These easy barbecue ideas are smoky, saucy and downright delicious. Our favorite recipes create reliable side dishes and grilled mains with minimal prep time so you can host stress-free cookouts all summer long.

If the weather is nice, you’d better believe I’m outside enjoying it. Often that means spending time in the yard and cooking my favorite grilling recipes to share with friends or family. These easy barbecue ideas are a great way to kick off your summer of outdoor cooking. Each requires 20 minutes of prep time or less, with options ranging from quick-cooking meals for beginners to low-and-slow barbecue dishes for seasoned grill enthusiasts. We made sure to include meaty mains and vegetable-heavy dishes too. In other words, everything you need to put together a weeknight meal or a grand spread to feed a crowd is here.

Once you’ve mastered grilling safety, cooking on a gas or charcoal grill feels much less intimidating. But that doesn’t mean you need a grill to barbecue! We’ve also included tasty options like slow-cooker pulled beef sandwiches and baked barbecue chicken thighs. To achieve a similar smoky flavor without an actual grill, use a grill pan on the stovetop. These pans do a great job of searing foods and creating gorgeous grill marks. Or, capture that classic barbecue flavor by adding barbecue sauce or liquid smoke to the seasoning blend when making slow-cooked beef, pork or chicken.

Plus, here you’ll also find an array of vibrant barbecue sides like grilled corn ribs, macaroni salad and fruity salads to showcase that perfectly ripe watermelon. Most of these easy barbecue ideas are classics, making excellent family barbecue recipes that even picky eaters will enjoy. But we also included more modern options with trendy ingredients to appease your adventurous crew. The hardest part is choosing what to make!

1/50

Chicken Skewers

3 Reviews
Total Time:25 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Chicken skewers with tender chunks of chicken and garden fresh veggies are easy to assemble and are always a hit at parties. —Margaret Allen, Abingdon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts: 1 skewer: 244 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 421mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable.
2/50

Tacos al Pastor

Total Time:40 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Make authentic Mexican tacos right from your kitchen with this recipe. Al pastor’s savory, juicy flavors mixed with sweet pineapples create an irresistible dinner. —Margaret Knoebel, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 389 calories, 18g fat (6g saturated fat), 101mg cholesterol, 1105mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (21g sugars, 3g fiber), 31g protein.
3/50

Ranch Burgers

Total Time:20 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These grilled burgers are a fun twist on a traditional burger. With ranch and bacon mixed in, they're perfect for a summer potluck! —Anna Miller, Churdan, Iowa
4/50

Huli Huli Chicken

155 Reviews
Total Time:30 min
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: When I lived in Hawaii, I got this recipe for chicken marinated in a ginger-soy sauce from a friend. Huli means “turn” in Hawaiian and refers to turning the meat on the grill. —Sharon Boling, San Diego, California
Nutrition Facts: 2 chicken thighs: 391 calories, 16g fat (5g saturated fat), 151mg cholesterol, 651mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 43g protein.
5/50

Mexican Street Corn

1 Reviews
Total Time:40 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Elote, otherwise known as Mexican street corn, is grilled, covered in mayo, and then sprinkled with chili powder, Cotija and cilantro. A squeeze of lime juice is the perfect finishing touch. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 ear: 278 calories, 22g fat (4g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 245mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.
6/50

Grilled Vegetable Platter

37 Reviews
Total Time:30 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This recipe is the best of summer in one dish! These pretty veggies are perfect for entertaining. Grilling brings out their natural sweetness, and the easy marinade really perks up the flavor. —Heidi Hall, North St. Paul, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 144 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 50mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 2 fat.
7/50

Chimichurri Steak

10 Reviews
Contest Winner
Total Time:30 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Steak gets a flavor kick from chimichurri. This piquant, all-purpose herb sauce is so versatile, it complements most any grilled meat, poultry or fish. —Laureen Pittman, Riverside, California
Nutrition Facts: 3 ounces cooked steak with 3 tablespoons sauce: 336 calories, 26g fat (7g saturated fat), 73mg cholesterol, 462mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 22g protein.
8/50

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

5 Reviews
Total Time:30 min
Servings:10
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I had to figure out how to make Hawaiian macaroni salad at home because my husband was getting tired of ordering enough for our whole family from a local restaurant. Sometimes I use green onions and serve the salad with a drizzle of teriyaki sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. —Blaine Kahle, Florence, Oregon
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 464 calories, 33g fat (5g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 353mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein.
9/50

