Cookouts bring people together for fun and great food. They’re perfect for warm summer days or any time you want to enjoy a meal outdoors.
With the right dishes, your cookout can be a hit with friends and family.
These 31+ cookout food ideas will give you plenty of options for your next gathering. From classic grilled meats to tasty sides and desserts, you’ll find something for everyone.
Try new recipes or stick with old favorites to create a memorable meal.
1. Grilled BBQ Chicken
Grilled BBQ chicken is a cookout classic. Start by choosing bone-in chicken pieces for the best flavor.
Marinate them in your favorite BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken on the grates and cook for about 10-12 minutes per side.
Brush with more sauce as you grill.
Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Pair your BBQ chicken with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or potato salad for a perfect cookout meal. Don’t forget extra napkins – things might get messy!
2. Spicy Jalapeno Burgers
Spicy jalapeno burgers are a great way to add some kick to your cookout. Start with your favorite burger patties, whether homemade or store-bought.
Top your burgers with sliced jalapenos and pepper jack cheese for extra heat. Use English muffins instead of regular buns for a unique twist.
For a zesty sauce, try chipotle mayo. You can also make jalapeno ranch by blending ranch dressing, sour cream, lime juice, jalapeno, garlic, and salt.
These burgers are perfect for spice lovers. Adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer jalapenos to suit your taste.
3. Classic Hot Dogs
Hot dogs are a must-have at any cookout. They’re quick to grill and easy to customize.
Choose all-beef franks for the best flavor.
Grill your hot dogs until they’re lightly charred and have grill marks. Serve them in soft buns with your favorite toppings.
Popular toppings include ketchup, mustard, relish, and diced onions. For a Chicago-style dog, add tomato slices, pickles, and celery salt.
Don’t forget about chili dogs! Top your hot dogs with warm chili and shredded cheese for a hearty meal.
Set up a toppings bar so guests can make their perfect hot dog.
4. Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers
Honey garlic shrimp skewers are a tasty and easy option for your next cookout. You’ll need large shrimp, honey, garlic, lime, and some spices.
Thread the shrimp onto metal skewers. Mix honey, minced garlic, lime juice, and a dash of hot sauce for the glaze.
Grill the skewers over medium-high heat. Brush them with the glaze as they cook.
It takes just a few minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink.
These skewers are great for parties. The sweet and spicy flavors will be a hit with your guests. Serve them hot off the grill for the best taste.
5. Loaded Baked Potato Salad
Loaded baked potato salad is a tasty twist on regular potato salad. It combines the flavors of a loaded baked potato in a chilled side dish.
To make it, start with cubed potatoes. Boil them until tender, then let them cool.
Mix in sour cream, mayo, and ranch seasoning for a creamy dressing.
Add crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped chives. These toppings give the salad its “loaded” flavor. For extra tang, try adding some chopped dill pickles.
You can serve this salad warm, at room temperature, or chilled. It’s perfect for cookouts and potlucks. Your guests will love this rich, flavorful take on potato salad.
6. Coleslaw with Apple Cider Vinegar
Coleslaw with apple cider vinegar is a tasty twist on the classic side dish. It’s perfect for cookouts and BBQs.
To make it, mix shredded cabbage and carrots in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sugar, and salt.
Pour the dressing over the veggies and toss well. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before serving.
This version is lighter than mayo-based slaws. The vinegar adds a tangy kick that pairs great with grilled meats.
For extra flavor, try adding diced apples or fresh herbs like dill or parsley. Your guests will love this refreshing summer side dish.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a summer cookout staple. It’s easy to make and tastes amazing.
Simply brush fresh corn with olive oil and place it on a hot grill.
Cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally. The kernels will become slightly charred and smoky. This brings out their natural sweetness.
You can keep it simple with butter and salt. Or try new flavors.
Rub with lime and sprinkle with chili powder for a zesty kick. Spread with sour cream and cheese for a creamy treat.
For extra flavor, make a spice blend. Mix paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Rub it on the corn after grilling. Your guests will love these tasty variations on a classic side dish.
8. Smoky Ribs with Homemade BBQ Sauce
Smoky ribs are a cookout favorite. To make them, start by rubbing the ribs with a mix of spices like paprika, brown sugar, and garlic powder.
Smoke the ribs at a low temperature for about 3 hours. This helps create that delicious smoky flavor.
For extra tenderness, wrap the ribs in foil with some apple juice and butter. Cook them for 2 more hours.
While the ribs cook, make a homemade BBQ sauce. Mix vinegar, brown sugar, hot sauce, and spices in a pot. Simmer until the sugar dissolves.
Brush the sauce on the ribs during the last hour of cooking. This creates a sticky, flavorful glaze.
9. Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
Teriyaki chicken thighs are a tasty addition to your cookout menu. To make them, cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry.
