Planning a cookout? You’re in for a treat! Cookouts are a great way to enjoy good food and company outdoors. They bring people together for a fun, relaxed meal in the fresh air.
These 30 cookout food ideas and recipes will make your next gathering a hit. From classic burgers to tasty sides and desserts, there’s something for everyone. You’ll find easy options that are sure to please your guests. Get ready to fire up the grill and serve some delicious cookout favorites.
Smoked brisket is a classic cookout favorite. You’ll need a large cut of beef brisket, salt, and pepper. Trim excess fat and rub the meat with your seasoning mix.
Prepare your smoker to 225°F using wood chips like hickory or oak. Place the brisket fat side up and let it smoke for about 1 hour per pound.
The key is patience. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 195-205°F. This can take 10-12 hours or more.
Let the brisket rest for 30 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite BBQ sauce on the side. Your guests will love the tender, smoky meat at your next cookout.
Classic cheeseburgers are a cookout staple. Start with high-quality ground beef, about 80% lean. Form patties that are slightly larger than your buns, as they’ll shrink when cooked.
Season the patties with salt and pepper just before grilling. Cook them on a hot grill for 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness. Add cheese during the last minute of cooking.
Serve your burgers on toasted buns with your favorite toppings. Lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles are popular choices. Don’t forget condiments like ketchup, mustard, and mayo.
Grilled vegetable skewers are a tasty and colorful addition to any cookout. You can use a variety of veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
To prepare, cut your vegetables into chunks and marinate them in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs for about 10 minutes. This adds extra flavor to your skewers.
Thread the marinated vegetables onto skewers, alternating colors and types for visual appeal. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F to 425°F.
Grill the skewers for about 4 minutes per side, or until you see nice grill marks and the vegetables are tender. The total cooking time is usually 8-10 minutes.
For added taste, brush the grilled skewers with a garlic herb sauce or drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette before serving. These veggie skewers are sure to be a hit at your next cookout.
Potato salad is a must-have for any cookout. You can make it creamy or tangy to suit your taste. Try using red potatoes or Yukon golds for the best texture.
Add crunch with celery and pickles. Mix in some bacon bits for extra flavor. Don’t forget herbs like dill or parsley to brighten it up.
For a twist, try roasting the potatoes first. This gives a deeper flavor. You can also make a sweet potato version for something different.
Chill your potato salad well before serving. This lets the flavors mix and tastes best cold. It goes great with burgers, hot dogs, or BBQ chicken.
Coleslaw is a must-have at any cookout. This crunchy, tangy side dish pairs well with grilled meats and sandwiches. You can make classic creamy coleslaw with mayonnaise or try a vinegar-based version for a lighter option.
Mix shredded cabbage with carrots and onions for a traditional slaw. Add apples or broccoli for extra crunch and flavor. Try an Asian-inspired slaw with sesame oil and ginger for a twist.
Make your coleslaw ahead of time and let it chill in the fridge. This allows the flavors to blend and the vegetables to soften slightly. Serve it cold for a refreshing contrast to hot grilled foods at your cookout.
Macaroni and cheese is a classic cookout favorite. You can prepare this comforting dish ahead of time and bake it on-site.
Use a mix of cheeses for the best flavor. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Gruyère work well together. Cook your pasta al dente to prevent mushiness.
For a crispy top, sprinkle breadcrumbs and extra cheese before baking. Add cooked bacon or diced jalapeños for extra flavor.
Serve your mac and cheese hot from the oven. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats and fresh salads. Your guests will love this creamy, cheesy side dish at your next cookout.
Corn on the cob is a classic cookout favorite. You can prepare it in several ways to suit your taste.
Grilling gives corn a smoky flavor. Brush the ears with olive oil and place them directly on the grill. Cook for about 15 minutes, turning every few minutes.
For a quicker option, try microwaving. Leave the corn in its husk and microwave for 2 minutes per ear. Let it cool before removing the husk and silk.