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

40 Reviews
Total Time:30 min
Servings:2
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My husband and I grill dinner almost every night, and I love grilling veggies for a side dish. I serve this grilled bacon-wrapped asparagus recipe with meat and sliced fresh tomatoes for a wonderful meal. —Trisha Kitts, Dickinson, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 5 pieces: 120 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 372mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 9g protein.
10/50

Chicken Lollipop

Total Time:1 hour 10 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Take your barbecue game up a notch with these chicken lollipops. Each bite is sweet and tangy from a marinade of apricot, ketchup and soy sauce. —Julie Andrews, Rockford, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 171 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 486mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 0 fiber), 15g protein.
11/50

Grilled Shrimp

25 Reviews
Total Time:25 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This recipe is easy and delicious! These shrimp are great with steak. For a special occasion, you can also brush the sauce on lobster tails and grill them. —Sheryl Shenberger, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Nutrition Facts: 1 skewer: 201 calories, 13g fat (8g saturated fat), 168mg cholesterol, 295mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 19g protein.
12/50

Vietnamese Pork Chops

1 Reviews
Total Time:30 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Serve these tender Vietnamese pork chops with rice and sliced cucumbers. In addition to grilling or broiling, they can also be cooked in a skillet. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 pork chop: 227 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 1368mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 0 fiber), 24g protein.
13/50

Grilled Steak Kabobs

2 Reviews
Contest Winner
Total Time:25 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Many times, I must come up with recipes requiring only ingredients already in my pantry. This is one of them. It's my husband's favorite meat dish. —Dolores, Lueken, Ferdinand, Indiana
Nutrition Facts: 1 kabob: 447 calories, 29g fat (6g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 739mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 2g fiber), 32g protein.
14/50

Grilled Peaches

Total Time:15 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This recipe for grilled peaches is a simple dessert that takes only 15 minutes and four ingredients. Serve it with a scoop of ice cream to end any summer night on a high note. —Margaret Knoebel, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 86 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 46mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
15/50

Baked Barbecue Chicken Drumsticks

12 Reviews
Contest Winner
Total Time:1 hour
Servings:2
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: On a lazy sunny summer day, these barbecue chicken legs are the best ever. We enjoy them with baked beans and watermelon. Try the zesty barbecue sauce on other grilled meats too. —Agnes Golian, Garfield Heights, Ohio
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 412 calories, 23g fat (5g saturated fat), 105mg cholesterol, 779mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 0 fiber), 30g protein.
16/50

Grilled Mushrooms

27 Reviews
Contest Winner
Total Time:15 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Mushrooms cooked over hot coals always taste good, but this easy recipe makes them taste fantastic. As a mother of two children, I love to cook entire meals on the grill. It's fun spending time outdoors with the kids. —Melanie Knoll, Marshalltown, Iowa
Nutrition Facts: 1 skewer: 77 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 230mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
17/50

Barbecue Chicken Wings

Total Time:55 min
Servings:about 20 pieces
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These crispy barbecue chicken wings are bursting with flavor. Seasoned in a coating of onion powder, garlic powder and cayenne pepper, these wings get tossed in barbecue sauce for a tangy, sweet flavor profile with a hint of spice. —Nancy Mock, Southbridge, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 78 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 224mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
18/50

Cheeseburger Salad

9 Reviews
Total Time:30 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I was planning to grill burgers, and then it dawned on me: How about a cheeseburger salad? The original recipe doesn't call for a tomato, but it's awesome here. —Pam Jefferies, Cantrall, Illinois
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 511 calories, 34g fat (17g saturated fat), 128mg cholesterol, 1033mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 36g protein.
19/50

Barbecue Chicken

8 Reviews
Contest Winner
Total Time:55 min
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Is there a better place than Texas to find a fantastic barbecue sauce? That’s where this one is from—it’s my father-in-law’s own recipe. We have served it at many family reunions and think it’s the best! —Bobbie Morgan, Woodstock, Georgia
Nutrition Facts: 4 ounces cooked chicken: 370 calories, 19g fat (5g saturated fat), 104mg cholesterol, 622mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 33g protein.
20/50

