore flavors that range from smoky and savory to sweet and tangy.

With these recipes in your arsenal, you’ll be all set for a summer of delicious outdoor cooking.

1. Smoky BBQ Ribs

Smoky BBQ ribs are a crowd-pleasing favorite. Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This helps the flavors penetrate the meat.

Mix up a simple dry rub with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Massage it into the ribs, covering all sides. Let them sit for 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Preheat your grill or smoker to 225°F. Cook the ribs low and slow for about 3 hours.

Baste them with apple juice every hour to keep them moist.

In the last 15 minutes, brush on your favorite BBQ sauce. The result? Tender, flavorful ribs with a perfect smoky taste.

2. Grilled Corn with Spicy Butter

Grilled corn with spicy butter is a tasty BBQ side dish. Start by soaking corn in salted water for 10 minutes. This helps keep the kernels moist while grilling.

Pull back the husks and remove the silk. Fold the husks back over the corn.

Grill on medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.

While the corn cooks, make the spicy butter. Mix softened butter with garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Add hot sauce for extra kick if you like.

When the corn is done, peel back the husks and spread on the spicy butter. The heat will melt it into the kernels. Enjoy your zesty grilled corn!

3. Sweet and Tangy BBQ Chicken Wings

Get ready to savor the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with these BBQ chicken wings. Start by patting the wings dry and coating them with a blend of baking powder, salt, and pepper.

Bake the wings in a 425°F oven for about 45 minutes, turning once halfway through. This ensures crispy skin and juicy meat.

While the wings cook, prepare the sauce. Mix ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, paprika, and a dash of red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Once the wings are done, toss them in the warm sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy the finger-licking goodness of your homemade sweet and tangy BBQ chicken wings.

4. Texas-Style Brisket

Texas-style brisket is a BBQ classic. You’ll want to start with a good quality beef brisket. Trim the fat cap to about 1/4 inch thickness.

For seasoning, keep it simple. Use a mix of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Rub this all over the brisket.

Smoke the brisket at 225-275°F using oak or pecan wood. Place it fat side down in the smoker. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 150-160°F.

Spritz the brisket with apple juice every 30-45 minutes after the first 3 hours. This helps keep it moist.

The key is patience. It can take 8-12 hours to get that perfect crusty bark and tender meat.

Your reward? A smoky, juicy brisket that’s pure Texas BBQ heaven.

5. Carolina Pulled Pork

Carolina pulled pork is a BBQ classic. You start with a pork shoulder and coat it in a flavorful rub. The rub often includes brown sugar, salt, paprika, and pepper.

You can cook the pork in a smoker at 250°F or use a slow cooker. Smoking takes longer but adds great flavor. A slow cooker is easier for beginners.

The key to Carolina style is the vinegar-based sauce. Mix cider vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. This tangy sauce gives the pork its signature taste.

Cook the pork until it’s tender enough to shred with forks. Then mix in the sauce. Serve on buns for a delicious BBQ sandwich.

6. Memphis Dry Rub Ribs

Memphis dry rub ribs are a BBQ favorite. You start by patting the ribs dry and removing the membrane.

Mix salt, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and other spices to make the rub. Cover both sides of the ribs with the mixture.

Let the seasoned ribs sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Then smoke them at 250°F for about 5 hours over charcoal and hickory wood.

After the first hour, you can spritz the ribs with a vinegar-water mixture. This helps keep them moist.

When done, the ribs will have a flavorful crust and tender meat. Serve them without sauce to enjoy the full dry rub taste.

7. Sticky Honey BBQ Sauce

Sticky honey BBQ sauce is a sweet and tangy addition to your grilling arsenal. You can make it easily at home with just a few ingredients.

Start by mixing ketchup, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce in a saucepan. Add onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and a pinch of cayenne for extra kick.

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until it thickens.

Once cooled, you can use this sticky sauce to baste your chicken, ribs, or pork as you grill. It also works great as a dipping sauce for fries or onion rings.

8. Grilled Pineapple Salsa

Grilled pineapple salsa adds a tropical twist to your BBQ spread. Start by grilling pineapple slices until they’re lightly charred and caramelized. This brings out their natural sweetness.

Chop the grilled pineapple and mix it with diced bell peppers, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño. Add lime juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

This versatile salsa pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as a topping for tacos. You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less jalapeño. For extra smoky flavor, try grilling the peppers and onions too.

9. Kansas City BBQ Burnt Ends

Kansas City BBQ burnt ends are a tasty treat made from brisket. To make them, you start with the fatty end of a brisket, called the point.

Rub the meat with a mix of spices like brown sugar, salt, and chili powder. Smoke it for several hours until it’s dark and crusty on the outside.

Then cut the meat into cubes and toss them with BBQ sauce. Put them back in the smoker for a bit longer.

