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Wow! 19 BBQ Meals That Look Pro But Are Surprisingly Easy

Ever stood in front of a BBQ and whispered a prayer to the grilling gods? Fear not, because we’re about to turn that hesitant flip into a confident sizzle! These 19 BBQ meals may look like they’ve just strutted off a glossy magazine cover but are sneakily simple to master. Prepare to don your apron and wield your tongs like a pro, no culinary school diploma is required.

Four pieces of Ninja Woodfire Grill Lemon-Herb Chicken served on a white rectangular plate.
Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

A grilled steak with cowboy butter on a white plate.
Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Imagine firing up the grill and in no time, serving up a dish that looks like it’s straight from a high-end steakhouse. Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter is that recipe, blending simplicity with a wow factor that’s sure to impress any guest. It proves that a professional-looking BBQ meal can be achieved in your own backyard, with less fuss than you might think.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steaks with Cowboy Butter

Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Smoked jalapeno poppers on a platter.
Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Nothing says BBQ party like a platter of smoky, spicy treats that pack a punch. Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers merge the heat of jalapenos with the heartiness of pork for a match made in heaven. These are always the first to disappear at gatherings, showcasing that creativity in your BBQ menu can be both simple and stunning.
Get the Recipe: Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

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Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Grilled corn on the cob pieces topped with cheese, chili powder, and cilantro, served on a black slate plate with lime wedges on the side.
Grilled Elote Corn Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Transforming an ordinary corn cob into something extraordinary is easier than you think. With Grilled Elote Corn Ribs, you’re taking a classic side and giving it a twist that will leave everyone asking for seconds. It’s a fun, hands-on eating experience that elevates your BBQ spread with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Smoked chicken wings with pickles on a black plate.
Smoked Dill Pickle Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re looking to blend zest and smokiness, Smoked Dill Pickle Wings are your go-to. It’s a flavor adventure that’s unexpectedly easy to pull off and will have your guests buzzing with excitement. This dish stands as proof that combining unique flavors can be effortlessly achieved on the grill.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

A pulled pork grilled cheese sandwich on a slate plate.
Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Combining the comfort food vibes of grilled cheese with the robust flavors of BBQ, Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese is a crossover hit. It’s a culinary creation that brings a hearty, soul-soothing dimension to your BBQ menu. This recipe is a testament to the magic that happens when you mix classic favorites in inventive ways.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

Grilled Greek Chicken

Grilled Greek Chicken on a white plate with lemon slices.
Grilled Greek Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

For a Mediterranean twist that’s as easy as it is impressive, Grilled Greek Chicken answers the call. This dish is all about marinating and grilling to perfection, making it a stress-free option for any BBQ enthusiast. It serves as a reminder that with the right recipe, you can travel the world’s flavors from the comfort of your grill.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Greek Chicken

Korean Galbi Ribs

Two Korean galbi ribs on a black slate plate with red chopsticks placed beside them.
Korean Galbi Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Dig into the world of Korean flavors with Korean Galbi Ribs, a recipe that balances sweet, savory, and umami in each bite. These ribs promise a show-stopping centerpiece at your next BBQ, with minimal effort required. It’s a prime example of how internationally inspired dishes can be easily achieved on your home grill.
Get the Recipe: Korean Galbi Ribs

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp skewers on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

If you’re looking to impress at your next BBQ, Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp is a showstopper. It’s surprisingly easy to pull off, yet the flavors are complex enough to make it seem like you’ve been mastering the grill for years. This dish is perfect for those warm nights when you want something light but utterly delicious.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Smoked Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs on a cutting board with tomatoes.
Smoked Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Anyone can make Smoked Chicken Thighs without needing to be a pitmaster. This recipe promises juicy results that are packed with flavor, making it an instant hit at any BBQ. It’s the kind of dish that lets you hang back and relax as the smoker does all the hard work.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Thighs

Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers

Close-up shot of Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers on a Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill topped with cheesy onion on a plate.
Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Turning the classic comfort of French onion soup into a burger, Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers are as innovative as they are easy to make. They blend rich flavors that are sure to catch the attention of your guests. It’s a unique take that will leave everyone asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Grilled French Onion Pork Burgers

Big Mac Tacos

Two Big Mac tacos filled with ground beef, shredded lettuce, and pickles, and drizzled with a creamy sauce, placed on a white plate.
Big Mac Tacos. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

For a fun twist on classic BBQ fare, try whipping up some Big Mac Tacos. They combine familiar flavors in a fresh format, proving that you can indeed teach an old dog new tricks. These are perfect for gatherings where you want to serve something a bit out of the ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Tacos

Smoked Mac & Cheese

A skillet filled with Smoked Mac & Cheese.
Smoked Mac & Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Mac & Cheese takes a beloved classic and introduces it to the smoky depth of the BBQ. It’s a side dish that stands out, offering both comfort and a hint of sophistication to your outdoor feast. Plus, it’s straightforward to make, allowing you more time to enjoy the company.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese

Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops

Three Ninja Woodfire Grill Mediterranean Lamb Chops topped with gremolata on a white plate.
Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

This recipe proves you don’t need to spend all day in the kitchen for a gourmet result. Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops are sure to bring a touch of elegance to your casual dining. They are marinated and grilled to perfection, providing a succulent centerpiece to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops

Smoked Shotgun Shells

Smoked shotgun shells on a white plate.
Smoked Shotgun Shells. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Shotgun Shells are the talking point of any BBQ with their intriguing appearance and explosive flavor. This recipe is easier than it looks, making it a great way to impress guests without the fuss. It’s an innovative dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Shotgun Shells

Texas-Style Carne Asada

A sliced and grilled Carne asada on a wooden cutting board.
Texas-Style Carne Asada. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

If you’re keen on impressing at your next BBQ with some Texan flair, look no further. Have everyone talking about the Texas-Style Carne Asada. With just a grill and some easy steps, you can whip up a meal that looks gourmet without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Texas-Style Carne Asada

Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings

Chicken wings with garlic and Parmesan on a white plate.
Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine serving wings that make everyone ask for your secret. Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings are just the ticket, combining the smokiness of the grill with rich flavors. They’re as effortless to make as they are impressive, proving that gourmet-looking BBQ dishes don’t require a gourmet effort.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken on a white plate.
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

There’s nothing like transforming simple ingredients into a meal that wows. With Grilled Bruschetta Chicken, you’re set to do just that. This recipe is proof that with minimal effort, you can create a dish that looks like it came straight out of a restaurant kitchen to your BBQ table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bruschetta Chicken

Over the Top Chili

Over the Top Chili in a black cast iron bowl.
Over the Top Chili. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those chilly nights when only a hearty dish will do, there’s a recipe that answers the call. Over the Top Chili not only warms you up but also brings a wow factor to your table with minimal effort. It’s the kind of dish that looks like you’ve slaved over the stove for hours when, in reality, it’s surprisingly easy to pull off.
Get the Recipe: Over the Top Chili

Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken

Four pieces of Ninja Woodfire Grill Lemon-Herb Chicken served on a white rectangular plate.
Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Want a dish that screams summer and simplicity while still looking like you’re a pro chef? Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken hits all the right notes. It’s all about achieving a gourmet look without spending hours in preparation, showing that an impressive BBQ can be straightforward and fun.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken

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