Grilled Pork Chops

37 Reviews
Total Time:30 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: A little brining and a special dry rub go a long way to making the perfect pork chop. Once you've mastered the techniques, you'll be enjoying these pork chops all summer long. —Matthew Hass, Franklin, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 pork chop: 300 calories, 18g fat (4g saturated fat), 72mg cholesterol, 130mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 30g protein.
21/50

Corn Ribs

1 Reviews
Total Time:25 min
Servings:32 pieces
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: The weather is warming up, and that means it's time to pull out the grills! This corn ribs recipe contains notes of garlic, onion, mild heat from cayenne pepper and a zesty spritz of lime—the perfect addition to your upcoming summer barbecue. —Bill Roberts, Geneva, Illinois
22/50

Grilled Glazed Drummies

10 Reviews
Total Time:25 min
Servings:about 2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My family prefers these mild-tasting chicken wings more than the traditional hot wings. They are great for any gathering. —Laura Mahaffey, Annapolis, Maryland
Nutrition Facts: 1 each: 141 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 311mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 11g protein.
23/50

Juicy Watermelon Salad

14 Reviews
Total Time:20 min
Servings:10
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This fruit salad has such a surprising yet fabulous mix of flavors that friends often ask for the recipe. Combine seedless watermelon varieties in yellow, red and pink for a colorful twist. —Heidi Haight, Macomb, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 232 calories, 20g fat (5g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 295mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
24/50

Grilled Marinated Ribeyes

22 Reviews
Total Time:20 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These juicy steaks are a favorite meal of ours when we go camping. Let them sit in the tangy, barbecue-inspired marinade overnight and you've got a rich and hearty dinner ready to grill up the next day. —Louise Graybiel, Toronto, Ontario
Nutrition Facts: 1 steak: 570 calories, 40g fat (15g saturated fat), 134mg cholesterol, 592mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 0 fiber), 40g protein.
25/50

Quick Barbecued Beans

14 Reviews
Total Time:25 min
Servings:5
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Barbecued beans are a simple, classic recipe and cooking them on the grill adds great smoky flavor. —Millie Vickery, Lena, Illinois
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 264 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 877mg sodium, 51g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 13g fiber), 14g protein.
26/50

Barbecue Chicken Sandwich

16 Reviews
Total Time:35 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: With four small children at home, I need quick yet filling meals. This family-favorite barbecue chicken sandwich filling is a cinch to make. For a spicier taste, eliminate the ketchup and increase the amount of salsa to 1 cup. —Leticia Lewis, Kennewick, Washington
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich: 284 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 770mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 3g fiber), 18g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat.
27/50

Grilled Salmon in Foil

11 Reviews
Total Time:20 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Steamed in its own juices, this grilled salmon in foil is incredibly tender. Curry adds a punch of flavor that's perfectly balanced by onion and tomato. —Merideth Berkovich, The Dalles, Oregon
Nutrition Facts: 1 packet: 199 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 436mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 20g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat.
28/50

Loaded Baked Potato Salad

52 Reviews
Contest Winner
Total Time:1 hour
Servings:20
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I revamped my mother's potato salad to taste more like baked potatoes with all the fixin's, which I love. This loaded baked potato salad is now the most requested dish at family gatherings. Even my mother asked for the recipe! —Jackie Deckard, Solsberry, Indiana
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 315 calories, 21g fat (7g saturated fat), 99mg cholesterol, 587mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 11g protein.
29/50

Grilled Short Ribs

Total Time:25 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: A quick and simple paprika rub is all these tender short ribs need. They're perfect for your next cookout. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 5 ounces cooked beef: 294 calories, 18g fat (8g saturated fat), 92mg cholesterol, 1238mg sodium, 0 carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 31g protein.
30/50

Pulled Beef Sandwich

57 Reviews
Total Time:8 hours 35 min
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Chuck roast makes delicious slow-cooker barbecue beef sandwiches after simmering in a rich homemade sauce all day. The meat is tender and juicy and takes minutes to prepare for a weeknight dinner or potluck. —Tatina Smith, San Angelo, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich: 458 calories, 15g fat (5g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 1052mg sodium, 49g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 1g fiber), 30g protein.
31/50

