Menu ideas for BBQ

When meats are cooked low and slow, and sides are infused with comfort food flavors, your backyard barbecue becomes a true Southern BBQ. This list of recipes has everything from classic barbecue staples to with-a-twist takes, so your party is full of flavor and will keep guests coming back for more.

Time Manage Your Menu

Base your menu on how much time you have and how many people you’d like to feed. If you have a crowd (and plenty of time), go big with something like a grilled leg of lamb or BBQ pork butt. If you’re pressed for time, go with baby back ribs or BBQ drumsticks –– both can be precooked and finished off on the grill. Or try soft-shell crabs; you’ll be surprised at how quickly and easily they cook.

Most of these recipes do call for a brine or marinade; some only need an hour and others stay in the fridge overnight. Brining is a simple step that makes meat tastier and more tender –– and the more you prep beforehand, the more free time you’ll have the day of your barbecue.

Recipes:

Pick Party-Pleasing Apps

Once you’ve chosen your main course, pick your appetizers and sides. Grilled corn is always a quick crowd-pleaser. Corn’s not in season yet? Go with mixed grilled vegetables instead. Or take a break from the grill and go for some favorites that can be made ahead of time. Biscuits, collard greens and baked beans are perfect for parties and won’t take up any space on your grill.

Grill-Worthy Desserts

Leave your grill on after the main course to grill up ice cream sandwiches on banana bread or sweet grilled peaches. And definitely take some time to cool off; a bourbon-spiked iced tea should do the trick.