Experiment with toppings beyond butter and salt. Try chili powder, lime juice, or grated cheese for extra flavor.
Corn on the cob pairs well with many dishes. Serve it alongside grilled meats or in a fresh salsa for a tasty summer treat.
Hot dogs are a cookout classic. You can’t go wrong with a traditional hot dog on a bun with ketchup and mustard. But why not try some new toppings?
Add chili and cheese for a hearty chili cheese dog. Or go for a Chicago-style dog with pickle spears, tomato slices, and peppers.
For a fun twist, wrap your hot dogs in pretzel dough before grilling. You can also make corn dogs by dipping them in cornmeal batter.
Don’t forget great sides to go with your hot dogs. Coleslaw, pasta salad, and baked beans are tasty options. Grilled corn on the cob is another perfect pairing.
Grilled shrimp is a quick and tasty option for your cookout. You can cook them in just a few minutes per side on the grill.
Shrimp take well to many flavors. Try a chili lime marinade for a zesty kick. Or go for a garlic basil blend to keep things classic.
For easy cooking, thread shrimp onto skewers before grilling. This prevents them from falling through the grates.
Serve your grilled shrimp as an appetizer or main dish. They pair well with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also add them to tacos or pasta for a more filling meal.
BBQ ribs are a summer cookout favorite. You can make them at home without being a pit master. Start with high-quality pork or beef ribs.
Season the ribs with a dry rub of salt, pepper, and spices. Cook them low and slow for tender meat. You can use a grill, smoker, or even an oven.
Baste the ribs with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This adds flavor and creates a sticky glaze.
Serve your ribs with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or corn on the cob. Your guests will love the messy, finger-licking goodness of homemade BBQ ribs.
Deviled eggs are a classic cookout staple. To make them, start by hard-boiling eggs and slicing them in half lengthwise. Scoop out the yolks and mix them with mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings.
Get creative with your fillings. Try adding crumbled bacon, blue cheese, or hot sauce for extra flavor. You can also garnish with paprika, chives, or diced pickles.
For a twist, try frying the egg whites before filling them. This adds a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy yolk mixture.
Deviled eggs are easy to make ahead and transport. Keep them chilled until serving time to ensure food safety at your cookout.
Baked beans are a classic cookout favorite. You can make them from scratch or use canned beans as a shortcut. Start with navy beans or great northern beans as your base.
Add bacon, onions, and bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. Mix in some barbecue sauce, molasses, brown sugar, and mustard to create a sweet and tangy sauce.
Bake your beans in the oven for about an hour to let the flavors meld together. The sauce will thicken as it cooks. You can also keep them warm in a slow cooker at your cookout.
Try adding unique ingredients like apple cider vinegar or cumin to give your baked beans a special twist. Serve them hot as a hearty side dish alongside your grilled meats and other cookout foods.
Watermelon slices are a classic cookout favorite. They’re easy to prepare and perfect for hot summer days.
To serve, simply cut a whole watermelon into thick wedges. Leave the rind on for easy holding. You can chill the slices beforehand for extra refreshment.
For a twist, try grilling watermelon slices. Brush them with lime juice and honey before grilling. This brings out the fruit’s sweetness and adds a smoky flavor.
You can also sprinkle salt on watermelon slices. The salt enhances the melon’s natural sweetness. It’s a simple trick that many people enjoy.
Fruit salad is a perfect addition to any cookout. You can mix and match your favorite fruits for a refreshing treat. Try combining watermelon, strawberries, grapes, and blueberries for a colorful mix.
For added flavor, toss the fruit with a simple dressing of honey and lime juice. This will enhance the natural sweetness of the fruits. You can also add a sprinkle of mint leaves for a cool, fresh taste.
To keep your fruit salad crisp, prepare it just before serving. Cut larger fruits into bite-sized pieces for easy eating. Chill the salad in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it to your guests.
Pasta salad is a cool, refreshing dish perfect for cookouts. You can make it ahead of time and customize it with your favorite ingredients. Try using different pasta shapes like orzo, rotini, or tortellini for variety.
