I Used to Think BBQ Was Just for the Summer—Then These 17 Recipes Changed My Mind

BBQ isn’t just for the summer anymore, thanks to these 17 recipes. What used to be a seasonal tradition has turned into a full-on year-round obsession. These dishes bring that smoky goodness to any time of year, proving that BBQ cravings don’t have to wait for warm weather. After trying these, you’ll wonder why you ever thought BBQ was just for summer.

Blackstone Smash Burger

If you’re into juicy burgers with a perfectly charred exterior, then Blackstone Smash Burger is a game-changer. The secret to its success lies in the smashing technique allowing for an incredible crust. These burgers bring casual dining right to your backyard, proving that intricate flavors aren’t limited to fancy restaurants. It’s the kind of meal that gathers friends around all year round for a good time and great food.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Smash Burger

Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

Combining slow-cooked meat with melty cheese, Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese is comfort food at its finest. It’s a twist on childhood favorites, showing that sandwiches can indeed be the star of a meal at any age. The melding of smoky pork with the golden, buttery crisp of the bread upgrades a simple concept to something you’ll crave. Each bite offers a fusion of textures that’ll definitely have you wanting more.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

Over the Top Chili

Ah, Over the Top Chili, an epic bowl of warmth that defies the idea that chili is just for colder months. This dish brings together ingredients that simmer to perfection, creating a flavor-rich experience with every spoonful. It’s about layering flavors in a way that each ingredient compliments the others, building a profile that satisfies deep cravings. Ideal for game days or just a family dinner, it has a way of becoming a staple for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Over the Top Chili

Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce

Ever think chicken wings are all about game day? Well, Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce will have you rethinking that stance. The real talk of the town is how grilling adds a smoky dimension that makes every event special. They’re a testament to how a few simple ingredients can create an explosion of flavors. Perfect for pick-up and snack during any activity, these wings are so much more than a snack – they’re a highlight.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce

Bacon Fried Corn

Picture your favorite skillet dish with a crispy twist: Bacon Fried Corn is that dish that will have everyone clamoring for the recipe. The blend of smoky and sweet notes creates a side that stands out from the usual fare. It’s a dish that makes you forget about sides as an afterthought; it demands its share of the spotlight. Perfect for days when you want to serve something unique yet familiar.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn

Grilled Vegetables

You haven’t fully experienced veggies until you’ve tried Grilled Vegetables, where the natural sugars caramelize to perfection. This dish challenges the notion that only meat gets to have all the grilling fun. It’s not just about the char lines; it’s about unlocking new levels of flavor in each vegetable. Having this on your plate adds not only color but also layers of taste that complement any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables

Smoked Queso

When you think of dip, do you think of Smoked Queso? Because if not, you’re missing out on a creamy, smoky wonder that will have guests tipping the bowl to get every last bit. Whether used as a hearty starter or a center-table feature, this queso defies dip conventions with its rich texture and deep flavor profile. Great on chips or drizzled over just about anything, it’s that versatile player you want on your food team.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Queso

Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa

Adding a sweet and tangy twist to your meal, Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa offers a delicious contrast that brightens the palate. It proves that fruit and tasty flavors can dance together harmoniously on a plate. What stands out is how the smokiness of the pork blends with the fresh hit of salsa, making each bite a memorable one. And it isn’t just tasty – it’s a visually appealing meal that will catch everyone’s eye.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Salsa

Smoked Eye of Round

Who needs a special occasion when you can prepare a Smoked Eye of Round that’ll impress any day? This dish is a testament to the art of smoking meat, where patience results in succulent perfection. When done just right, it becomes a conversation piece, with people amazed that such flavor can come from their own grills. It turns an average gathering into a feast and an ordinary day into a memorable one.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Eye of Round

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich is not merely a sandwich; it’s a fresh perspective on what a handful of quality, fresh ingredients can do. The combination of ingredients bursts with freshness and enjoy that can make any meal feel a tad more special. It’s one of those meals that manage to be both nourishing and a joy to eat. And it’s versatile enough for you to make it your own every single time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

Smoked Shrimp

Don’t let the simplicity fool you; Smoked Shrimp are anything but ordinary. The smoking process infuses them with flavors you simply can’t get from just any cooking method. This dish is ideal for those times you want something a little lighter but still packed with taste. Suitable for an appetizer or a main dish, it’s a versatile choice that complements every table setting.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Shrimp

Blackstone Sausage & Peppers

Warm, filling, and bursting with flavor, Blackstone Sausage & Peppers is like a hug in a dish. It reinvents the classic combination with a griddle touch that amplifies the heartiness. Perfect for an easy lunch or a gratifying dinner, it’s straightforward cooking that still feels special. This is the kind of meal that convinces you that a few good-quality ingredients can speak louder than a complex dish.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Sausage & Peppers

Traeger Smoked Chicken Spatchcock

Traeger Smoked Chicken Spatchcock will show you that chicken is far from boring when given the right treatment. This approach to chicken ensures that every inch is packed with smoky, juicy goodness. It’s a centerpiece dish that invites you to carve and share, fostering a sense of community. Whether it’s a casual weekend or a full-on feast, it slots in effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Chicken Spatchcock

Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo

Get ready for an explosion of flavors with Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo. The beauty of this dish lies in the perfect balance of meat and the accompanying sauce. Not only does it offer visually appealing bites, but it also provides a taste that keeps you reaching for more. It’s a playful dish that fits right into any outdoor event or cozy indoor setting, challenging the mundane.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo

Spicy Smoked Chex Mix

Snacking has never been as exciting as with Spicy Smoked Chex Mix, blending that familiar crunch with a smoky kick that wakes up your palate. This isn’t your average store-bought snack—it’s a homemade favorite that shows how a touch of smoke can transform the ordinary into extraordinary. Whether it’s movie night, game day, or just because, this snack mix has a way of making the moment more memorable.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Smoked Chex Mix

Big Mac Tacos

Big Mac Tacos is where your favorite fast food meets an all-time classic in an unexpected twist. It manages to capture the essence of a beloved burger in a hand-held taco form. Ideal for those who love a bit of creativity on their plate, it’s a conversation starter at any table. Offering a fun break from the routine, this dish is a clear sign that you can play around with food no matter the time of year.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Tacos

Grilled Ratatouille

Did you know that the humble vegetable can be the main event? Grilled Ratatouille is proof that sometimes the best flavors come from the garden. With each element roasted to perfection, this dish is a testament to how heat can coax out depths of flavor. It’s as much a visual feast as a culinary one, with vibrant colors taking center stage.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille