12 Summer BBQ Recipes For A Mouthwatering Weekend Menu

12 Summer BBQ Recipes For A Mouthwatering Weekend Menu – fire up the grill for these unforgettable flavors that scream summer. When the days get longer and the air turns sweet with the scent of charcoal, there’s nothing better than gathering friends and family around sizzling grill grates loaded with smoky, charred perfection. These 12 showstopping recipes take your backyard cookout from basic to brilliant, featuring everything from sticky-sweet ribs that fall off the bone to juicy burgers packed with secret ingredients.

We’ve crafted this collection to cover all your BBQ needs – crowd-pleasing mains, irresistible sides, and even grilled desserts that’ll have everyone begging for seconds. Picture platters of caramelized pineapple-glazed chicken skewers, buttery corn slathered in chili lime mayo, and smoky baked beans simmered right on your grill. Each recipe delivers that perfect balance of char, smoke, and summer freshness, with pro tips to help even novice grill masters achieve flawless results every time.

BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

BBQ pulled pork sandwiches are a classic summer staple that bring comfort and flavor to any cookout. Tender, juicy pork is simmered in a rich barbecue sauce, delivering a delightful mix of smoky and sweet notes. These sandwiches are easy to prepare, making them a go-to for gatherings or a simple family dinner.

The best part? You can customize each sandwich to your liking with toppings like coleslaw, pickles, or extra sauce. Whether you enjoy them piled high or simply dressed, they are sure to please. Here’s a straightforward recipe to whip up these mouthwatering sandwiches!

Ingredients

• 3-4 lbs pork shoulder
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 hamburger buns
• Coleslaw (optional)
• Pickles (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Rub the pork shoulder with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place it in a slow cooker.
2. Add Sauce: Pour the barbecue sauce over the pork, ensuring it’s well-coated. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds.
3. Shred the Meat: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded pork to the cooker and mix it with the sauce.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches: Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Pile the pulled pork onto the bottom half of each bun, adding coleslaw and pickles if you like. Top with the other half of the bun.
5. Serve: Enjoy your BBQ pulled pork sandwiches warm with your favorite sides!

Classic Coleslaw with a Twist

This vibrant coleslaw brings a fresh twist to the classic dish, perfect for summer BBQs. Crunchy cabbage, colorful bell peppers, and a zesty dressing create a delightful mix of textures and flavors. It’s simple to whip up and can easily be made ahead of time, giving you more room to enjoy your weekend.

The surprising addition of apples gives a sweet crunch, while the dressing adds a tangy note that balances it all beautifully. It’s a refreshing side that pairs brilliantly with grilled meats and adds a pop of color to your plate!

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
• 1 cup grated carrots
• 1 apple, cored and julienned
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the green cabbage, purple cabbage, carrots, apple, red bell pepper, and green onions.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold as a side dish at your BBQ!

Smoky BBQ Ribs with Homemade Sauce

Smoky BBQ ribs are a must-have for any summer barbecue. With their tender, fall-off-the-bone meat and rich, tangy sauce, these ribs are a fantastic centerpiece for your grill. The blend of spices and the smoky flavor infused from slow cooking makes them irresistible. Plus, making them at home is simpler than you might think!

This recipe features a homemade BBQ sauce that balances sweetness and tang, elevating the ribs to a whole new level. It’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in. Follow the steps below to create your own delicious smoky BBQ ribs!

Ingredients

• 2 racks of baby back ribs
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon chili powder

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better flavor absorption. Season both sides with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and chili powder. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
3. Grill the Ribs: Place the ribs on the grill, bone side down. Cook for about 2-3 hours, turning occasionally and basting with the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
4. Finish and Serve: Once the ribs are tender and the sauce is caramelized, remove from the grill. Let them rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve with extra sauce on the side.

Vegetable and Halloumi Skewers

Vegetable and halloumi skewers are a fantastic addition to any summer BBQ. They’re not only simple to make but also burst with flavor! The combination of colorful vegetables and hearty halloumi cheese creates a delightful balance that everyone will enjoy.

The skewers get a nice char on the grill, enhancing the natural sweetness of the veggies and adding a smoky flavor to the cheese. Perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to enjoy a lighter meal, these skewers are sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 block of halloumi cheese, cut into cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Skewers: In a large bowl, combine the halloumi, bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
2. Season: Drizzle olive oil over the vegetable and cheese mixture, then sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Assemble: Thread the halloumi and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating for a colorful presentation.
4. Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the halloumi is golden.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and enjoy hot, either on their own or with a side of dipping sauce!

Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad

This Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad is a refreshing and delightful blend of flavors, perfect for summer BBQs. The sweet, smoky grilled peaches complement the creaminess of burrata cheese, while fresh greens and basil add a vibrant touch. It’s a simple, yet impressive dish that’s sure to wow your guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.

The combination of juicy peaches, soft cheese, and aromatic herbs creates a mouthwatering experience that balances sweetness and savory notes. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also visually stunning, making it a great addition to your weekend menu.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 8 ounces burrata cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Brush the peach halves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Place peaches cut side down on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes until grill marks appear and the peaches are slightly softened.
4. While the peaches are grilling, arrange the salad greens on a serving platter.
5. Once grilled, place the peach halves on top of the greens and add burrata cheese in the center.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers

These Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers are the perfect addition to any summer BBQ. They’re juicy, tender, and packed with zesty flavor that will have everyone coming back for more. The combination of fresh lemon juice, herbs, and a touch of garlic makes for a delightful marinade that infuses the chicken with an irresistible taste.

Not only are these skewers delicious, but they’re also super easy to make! Just marinate the chicken, skewer it, and grill until golden brown. They are great served as an appetizer or as a main dish alongside your favorite sides.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, cilantro, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
3. Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking.
4. Grill: Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with lemon wedges and extra herbs if desired.

Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter

Corn on the cob is a summertime classic that brings a burst of sweetness and a delightful crunch to any BBQ. This version features a zesty chili lime butter that elevates the flavor to a whole new level. It’s easy to prepare, making it a perfect side dish for gatherings with friends and family.

The combination of spicy, tangy, and buttery creates a mouthwatering experience that pairs well with grilled meats and other summer favorites. Whether you’re at a picnic or hosting a backyard BBQ, this corn will steal the show.

Ingredients

• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Corn: Husk the corn and remove all silk. Rinse under cold water and pat dry.
2. Make the Chili Lime Butter: In a bowl, mix softened butter, lime juice, chili powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Grill the Corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
4. Coat the Corn: Once grilled, remove the corn and slather it generously with the chili lime butter.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra kick.

Spicy Grilled Shrimp Tacos

Spicy grilled shrimp tacos are a fantastic way to enjoy fresh flavors this summer. The shrimp are marinated in a blend of spices that create a delightful heat, perfectly balanced by fresh toppings. These tacos are not only tasty but also quick and easy to prepare, making them a winning choice for any BBQ.

With tender shrimp nestled in warm tortillas and drizzled with creamy sauce, these tacos are sure to please everyone at your gathering. Top them with avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a burst of flavor that brings everything together.

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 small flour tortillas
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add shrimp, tossing to coat. Let sit for 15-20 minutes.
2. Grill the Shrimp: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
3. Warm the Tortillas: While the shrimp are grilling, warm the tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Place grilled shrimp on tortillas, top with avocado slices and chopped cilantro. Drizzle with sour cream if desired.
5. Serve: Squeeze lime juice over the tacos and enjoy!

Zesty Watermelon Feta Salad

This Zesty Watermelon Feta Salad is a refreshing burst of flavors perfect for summer. Combining the sweetness of ripe watermelon with the salty creaminess of feta cheese creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist. Toss in some fresh mint and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and you’ve got a simple yet impressive dish that’s ideal for BBQs or picnics.

Easy to whip up with minimal ingredients, this salad brings a lightness to your meal while keeping things fun and vibrant. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 4 cups diced watermelon
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, gently combine the diced watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint leaves.
2. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Toss everything together lightly to avoid breaking up the feta.
4. Serve immediately or chill for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Garlic Butter Grilled Corn Shrimp

This Garlic Butter Grilled Corn Shrimp is a delightful summer dish that packs a punch of flavor. The sweetness of the shrimp pairs perfectly with the richness of garlic butter, making it a hit at any BBQ. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the sunshine.

The tender grilled shrimp, enhanced with a touch of garlic, creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love. Pair it with fresh corn on the cob for a complete meal that captures the essence of summer. So fire up that grill and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• 4 ears of corn, husked

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread the shrimp onto skewers for easy grilling.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture over the shrimp and corn.
5. Place the corn and shrimp skewers on the grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side for the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque.
6. Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Refreshing Lemonade with Fresh Mint

This refreshing lemonade with fresh mint is the perfect drink for a hot summer day. The bright, citrusy flavor of lemons combined with the coolness of mint creates a delightful balance that refreshes and revitalizes. Plus, making this drink is super simple; you just need a few ingredients and a couple of minutes to whip it up!

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just enjoying some sunshine, this lemonade will surely impress. It’s light, refreshing, and a perfect complement to grilled meats and salads. Serve it over ice, garnish with extra mint leaves, and enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 6-8 lemons)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 cups cold water
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
• Ice cubes
• Mint sprigs and lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Mint Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and the sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and add the fresh mint leaves. Let it steep for 15-20 minutes, then strain and cool.
2. Mix the Lemonade: In a large pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice, the cooled mint syrup, and the remaining 3 cups of cold water. Stir well to combine.
3. Serve: Fill glasses with ice, pour the lemonade over the ice, and garnish with mint sprigs and lemon slices. Enjoy chilled!

Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches

Homemade ice cream sandwiches are a delightful treat that brings a smile to anyone’s face. The combination of soft cookies and creamy ice cream creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, they’re easy to make, allowing you to customize them with your favorite cookie and ice cream flavors!

This recipe is all about having fun in the kitchen. Whether you choose classic chocolate chip cookies or go for something more adventurous, each bite offers a burst of joy. They’re perfect for summer BBQs and gatherings, making them a hit with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups chocolate chips
• 4 cups ice cream (your choice of flavor)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract and eggs until well combined.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden brown.
5. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, scoop a generous amount of ice cream onto the flat side of one cookie, then top with another cookie. Press down gently to create a sandwich.
6. Wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap and freeze for at least an hour before serving. Enjoy your homemade ice cream sandwiches!

Final Thoughts

A great summer BBQ isn’t just about the food – it’s about the laughter floating through the backyard, the cold drinks clinking, and the satisfied sighs after that first perfect bite. These recipes are your ticket to becoming the ultimate grill master of the season, whether you’re hosting a full-blown backyard bash or just treating your family to a special weekend feast. Don’t be afraid to get creative with flavors, adjust heat levels to your taste, and most importantly, enjoy that magical moment when you lift the grill lid to reveal your smoky masterpiece. Here’s to sunny days, starry nights, and plates piled high with the best BBQ of your life!