Mix soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger for the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for 1 hour in the fridge.
Cook the chicken in a hot pan until golden brown on both sides. This usually takes 3-4 minutes per side.
For extra flavor, simmer the chicken in teriyaki sauce for a few minutes. This step ensures the meat is fully cooked and coated in delicious sauce.
Serve your teriyaki chicken thighs hot off the grill. They pair well with rice or grilled vegetables for a complete cookout meal.
10. Caesar Pasta Salad
Caesar pasta salad is a tasty twist on the classic Caesar salad. It combines pasta with crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing.
To make it, cook your favorite pasta shape like bowtie or penne. Let it cool, then toss with chopped romaine, shredded Parmesan, and Caesar dressing.
For extra flavor, add grilled chicken and crumbled bacon. Some crispy croutons on top give a nice crunch.
This salad is perfect for cookouts. You can make it ahead of time and let the flavors blend in the fridge. It’s sure to be a hit with your guests.
11. Vegetarian Black Bean Burgers
Black bean burgers are a tasty meatless option for your cookout. You can make them in under 30 minutes using simple ingredients.
Mix mashed black beans with breadcrumbs, spices, and a binder like flour or egg. Shape the mixture into patties and cook them on a grill or stovetop.
For extra flavor, add chopped herbs, garlic, or chile-garlic sauce to the mix. Top your burgers with melted cheese, fresh veggies, and chipotle mayo.
These veggie burgers are filling and protein-packed. Even meat-eaters will enjoy their hearty texture and savory taste. They’re perfect for guests who don’t eat meat.
12. Garlic Butter Grilled Vegetables
Garlic butter grilled vegetables are a tasty side dish for your cookout. You can use zucchini, mushrooms, corn, or other veggies you like.
Brush the vegetables with a mix of melted butter and minced garlic before grilling. This adds rich flavor and helps prevent sticking.
Grill the veggies until they’re tender and have nice char marks. The garlic butter will make them smell amazing as they cook.
For extra flavor, sprinkle some herbs or grated cheese on top after grilling. Parmesan works well with zucchini, while cotija is great on corn.
These grilled vegetables are easy to make and go with many main dishes. They’re sure to be a hit at your next cookout.
13. Classic Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a must-have at any cookout. They’re easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
To start, hard-boil some eggs and let them cool.
Cut the eggs in half and scoop out the yolks. Mix the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper. You can add a dash of paprika for extra flavor.
Spoon or pipe the filling back into the egg whites. For a fancy touch, sprinkle some chives or crumbled bacon on top.
Make these tasty treats ahead of time and keep them chilled until you’re ready to serve. Your guests will love this classic cookout appetizer.
14. Mango Avocado Salsa
Mango avocado salsa adds a tropical twist to your cookout. You can make this refreshing dish in about 10 minutes.
To prepare it, dice ripe mango and avocado. Chop some red onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño for extra crunch and heat.
Mix the fruits and veggies in a bowl. Add fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. Season with salt and a dash of cumin.
This colorful salsa pairs well with tortilla chips as a snack. You can also use it to top grilled fish or shrimp tacos.
The sweet mango balances the creamy avocado, while the lime adds a zesty kick. It’s a perfect summer side for your outdoor gathering.
15. Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon
Lemon herb grilled salmon is a tasty and healthy cookout option. You can make it easily with just a few ingredients.
Start by mixing olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like parsley, rosemary, and thyme. Add some salt, pepper, and garlic powder for extra flavor.
Marinate your salmon fillets in this mixture for about an hour. This helps the flavors soak in.
Grill the salmon for about 15 minutes. You can put lemon slices on top while cooking for more zest.
The result is a juicy, flavorful fish with a slightly crispy exterior. It’s perfect for summer gatherings and goes well with many side dishes.
16. Buffalo Wings with Blue Cheese Dip
Buffalo wings are a classic cookout favorite. To make them, coat chicken wings in a spicy sauce made from hot sauce, butter, and vinegar. Bake or fry the wings until crispy.
For the blue cheese dip, mix sour cream, blue cheese, mayonnaise, and a splash of lemon juice. Chill the dip before serving.
Serve the hot wings with celery sticks and the cool, creamy dip on the side. This combo of spicy and tangy flavors is sure to be a hit at your next cookout.
17. Chili Lime Grilled Corn
Chili lime grilled corn is a tasty twist on a cookout classic. You’ll love the mix of spicy, tangy, and sweet flavors.
To make it, grill your corn until it’s tender and charred. This usually takes 10-15 minutes.
Turn the ears every few minutes for even cooking.
While the corn grills, mix butter with chili powder, lime zest, and lime juice. Add some salt and garlic for extra flavor.
When the corn is done, brush it with your chili lime butter. Squeeze fresh lime over the top and sprinkle with cilantro if you like.
