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Planning a cookout for a crowd can be exciting yet challenging. The key is variety, catering to different tastes and preferences. This guide offers a mix of mouth-watering main dishes, delightful vegetarian options, refreshing salads, and tempting desserts. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or hosting your first cookout, these ideas will make your gathering memorable and enjoyable. Dive into the following sections for delicious recipes and practical tips to impress your guests.
Main Dishes
A great cookout starts with delicious main dishes that satisfy everyone’s hunger. Here are some standout recipes that will please your guests and make your event a hit.
Grilled Beer Brats
Grilled beer brats bring a rich, smoky flavor that’s hard to resist. Start by simmering bratwurst in a pot of beer with onions until they are plump and infused with flavor. Then, finish them on the grill to get a perfect char. Serve in fresh buns with mustard, sauerkraut, and grilled onions for a classic touch.
Beer Can Burgers
Beer can burgers are a fun twist on traditional burgers. Shape ground beef into thick patties, using a beer can to create a well in the center. Fill the well with your choice of cheese, bacon, onions, or mushrooms. Grill the burgers until cooked through and the cheese is melted. These stuffed burgers are both flavorful and visually appealing.
Carne Asada
Carne asada is a flavorful, marinated steak that’s perfect for grilling. Marinate skirt or flank steak in a mix of lime juice, garlic, cilantro, and spices. Grill the steak over high heat for a smoky char, then slice it thinly against the grain. Serve with warm tortillas, fresh salsa, and guacamole for a delicious taco experience.
Butterflied Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
Butterflied grilled chicken drumsticks cook evenly and have a deliciously crispy skin. To butterfly the drumsticks, cut along the bone and flatten the meat. Marinate in your favorite seasoning blend, then grill until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender and juicy. These drumsticks are easy to eat and full of flavor.
Brown Sugar BBQ Chicken
Brown sugar BBQ chicken is sweet, smoky, and savory. Marinate chicken pieces in a mixture of brown sugar, BBQ sauce, garlic, and spices. Grill the chicken until the skin is caramelized and the meat is cooked through. This chicken is perfect for any cookout, with a flavor profile that appeals to all ages.
Beer-Brined Barbecue Chicken
Beer-brined barbecue chicken stays moist and flavorful. Brine chicken pieces in a mix of beer, water, salt, and sugar for several hours. Grill the chicken, basting with your favorite BBQ sauce until it’s sticky and caramelized. The beer brine adds depth to the flavor, making this dish a standout.
Oven-Baked BBQ Ribs
For fall-off-the-bone ribs, try oven-baking them before finishing on the grill. Rub ribs with a flavorful spice mix and bake at a low temperature until tender. Then, grill the ribs while basting with BBQ sauce to get a delicious char. These ribs are smoky, sweet, and incredibly tender.
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Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Vegetarian and vegan dishes can be just as hearty and satisfying as their meat counterparts. These recipes are full of flavor and perfect for adding variety to your cookout spread.
Grilled Teriyaki Cauliflower Steaks
Cauliflower steaks are a great meat-free option that packs a punch. Slice a cauliflower head into thick steaks, marinate them in teriyaki sauce, and grill until tender and caramelized. The sweet and savory marinade gives the cauliflower a delicious glaze, making it a standout dish.
Grilled Stuffed Peppers
Grilled stuffed peppers are both colorful and tasty. Fill bell peppers with a mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and spices. Grill them until the peppers are charred and the filling is heated through. Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing finish.
Grilled Zucchini with Yummy Lemon Salt
Grilled zucchini is simple yet flavorful. Slice zucchini into long strips, brush with olive oil, and grill until tender with nice grill marks. Sprinkle with lemon salt, made by combining lemon zest with sea salt, to enhance the natural flavors of the zucchini.
Grilled Vegetable Flatbread with Smoked Almond Muhammara
This flatbread is a delightful combination of grilled vegetables and a smoky spread. Grill a mix of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. Spread smoked almond Muhammara, a Middle Eastern dip made from roasted red peppers and nuts, on flatbread. Top with the grilled veggies and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Carnitas Jackfruit Tacos
Jackfruit is a fantastic meat substitute with a texture similar to pulled pork. Sauté jackfruit with spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic until it’s tender and flavorful. Serve in tortillas with fresh salsa, avocado, and a squeeze of lime. These tacos are juicy and satisfying.