The result is rich, flavorful meat bites with a crispy outside and tender inside. They’re often served as a snack or appetizer at BBQ joints in Kansas City.

10. Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Shrimp

Bacon-wrapped BBQ shrimp is a tasty appetizer for your next cookout. You can make it on the grill or in the oven.

Start by wrapping each shrimp with a half slice of partially cooked bacon. This ensures the bacon crisps up nicely.

Season the wrapped shrimp with BBQ spices or Cajun seasoning. For extra flavor, brush them with a mix of maple syrup and BBQ sauce.

Grill the shrimp for about 5-7 minutes, turning once. If using the oven, bake for 15 minutes at 400°F, then broil for 2-3 minutes to crisp the bacon.

Serve your bacon-wrapped BBQ shrimp hot off the grill. They make a great finger food that your guests will love.

11. Smoky Chipotle Barbecue Sauce

You can make a tasty smoky chipotle BBQ sauce at home. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in oil. Then add ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices.

The key ingredient is chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. These give the sauce its signature smoky flavor. Blend everything until smooth.

Simmer the sauce on low heat for about 20-30 minutes. This helps the flavors come together. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Use this sauce on grilled meats or as a dip. It adds a spicy, smoky kick to your BBQ dishes.

12. Alabama White BBQ Sauce

Alabama White BBQ Sauce is a unique twist on traditional barbecue sauce. Unlike red sauces, it’s mayonnaise-based with a tangy kick.

To make it, you’ll need mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice as the base. Add some horseradish, mustard, and spices like black pepper and garlic powder for extra flavor.

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl until smooth. It’s best to let the sauce chill in the fridge for a few hours before using.

This sauce pairs perfectly with smoked or grilled chicken. You can also use it as a dipping sauce for vegetables or spread it on sandwiches.

13. Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken

Spicy Korean BBQ chicken is a tasty dish that brings heat and flavor to your grill. To make it, you’ll need a marinade with key ingredients like soy sauce, gochujang (Korean red chili paste), garlic, and ginger.

Mix these with honey, sesame oil, and rice vinegar for a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy. Let your chicken soak in this marinade for at least an hour or overnight for the best results.

When you’re ready to cook, fire up your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, basting with extra marinade as you go.

The result is juicy, spicy chicken with a wonderful charred flavor.

14. Smoked Turkey Legs

Smoked turkey legs are a tasty BBQ treat. To make them, start by brining the legs overnight in a mix of water, sugar, and spices.

After brining, pat the legs dry and apply a dry rub. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).

Place the turkey legs directly on the smoker grates. Smoke them for 3-4 hours or until they reach an internal temperature of 175°F (79°C).

For extra flavor, you can brush on a glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Once done, let the legs rest for a few minutes before serving.

15. BBQ Jackfruit Tacos

BBQ jackfruit tacos are a tasty vegan option for your next cookout. Start by cooking sliced onions in a pan until they’re see-through. Add garlic and cook for another minute.

Shred the jackfruit and add it to the pan. Mix in BBQ sauce, spices, and a bit of vegetable broth. Cook until the liquid reduces, stirring now and then.

Warm up some taco shells and fill them with your BBQ jackfruit mixture. Top with pickled red onions for extra flavor. You can also add other toppings like avocado or cilantro.

These tacos are quick to make and packed with flavor. They’re perfect for a 30-minute meal that will impress your guests.

16. Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken

This sweet and spicy chicken dish is perfect for your next BBQ. Mix honey, Sriracha sauce, garlic, and ginger to create a flavorful marinade for chicken thighs or cubes.

Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling. Cook on medium-high heat, about 8 minutes per side for thighs.

While grilling, brush the chicken with extra marinade for a glossy, caramelized finish. The result is juicy chicken with a perfect balance of sweetness and heat.

Serve your honey Sriracha glazed chicken with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick. This crowd-pleasing recipe is sure to become a regular at your summer cookouts.

17. Grilled BBQ Portobello Mushrooms

Grilled portobello mushrooms are a tasty vegetarian option for your BBQ. You can easily prepare them with a simple marinade of balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and herbs.

To grill these meaty mushrooms, start by cleaning them and removing the stems. Brush them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Place the mushrooms on a hot grill, gill side up, for about 5-7 minutes. Flip them over and grill for another 5-7 minutes until tender.

You can serve these grilled portobellos as a side dish or use them as a burger patty. Top them with your favorite fixings for a delicious meat-free meal.

18. Maple Bourbon BBQ Sauce

This tasty sauce combines sweet maple syrup with smoky bourbon for a rich flavor. Mix ketchup, maple syrup, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, and spices in a saucepan.

Simmer the mixture on low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring now and then. The sauce will thicken as it cooks.

Add a splash more bourbon at the end for an extra kick. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking.

