Summer is almost here, and that means it’s time to fire up the grill. Whether you’re planning a backyard cookout for Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, or just a weekend gathering with friends, having a collection of tried-and-true BBQ recipes will ensure your event is a hit.
From classic ribs to juicy brisket, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
These 21 best BBQ recipes will transform you from a weekend griller to a neighborhood pitmaster, featuring everything from smoky-sweet glazed ribs to tender pulled pork and even grilled vegetable options. You’ll find recipes that cater to all skill levels, so don’t worry if you’re just starting out.
With the right techniques and flavors, you can create mouth-watering dishes that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
1. Pulled Pork BBQ Sandwich
Pulled pork sandwiches are a BBQ classic loved for their tender meat and bold flavors. You’ll need a pork shoulder (also called pork butt) as your starting point.
Cook the meat slowly until it falls apart easily. You can use a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or smoker depending on your preference and available time.
The secret to amazing pulled pork is patience – low and slow cooking breaks down tough connective tissues.
Season with garlic, salt, and your favorite spices.
Serve your pulled pork on soft buns with tangy BBQ sauce. Add coleslaw for a refreshing crunch or top with crispy onion rings for extra texture.
2. Citrus BBQ Chicken
Citrus BBQ chicken combines tangy orange and lemon flavors with traditional barbecue sauce for a refreshing twist on a classic dish. The citrus elements cut through the rich sweetness of the BBQ sauce, creating a perfect balance.
To make this dish, you’ll need boneless chicken breasts, barbecue sauce, orange juice, and some orange or lemon zest. The citrus mixture serves as a marinade, glaze, and sauce—working triple duty for maximum flavor.
Marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling. The natural sugars in the citrus juice help create a beautiful caramelized exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender inside.
3. Saucy Baby Back Ribs
Baby back ribs are a crowd-pleaser at any BBQ gathering. These tender cuts become extra succulent when marinated overnight in your favorite BBQ sauce.
The key to perfect baby back ribs is cooking them low and slow. Start by baking them in the oven until they’re nearly falling off the bone.
For the best flavor, finish your ribs on the grill with a coating of balsamic glaze or a molasses-based sauce. This creates that sticky, caramelized exterior that makes ribs irresistible.
You can customize your sauce with honey, vinegar, or even sweet tea for unique flavors. The result is perfectly tender ribs with a saucy, finger-licking coating everyone will love.
4. Beer-Can Chicken
Beer-can chicken is a popular BBQ technique where you cook a whole chicken sitting upright on an open beer can. The beer creates steam inside the chicken, keeping the meat moist and adding subtle flavor.
To prepare, rub your chicken with your favorite BBQ spices. Many people enjoy a sweet and spicy brown sugar-paprika combination. Then set the bird on a half-full beer can.
Grill the chicken over indirect heat for about 1-1.5 hours until fully cooked. The vertical position helps the chicken cook evenly. Adding wood chips like cherry creates delicious smoky flavor.
This method delivers juicy meat with crispy skin every time. It’s an impressive centerpiece for your next BBQ gathering.
5. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Grilled shrimp skewers are a quick and easy addition to any BBQ menu. You can prepare them in minutes with a simple marinade of lemon, garlic, and herbs.
For the best flavor, marinate your shrimp for at least 15 minutes before grilling. Thread them onto skewers for easy handling on the grill.
These skewers cook very quickly – usually just 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Don’t overcook them or they’ll become tough.
You can customize your marinade with different herbs or add vegetables between the shrimp for extra flavor and color. Serve immediately for the best taste.
6. Smoked Brisket
Smoked brisket is the king of BBQ and a true test of your grilling skills. This Texas-style favorite requires patience but rewards you with melt-in-your-mouth tender meat.
All you need for authentic Texas brisket is salt and pepper as your rub. The magic happens during the slow smoking process over low heat.
The key to perfect brisket is cooking it until the internal temperature reaches around 200°F. This breaks down the tough connective tissues.
Let your brisket rest before slicing against the grain. Serve with classic sides like potato salad, baked beans, or coleslaw for a complete BBQ feast.
7. Cowboy BBQ Cheesesteaks
Cowboy BBQ Cheesesteaks blend classic Philly flavors with smoky Texas BBQ style. You can make this hearty sandwich using ribeye steaks for the best flavor and tenderness.
Start by dry-brining your ribeye, then smoke it on an offset smoker for that authentic BBQ flavor. Once cooked, chill the meat slightly before slicing it thinly against the grain.
Sauté onions until caramelized, then add your sliced beef. Some recipes use provolone cheese, while others prefer cheese whiz for an authentic touch. Either way, pile everything onto a toasted roll.
The combination of smoky beef, melted cheese, and grilled onions makes this a standout sandwich for your next cookout.
8. Barbecue Rubbed Salmon
Salmon on the grill makes for an amazing BBQ experience. The fish’s natural oils help it stay moist while developing a delicious smoky flavor.
For a perfect BBQ salmon, start with a sweet and smoky rub. Mix brown sugar, salt, garlic powder, and your favorite BBQ spices. Pat the salmon dry and coat it thoroughly with the rub.
You can grill salmon directly on oiled grates or use a cedar plank for extra flavor. Cook for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
The result is a flaky, tender salmon with a caramelized sweet BBQ crust. Serve with a squeeze of lemon or a side of mango salsa for a complete meal.
9. Huli Huli Chicken
Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian BBQ dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. The name “huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian, referring to how the chicken is turned while cooking.
The marinade typically includes pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ketchup. Some recipes add ginger, garlic, and apple cider vinegar for extra flavor.
You can use chicken pieces like legs or a whole chicken cut into parts. Marinate the meat for at least a few hours before grilling.
For best results, grill the chicken and turn it frequently while basting with the sauce. This creates a delicious caramelized exterior while keeping the meat juicy.
10. Smash Burgers
Smash burgers are a game-changer for your BBQ menu. They get their name from the technique of smashing a ball of ground beef onto a hot cooking surface.
For the best results, use 80% lean ground beef (chuck). Leaner meat will make your burgers dry.
Form quarter-pound balls of meat and smash them onto a hot griddle or flat-top. Cook each side until crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside.
Many enthusiasts prefer to pre-smash their patties to make the cooking process easier. Pair with a good sauce and quality buns for a complete burger experience.
11. Spicy Grilled Ribeye
Ribeye steaks are perfect for grilling because of their excellent marbling and rich flavor. For a spicy kick, create a rub with chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of cayenne.
Season your ribeye generously with the spice mixture and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. This helps the meat cook more evenly.
Grill your ribeye on high heat for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. The high heat creates a flavorful crust while keeping the inside juicy.
Let your steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. For extra flavor, top with a pat of herb butter while resting.
12. Smoked Tri Tip Roast
Tri tip is a beefy cut that shines when smoked using the reverse sear method. This technique produces amazing results that will impress your guests.
Start by smoking the tri tip at 250°F until it reaches an internal temperature of about 130°F. This usually takes around 2 hours depending on the size of your roast.
Once it reaches temperature, sear it over high heat (around 400°F) for a few minutes on each side. This creates a delicious crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
Let your tri tip rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain. It’s perfect as a main dish but also makes great sandwiches and salad toppers.
13. Grilled Garlic Chicken
Grilled garlic chicken is a flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for your next BBQ. This recipe combines the smoky taste of grilled chicken with the rich, aromatic punch of garlic.
Start by marinating chicken pieces in a mixture of minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for at least 30 minutes. The longer you marinate, the more intense the garlic flavor will be.
Grill the chicken over medium heat until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. For best results, use bone-in pieces which stay juicier on the grill.
Brush with a garlic butter sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra burst of flavor. This simple enhancement makes all the difference.
14. BBQ Meatball Skewers
BBQ meatball skewers offer a quick and delicious option for your next cookout. You can use store-bought meatballs or make your own using ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings.
For homemade meatballs, try mixing ground beef with oatmeal, evaporated milk, onion, and egg for juicy results. For extra flavor, stuff the center with cheddar cheese before grilling.
Thread your meatballs onto skewers with colorful bell peppers for a complete meal. Brush them with your favorite barbecue sauce while grilling for a sticky, tangy glaze.