Smoky Mushroom Skewers with Labneh and Salsa Verde
Mushroom skewers are a flavorful addition to any cookout. Marinate mushrooms in a smoky spice blend, then skewer and grill them until charred. Serve with labneh, a creamy yogurt cheese, and a zesty salsa verde made from herbs, garlic, and olive oil. This dish is rich and complex in flavor.
Charred Cabbage Salad with Pecan Dukkah and Chile-Lime Butter
Charred cabbage brings a unique twist to salads. Cut cabbage into wedges and grill until charred on the edges. Top with pecan dukkah, a nut and spice blend, and drizzle with chile-lime butter. This salad is crunchy, smoky, and slightly spicy, offering a great balance of textures and flavors.
Salads and Sides
No cookout is complete without a variety of salads and sides to complement the main dishes. These recipes are easy to prepare and add vibrant flavors and textures to your meal.
Classic Coleslaw
Classic coleslaw is a staple at any cookout. Shredded cabbage and carrots are tossed in a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and a hint of mustard. The result is a refreshing and crunchy side that pairs perfectly with grilled meats.
Broccoli Slaw
Broccoli slaw offers a twist on traditional coleslaw. Combine shredded broccoli stems with carrots, red cabbage, and green onions. Toss with a tangy dressing made from Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a touch of lemon juice. This slaw is crisp and full of flavor.
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Hawaiian macaroni salad is creamy and slightly sweet. Cook macaroni until tender, then mix with mayonnaise, vinegar, grated carrots, and chopped onions. Let it chill for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld. This salad is a delightful side that complements any barbecue dish.
Antipasto Potato Salad
Antipasto potato salad combines the heartiness of potatoes with the flavors of an Italian antipasto platter. Boil baby potatoes until tender, then toss with cherry tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, salami slices, and fresh basil. Dress with olive oil and red wine vinegar for a robust and savory side dish.
Lemon, Ricotta & Asparagus Pasta Salad
This pasta salad is light and zesty. Cook pasta until al dente, then mix with blanched asparagus, ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and fresh herbs like parsley and mint. The lemon and ricotta add a creamy, tangy flavor that’s perfect for a summer cookout.
Blistered Summer Squash Salad
Blistered summer squash salad is vibrant and flavorful. Slice yellow squash and zucchini, then cook quickly in a hot skillet until they develop a nice char. Toss with cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. This salad is colorful and delicious.
Watermelon Caprese
Watermelon Caprese is a refreshing take on the classic Caprese salad. Alternate slices of juicy watermelon with fresh mozzarella and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with sea salt for a sweet and savory combination. This salad is perfect for hot summer days.
Grilled and Skewered Delights
Adding a variety of grilled and skewered dishes to your cookout menu brings a fun and interactive element. These recipes are flavorful, easy to eat, and perfect for sharing.
Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers
Grilled shrimp piccata skewers are a delightful combination of seafood and bright, zesty flavors. Marinate shrimp in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, capers, and olive oil. Skewer the shrimp and grill them until they are pink and slightly charred. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra lemon wedges for an added burst of citrus.
Steak Kebab Bowls
Steak kebab bowls are both satisfying and versatile. Marinate chunks of steak in a blend of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. Thread the steak onto skewers with bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes. Grill until the steak is cooked to your liking and the vegetables are tender. Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa with a drizzle of the remaining marinade.
Campfire Hot Dog Skewers
Campfire hot dog skewers are a fun and nostalgic addition to any cookout. Simply skewer hot dogs and grill them over an open flame or on a barbecue until they are nicely browned. Serve with an array of toppings like mustard, ketchup, relish, and chopped onions. These skewers are easy to make and always a hit with guests of all ages.
Loaded Campfire Nachos
Loaded campfire nachos are perfect for sharing and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Layer tortilla chips with cheese, black beans, jalapeños, and diced tomatoes in a cast-iron skillet. Place the skillet on the grill and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Top with sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro for a crowd-pleasing dish.
Comfort Food and Baked Goodies
Comfort food and baked goodies add warmth and satisfaction to any cookout. These dishes are rich, hearty, and guaranteed to be crowd-pleasers.
Baked Beans
Baked beans are a classic cookout side dish with a rich, savory flavor. Start by sautéing onions and garlic until they are soft and fragrant. Add canned beans, ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, and mustard to the pot. Simmer on low heat until the sauce is thick and the beans are tender. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors makes these beans a perfect companion to grilled meats.
Spicy Creamed Corn Crumble
Spicy creamed corn crumble offers a delightful twist on traditional creamed corn. Combine fresh corn kernels with cream, butter, and diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with a crumbly mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Bake until the top is golden and the corn is bubbling. This dish combines creamy, spicy, and crunchy elements for a truly satisfying side.