Slow-Cooker BBQ Chicken

24 Reviews
Total Time:5 hours 15 min
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Of all the recipes I make in my slow cooker, this is my most treasured. If you enjoy your barbecue sweet with a little spice, this will be your new favorite too. —Yvonne McKim, Vancouver, Washington
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 179 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 392mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 0 fiber), 13g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 fat.
32/50

Grilled Ribs

12 Reviews
Total Time:1 hour 30 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I first marinate each rack of ribs, then add a zesty rub before grilling them. They always turn out moist and flavorful. —Iola Egle, Bella Vista, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 647 calories, 41g fat (13g saturated fat), 123mg cholesterol, 2345mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (29g sugars, 1g fiber), 37g protein.
33/50

Grilled Romaine Salad

1 Reviews
Total Time:20 min
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: For a great-tasting salad, try this recipe on the grill! It's equally good with any dressing of your choice. —Susan Court, Pewaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 98 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 30mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
34/50

Pulled Pork

Total Time:7 hours 45 min
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Our pulled pork recipe uses a slow cooker to produce flavorful and juicy meat. When it's done cooking, shred the pork shoulder, toss it with barbecue sauce and serve it on sandwiches. —Julie Andrews, Rockford, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 309 calories, 15g fat (6g saturated fat), 90mg cholesterol, 485mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 0 fiber), 26g protein.
35/50

Korean Short Ribs

Total Time:20 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These Korean short ribs are cut across the bone lengthwise or flanken-style. The ginger gives the sweet and savory marinade a nice freshness. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 238 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 650mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 20g protein.
36/50

Barbecue Pork Chops

66 Reviews
Total Time:25 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I often prepare a double batch of these tangy barbecue pork chops, then freeze half to keep on hand. They are so easy and taste so fresh, family and friends never guess this quick entree was frozen! —Susan Holderman, Fostoria, Ohio
Nutrition Facts: 1 pork chop: 282 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 533mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (37g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
37/50

Baked Barbecue Chicken Breast

29 Reviews
Total Time:55 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: A friend made this saucy chicken for us when we had our first child. I pared down the recipe to make it lower in fat and calories. Now it's a family favorite, and even the kids ask for this baked barbecue chicken breast. —Marge Wagner, Roselle, Illinois
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 324 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 111mg cholesterol, 602mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 0 fiber), 39g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 starch.
38/50

Veggie Kabobs

3 Reviews
Total Time:30 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Grilling is a delightful way to prepare the season's freshest produce. The zesty Italian marinade adds just the right amount of spice to these veggie kabobs. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 202 calories, 18g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 598mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
39/50

Grilled Pork Tenderloin

13 Reviews
Total Time:30 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: We do a lot of outdoor cooking during the summer months, and this grilled pork tenderloin recipe is one my entire family loves. —Betsy Carrington, Lawrenceburg, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts: 3 ounces cooked pork: 196 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 671mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch.
40/50

Honey-Barbecue Wings

5 Reviews
Total Time:30 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These wings get loads of flavor from the slightly sweet honey-barbecue sauce they’re tossed in. They’re just the tiniest bit sticky—exactly the way they should be. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 133 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 314mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
41/50

Grilled Flank Steak

7 Reviews
Total Time:30 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: How to cook flank steak? Easy! Marinate it and grill or broil it! This marinated steak is so moist that it will become one of your favorite ways to serve beef. —Heather Ahrens, Columbus, Ohio
Nutrition Facts: 3 ounces cooked beef: 186 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 471mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat.
42/50

Pork Souvlaki

Total Time:30 min
Servings:4 skewers
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Pork tenderloin marinates in a sauce filled with aromatic herbs and seasonings like oregano, thyme, garlic and paprika before getting grilled to perfection. Serve the popular Greek dish with a side of tzatziki sauce and pita bread for the whole experience. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 1 skewer with 1 pita half and 2 tablespoons tzatziki: 637 calories, 32g fat (8g saturated fat), 110mg cholesterol, 1758mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 43g protein.
43/50

Coney Island Hot Dogs

44 Reviews
Total Time:4 hours 20 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: From the youngest kids to the oldest adults, everyone in our family loves these hot dogs. Inspired by the classic Coney dog, they’re so easy to throw together in the morning or even the night before. —Michele Harris, Vicksburg, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 chili dog: 371 calories, 20g fat (8g saturated fat), 53mg cholesterol, 992mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 21g protein.
44/50