These versatile skewers cook in about 15 minutes and make perfect appetizers for summer parties. You can even wrap the meatballs in bacon for an indulgent twist.
15. Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Jalapeños
Bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are a must-have at any BBQ gathering. Fresh jalapeños are halved, seeded, and filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese and shredded cheddar.
Wrap each stuffed pepper with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed. You can grill these delicious treats until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melty.
The combination of spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese, and smoky bacon creates the perfect flavor balance. These poppers can be prepared ahead of time, making them an easy addition to your BBQ menu.
16. Honey Chipotle BBQ Wings
Honey Chipotle BBQ Wings offer a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors. These wings are packed with bold taste that will satisfy your BBQ cravings.
You can make these wings in the oven or on the grill. They cook until crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.
The sauce is what makes these wings special. It combines honey for sweetness with chipotle for a smoky heat that isn’t overwhelming.
These wings make an excellent snack for weekend gatherings or as part of a larger BBQ spread. They don’t take long to prepare and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
17. Sticky Grilled BBQ Shrimp
Sticky grilled BBQ shrimp is a quick and delicious way to enjoy seafood from your grill. You can prepare this meal in just about 10-20 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
The secret to amazing BBQ shrimp is in the sauce. A combination of butter, garlic, lemon, and Cajun spices creates a rich base. Many recipes add brown sugar and smoked paprika for that sticky, caramelized coating when grilled.
For best results, marinate your shrimp briefly before grilling. Thread them onto skewers for easy handling. The shrimp will cook quickly, about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly charred.
18. BBQ Beef Short Ribs
Beef short ribs are a BBQ favorite that can deliver incredible flavor when cooked properly. You can prepare them using different methods, including smoking, braising, or slow cooking.
For traditional BBQ short ribs, start by applying a simple rub of salt, black pepper, white pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. This classic combination enhances the meat’s natural flavor without overpowering it.
Cook them low and slow for the best results. Smoking at low temperatures for several hours creates tender, flavorful ribs. Alternatively, you can use a slow cooker on low for about 8 hours.
Korean BBQ-style short ribs (Kalbi) offer a delicious variation with a sweet and savory marinade. For this style, you’ll want to slice the ribs thinly before grilling over high heat.
19. Tangy Grilled Pork Chops
Tangy grilled pork chops are a perfect addition to your BBQ menu. They combine sweet and tangy flavors that make your taste buds dance.
The secret to great pork chops is in the marinade. Mix mayonnaise, mustard, sugar, garlic, and thyme to create a flavorful base. Let your chops soak in two-thirds of this mixture for 30 minutes to 3 hours.
Brining your pork chops while the grill heats helps keep them juicy. When grilling, aim for a nice char on the outside while maintaining moisture inside.
Finish with a sweet and tangy mustard glaze for an extra layer of flavor. These chops pair well with grilled vegetables or a simple potato salad.
20. Sweet and Smoky BBQ Sauce
A homemade sweet and smoky BBQ sauce can elevate your grilling game instantly. You can make this versatile sauce using common ingredients from your pantry.
Start with a ketchup base, then add cider vinegar, brown sugar, and molasses for that perfect balance of sweet and tangy. For the signature smokiness, incorporate liquid smoke and smoked paprika.
Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and garlic powder add depth of flavor. You can adjust the spice level with black pepper or ground chile to suit your taste preferences.
This sauce works wonderfully on grilled vegetables, tofu, or plant-based meat alternatives. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
21. Classic BBQ Cheeseburgers
BBQ cheeseburgers are a cookout staple that everyone loves. They’re simple to make but deliver big on flavor.
Start with quality ground beef, preferably 80/20 for the right fat content. Form patties slightly larger than your buns, as they’ll shrink when cooking.
Season patties with salt and pepper, then grill over medium-high heat. Flip only once for those perfect grill marks.
Add cheese during the last minute of cooking. Top with your favorite BBQ sauce for that smoky-sweet flavor.
Serve on toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, and onion. You can customize with bacon or grilled onions for extra flavor.
Tips for Perfect BBQ
Great barbecue requires attention to detail and a few key techniques. The right meat selection and proper seasoning make all the difference in creating mouthwatering results.
