As the sun shines bright this summer, it’s time to fire up the grill and get cooking! Nothing beats the taste of a perfectly charred meal on a warm day. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just looking for some quick and easy dinner inspiration, we’ve got you covered with our top 18 flavor-packed recipes perfect for summer grilling.
From classic pulled pork sandwiches to spicy grilled chicken wings, smoky bacon-wrapped hot dogs, and even sweet treats like grilled peach and prosciutto flatbread, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab your apron, don your sunglasses, and get ready to sizzle your way through the summer season with these mouth-watering cook out recipes.
Classic BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready to savor the sweet and tangy flavors of slow-cooked pulled pork on a soft bun, slathered with your favorite barbecue sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice of style)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours, or until tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in barbecue sauce until well coated.
6. Split hamburger buns in half and toast on the grill or under broiler.
7. Assemble sandwiches by spooning pulled pork onto the buns and topping with coleslaw or pickles, if desired.
Cook Time: 8-10 hours
Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers
Brighten up your summer gatherings with these flavorful and easy-to-make shrimp skewers infused with the zesty goodness of lemon and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the shrimp with the lemon-garlic mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs
Elevate your hot dog game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the smokiness of bacon with the snap of a juicy hot dog. Perfect for backyard barbecues, picnics, or just a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 hot dogs
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: ketchup, mustard, relish, chili, cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Wrap each hot dog with 1-2 slices of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and smoked paprika.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto the bacon-wrapped hot dogs.
5. Place hot dogs on grill or grill pan and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until bacon is crispy and hot dog is heated through.
6. Serve with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Grilled Chicken Wings
Add a kick to your snack game with these spicy grilled chicken wings! This recipe combines the classic flavors of buffalo wings with a sweet and tangy twist, making it perfect for game days or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together hot sauce, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Add chicken wings and toss to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken wings for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through, turning every 5-7 minutes.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the sweetness of cornbread with the spiciness of jalapeños and the creaminess of cheddar cheese. Perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter. Add chopped jalapeños and stir to combine.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in cheddar cheese.
- Spoon batter into lined muffin tin and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Burgers
Elevate your burger game with this unique recipe that combines the sweetness of grilled pineapple with the savory flavors of teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 oz ground beef
– 1 ripe pineapple, sliced into wedges
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef with salt and pepper. Form into 4 patties.
3. Grill burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, brush pineapple wedges with teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
5. Grill pineapple slices for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
6. Assemble burgers by placing a cooked patty on each bun, topping with grilled pineapple, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and any other desired toppings.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob
Elevate your summer BBQ with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of corn with the richness of garlic butter. Perfect for a quick dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika, chili powder, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Place the corn on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, or until slightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with additional seasonings if desired.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tangy Carolina-Style Coleslaw
This classic Southern-style coleslaw gets its signature tanginess from a combination of vinegar and mayonnaise, perfectly balancing the crunch of shredded cabbage and carrots. Perfect as a side dish for BBQs or picnics!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! This slaw is ready in no time.
Sweet and Sticky BBQ Ribs
Sweet and Sticky BBQ Ribs Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with these tender, flavorful ribs smothered in a sweet and sticky BBQ glaze! This recipe is perfect for a summer cookout or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs and place in a large baking dish.
4. Brush both sides of the ribs with the sweet and sticky glaze.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove foil and brush the ribs with BBQ sauce.
7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until caramelized.
8. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Grilled Veggie Foil Packets
Grilled Veggie Foil Packets: A Quick and Easy Recipe for a Delicious Summer Meal
Ingredients:
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced into strips
– 1 large zucchini, sliced into rounds
– 1 large yellow squash, sliced into slices
– 1 large red onion, sliced into wedges
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your choice of herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large piece of aluminum foil, create a packet by placing a few slices of bell pepper, zucchini, squash, and onion in the center.
3. Add 1 clove of garlic and 1 tablespoon of olive oil on top of the vegetables.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fold the foil over the ingredients, creating a sealed packet.
6. Place the packet on the grill and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Remove from heat and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Salad
Elevate your potato salad game with this loaded baked potato-inspired recipe, featuring crispy bacon, tangy cheddar, and sweet caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized baking potatoes
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let cool, then slice in half lengthwise and scoop out flesh.
4. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Add crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and caramelized onions to the mixture; stir until combined.
6. Fold in scooped-out potato flesh until well coated with the dressing.
7. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (including baking time)
Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your grilling game with this sweet and tangy recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ. The combination of honey, mustard, and herbs creates a flavorful glaze that complements the natural taste of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
5. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Smoked Sausage and Peppers Skillet
A hearty one-pan wonder that combines the smoky flavor of sausage with sweet bell peppers, perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 4 eggs, beaten (for a breakfast or brunch version)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the peppers and onion to the skillet; cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the peppers and onions.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired (and top with beaten eggs for a breakfast or brunch version).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fire-Roasted Salsa with Tortilla Chips
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this simple recipe that combines roasted vegetables and spicy heat. Perfect for a quick snack or as an accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Salt, to taste
– Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
– Tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place bell peppers and onion on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
3. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted vegetables, garlic, jalapeño, diced tomatoes, and cilantro. Blend until coarsely chopped.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve warm with tortilla chips and a squeeze of lime juice (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Grilled Peach and Prosciutto Flatbread
Elevate your summer gatherings with this sweet and savory flatbread, featuring grilled peaches and crispy prosciutto. Perfect as an appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe peach, sliced into wedges
– 6 slices of prosciutto, thinly cut
– 1 ball of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Place on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
3. Brush peach slices with olive oil; season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill peaches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, cook prosciutto slices in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
6. Assemble flatbread by spreading a layer of peach slices, followed by prosciutto, and finishing with fresh basil leaves.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chili-Lime Grilled Shrimp Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this bold and zesty recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 8 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, chili powder, and olive oil. Add shrimp and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating on the grill for a few minutes.
5. Assemble tacos by placing grilled shrimp onto warmed tortillas, topping with sliced onion and your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Campfire Queso Dip with Chorizo
Elevate your campfire gatherings with this spicy and savory queso dip, infused with the bold flavors of chorizo. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a camping trip or outdoor adventure.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup half-and-half
– 1/4 cup diced chorizo sausage
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced chorizo and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove the chorizo from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the shredded cheese to the same pan and stir until melted and smooth.
5. Gradually add the half-and-half, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
6. Add the cooked chorizo back into the queso mixture and stir to combine.
7. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Watermelon and Feta Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the natural sweetness of grilled watermelon with the tanginess of crumbled feta cheese, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe watermelons
– 1 block of feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the watermelon into 1-inch thick slices and brush with olive oil.
3. Grill the watermelon for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
4. In a small bowl, mix together crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh mint leaves.
5. Arrange the grilled watermelon slices on a serving plate, top with the feta-mint mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a sizzling summer with these 18 flavorful cook out recipes! From classic BBQ pulled pork sandwiches to smoky bacon-wrapped hot dogs, and from spicy grilled chicken wings to sweet and sticky BBQ ribs, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include garlic butter grilled corn on the cob, tangy Carolina-style coleslaw, and loaded baked potato salad. Whether you’re firing up the grill or enjoying a campfire cookout, these recipes are sure to please.
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