Add crisp veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers for crunch and color. For protein, toss in cubed cheese, salami, or cooked shrimp. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley brighten the flavors.
Choose a light dressing to coat the pasta. A simple vinaigrette or Greek yogurt-based dressing works well. Let the salad chill before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve your pasta salad as a side dish or light main course. It travels well, making it ideal for picnics and potlucks too.
BBQ chicken wings are a cookout favorite. You can make them easily at home with a few simple ingredients.
Start by marinating the wings in your favorite BBQ sauce. Let them sit for at least an hour to soak up the flavors.
Grill the wings over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes. Turn them often to prevent burning. Brush on extra sauce as they cook for a sticky, flavorful coating.
For extra crispy skin, finish the wings under the broiler for a few minutes. Serve hot with celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing on the side.
Caprese salad is a simple yet delicious Italian dish perfect for cookouts. You’ll need ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves.
Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into rounds. Arrange them on a platter, alternating tomato and cheese slices. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the slices.
Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the salad. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, you can add a dash of balsamic glaze.
This refreshing salad is best served immediately. It’s a light, summery option that pairs well with grilled meats or can stand alone as a vegetarian dish.
Guacamole and chips are a must-have at any cookout. You can make a simple guacamole by mashing ripe avocados with lime juice, salt, and diced onions.
For extra flavor, add chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or minced garlic. Serve your guacamole with crispy tortilla chips for dipping.
If you’re short on time, store-bought guacamole works too. Pair it with a variety of chip options like blue corn, multigrain, or even veggie chips for a healthier twist.
This crowd-pleasing snack is easy to prepare and perfect for outdoor gatherings. Your guests will love this classic combination of creamy guacamole and crunchy chips.
Cornbread is a classic cookout staple. It’s easy to make and goes well with many dishes. You can bake it in a cast-iron skillet for a crispy crust.
Mix flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, combine eggs, milk, and oil. Pour the wet mix into the dry and stir gently.
Pour the batter into a greased pan. Bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean when it’s done.
Serve your cornbread warm with butter. It pairs nicely with chili, BBQ chicken, or steak. You can also add corn kernels or jalapeños to the batter for extra flavor.
Buffalo cauliflower bites offer a tasty vegetarian twist on classic buffalo wings. You can easily make these at home for your next cookout.
Start by cutting a head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Coat the florets in a simple batter made from milk, flour, and spices.
Bake the coated cauliflower at 450°F for about 15-17 minutes. Toss them halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
Once baked, toss the cauliflower in buffalo sauce. You can make your own sauce or use store-bought.
Serve these spicy bites with a cool dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese dressing. They’re sure to be a hit with both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Jalapeño poppers are a spicy, cheesy delight for your cookout. You can make them easily with just a few ingredients. Start by cutting jalapeños in half and removing the seeds.
Fill each half with a mix of cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and crispy bacon bits. For extra flavor, add some garlic powder and green onions to the filling.
Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a strip of bacon. Cook them on the grill or in the oven until the bacon is crispy. The result is a tasty bite-sized appetizer that combines heat, creaminess, and crunch.
Creamy cucumber salad is a refreshing side dish perfect for cookouts. You’ll love its cool, crunchy texture and tangy flavor.
To make it, slice cucumbers thinly and mix with red onion. Combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar for the dressing. Add fresh dill, salt, and pepper to taste.
Toss the cucumbers and onions with the creamy dressing. Let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.
This salad pairs well with grilled meats and adds a light touch to any barbecue spread. It’s easy to make ahead and always a crowd-pleaser.
Tacos are a perfect addition to any cookout menu. You can set up a DIY taco bar for your guests to customize their own meals.
Offer a variety of fillings like grilled chicken, seasoned ground beef, or fish. Don’t forget vegetarian options such as black beans or grilled vegetables.
Provide soft and hard taco shells along with an array of toppings. Include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and salsa.
