Grilling is a quintessential part of outdoor dining, especially during the warmer months. There’s something magical about the smoky aroma, sizzling sounds, and the flavors that only a grill can provide. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a newbie eager to fire up the barbecue, choosing the right foods to grill can make all the difference. To help you out, we’ve rounded up the top foods to grill that will have your taste buds dancing and your guests coming back for more!
1. Burgers
No grilling list would be complete without burgers. They’re an iconic BBQ staple that’s easy to prepare, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you prefer classic beef, juicy turkey, or plant-based patties, burgers cook up perfectly on the grill. Plus, you can load them up with all your favorite toppings—from cheese and lettuce to bacon and avocado.
Pro Tip: For juicy burgers, use meat with a good fat content (80/20 ground beef is a classic). Form the patties gently to avoid overworking the meat, and make an indentation in the center of each patty to prevent it from puffing up while grilling.
2. Hot Dogs and Sausages
When it comes to grilling, hot dogs and sausages are a no-brainer. They cook up quickly and are perfect for easy meals or casual gatherings. From classic beef hot dogs to spicy Italian sausages, there’s a variety to choose from, and they pair wonderfully with mustard, ketchup, relish, and sauerkraut.
Pro Tip: To get the perfect grilled hot dog, cook over medium heat and turn frequently. Sausages should be cooked slowly over lower heat to ensure they cook through without burning.
3. Chicken Wings
Chicken wings are a grilling favorite that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. You can marinate them in your favorite sauces, like BBQ, buffalo, or teriyaki, or keep it simple with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whether you prefer flats, drums, or a combination of both, wings are a must-try when grilling.
Pro Tip: Cook wings over indirect heat to prevent burning. If you like them extra crispy, finish them over direct heat for a minute or two.
4. Steak
A perfectly grilled steak is a true showstopper. Whether you prefer ribeye, filet mignon, or sirloin, the grill brings out the rich, savory flavors of the beef. Grilled steak is delicious on its own or can be paired with compound butter, chimichurri, or a simple sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Pro Tip: Let your steak come to room temperature before grilling, and use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches your desired level of doneness. For a great sear, cook over high heat for a few minutes on each side.
5. Vegetables
Grilling vegetables is a fantastic way to bring out their natural sweetness and smoky flavor. Corn on the cob, zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, and portobello mushrooms are just a few of the many vegetables that grill beautifully. Whether you skewer them, grill them whole, or slice them up, veggies can be seasoned with olive oil, herbs, and spices to enhance their flavor.
Pro Tip: Brush vegetables with olive oil or marinade before grilling to prevent them from sticking. Use indirect heat for denser veggies like corn and direct heat for quick-grilling vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
6. Fish and Seafood
Grilled fish and seafood are often overlooked at BBQs, but they’re a flavorful, light option that cooks quickly and adds variety to your grilling repertoire. Salmon, tuna, shrimp, and scallops are all fantastic choices. Grilling brings out the delicate, smoky flavors of the seafood while keeping the flesh tender and moist.
Pro Tip: Use a fish basket or grill mats to keep delicate fish from falling apart. Marinate the fish with lemon, garlic, and herbs to enhance the flavor, and don’t overcook—fish cooks fast, so keep an eye on it!
7. Grilled Pizza
Grilled pizza is an easy and fun way to make pizza outdoors. Grilling imparts a smoky flavor to the crust and cooks it to perfection. You can use pre-made dough or make your own, and then top it with your favorite ingredients—whether it’s classic pepperoni, veggie-loaded, or a more creative combination.
Pro Tip: Pre-cook the dough for a few minutes before adding toppings, then return it to the grill to melt the cheese and cook the toppings. Use a pizza stone for an even, crispy crust.
8. Shish Kebabs
Shish kebabs are perfect for grilling because they allow you to cook meat, veggies, and even fruits all on the same skewer. You can use chicken, beef, lamb, or shrimp along with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes. The key is marinating the ingredients beforehand to infuse them with delicious flavors.
Pro Tip: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. Make sure to cut your ingredients into uniform sizes for even cooking.
9. Grilled Fruit
Grilling fruit is a great way to add a sweet touch to your BBQ spread. Fruits like pineapple, peaches, and watermelon take on a smoky, caramelized flavor when grilled. Serve grilled fruit on its own or as a topping for ice cream or yogurt.
Pro Tip: Brush fruit with a little honey or brown sugar before grilling to enhance its natural sweetness. Grill fruit over medium heat to avoid charring too quickly.
10. Grilled Sandwiches
While grilling typically conjures images of meats and veggies, grilled sandwiches can be a surprising and delicious addition to your BBQ menu. Whether it’s a classic grilled cheese or a more gourmet panini, grilling sandwiches adds a crispy, smoky element that can elevate the flavors.
Pro Tip: Butter the outside of the bread or use olive oil to achieve that golden, crispy texture. Grill over low heat to ensure the cheese melts thoroughly without burning the bread.
11. Grilled Tofu
For a vegetarian or vegan option, grilled tofu is a great alternative to meat. When marinated and grilled properly, tofu can take on a smoky flavor with a crispy exterior and soft interior. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sauces, such as soy sauce, hoisin, or peanut sauce.
Pro Tip: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture before marinating. Grill it on a well-oiled grate to prevent sticking, and flip carefully to avoid breaking the pieces.
Fire Up the Grill and Get Cooking!
Grilling is about more than just meat—it’s about experimenting with flavors, textures, and combinations. From juicy burgers and sizzling steaks to grilled veggies and seafood, the grill offers endless possibilities for creating delicious meals that bring people together. Whether you’re hosting a big backyard BBQ or just making a quick dinner, these top foods to grill will have you firing up the coals and enjoying great food in no time. So, grab your tongs, season your favorite ingredients, and get ready to enjoy some of the best grilled meals ever!