Grilled Ribeye Steak

5 Reviews
Total Time:35 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: A true Southerner to the core, I love to cook—especially on the grill. This recipe is one of my favorites. The seasoning rub makes a wonderful marinade, and nothing beats the summertime taste of these flavorful grilled steaks. —Sharon Bickett, Chester, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts: 3 ounces cooked beef: 257 calories, 18g fat (7g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 453mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 21g protein.
45/50

Grilled Chicken Legs

9 Reviews
Total Time:40 min
Servings:18
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This chicken is juicy, has great barbecue flavor and makes a big batch, so it's perfect for summer picnics and family reunions. —Brenda Beachy, Belvidere, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts: 5 ounces cooked chicken: 384 calories, 19g fat (4g saturated fat), 128mg cholesterol, 970mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 0 fiber), 36g protein.
46/50

Barbecue Brisket

2 Reviews
Total Time:2 hours 35 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: A guest at the RV park and marina my husband and I used to run gave me this flavorful barbecue brisket recipe. It's become the star of countless meal gatherings, from potlucks to holiday dinners. My husband and our five grown children look forward to it as much as they do our Christmas turkey. —Bettye Miller, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts: 4 ounces cooked beef: 441 calories, 21g fat (4g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 391mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (31g sugars, 0 fiber), 31g protein.
47/50

Country Ribs in the Oven

35 Reviews
Contest Winner
Total Time:2 hours 55 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My mom made these tender oven-baked country-style ribs for special Sunday suppers when we were growing up. A few common ingredients are all you need to make the zesty sauce that coats them. Everyone's eyes light up when I bring a plate of these ribs to the table, and company never suspects how easy they are to prepare. —Yvonne White, Williamson, New York
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 289 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 86mg cholesterol, 1084mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 27g protein.
48/50

Grilled Corn Salad

Total Time:35 min
Servings:about 8 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I absolutely love cilantro and add it to recipes whenever I can. I'm also a fan of corn on the cob, and especially of the flavor that grilling the corn brings out. This recipe was born from the love of these ingredients. —Misty Tudor, Ajax, Ontario
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 149 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 176mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein.
49/50

Grilled Lemon Chicken

18 Reviews
Total Time:25 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: There’s one word to describe this grilled lemon chicken recipe: Yum! It’s so easy to prepare ahead of time, then we fire up the grill when we get home from church on Sunday. Guests love the citrus flavor. —Heather Erb, Milton, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 258 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 256mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 34g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 4 very lean meat, 2 fat.
50/50

Jerk Chicken

Total Time:50 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This easy grilled jerk chicken uses a Scotch bonnet pepper for extra heat and an impressive homemade seasoning blend. If you keep your spice cabinet well-stocked, you probably have most of these ingredients on hand. —Cathy Trochelman, Brookfield, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 6 ounces cooked chicken: 272 calories, 15g fat (4g saturated fat), 81mg cholesterol, 1245mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein.

Easy Barbecue Ideas FAQ

What are some easy barbecue ideas for a small group?

Some easy barbecue ideas for a small group are vegetables, steaks, chicken, burgers and good hot dogs. These items can be prepped with very few additional ingredients and tend to cook quickly. It’s really just a matter of knowing the proper food-safe cooking temperature for each type of food. When it comes to meat, larger proteins (like saucy ribs, juicy brisket or slow-cooked pulled pork) can also be considered easy. That said, these proteins take longer to cook than smaller cuts.

What are the best grilling recipes to make on a budget?

Some of the best cheap grilling ideas to make on a budget are chicken drumsticks, pork tenderloin and vegetable kabobs. Some beef cuts are less expensive than others, so opt for cuts like flank steak over ribeye to save money.

How can I throw a last-minute barbecue for a small group?

You can throw a last-minute barbecue for a small group by leaning on low-prep mains and premade sides at the grocery store. Low-prep mains include steaks, chicken with barbecue sauce and pre-portioned burgers. I also like to see what premarinated meats they have. Pick out a few quick-cooking vegetables for the grill: Zucchini, corn on the cob and asparagus are all excellent grilled vegetables. Before you check out, head to the deli for cold sides and salads like potato salad, coleslaw and pasta salad.