Oven-Baked BBQ Ribs
Oven-baked BBQ ribs are tender and full of flavor. Rub pork ribs with a blend of spices and bake them slowly in the oven until they are fall-off-the-bone tender. Finish them on the grill with a generous coating of barbecue sauce to achieve a smoky, caramelized crust. These ribs are a highlight of any cookout, offering a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors.
Brown Sugar BBQ Chicken
Brown sugar BBQ chicken is sweet, tangy, and incredibly delicious. Marinate chicken pieces in a mixture of brown sugar, barbecue sauce, garlic, and spices. Bake the chicken until it’s cooked through and the sauce is sticky and caramelized. This chicken is a favorite for both kids and adults, making it a versatile addition to your cookout menu.
Loaded Campfire Nachos
Loaded campfire nachos are a fun and interactive dish that everyone can enjoy. Layer tortilla chips with a variety of toppings like cheese, black beans, jalapeños, and diced tomatoes in a cast-iron skillet. Place the skillet on the grill and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Finish with sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro. These nachos are perfect for sharing and can be customized to suit everyone’s taste.
Specialty Sandwiches and Wraps
Specialty sandwiches and wraps are a great addition to any cookout, offering a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a variety of flavors. These recipes are easy to prepare and perfect for both kids and adults.
Cookout Chicken Sandwich (Char-Grilled Breast)
The Cookout chicken sandwich is a classic choice. Start with a char-grilled chicken breast seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices. Serve it on a toasted bun with crisp lettuce, ripe tomato slices, and a dollop of mayo. For added flavor, include pickles or a slice of cheese. This sandwich is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a cookout.
Cookout Chicken Wraps Menu
Chicken wraps are versatile and easy to customize. Use grilled chicken strips as the base, then add a variety of fillings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, and a drizzle of ranch or Caesar dressing. Wrap everything in a large tortilla and grill lightly to warm the wrap and meld the flavors. These wraps are convenient to eat and can be made to suit different tastes.
Home Made Char-Grilled Hamburgers
Homemade char-grilled hamburgers are a cookout favorite. Start with ground beef seasoned with salt, pepper, and a bit of Worcestershire sauce. Form into patties and grill until they reach the desired level of doneness. Serve on toasted buns with classic toppings like cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles. Offer a variety of condiments such as ketchup, mustard, and mayo to allow guests to customize their burgers.
Crispy & Spicy Chicken Breast Fillet
For a spicy twist, try crispy chicken breast fillets. Marinate chicken breasts in a mix of buttermilk and hot sauce, then coat in seasoned flour and fry until crispy. Serve on a bun with spicy mayo, lettuce, and pickles. The combination of crispy coating and tender chicken makes this sandwich a standout choice.
Home Made Style Chicken Strips
Chicken strips are a crowd-pleaser, especially for younger guests. Cut chicken breasts into strips, coat in seasoned breadcrumbs, and bake or fry until golden and crispy. Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ, and ranch. These strips are easy to eat and perfect for sharing.
Conclusion
A successful cookout brings together friends, family, and fantastic food. With a wide variety of dishes, from hearty main courses to delicious vegetarian options and refreshing salads, your guests will enjoy every bite. Add in some fun grilled and skewered delights, comforting sides, and specialty sandwiches to make your gathering memorable. These recipes and ideas will help you create an enjoyable and flavorful cookout experience for everyone. Happy grilling!
FAQs
What are some easy-to-prepare main dishes for a cookout?
Grilled beer brats, beer can burgers, and oven-baked BBQ ribs are all delicious and straightforward options that can be prepared with minimal effort.
2. Can you suggest some vegetarian options for a cookout?
Grilled teriyaki cauliflower steaks, carnitas jackfruit tacos, and smoky mushroom skewers are flavorful vegetarian dishes that everyone will enjoy.
3. What are some popular side dishes for a cookout?
Classic coleslaw, Hawaiian macaroni salad, and blistered summer squash salad are great choices that complement main dishes well.
4. How can I make my cookout menu more diverse?
Include a mix of grilled and skewered items like steak kebab bowls and campfire hot dog skewers, along with specialty sandwiches such as crispy chicken breast fillet sandwiches and homemade char-grilled hamburgers.
5. What desserts and drinks should I serve at a cookout?
Consider offering a variety of frozen treats like ice cream, specialty sundaes, indulgent shakes, and classic scoops, along with refreshing drinks and floats to keep guests cool and satisfied.
