51 bold BBQ recipes so good you won’t settle for ordinary cookouts

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Get ready to fire up those grills and embrace the sizzle of summer with this handpicked collection of cookout recipes. From juicy burgers to mouthwatering sides, refreshing salads to delectable desserts, this blog post is your ultimate guide to creating unforgettable outdoor feasts. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or simply looking to elevate your grilling game, these recipes are here to make your cookouts truly sensational.

Smoked jalapeno poppers on a platter.
Smoked Pork Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers. Photo Credit: Cook What You Love

Watermelon Mojito

Watermelon Mojitos with their ingredients.
Watermelon Mojito. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Beat the summer heat at your cookout with a refreshing Watermelon Mojito! This delicious cocktail combines the sweetness of fresh watermelon with the bright flavors of mint, lime and rum.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Mojito

Caprese Salad Skewers

caprese skewers on a silver tray.
Caprese Salad Skewers. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Serve up a classic summer dish in a fun and portable way with these Caprese Salad Skewers. The combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic vinegar works perfectly as an appetizer or side dish for any cookout.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Salad Skewers

Cold Brew Iced Tea

lemons garnishing a glass of ice tea next to a mason jar pitcher of tea.
Cold Brew Iced Tea. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Make this Refreshing Cold Brew Iced Tea recipe and enjoy the smooth and refreshing flavors of homemade iced tea that will keep your barbecue guests cool all day. Serve it with lemons or fresh berries for a tasty libation.
Get the Recipe: Cold Brew Iced Tea

Bacon, Fig & Goat Cheese Crostini

Fig and goat cheese crostini on a white tray.
Bacon, Fig & Goat Cheese Crostini. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Impress your cookout guests with this delicious and elegant Bacon, Fig & Goat Cheese Crostini. The combination of crispy bacon, sweet figs, and creamy goat cheese will surely wow everyone at your summer gathering.
Get the Recipe: Bacon, Fig & Goat Cheese Crostini

Blueberry Lemonade

Two glasses of blueberry lemonade garnished with lemon, blueberries and herbs.
Blueberry Lemonade. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Fresh and bright, Blueberry Lemonade is the ultimate refreshing drink for summer barbecues, cookouts, parties and lemonade stands. Make it with fresh berries and lemons for the most flavorful drink.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Lemonade

Beer Cheese Dip

Soft pretzels next to a bowl of beer cheese dip and two beers in bottles.
Beer Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Take your cookout appetizers to the next level with this easy and delicious beer cheese dip. Serve it with pretzels or bread for a crowd-pleasing bowl of cheesy goodness that will disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Beer Cheese Dip

Chorizo Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

Chorizo Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with green flags.
Chorizo Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates. Photo Credit: Feast And West.

Sweet and salty, these Chorizo Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates are a crowd favorite. The combination of chorizo, bacon and dates creates a flavor explosion that will keep your guests coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Chorizo Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Shrimp skewers on a plate with lemon wedges.
Shrimp skewers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes

These mouth-watering grilled shrimp skewers will satisfy seafood cravings at your summer cookout. The shrimp’s crispy exterior and juicy interior create a delightful texture, making them a perfect choice for outdoor grilling.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Arnold Palmer

An arnold palmer drink on a white background.
Iced Tea Lemonade. Photo credit: Feast + West.

No cookout is complete without an Arnold Palmer, a classic combination of iced tea and lemonade. It’s a refreshing drink that can be enjoyed by anyone of any age.
Get the Recipe: Arnold Palmer

Air Fryer Chicken Wings

a basket of glazed chicken wings with a glass bowl of ranch sauce.
Air Fryer Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Serve up crispy and flavorful chicken wings at your cookout — without taking up space on the grill. These air fryer chicken wings are perfect for a party snack, and you can customize them with your favorite dipping sauces and veggie snacks.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Dirty Shirley Cocktail

Two dirty Shirley Temple cocktails with a jigger, a spoon and a jar of maraschino cherries.
Dirty Shirley Cocktail. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Add a nostalgic twist to your summer cookouts with a Dirty Shirley. This adult version of the classic Shirley Temple drink is full of flavor and will bring back fond memories. Of course, serve non-alcoholic Shirley Temples to the kiddos.
Get the Recipe: Dirty Shirley Cocktail

Lemon Drop Cookies

Lemon cookies on a silver cooling rack with lemons around it.
Lemon Drop Cookies. Photo Credit: Feast+West.