Choosing the Right Cuts of Meat
For brisket, look for a piece with good marbling and a thick fat cap. This ensures the meat stays juicy during long cooking times.
Choose bone-in chicken thighs rather than breasts for more flavor and moisture.
Pork shoulder (also called Boston butt) is forgiving for beginners and perfect for pulled pork.
When selecting ribs, baby back ribs are more tender, while spare ribs offer more flavor.
For beef ribs, choose short ribs for rich, beefy flavor. When buying steaks for grilling, thickness matters – aim for cuts at least 1-inch thick to avoid overcooking.
Remember that meat quality impacts your final result. When possible, choose fresh, high-quality cuts from trusted sources.
Mastering Marinades and Rubs
Start with a basic dry rub formula: 4 parts salt and brown sugar, 2 parts paprika, and 1 part each of garlic powder, black pepper, and other spices. Adjust based on your taste preferences.
Apply dry rubs at least 1 hour before cooking. For best results, let meats sit overnight in the refrigerator after applying rubs to allow flavors to penetrate deeply.
For marinades, include these three elements: acid (vinegar, citrus), oil, and flavorings (herbs, spices). The acid tenderizes while the oil helps carry flavors.
Don’t marinate delicate meats like fish for more than 30 minutes. Tougher cuts like chicken thighs and pork shoulder benefit from longer marination times of 4-24 hours.
Always pat meat dry before placing it on the grill to ensure proper browning and to prevent flare-ups.
Understanding Different BBQ Styles
BBQ traditions vary across regions, each with unique flavors, techniques, and preferred cuts of meat. These regional differences give barbecue its rich cultural heritage and provide endless options for your cooking adventures.
Carolina BBQ
Carolina BBQ splits into two main styles: Eastern and Western (Lexington-style).
Eastern Carolina BBQ uses the whole hog and features a thin, vinegar-based sauce with red pepper flakes. This tangy, spicy sauce cuts through the fattiness of the pork.
Western Carolina (Lexington-style) focuses on pork shoulders with a sauce that adds tomato or ketchup to the vinegar base. This creates a slightly sweeter profile while maintaining the signature tang.
Both styles serve pulled or chopped pork, often on a sandwich with coleslaw. Carolina BBQ is known for its simplicity, letting the pork flavor shine through with minimal interference from heavy sauces.
The cooking method typically involves slow-smoking over hardwoods like hickory at low temperatures (225-250°F) for several hours until the meat becomes tender and flavorful.
Texas BBQ
Texas BBQ varies across the state but is most famous for beef brisket.
Central Texas style emphasizes simple dry rubs (usually just salt and black pepper) and slow smoking over oak wood.
The meat speaks for itself with minimal sauce, often served on the side if at all. This style originated from German and Czech meat markets where smoking was used as preservation.
East Texas BBQ offers a more sauce-heavy approach with sweeter tomato-based sauces and chopped rather than sliced meat.
South Texas features barbacoa traditions with influences from Mexican cuisine.
West Texas stands out with its “cowboy style” that uses direct heat and mesquite wood for a stronger smoke flavor.
Texas BBQ generally cooks at slightly higher temperatures (250-275°F) than other regions.
The hallmark of perfect Texas brisket is the pink smoke ring and a crusty, pepper-laden “bark” on the outside while remaining moist inside.
Memphis BBQ
Memphis BBQ centers on pork ribs prepared two signature ways: “dry” or “wet.”
Dry ribs feature complex spice rubs with paprika, garlic, onion powder, and other seasonings applied before smoking. Wet ribs get basted with sauce during cooking and again before serving.
Memphis sauce tends to be thinner and tangier than sweet Kansas City versions, with a tomato and vinegar base balanced by brown sugar. Beyond ribs, Memphis is known for pulled pork shoulder served on sandwiches topped with coleslaw.
The “Memphis in May” competition has helped preserve and promote these BBQ traditions. Memphis pitmasters typically smoke their meats at around 225°F over hickory wood.
Many establishments still use traditional pit methods with smoke flowing up and around the meat for that authentic flavor profile. Memphis BBQ represents a middle ground between Carolina’s vinegar sharpness and the sweeter styles found further west.
