15 Mandatory Foods for an authentic American BBQ
There’s nothing quite like a BBQ to bring people together, whether for a weekend hangout, a family gathering or to enjoy good food under the sun. The key to a successful BBQ is having various dishes catering to everyone’s taste buds.
From classic meats to sides and desserts, there are so many delicious options to choose from. If you’re wondering what to bring to your next BBQ, we’ve got you covered! Here are some perfect foods to take along for a BBQ that will surely please everyone.
Grilled Burgers
Burgers are a BBQ staple. Whether you prefer beef, chicken, or veggie patties, they’re easy to cook on the grill and customize with toppings. Bring along cheese slices, lettuce, tomatoes, and buns so everyone can build their own.
Don’t forget condiments like ketchup, mustard, and mayo to complete the setup. You can even experiment with different seasonings or fillings to make your burgers stand out. Grilled burgers are always a crowd favorite and a BBQ essential.
Hot Dogs
Hot dogs are quick, easy, and always a hit at BBQs. Whether you go for classic beef hot dogs or mix things up with sausages or bratwurst, they’re sure to satisfy. Serve them with an assortment of toppings like relish, onions, and pickles, and have a variety of buns on hand.
Kids and adults alike love hot dogs, making them a go-to option for any gathering. Plus, they cook fast, which means no one has to wait too long to eat. For extra flavor, lightly toast the buns on the grill!
Grilled Chicken Skewers
Grilled chicken skewers are not only delicious but also easy to eat. You can marinate the chicken in advance with flavors like BBQ sauce, teriyaki, or lemon herb for an added kick. Skewering the chicken with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes makes it colorful and flavorful. They cook quickly and are great for guests who prefer a lighter, healthier option. Plus, the individual portions make it easy for everyone to grab one (or more!) from the grill.
Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a summer BBQ classic. Grilling gives the corn a smoky flavor and a slight char that pairs perfectly with melted butter. You can keep it simple with butter and salt or offer other toppings like cheese, chili powder, or lime for a fun twist. Corn is also a great side dish that complements all kinds of BBQ meats. It’s easy to cook and always a hit with guests, young and old. Just make sure to bring enough because it’s a favorite that tends to go fast.
Potato Salad
No BBQ is complete without a side of potato salad. It’s creamy, comforting, and easy to make in large batches. You can stick to the classic version with mayo, mustard, and hard-boiled eggs or get creative with different add-ins like bacon, chives, or pickles. Potato salad is a great complement to grilled meats, and it’s easy to prepare ahead of time. Chill it well before the BBQ, and it’ll be a refreshing, cool side dish. This is one dish that’s sure to disappear quickly.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to any BBQ spread. The combination of cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing balances out the rich flavors of grilled meats. You can make it with a tangy vinegar-based dressing or a creamy mayo dressing, depending on your preference. Coleslaw can be served on the side or as a topping for burgers and hot dogs. It’s also easy to prepare in advance, making it a convenient dish to bring. Plus, it stays cool and crisp, even in warm weather.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a healthy and flavorful addition to any BBQ. Zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions are popular choices that cook quickly on the grill. Toss them in olive oil and season with salt, pepper, or your favorite herbs before grilling. They’re a perfect side dish for meat lovers and vegetarians alike. You can also make vegetable skewers for easy serving. Grilled veggies add color and variety to your BBQ spread.
Pasta Salad
Pasta salad is another versatile dish that works well at BBQs. You can make it with a variety of ingredients, like fresh veggies, cheese, olives, and a light dressing. Whether you prefer a creamy version or a tangy vinaigrette-based salad, pasta salad is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to prepare in advance and keeps well, even outdoors. Since it can be served cold, it’s refreshing on a hot day. Bring enough for seconds because guests usually go back for more!
Baked Beans
Baked beans are a hearty side dish that pairs well with BBQ meats. Whether you make them from scratch or use canned beans and jazz them up with bacon and brown sugar, they’re always a hit. The sweetness and smokiness of baked beans complement the flavors of grilled burgers, hot dogs, and chicken. You can cook them at home and keep them warm in a slow cooker or bring them in a dish for easy serving. They’re comforting, filling, and loved by all ages.
Watermelon
Watermelon is the perfect fruit to bring to a BBQ. It’s refreshing, hydrating, and a great way to cool down on a hot day. You can serve it in large slices or cut it into cubes for easy snacking. Watermelon is also a healthy option that pairs well with heavier BBQ dishes. Its sweet, juicy flavor is loved by both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a colorful addition to the BBQ table that everyone will enjoy.
Grilled Shrimp
If you want to bring something a little different, grilled shrimp is a fantastic choice. Shrimp cook quickly on the grill and soak up marinades well. You can season them with garlic, lemon, or cajun spices for an extra punch of flavor.
Skewer them for easy grilling and serving. Grilled shrimp are light yet flavorful, making them a great option for those who prefer seafood over meat. They’re always a nice surprise at a BBQ and are sure to be devoured quickly.
Chips and Dip
Chips and dip are a must-have for any BBQ gathering. Whether it’s tortilla chips with salsa, guacamole, or potato chips with a creamy dip, it’s an easy snack that everyone can enjoy. Bring a variety of dips to keep things interesting—think queso, hummus, or spinach and artichoke dip.
Chips and dip are great appetizers to have on hand while the grill is heating up. Plus, they’re simple to transport and serve. They’re always a popular choice that guests can nibble on throughout the day.
Fruit Salad
A fresh fruit salad is a light and refreshing option to bring to a BBQ. You can use a mix of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and grapes to create a colorful dish. Add a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of mint for extra flavor.
Fruit salad is a healthy dessert option that provides a nice balance to the heavier grilled foods. It’s easy to prepare in advance and serves as a hydrating snack. Guests will appreciate the refreshing sweetness after enjoying the savory BBQ dishes.
Brownies
For those with a sweet tooth, brownies are a fantastic dessert to bring to a BBQ. They’re easy to make in advance and can be served as is or with toppings like whipped cream or ice cream. Brownies are rich, chocolatey, and always a crowd favorite. They hold up well in outdoor settings, making them ideal for BBQs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing. Whether they’re fudgy or cakey, brownies are sure to be a hit.
Lemonade
A BBQ isn’t complete without a refreshing drink, and lemonade is the perfect choice. It’s cool, sweet, and easy to make in large batches. You can serve it plain or mix in fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a fun twist. Lemonade is not only refreshing but also pairs well with all the savory flavors of a BBQ. Bring a big pitcher, and your guests will keep coming back for refills. It’s the ultimate thirst-quencher for a hot day!
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