The MVPs of Backyard Grilling
We’ve all been to that last-minute, thrown-together BBQ where we’ve had to make do without condiments, cutlery, or considerable cuisine. While it’s the thought that counts, no one wants to be responsible for a subpar picnic.
That’s why no backyard grilling is complete without a few BBQ must-haves. While you can’t always anticipate exactly how an outdoor gathering will go, you can plan accordingly by including these grilling MVPs.
Photo by José Ignacio Pompé on Unsplash
Essential Equipment
Your BBQ grill is not enough. If you’re cooking in your own backyard, there’s a decent chance that you’ll run into the house last minute to find backup equipment (or even food). If you’re cooking at a park or in a friend’s backyard however, you might want to make sure that you have these grill accessories in tow.
Grill Tools
Stainless steel spatula
Tongs
Large grill fork
Basting brush
Fire-safe apron
Extra gas or charcoal
Aluminum foil
Towel
Table Utensils
To simplify cleanup, choose disposable items. If you prefer to go with the environmentally friendly option of reusable table settings, make sure you choose durable pieces that won’t break if they get dropped on the ground or melt under hot food. Be sure to include:
Table cloth
Napkins
Ice
Cups
Plates
Bowls
Forks
Knives
Spoons
Cutting board
Serving spoons
Bottle Opener
Corkscrew
Cocktail shaker
Resealable food containers or plastic/foil wrap to cover food before and after serving
Safety Tools
From the typical risks that come from outdoor spaces to BBQ-specific injuries and illnesses, it doesn’t hurt to keep some safety equipment on hand in case of an accident.
Meat thermometer
Hand sanitizer
Fire extinguisher
Sunscreen
Bug repellent
First aid kit
Burn ointment
Mouth-Watering Meals
A backyard barbeque doesn’t always have to be a masterclass on grilling different types of meat. The outdoor grilling possibilities for these staples, vegetables, and even fruits and desserts are truly endless.
Drool-Worthy Entrees
Steaks
Hamburgers
Brisket
Ribs
Chicken
Lamb chops
Pork chops
Fish
Shrimp
Portabella mushrooms
Meat or vegetarian kabobs
Sidekick Side Dishes
Throw any of these vegetables on the grill for a delicious side dish or hot salad option. Our adjustable divider is a great tool for allowing you to grill both at the same time!
Corn
Zucchini
Squash
Eggplant
Artichoke
Bell peppers
Onions
Asparagus
Potatoes
Sweet potatoes
Onions
Green beans
Tomatoes
Potato chips
Tortilla chips
Vegetable platters
Pork and beans
Coleslaw
Fresh fruit
If you’re looking for a cooler side dish on a hot day, a classic green salad is always an easy side for whip up. Cold potato salad, macaroni salad, bean salad, broccoli salad, and pasta salads are also popular summer grilling side dishes. Just make sure that they stay cold and on ice before and after serving to prevent food poisoning.
Crazy Condiments
What do hamburgers, tortilla chips, and vegetable platters all have in common? They’re all a little drab without the proper toppings or condiments. Which sauces and topping you need will depend on what your main meal is and what side dishes you prepare, but there are a few catch-alls you can default to.
Mustard
Ketchup
Mayonnaise
Guacamole
Hummus
Cheese dip
Bean dip
Additionally, you can add an extra kick to your backyard grilling including some less-common toppings, too.
Grilled onions
Grilled mushrooms
Grilled jalapenos
Grilled red bell peppers
Sauerkraut
Homemade chili
Sliced/diced fresh onions
Sweet/dill pickles
Red pickled onions
Lettuce or leafy mix
Cabbage
Sliced tomatoes
Refreshingly Sweet Desserts
It’s always a good idea to wrap up your evening with something sweet, and grilling your desserts is a great way to polish off your backyard barbecue.
Grilled summer fruit skewers
Grilled berry peach pie
Grilled donut ice cream sandwich
Grilled pineapple ice cream sundae
Photo by Sigmund on Unsplash
MVP Drinks for Outdoor Grilling
Once the warm weather rolls in for the year, nothing feels better than sipping on a cold drink and taking a bite of a refreshing, fruity dessert. Make sure your guests have options for these the next time you invite them over for some outdoor grilling action.
Ice-Cold Drink Essentials
Make sure you offer various drinks for all your guests, including kids, designated drivers, and other guests that don’t drink alcohol. Most importantly, make sure there is a heavy water supply, either in a large dispenser or bottles, so everyone is able to stay hydrated.
You don’t have to rely on soft drinks as your non-alcoholic fallback. Try to mix it up a little with some delicious, homemade party beverages.
Homemade lemonade
Limeade
Sparkling water
Flavored water
Sparkling cranberry punch
Cardinal punch
Or, don’t be afraid to stick to the classics.
Beer
Wine
Cocktails
Lemonade
Punch
Soft Drinks
Water
Another great way to please the crowd is to fill your cooler with your crew’s favorite summertime beers. You will especially impress your guests if you choose beer and/or wines that pair well with your entree.
If showing off your grilling skills isn’t enough, why not put on your bartender hat and offer up some fun, fancy cocktails?
Making the Most of Backyard Grilling
Sometimes it seems like there is so much to remember when you’re hosting a BBQ, but if you stick with these grilling MVPs, you shouldn’t have to worry about forgetting anything. Whether you’re the one who’s doing it all or you could use a reference guide for when guests ask what they can bring, preparing your menu ahead of time and being ready for the unexpected is a no-fail recipe for successful backyard grilling.

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