Nothing gets people lingering outside like the smell of food on the grill. From quick bites to hearty mains, a good spread keeps the energy high and the crowd happy. These BBQ party recipes work for casual hangouts or bigger gatherings without making you babysit the grill all night. They’re easy to prep ahead and keep the flavors coming while everyone relaxes. Good food, good company, and just enough smoke in the air to make it feel like summer.
Smoked Drumsticks
These smoked drumsticks are full of rich barbecue flavor and simple to prepare on a charcoal grill. The meat stays juicy while the smoky aroma develops during cooking. They work well for tailgates, outdoor gatherings, or as part of your favorite BBQ party recipes.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Drumsticks
Hot Dog Burnt Ends
Hot dog burnt ends bring a fun and affordable spin to a barbecue classic. The pieces caramelize in a sweet sauce for a bite-sized treat that’s ready in minutes. Using the air fryer keeps the process fast and cleanup minimal.
Get the Recipe: Hot Dog Burnt Ends
BBQ Chicken Sliders
These BBQ chicken sliders use tender shredded chicken tucked into soft rolls with a smoky-sweet sauce. They’re ready in about 30 minutes, which makes them great for weeknight dinners. Add them to your list of go-to BBQ party recipes when you need something crowd-pleasing.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Sliders
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken
With the air fryer, barbecue chicken turns out tender and flavorful in less time than grilling. The sauce caramelizes beautifully without overcooking the meat. It’s an easy option for dinner or to include in summer BBQ party recipes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken
BBQ Pulled Pork Totchos
Crispy tater tots are topped with slow-cooked pulled pork, beans, cheese, and barbecue sauce. This combination turns a bag of frozen tots into a hearty and shareable dish. It’s ideal for casual get-togethers or game day spreads.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Pulled Pork Totchos
BBQ Cauliflower Wings
These BBQ cauliflower wings are coated in breadcrumbs, baked until crisp, and covered in smoky-sweet sauce. They’re a great plant-based snack for parties or family dinners. Serve them fresh from the oven for the best texture.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Cauliflower Wings
BBQ Ribs
Instant Pot BBQ ribs come out tender and flavorful in a fraction of the usual cooking time. The meat is easy to pull from the bone and pairs well with simple sides like corn or fries. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Ribs
Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs
Grilling bacon-wrapped hot dogs adds extra flavor and texture to a familiar favorite. You can customize them with toppings to suit any crowd. This no-fuss recipe keeps cleanup simple while delivering plenty of grilled goodness.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs
Bacon Wrapped Pickles
Grilled bacon-wrapped pickles combine crisp bacon with the tang of fresh pickles for a bold snack. A touch of barbecue sauce complements the flavors. They’re an easy addition to BBQ party recipes for summer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Pickles
Shredded BBQ Chicken Sliders
These sliders use shredded chicken coated in homemade barbecue sauce for a quick and flavorful sandwich. They work for both small dinners and larger events. Soft rolls hold everything together while letting the sauce shine.
Get the Recipe: Shredded BBQ Chicken Sliders
Smoked Pulled Pork
Slow-cooked until the meat practically falls apart, this smoked pulled pork is all about deep, rich flavor. The smoke gives it a mellow edge while the low heat keeps it juicy. Serve it piled high on buns, alongside BBQ sides, or straight from the cutting board for the hungriest guests. It’s a guaranteed hit for a weekend cookout.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pulled Pork
Burger Recipe
Juicy, well-seasoned ground beef is all you need to nail the perfect burger at home. A quick sear locks in flavor, while the special sauce adds just enough tang and creaminess. Skip the fancy tricks—this one’s all about good beef and proper seasoning. Pair with crisp fries and call it dinner.
Get the Recipe: Burger Recipe
Smoked Chicken Wings
These wings have a deep smoky aroma and a crispy skin that gives way to tender meat. They’re perfect for game day, backyard parties, or anytime finger food is the only answer. A quick toss in your favorite sauce before serving takes them up a notch. Just be ready for them to disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Wings
Kabobs
Juicy chicken chunks, crunchy peppers, and sweet onions cook up quickly in a skillet for an easy dinner. A simple spice blend and a splash of olive oil keep everything flavorful without a lot of work. They’re great with rice, stuffed in pita bread, or eaten straight off the skewer. No grill needed, no problem.
Get the Recipe: Kabobs
Bratwurst
Grilled until golden brown with just the right amount of char, these brats are a warm-weather favorite. They’re ready in about 20 minutes, so they work for both parties and last-minute dinners. Serve with mustard, sauerkraut, and your favorite sides for a simple but satisfying plate. They’ll disappear before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Bratwurst
Juicy Gourmet Burger
Thick, flavorful patties get a quick sear for that perfect crust, then stay tender inside. Layer them with cheese, crisp lettuce, and a sauce you love for the full effect. They’re great for weekend cookouts or a low-effort dinner that still feels special. No takeout needed when you can do this at home.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Gourmet Burger
Shrimp Skewers
Plump shrimp roast quickly in the oven with Old Bay seasoning for bold flavor in minutes. They’re just as good for a quick weeknight dinner as they are for a casual get-together. Serve with a garlic aioli or over salad for a lighter option. Easy cleanup is just a bonus.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Skewers
BBQ Jackfruit Sliders
These sliders pack big BBQ flavor with tender jackfruit and creamy vegan coleslaw. They’re great for parties when you want something plant-based that still feels hearty. The sweet and smoky sauce ties everything together perfectly. Serve on soft buns and watch them go.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Jackfruit Sliders
Tuscan Pasta Salad
Sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing make this pasta salad a standout. It works as a side for grilled meats or as a quick lunch all on its own. Add grilled chicken if you want extra protein without much effort. It’s fresh, flavorful, and great for warm days.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta Salad
Pesto Pasta Salad with Chicken
This pasta salad mixes tender chicken, mozzarella pearls, spinach, and juicy tomatoes with basil pesto for a bold, fresh flavor. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet special enough for a picnic spread. Use grilled chicken for a smoky touch or leftover chicken when you’re in a rush. Every bite is a mix of creamy, crisp, and savory.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Pasta Salad with Chicken