Use this sauce on ribs, chicken, or pork for a delicious maple-bourbon BBQ flavor. You can also serve it as a dipping sauce on the side.

19. Louisiana BBQ Shrimp

Louisiana BBQ shrimp is a flavorful dish that’s not actually barbecued. You cook it in a skillet with a spicy, buttery sauce.

To make it, you’ll need large shrimp, butter, garlic, and spices like cayenne, paprika, and black pepper. Worcestershire sauce and lemon juice add extra zest.

Start by melting butter in a skillet. Add minced garlic and your spice mix. Pour in some white wine or beer for extra flavor.

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink. The sauce will thicken as it cooks.

Serve your Louisiana BBQ shrimp with crusty bread to soak up the tasty sauce. It’s a quick and easy meal that packs a punch of flavor.

20. Jamaican Jerk BBQ Chicken

Jamaican jerk chicken brings spicy, smoky flavors to your BBQ.

Start by marinating chicken pieces in a jerk seasoning paste for at least 2 hours.

The paste typically includes scallions, onions, garlic, chili peppers, thyme, and spices like allspice and cloves.

Add some brown sugar and oil to help it stick to the chicken.

Grill the chicken over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes per side.

Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

For best results, use bone-in chicken pieces like wings or thighs. The bone helps keep the meat moist during grilling.

Serve your jerk chicken with rice and peas or grilled vegetables for a tasty Caribbean-inspired meal.

21. Sweet BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich

You’ll love this sweet and tangy BBQ pulled pork sandwich.

Start by slow cooking pork until it’s tender and easily shredded.

Mix the shredded pork with your favorite BBQ sauce. Add a bit of brown sugar for extra sweetness if desired.

Toast some buns and pile on the saucy pork. Top with coleslaw or pickles for crunch.

These sandwiches are perfect for feeding a crowd. You can make the pork ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.

For a fun twist, try serving on slider buns for mini sandwiches. They’re great for parties or game day snacks.

22. Cajun BBQ Ribs

Cajun BBQ ribs bring bold Southern flavors to your grill.

Start with baby back ribs and coat them in a spicy Cajun rub. The rub typically includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and other zesty spices.

Smoke the ribs low and slow until tender.

Baste them with a tangy mop sauce as they cook. This keeps the meat moist and adds extra flavor.

For the final touch, brush on a Cajun-style BBQ sauce. It often contains honey, molasses, and more Cajun seasoning for a sweet and spicy finish.

The result is fall-off-the-bone ribs with a crispy, flavorful crust. Each bite delivers a perfect mix of smoky, spicy, and sweet tastes that transport you to Louisiana.

23. Homemade BBQ Brisket Nachos

Brisket nachos are a tasty way to use leftover BBQ.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet or cast iron pan.

Top the chips with shredded brisket, corn, and cheese. If your brisket is dry, toss it with some BBQ sauce first. Add pinto beans and sliced jalapeños for extra flavor.

Bake until the cheese melts, about 5-10 minutes.

Once out of the oven, add diced red onion, chopped tomatoes, and cilantro. A dollop of sour cream finishes it off nicely.

Serve your nachos right away while they’re hot and the cheese is gooey. These nachos are perfect for game day snacks or casual gatherings.

24. Grilled BBQ Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is a quick and tasty BBQ side dish.

Start by washing and trimming the tough ends off your asparagus spears.

Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. This simple seasoning lets the vegetable’s natural flavor shine.

Heat your grill to medium-high, around 400-450°F.

Place the asparagus directly on the grates perpendicular to them.

Grill for 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally. Look for light char marks and a tender texture.

For extra flavor, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic after grilling. Serve hot off the grill for the best taste and texture.

25. BBQ Bacon Burger with Cheddar

This burger is a delicious mix of smoky and savory flavors.

Start by shaping beef patties and seasoning them with salt and pepper.

Grill the patties over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side. During the last minute, add a slice of cheddar cheese to melt on top.

While the burgers cook, fry bacon strips until crispy. Brush the bacon with BBQ sauce for extra flavor.

Toast your burger buns on the grill.

Assemble the burgers by placing the cheese-topped patty on the bottom bun. Add BBQ-glazed bacon strips and your favorite toppings.

Serve your BBQ bacon cheeseburgers hot with extra napkins. They’re sure to be a hit at your next cookout.

26. Applewood Smoked BBQ Carrots

Smoked carrots are a tasty side dish for your BBQ.

To make them, wash and peel large carrots. Cut them into sticks about 3 inches long.

Coat the carrots with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add some BBQ rub for extra flavor.

Set up your smoker with applewood chips.

Smoke the carrots at 225°F for about 2 hours. They’re done when tender but still a bit firm.

Brush the carrots with maple syrup or BBQ sauce in the last 15 minutes. This adds a nice glaze and sweetness.

