19 Cookout Classics That Outshine the Burgers

Save For Later

Crockpot Baked Beans

These sweet, spicy, and smoky baked beans are the ultimate side dish for any summer cookout or backyard barbecue. Slow-cooked in the crockpot, they develop deep, rich flavors that get better with every hour of simmering. The combination of brown sugar, tangy spices, and a hint of smokiness creates a perfectly balanced bite that's both comforting and bold. They’re incredibly easy to make—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let the flavors meld together. Once you try them, you’ll want to bring these beans to every potluck, picnic, and family gathering.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Baked Beans

Grilled Garlic Lime Chicken with Cilantro Crema

This grilled chicken with cilantro crema is the kind of fresh, flavorful meal that makes summer dinners feel extra special. The chicken is marinated until it's incredibly juicy, then grilled to perfection for that smoky charred goodness we all love. Paired with a cool and creamy cilantro crema that’s both tangy and herbaceous, every bite is bursting with flavor. It’s a dish that feels light yet satisfying, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual backyard cookouts. Whether you're serving it with rice, tucked into tacos, or over a crisp salad, this recipe is sure to be a warm-weather favorite.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Garlic Lime Chicken with Cilantro Crema

Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

These teriyaki chicken kabobs are a delicious way to bring bold flavor to your next backyard barbecue or casual family dinner. Marinated in a rich, savory-sweet teriyaki sauce, the chicken turns out incredibly tender and packed with mouthwatering taste in every bite. Threaded with colorful veggies and grilled to perfection, they’re as visually appealing as they are satisfying. Best of all, they’re easy to prepare ahead of time, making them a stress-free option for entertaining or weeknight meals. Whether you're firing up the grill for summer or just craving something flavorful and fun, these kabobs are sure to be a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Korean Kimchi Chicken

Bring the bold, irresistible flavors of Korean BBQ into your own kitchen with this mouthwatering kimchi chicken recipe. Tender chicken thighs are marinated in a deeply savory blend of kimchi, gochujang, soy sauce, and a hint of garlic, letting the bold and spicy flavors soak in. As the chicken grills, it’s basted with a rich, sticky sauce that caramelizes beautifully, creating a deliciously charred exterior with juicy, flavorful meat inside. The result is a dish that’s smoky, spicy, tangy, and just a little sweet—everything you crave in Korean-style barbecue. Whether you're firing up the grill for a summer get-together or looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe is a surefire hit.
Get the Recipe: Korean Kimchi Chicken

Instant Pot Brats

These Instant Pot brats are a game-changer when it comes to quick, delicious meals with minimal cleanup. Each brat is first browned to lock in that savory flavor, then pressure-cooked in beer to make them incredibly juicy and tender. The result is a rich, mouthwatering bite that tastes like it’s been slow-cooked or grilled, without any of the hassle. Whether you're planning a laid-back summer cookout or need something hearty on a busy weeknight, this one-pot method delivers every time. It’s an easy, foolproof way to enjoy bratwursts at their best.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Brats

Quinoa Vegetable Summer Salad

This Quinoa Vegetable Summer Salad is the ultimate warm-weather dish—light, colorful, and packed with fresh flavor. Loaded with crisp veggies, fluffy quinoa, and tossed in a zesty vinaigrette, it strikes the perfect balance between wholesome and satisfying. Every bite delivers a mix of textures and bright, tangy notes that make it just as good on its own as it is next to something hot off the grill. Plus, it comes together in just 15 minutes, which means you can whip it up anytime without turning on the stove for long. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just need a quick, feel-good lunch, this salad is an easy win for summer meals.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Vegetable Summer Salad

Mexican Street Corn Totchos

Crispy tater tots get a bold, flavorful upgrade in this irresistible side dish. They're loaded with the zesty goodness of Mexican street corn, melty cheese, and a kick of heat from sliced jalapeños. The combination of creamy, cheesy, and spicy elements makes every bite satisfying and crave-worthy. Whether you're serving up holiday ham or a weeknight main, this dish adds a fun and flavorful twist that’s sure to be a hit at the table.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Totchos

Grilled Chicken Thighs

Grilled Chicken Thighs are a go-to favorite when you want something easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to please a crowd. These juicy cuts are marinated in a bold blend of spices that infuse every bite with mouthwatering flavor, then grilled until perfectly charred on the outside and tender on the inside. They’re incredibly simple to prepare, yet feel like a special treat whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or just making dinner on a busy weeknight. Versatile and satisfying, these chicken thighs pair well with just about any side—from crisp salads to buttery corn on the cob. Once you try them, they might just become your new grilling staple.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Thighs

Grilled Bison Ribeye Steaks

Fire up the grill and treat your guests to something a little different with these fresh bison ribeye steaks. Naturally lean yet incredibly tender, bison offers a rich, juicy flavor that stands out from traditional beef. Each steak is generously seasoned with a bold blend of sea salt, red pepper flakes, and mustard seeds, creating a subtle heat and earthy depth that enhances the meat’s natural taste. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or planning a special dinner, these bison steaks bring a rustic, gourmet twist to the table. It's a flavorful, crowd-pleasing upgrade to the classic steak dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bison Ribeye Steaks

No Bake Strawberry Jello Pie

This Strawberry Jello Pie is a refreshingly sweet dessert that's as easy to make as it is to enjoy. With just a handful of ingredients, it comes together quickly, making it the perfect choice for last-minute gatherings, summer picnics, family potlucks, or casual cookouts. Each slice is packed with bright, fruity flavor and a smooth, jiggly texture that both kids and adults will love. Whether you're hosting a party or just craving something simple and satisfying, this crowd-pleasing pie is sure to hit the spot. Plus, its vibrant red color and fresh strawberry taste make it a cheerful addition to any dessert table.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Strawberry Jello Pie

Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter

There’s something undeniably satisfying about the bold, smoky flavor you get from cooking steaks low and slow in a smoker. As the meat gently cooks, it becomes incredibly tender while soaking up layers of rich, woodsy aroma that make every bite unforgettable. Just when you think it can’t get any better, these steaks are finished with a sizzling reverse sear and a generous scoop of smoked garlic butter that melts into every crevice, infusing them with a luxurious, savory richness. That buttery, garlicky finish is so good, you’ll want to slather it on everything from grilled veggies to crusty bread. These Smoked Reverse-Seared Steaks don’t just taste amazing—they’re the kind of dish that turns a backyard cookout into a gourmet experience.
Get the Recipe: Reverse Seared Smoked Steaks with Smoked Garlic Butter

Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters - Crispy BBQ Glazed

Fire up the grill and get ready for a flavorful feast with these succulent grilled chicken quarters. Each piece is marinated in a savory blend of herbs, spices, and olive oil, allowing the flavors to soak deep into the meat for maximum juiciness and taste. As they grill, the skin crisps up beautifully while the inside stays incredibly tender, creating that perfect balance of texture and flavor. Whether you're hosting a summer cookout or just need a no-fuss weeknight dinner, this easy recipe delivers a mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing meal every time. It's the kind of dish that keeps people hovering around the grill, eagerly waiting for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters - Crispy BBQ Glazed

Pan-Fried Sockeye Salmon Recipe

Delight your guests at the next cookout with this irresistible pan-fried sockeye salmon. With its beautifully crisp skin and tender, juicy flesh, it delivers a perfect balance of texture and flavor that’s hard to beat. The rich, buttery taste of the salmon pairs effortlessly with a variety of sides, making it an impressive centerpiece for any outdoor gathering. Whether you're hosting a casual barbecue or a more upscale affair, this dish adds a touch of elegance and gourmet flair to your menu. It's sure to be a conversation starter and a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Pan-Fried Sockeye Salmon Recipe

Charcuterie Skewers

Charcuterie skewers are a fun, flavorful twist on a traditional meat and cheese board, made portable and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're packing snacks for a day at the beach, setting out appetizers for a backyard cookout, or simply craving something savory and satisfying, these skewers are an easy go-to. Each skewer can be customized with your favorite meats, cheeses, fruits, or even olives and pickles, making them as versatile as they are delicious. They're not only a breeze to assemble, but also offer a protein-rich snack that’s both convenient and crowd-pleasing. Great for both casual gatherings and fancier events, these bite-sized treats bring charcuterie to your fingertips.
Get the Recipe: Charcuterie Skewers

Pulled Pork Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls

Pulled Pork Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls are the kind of comfort food that brings people together. Each slider is packed with juicy, slow-cooked pulled pork that's been drenched in tangy, smoky barbecue sauce, then topped with a crisp, creamy coleslaw for a perfect contrast in texture and flavor. All of that deliciousness is tucked into a soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian roll that adds just the right balance. These sliders are ideal for everything from game day gatherings to summer cookouts, and even make a fun, fuss-free dinner option during the week. They come together easily, but taste like you spent all day making them.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls

Salmon Cream Cheese Dip

This Salmon Cream Cheese Dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer that brings together smoky grilled salmon and tangy cream cheese for a truly irresistible combination. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice whether you're hosting a holiday party, planning a summer cookout, or just enjoying a cozy night in. Serve it alongside crisp veggies, crunchy crackers, or toasted bagel chips for a snack that feels both comforting and elevated. The rich, savory taste is sure to be a hit with guests and adds a touch of gourmet flair to any table. No matter the occasion, this dip is always a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Cream Cheese Dip

Easy Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers

Filipino BBQ pork skewers are a beloved street food staple, known for their rich, mouthwatering flavor that comes from a marinade blending sweet, savory, and sometimes spicy ingredients. The pork is typically cut into bite-sized pieces, soaked in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, sugar, and spices, then grilled over open flames until caramelized and slightly charred. Each skewer offers a perfect harmony of smokiness and sweetness, with tender meat that's bursting with flavor in every bite. These skewers are especially popular at family gatherings, fiestas, and summer cookouts, but they’re just as welcome on the grill any time of year. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack or served with rice and dipping sauce, they’re a delicious nod to Filipino culinary tradition.
Get the Recipe: Easy Filipino BBQ Pork Skewers

Pesto Tortellini Salad

Pesto Tortellini Salad is a deliciously bold and colorful dish that brings Mediterranean flavors to your table in the most satisfying way. This hearty pasta salad features tender, cheese-filled tortellini tossed with briny black olives, zesty capers, and sweet, chewy sun-dried tomatoes. Fresh arugula adds a peppery bite, while a generous coating of basil pesto delivers herbaceous richness and a burst of garlic and Parmesan. A squeeze of lemon juice ties everything together with a bright citrus note that balances the richness of the pesto beautifully. Whether you're hosting a summer cookout, attending a potluck, or just looking for a quick yet flavorful dinner, this dish is as versatile as it is crave-worthy.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tortellini Salad

Coleslaw Pasta Salad

This Coleslaw Pasta Salad is a cool, creamy side dish that’s perfect for sunny days and outdoor gatherings. It blends the crunchy freshness of classic coleslaw mix with tender pasta, all tossed in a tangy, flavorful dressing that ties everything together. The result is a refreshing and satisfying salad that feels both familiar and new—a fun twist on traditional macaroni salad. Whether you're bringing it to a backyard barbecue, picnic, or just enjoying it for a light lunch, this versatile dish is easy to make and even easier to customize with your favorite mix-ins like shredded cheese, chopped veggies, or bacon. It’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a go-to favorite.
Get the Recipe: Coleslaw Pasta Salad