For a fun twist, try making walking tacos. Serve individual bags of corn chips with taco toppings so guests can eat straight from the bag.
Grilled pineapple is a tasty and easy cookout treat. Cut a fresh pineapple into 3/4-inch slices, keeping the core intact. Brush the slices with a little oil and sprinkle with salt.
Place the pineapple directly on the grill grates. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until tender and slightly charred. The heat caramelizes the fruit’s natural sugars, bringing out its sweetness.
For extra flavor, try brushing the pineapple with a glaze. Mix brown sugar with orange juice and brush it on while grilling. This adds a delicious caramel-citrus taste to the fruit.
Serve your grilled pineapple as a side dish or dessert. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be topped with ice cream for a sweet ending to your cookout.
Essential Cookout Tips
A successful cookout requires proper planning and execution. These tips will help ensure your event is safe, delicious, and enjoyable for everyone.
Safety Guidelines
Keep food safety a top priority at your cookout. Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meats and other foods. Store perishables in coolers with plenty of ice. Don’t leave food sitting out for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour if it’s over 90°F outside.
Wash your hands often, especially after handling raw meat. Use a meat thermometer to check that foods reach safe internal temperatures. Burgers should hit 160°F, chicken 165°F, and steaks 145°F for medium-rare.
Have a fire extinguisher nearby when grilling. Keep the grill away from structures and overhanging branches. Never leave a lit grill unattended.
Grilling Techniques
Preheat your grill 15-20 minutes before cooking. For gas grills, set to medium-high. For charcoal, wait until coals are covered with gray ash.
Oil your grill grates to prevent sticking. Use long-handled tools to avoid burns. Flip food only once if possible for better grill marks.
Let meats rest 5-10 minutes after grilling to keep juices inside. For extra flavor, try using wood chips or making a spice rub.
Grill vegetables in a basket or on skewers to prevent them from falling through the grates. Brush with oil and season before grilling.
Equipment Checklist
Essential tools for a cookout:
Grill and fuel (propane or charcoal)
Spatula, tongs, grill brush
Meat thermometer
Aluminum foil
Coolers for food storage
Serving platters and utensils
Plates, cups, napkins, and cutlery
Trash bags
Hand sanitizer and paper towels
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Don’t forget comfy seating, music, and games for entertainment. A pop-up tent can provide shade on hot days. Bring extra ice for drinks and to replenish coolers.
Popular Cookout Themes
Cookouts offer a great chance to try fun themes. Pick a theme that fits your taste and guests. These themes can make your cookout more exciting and memorable.
Classic American BBQ
A classic American BBQ theme is always a hit. Serve up juicy burgers and hot dogs on the grill. Add some pulled pork or brisket for extra flavor. Don’t forget the sides like coleslaw, potato salad, and baked beans.
For drinks, offer cold beer and lemonade. Decorate with red, white, and blue colors. Play some country or rock music to set the mood.
End the meal with apple pie or s’mores for a true American touch. This theme works well for holidays like July 4th or Labor Day.
Seafood Feast
A seafood cookout brings the beach to your backyard. Grill fish like salmon or tuna steaks. Make shrimp skewers or lobster tails for a fancy touch.
Serve corn on the cob and grilled veggies as sides. Make a big bowl of clam chowder. For drinks, try white wine or a citrusy cocktail.
Use blue and white decor to create a seaside vibe. Play some beach music in the background. End the meal with key lime pie for a perfect finish.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Plant-based cookouts can be just as tasty. Grill veggie burgers, portobello mushrooms, and vegetable skewers. Make a big salad with fresh summer produce.
Try grilled fruit like pineapple or peaches for a sweet touch. Serve corn on the cob and baked potatoes as filling sides. Make sure to have vegan versions of classic cookout dishes like potato salad.
For drinks, offer fruit-infused water or iced tea. Use bright, colorful decor to match the fresh theme. Play some upbeat music to keep the mood light and fun.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