Serve your smoked carrots hot as a unique and flavorful BBQ side dish.

27. Citrus Glazed BBQ Salmon

Citrus glazed BBQ salmon is a tasty and healthy option for your next cookout. You’ll love the bright, zesty flavors that complement the rich salmon.

To make the glaze, mix orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, and orange marmalade in a saucepan. Add garlic, soy sauce, and brown sugar for extra flavor. Heat the mixture until it thickens.

Brush half the glaze on your salmon before grilling.

Cook the fish for 10-12 minutes on a cedar plank or foil. This keeps the salmon moist and adds smoky notes.

When done, brush on the rest of the glaze.

Serve your citrus BBQ salmon with grilled veggies or a fresh pineapple salsa for a complete meal.

28. BBQ Cauliflower Bites

BBQ cauliflower bites are a tasty veggie dish that’s easy to make. You can cook them in the oven or air fryer for a crispy texture.

Start by cutting a head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets.

Toss them with BBQ sauce to coat evenly. Make sure to get sauce into all the nooks and crannies.

Spread the coated cauliflower on a lined baking sheet.

Cook at 450°F for about 30 minutes, flipping halfway through. For extra flavor, add a second coat of BBQ sauce after cooking.

These bites make a great snack or side dish. They’re perfect for parties or game day gatherings. You can serve them with extra BBQ sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

29. Classic BBQ Baked Beans

BBQ baked beans are a must-have side dish for any backyard cookout. You can make them from scratch or use canned beans for a quicker version.

Start by cooking bacon in a large pot until crispy. Add diced onions and bell peppers, sautéing until soft.

Mix in your beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and spices. For extra flavor, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or mustard.

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with bacon slices.

Bake in a 350°F oven for 2-3 hours until the sauce thickens.

Your BBQ baked beans will be rich, savory, and slightly sweet. They pair perfectly with grilled meats and other classic barbecue sides.

30. Hickory-Smoked BBQ Meatballs

Hickory-smoked BBQ meatballs are a tasty twist on a classic dish.

To make them, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, and spices in a bowl. Form the mixture into small balls about 1.5 inches wide.

Preheat your smoker to 250°F and add hickory wood chips for flavor.

Place the meatballs on a rack in the smoker and cook for about 35 minutes. They’re done when the internal temperature reaches 155°F.

Once cooked, toss the meatballs in your favorite BBQ sauce.

The smoky flavor from the hickory wood pairs well with sweet or tangy sauces. Serve these meatballs as an appetizer or main dish at your next barbecue.

BBQ Cooking Techniques

BBQ cooking uses two main methods: direct and indirect grilling. Each has its own benefits and works best for different types of food. Knowing when to use each technique will help you get the best results.

Direct Grilling

Direct grilling means cooking food right over the heat source. This method works great for quick-cooking foods. You’ll use it for:

• Burgers • Hot dogs • Thin steaks • Chicken breasts • Vegetables

Place your food on the grill grates above the flames or hot coals. Flip items halfway through cooking. This gives you those nice grill marks and a crispy outside.

For gas grills, turn all burners to high. On charcoal grills, spread hot coals evenly under the grate. Keep the lid open while grilling.

Direct heat cooks food fast, so watch it closely to avoid burning.

Indirect Grilling

Indirect grilling uses cooler areas of the grill. It’s perfect for larger cuts of meat that need more time to cook through. Use this method for:

• Whole chickens • Ribs • Brisket • Thick steaks

On a gas grill, turn off one or more burners. Place food over the unlit area. For charcoal, push coals to the sides and put food in the middle.

Close the lid to trap heat. This creates an oven-like setting. Food cooks slowly and evenly without burning. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.

Indirect grilling can take 30 minutes to several hours. Add wood chips for extra smoky flavor if you like.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Selecting quality ingredients is key for great BBQ. The right meats and fresh produce can take your grilling to the next level.

Meat Selection

Pick meats with good marbling for juicy, flavorful results.

For beef, choose cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or brisket. Pork options include ribs, shoulder, and tenderloin. Chicken thighs and legs work well for BBQ.

Look for bright red beef, pink pork, and pale pink chicken. Avoid meats with a grayish tint or strong odors.

Frozen meats can work, but fresh is best. Thaw frozen meats in the fridge, not on the counter. Pat meats dry before seasoning. This helps create a better crust when grilling.

Fresh Produce Options

Fresh veggies add color, flavor, and nutrition to your BBQ spread.

Corn on the cob is a classic choice. Grill it in the husk or wrap in foil.

Bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant are great for kebabs.

Thick slices of onion and tomato make tasty burger toppings.

For fruit, try grilling pineapple rings or peach halves. They make sweet sides or desserts.

Leafy greens like romaine can be grilled for a smoky salad base.

Choose produce that’s firm and free of bruises or soft spots. Wash all fruits and veggies before use.