Indulge in summer’s bright and zesty flavors with these Lemon Drop Cookies. Covered in a tangy glaze, they are like a burst of lemonade in every bite. They are the perfect cookie to bring to a potluck or cookout!
Get the Recipe: Lemon Drop Cookies

Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri

Two frozen strawberry daiquiris on a gold tray.
Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Frozen Strawberry Daiquiris will cool you down on the hottest summer day. They will beckon anyone inside to grab a cool drink before enjoying more of your cookout. Fresh berries with rum are always a beautiful match.
Get the Recipe: Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri

Queso Fundido

Queso fundido in a cast iron skillet.
Queso Fundido. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Serve up a hot and flavorful cheese dip at your cookout with this easy Queso Fundido. Perfect for taco night or a dinner party outdoors, this dip is best enjoyed warm with tortilla chips or warm tortillas.
Get the Recipe: Queso Fundido

Strawberry Rosé Sangria

a pitcher of Strawberry Rosé Sangria with fresh strawberries and ice.
Strawberry Sangria. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Elevate your summer drink game at your cookout with this easy Strawberry Rosé Sangria. Packed with fruity flavors, it’s a delightful and refreshing drink for any summery occasion.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Rosé Sangria

Corona Sunrise

two beer bottles with pink cocktails inside.
Corona Sunrise. Photo credit: Feast + West.

No one at your cookout will forget this drink! Give the classic Tequila Sunrise a bubbly twist with the Corona Sunrise. Made with orange juice, tequila, Mexican lager beer and grenadine syrup, it’s a unique and flavorful cocktail that beer lovers and tequila lovers alike will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Corona Sunrise

Jalapeño Mule

A jalapeño Moscow mule in a black and copper mug.
Jalapeño Mule. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Spice up your summer cookouts with a round of jalapeño mules. The combination of spicy jalapeño tequila and spiced ginger beer delivers a one-two punch of heat and sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Mule

Peach Salsa

A bowl of peach salsa with a chip in the bowl, surrounded by cilantro, peaches and chips.
Peach Salsa. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Take advantage of summer’s bounty with this fresh and flavorful peach salsa that’s a lovely addition to any cookout menu. Made with juicy peaches, tomatoes, and peppers, it’s the perfect appetizer or topping for grilled dishes.
Get the Recipe: Peach Salsa

Tuscan White Bean Dip

A teal towel, plate of bread and a tomato lie next to a black bowl of tuscan white bean dip.
Tuscan White Bean Dip. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Impress your BBQ guests with this creamy and flavorful Tuscan White Bean Dip. Made with cannellini beans, garlic, fresh herbs and olive oil, it’s a delicious and healthy appetizer that pairs well with crusty bread or crispy crackers.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan White Bean Dip

Margarita Jello Shots

Jello shots in clear cups with a lime candy on top.
Margarita Jell-O Shots. Photo credit: Feast + West.

These tequila-infused Jell-O shots with fresh lime juice would be a fun addition to any outdoor BBQ. Guests will love the boozy twist on a classic treat and the optional salt or sugar rim adds a customizable touch.
Get the Recipe: Margarita Jello Shots

S’mores Rice Krispie Treats

S'mores Rice Krispie Treats
S’mores Rice Krispie Treats. Photo Credit: Feast and West.

These S’mores Rice Krispie Treats are easy to make, require no baking and combine the deliciousness of chocolate, graham crackers and toasted marshmallows into one delightful dessert. Perfect for summer cookouts where you want to capture the essence of the campfire treat, but don’t want to start a fire.
Get the Recipe: S’mores Rice Krispie Treats

Peach Whiskey Smash

peaches and a peach whiskey smash and syrup.
Peach Whiskey Smash. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Fresh peach simple syrup and your favorite bourbon create a refreshing Peach Whiskey Smash. This fruity and summery libation is perfect for hot summer cookouts and will be a hit among whiskey lovers and cocktail enthusiasts.
Get the Recipe: Peach Whiskey Smash

Skillet Blueberry Cake

Skillet Blueberry Coffee Cake in.a cast iron skillet with a blue and white striped kitchen towel.
Skillet Blueberry Cake. Photo credit: Feast + West.

This one-bowl Skillet Blueberry Cake makes for a delicious dessert to end a cookout. It’s a simple and delicious summer treat showcasing fresh blueberries. With minimal cleanup required, it’s a convenient choice for those anyone wanting to whip up a memorable treat without much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Blueberry Cake

Prosecco Popsicles

Prosecco popsicles with strawberries and blueberries on a white ceramic tray next to bowls of fresh berries.
Prosecco Popsicles. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Add a touch of elegance and patriotism to your summer cookouts with Prosecco Popsicles. These treats, made with frozen bubbly and berries, are both adorable and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Prosecco Popsicles

Marinated Cheese

Marinated Cheese.
Marinated Cheese. Photo credit: Feast and West.