This zesty corn pairs well with grilled meats and other summer sides. It’s sure to be a hit at your next cookout.
18. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Mediterranean quinoa salad is a tasty and healthy cookout option. You can make it with cooked quinoa, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing.
Add chopped cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion to the quinoa. Toss in some Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor.
For the dressing, mix olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like oregano. Pour it over the salad and stir gently.
This dish is perfect for vegetarians and gluten-free guests.
You can prepare it ahead of time and serve it cold or at room temperature.
19. Garlic Parmesan Corn on the Cob
Garlic Parmesan corn on the cob is a tasty twist on a cookout classic. To make it, you’ll need corn, butter, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and some seasonings.
Start by mixing softened butter with minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste.
You can also include herbs like parsley for extra flavor.
Spread this mixture over freshly cooked corn on the cob. You can grill the corn first or boil it. Make sure to coat the corn evenly with the garlic Parmesan butter.
For a crispy finish, you can put the coated corn under the broiler for a few minutes. Watch it closely to avoid burning. Serve hot and enjoy the savory, cheesy goodness.
20. Herb Marinated Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus makes a tasty side dish for your cookout. Start by trimming the woody ends off the asparagus spears.
Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme in a bowl. Add the asparagus and coat well.
Let the asparagus marinate for 30 minutes to an hour. This allows the flavors to soak in.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the asparagus for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally.
The spears should be tender and lightly charred when done. Serve hot off the grill for best flavor.
21. Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Caprese skewers are a tasty and simple cookout food. You’ll need cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves.
Thread half a cherry tomato, a piece of basil, and a mozzarella ball onto a skewer. Repeat until you run out of ingredients.
For the balsamic glaze, simmer 1 cup of balsamic vinegar in a small pan. Stir occasionally for about 15 minutes until it thickens.
Arrange the skewers on a platter. Drizzle with olive oil and the balsamic glaze. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Serve your caprese skewers right away for the best flavor. They go great with other appetizers or as a side dish.
22. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
BBQ pulled pork sandwiches are a cookout classic. You start with tender, slow-cooked pork shoulder. Shred the meat and mix it with tangy BBQ sauce.
Pile the saucy pork onto soft buns. Add coleslaw on top for crunch and freshness. Some folks like to add pickle chips too.
Don’t go overboard with the sauce. About 1/4 cup per pound of pork is enough. This keeps the buns from getting soggy.
For extra flavor, toast the buns with a little butter. This small step makes a big difference. Serve your sandwiches with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
23. Tandoori Chicken Skewers
Tandoori chicken skewers are a tasty addition to your cookout menu. You can marinate chicken thighs in a spiced yogurt mixture for extra flavor.
The marinade usually contains yogurt, ginger, garlic, and spices like garam masala and coriander. Let the chicken soak up the flavors for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers before cooking. You can grill the skewers outdoors or bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C).
Cook the skewers for about 15 minutes until the chicken is done. The result is juicy, slightly spicy chicken with lots of flavor. Serve with a cool yogurt sauce called raita for dipping.
24. Cajun Grilled Prawns
Cajun grilled prawns are a tasty cookout dish. You mix Cajun spices, garlic, and lemon to make a flavorful rub. Coat the prawns in this mix before grilling.
Cook them on a hot grill for just a few minutes per side. The prawns will turn pink and slightly charred when done. This quick cooking keeps them juicy and tender.
Serve these zesty prawns as an appetizer or main course. They pair well with rice or grilled veggies. For extra flavor, offer dipping sauces like spicy aioli or garlic butter on the side.
25. Seafood Paella with Saffron
Seafood paella with saffron is a tasty Spanish dish perfect for outdoor cookouts. You’ll need a large pan to cook this flavorful rice meal.
Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and peppers. Add rice and toast it briefly. Pour in broth infused with saffron threads for a golden color and unique flavor.
Add your favorite seafood like shrimp, mussels, and calamari. Let everything simmer until the rice is cooked and the seafood is tender.
Serve your paella straight from the pan for a fun, communal dining experience. The bright yellow rice and colorful seafood make an eye-catching centerpiece for your cookout spread.
26. Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
Bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers are a spicy, cheesy treat for your cookout. You’ll need fresh jalapenos, cream cheese, and bacon.
Cut the jalapenos in half and remove the seeds. Fill each half with softened cream cheese. Wrap a piece of bacon around each stuffed jalapeno.
Grill the poppers for 20-25 minutes until the bacon is crispy. For a milder taste, use bell peppers instead of jalapenos.
Serve these poppers with ranch dip or sour cream on the side. They’re best enjoyed hot off the grill.
27. Lemon Dill Potato Salad
Lemon dill potato salad is a fresh twist on a classic cookout dish. You can make it with red or large potatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces.
Mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice for the dressing. Add chopped fresh dill and chives for a burst of flavor.
Toss the cooked potatoes with the dressing and season with salt and pepper. For extra crunch, you can add diced red onion or peas.
This zesty salad pairs well with grilled meats and burgers. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make ahead of time. Serve it chilled for the best taste.
28. Sriracha Lime Grilled Chicken
Sriracha lime grilled chicken is a tasty option for your next cookout. It combines spicy and tangy flavors that will wow your guests.
To make this dish, mix sriracha sauce, lime juice, and zest with honey and seasonings. Let the chicken soak in this mixture before grilling.
Grill the chicken until it’s cooked through and has nice grill marks. The outside will be slightly crispy while the inside stays juicy.
Sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top for extra flavor. This chicken pairs well with rice or a crisp salad. Your friends and family will love this spicy-sweet grilled chicken at your cookout.
29. Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad
Avocado strawberry spinach salad is a refreshing and tasty choice for your cookout. This colorful dish combines sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and nutritious spinach.
To make it, start with a bed of fresh spinach leaves. Add sliced strawberries and diced avocado on top. For extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted almonds or walnuts.
A simple dressing works best. Mix olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle it over the salad just before serving.
This salad is quick to prepare and looks great on the table. It’s also a hit with both kids and adults. Consider making extra, as guests often come back for seconds.
30. Grilled Pineapple with Honey
Grilled pineapple with honey is a tasty and easy cookout treat. Start by cutting a fresh pineapple into thick rings or wedges.
Brush the pineapple pieces with a mixture of honey and lime juice. This adds sweetness and a zesty kick.
Grill the pineapple over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side. You’ll see nice grill marks and caramelization.
The heat brings out the pineapple’s natural sugars, making it even sweeter. The honey glaze creates a delicious crust.
Serve your grilled pineapple warm as a side dish or dessert. It pairs well with vanilla ice cream or as a topping for grilled meats.
31. Chipotle Lime Sweet Potato Fries
These tasty fries are a great addition to your cookout menu. Cut sweet potatoes into thin strips and toss them with olive oil and spices.
Spread the fries on a baking sheet and bake until crispy. Flip them halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
Make a zesty dipping sauce by mixing mayo, lime juice, and chipotle powder. The smoky, tangy flavors complement the sweet potato fries perfectly.
Serve these fries hot as a side dish or appetizer. Your guests will love the unique twist on classic fries.
Cookout Essentials
A great cookout needs the right equipment and tools. Choosing the best grill and having the proper utensils will make your outdoor cooking easier and more fun.
Grill Types and Maintenance
Gas grills are fast and easy to use. They heat up quickly and let you control the temperature. Charcoal grills give food a smoky flavor that many people love. They take longer to heat up but are cheaper.
Clean your grill after each use. Brush the grates while they’re still warm. For deep cleaning, soak the grates in soapy water.
Check gas lines on propane grills for leaks. Replace rusted parts.
Keep your grill covered when not in use. This will protect it from the weather. Store charcoal in a dry place. Check propane tanks and refill them as needed.
Essential Cookout Tools
Tongs are a must-have. Use them to flip burgers and move food around. Get long-handled tongs to keep your hands away from the heat.
A spatula helps you flip delicate foods like fish. Choose one with a long handle and a wide, sturdy blade.
A meat thermometer ensures food safety. It lets you check if meat is cooked through without cutting it open.
Wire brushes clean grill grates. Use them when the grill is still warm. Be careful not to leave wire bristles behind.
Grilling baskets hold small items like veggies. They keep food from falling through the grates.
Oven mitts protect your hands from heat. Get thick, heat-resistant ones for safety.
Balancing Flavors
A great cookout needs a mix of tastes. You want to blend different flavors to make your meal exciting. Here’s how to do it:
Choosing the Right Seasonings
Pick seasonings that work well together. Salt and pepper are basic, but you can add more.
Try herbs like basil or oregano for Italian flavors. Use chili powder or cumin for a Mexican touch. Don’t overdo it – a little goes a long way.
Marinate meats to add flavor. Mix oil, acid (like lemon juice), and spices. Let the meat sit in this mix for a few hours before cooking.
Make your own spice blends. Mix paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder for a simple rub. Use it on chicken or pork.
Pairing Sides with Main Dishes
Match light sides with heavy mains.
If you’re serving burgers, add a fresh salad. It helps balance the meal.
Try contrasting flavors.
Pair sweet corn with spicy grilled chicken. The sweetness will cool down the heat.
Add crunch to soft dishes.
Put crispy onions on top of baked beans. It makes the dish more fun to eat.
Don’t forget about sauces.
A tangy BBQ sauce can make plain chicken taste great. Offer a few choices so guests can pick their favorite.