Elevate your cookout’s appetizer game with Marinated Cheese. Layered with two kinds of cheese, herbs and pimento peppers, this make-ahead dish is bursting with flavor. When served with crackers or bread, it becomes the star of any party.
Get the Recipe: Marinated Cheese

Ranch Water

Tajín seasoning on the rim of a cocktail next to a bottle of topo chico soda.
Ranch Water. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Everyone at your cookout will stay refreshed with a light, low-carb tequila cocktail called Ranch Water. Made with just lime juice, tequila and sparkling water, it’s a perfect substitute for traditional margaritas. Its simplicity and refreshing taste make it a must-try for summer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Ranch Water

Spinach Artichoke Dip

A cheese covered dip sits next to crackers.
Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Whip up a crowd-pleasing appetizer in just 30 minutes with this easy, hot Spinach Artichoke Dip. With only five ingredients, it’s a go-to recipe for last-minute get-togethers. Your cookout’s guests will love the creamy, cheesy, savory combination that makes this dip a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

Watermelon Mimosas

two watermelon mimosas on black coasters
Watermelon Mimosas. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Celebrate summer with Watermelon Mimosas. These vibrant and bubbly cocktails combine the refreshing flavors of watermelon with the classic mimosa. The result is a colorful and fruity beverage that perfectly complements grilled deliciousness at any summer barbecue.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Mimosas

Popcorn Shrimp

Popcorn shrimp.
Photo credit: Feast and West

Enhance your summer cookouts with the addition of homemade Popcorn Shrimp. These bite-sized delights bring a delightful crunch to the appetizer table or on the side of steak for a surf & turf combination. They’re sure to level up your outdoor gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Popcorn Shrimp

Michelada

beer bottles, rim salt and hot sauce with a michelada cocktail.
Michelada. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Embrace the savory and salty goodness of a Mexican beer cocktail called Michelada. It’s a unique and delicious beverage choice similar to a Bloody Mary but made with lager beer, and it pairs perfectly with anything grilled.
Get the Recipe: Michelada

Limoncello lemonade

two lemonades with limoncello in glasses with gold writing on them, next to lemons and a gold jigger.
Limoncello Lemonade. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Combine zesty Italian limoncello with homemade lemonade for a refreshing tart sipper at your cookout. Limoncello Lemonade is an ice-cold glass of sweet-tart goodness and is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of lemons on a hot summer day.
Get the Recipe: Limoncello lemonade

Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Keto Broccoli Salad with Bacon inside wooden bowl.
Low Carb Broccoli Salad with Bacon. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Enjoy a hearty and low-carb summer salad with Broccoli Salad with Bacon. Packed with flavor from crispy bacon and blueberries, this cold salad is perfect for potlucks or gatherings. It’s a nutrient-rich and satisfying option suitable for the side dish table.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Blackened Cod Tacos

Three blackened cod tacos on a peach tile background.
Blackened Cod Tacos. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Spice up your weekend cookouts with these smoky and savory Blackened Cod Tacos. With charred tortillas, fresh lime juice and a flavorful combination of spices, these tacos are an easy and delicious choice for seafood lovers.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Cod Tacos

Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole

Chicken casserole with baked cheese inside a white dish.
Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Indulge in the creamy and flavorful Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole. Loaded with bacon, broccoli and ranch seasoning, this one-pot side dish is a hit with any cookout. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a go-to option for busy summer days.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole

Blackberry Mojito

Two mojitos made with blackberries sit side by side next to a bowl of whole berries.
Blackberry Mojito. Photo credit: Feast + West.

A colorful and refreshing Blackberry Mojito is the perfect way to beat the heat. Made with fresh mint, blackberries, lime juice and rum, it’s an excellent cocktail for enjoying the warm weather and good company.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Mojito

Grilled Steak Kabobs

Steak Kabobs on a grill.
Steak Kabobs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Become the grill master with these mouthwatering Grilled Steak Kabobs. The combination of marinated steak and colorful veggies results in a delicious main dish that everyone will love. The juicy steak and charred vegetables provide a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak Kabobs

Seafood Pasta Salad

Seafood pasta salad in white serving bowl.
Seafood Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes

Beat the summer heat with a refreshing Seafood Pasta Salad. This light and flavorful dish combines shrimp, crab and pasta in a creamy dressing. It’s a perfect option for seafood enthusiasts and those seeking a refreshing salad for summer cookouts.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad

Raspberry Peach Bars

Peach raspberry bars cut in squares.
Peach Raspberry Bars. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Capture the essence of summer with the perfect dessert: Raspberry Peach Bars. These buttery and fruity dessert bars feature the sweetness and vibrancy of fresh raspberries and peaches. They’re a delightful and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for cookouts and showcases the best summer fruits.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Peach Bars

Bacon-Wrapped Pork-Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers

Smoked jalapeno poppers on a platter.
Smoked Pork Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers. Photo Credit: Cook What You Love

Treat your backyard barbecue guests to the irresistible flavors of Bacon-Wrapped Pork-Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers. These bite-sized wonders are packed with smoky and spicy goodness. The combination of pork, cheese and bacon is a crowd-pleasing appetizer choice for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pork-Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers

Fajita Burgers

A burger topped with peppers and onions with guacamole.
Fajita Burgers. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Spice up your burger game with sizzling Fajita Burgers. Infused with smoky spices and topped with grilled onions and peppers, these burgers combine the best of bold, juicy beef and zesty fajita flavors. They’re perfect for those looking to jazz up a cookout.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Burgers

Grilled Chile Lime Chicken

Grilled and sliced chile lime chicken on a white plate.
Grilled Chile Lime Chicken. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Enjoy a flavorful and easy-to-make Grilled Chile Lime Chicken. The combination of lime, chile and sea salt enhances already juicy and tender grilled chicken. It’s a perfect summer dinner option that will satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chile Lime Chicken

Mexican Macaroni Salad

Mexican Macaroni Salad in a bowl.
Mexican Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Add a flavorful twist to your summer potlucks and cookout gatherings with Mexican Macaroni Salad. This delicious pasta salad features chopped vegetables and a taco seasoning dressing, pleasing both Mexican food enthusiasts and pasta lovers.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Macaroni Salad

Mixed Pickles

Mixed pickles in a glass jar.
Mixed Pickles. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Transform your garden vegetables into bright and tangy pickles with Quick Mixed Pickles. With just a few minutes of preparation, you’ll have a vibrant and flavorful addition to your summer burgers at your cookouts.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Pickles

Cowboy Caviar

Texas caviar on a tortilla chip.
Texas Caviar. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Infuse your cookouts with Southwestern flair by serving Cowboy Caviar. It can be either a side salad or a dip, combining black-eyed peas, colorful veggies and zesty dressing to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. It’s a perfect accompaniment to chips and an excellent choice for a vibrant and refreshing salad option.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Caviar

Grilled Corn On The Cob

A pan filled with ears of grilled corn.
Grilled Corn. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Enhance your grilling experience with Grilled Corn On The Cob. Grill fresh corn in the husks for a weekend treat that captures the essence of summer. It’s a must-try for corn lovers and an easy addition to any cookout menu.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn On The Cob

Peach Salmon Skewers with Peach Jalapeño Crema

Side view of salmon skewers with more in background.
Peach Salmon Skewers with Peach Jalapeño Crema. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Infuse your summer cookout with vibrant flavors by serving these Peach Salmon Skewers. The juicy peaches complement the succulent salmon, while the zesty kick of the peach jalapeño crema adds an extra layer of excitement. Your guests will love the burst of freshness and the combination of sweet and spicy flavors.
Get the Recipe: Peach Salmon Skewers with Peach Jalapeno Crema

Grilled Feta with Herbs

Grilled Feta with Herbs in a black serving dish with toasted bread and a lemon wedge.
Grilled Feta with Herbs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Impress your cookout guests with this simple yet flavorful appetizer of grilled feta with herbs. Fresh herbs and a zing of lemon take the creamy feta cheese up a serious notch. This dish is a surefire hit at summer cookouts, offering a unique twist on traditional cheese appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Feta with Herbs

Bacon Ranch Cream Cheese Dip

Keto Crack Dip with veggies.
Keto Crack Dip. Photo Credit: Primal Edge health.

Indulge in the ultimate summer appetizer with this creamy and flavorful Bacon Ranch Cream Cheese Dip. The combination of crispy bacon, zesty ranch seasoning and smooth cream cheese creates a crowd-pleasing dip that is ideal for poolside gatherings and backyard barbecues, your guests will finish this dip in no time.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Cream Cheese Dip

Bacon Deviled Eggs

Bacon deviled eggs in a red platter.
Bacon deviled eggs. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Take your deviled eggs to the next level with these Bacon Deviled Eggs. Upgraded deviled eggs, thanks to the addition of crispy bacon, are a smooth and creamy appetizer with a hint of saltiness that’s ideal for any summer barbecue.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Deviled Eggs

Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

A hand holding a slice of cucumber topped with taco dip with cream cheese.
Taco Dip with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Whip up this easy meatless appetizer, Taco Dip with Cream Cheese, in just 15 minutes and watch it become a total crowd-pleaser at your summer gatherings. The creamy texture and flavorful blend of ingredients make it a perfect dish for parties and summer cookouts.
Get the Recipe: Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

Baked Ricotta Cheese with Lemon and Herbs

Baked ricotta dip in a blue bowl with herbs and lemon slice.
Baked Ricotta. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Create a refreshing summertime appetizer in minutes with this creamy Baked Ricotta Cheese with Lemon and Herbs. The combination of smooth ricotta cheese, zesty lemon and aromatic herbs makes it a perfect choice for pairing with bread, crackers or even fruit and olives. This versatile dish will add a touch of elegance to your summer cookouts and is sure to impress your guests.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ricotta Cheese with Lemon and Herbs

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