21 Backyard Mains That Always Get Asked for Again
Backyard parties call for food that can hold its own. These main dishes are hearty, full of flavor, and built for second helpings. Whether you’re working the grill or going with a slow-cooked favorite, the goal is the same. Serve something that keeps the party going.
Each recipe brings big payoff without complicated prep. These are the kinds of mains people remember, ask about, and want again next weekend.
How To Smoke Steak
We will break down the art of smoking steaks. Smoking steaks adds a layer of deep, smoky flavor that grilling alone can’t match. As you learn the nuances of choosing the right cuts, setting up your smoker, and mastering the temperature, you’ll turn your next cookout into an unforgettable event.
Get the Recipe: How To Smoke Steak.
Smoked Whole Chicken
Smoking a whole chicken can result in a dish that’s not only deliciously tender but also bursting with rich, smoky flavor. The slow cooking process ensures the chicken remains juicy while the smoky aroma infuses every bite. This impressive dish will not only wow your guests but also provide a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering, smoked chicken is sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Whole Chicken.
Beef Strip Loin- Grilled Or Roasted To Perfection
This beef strip loin, often referred to as the New York strip, is renowned for its tenderness and juicy flavor. Whether you choose to grill or roast it, we have easy step-by-step directions to guide you through the cooking process.
Get the Recipe: Beef Strip Loin- Grilled Or Roasted To Perfection.
Chicken With Plum Sauce And Grilled Plums
Grilled Chicken with Plum Sauce and Grilled Plums is a healthy, easy late summer meal that is ready in 40 minutes. The chicken turns out moist and juicy because it is indirectly grilled once browned.
Get the Recipe: Chicken With Plum Sauce And Grilled Plums.
Lamb Loin
This Lamb Loin recipe is a super easy dish that adds a touch of elegance to any occasion. Whether you’re grilling or roasting, the step-by-step method we’ll show you makes cooking lamb loin simple and fuss-free. Grilling brings out a smoky richness, while roasting in the oven highlights the lamb’s natural flavors, resulting in a tender, juicy cut that’s simply irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Loin.
Grilled Venison Backstrap
Experience the succulent delight of Grilled Venison Backstrap infused with enticing smoky flavors. This tender deer roast, grilled to perfection, delivers a taste sensation that competes with any beef filet. With its juicy texture and nuanced seasoning, each bite is pure satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Venison Backstrap.
Grilled Salmon With Pesto Glamping On The Lake
Here is an easy Grilled Salmon with Pesto that can be finished in less than 15 minutes. Serve it with fresh grilled veggies and foil-packet grilled potatoes for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Salmon With Pesto.
Garlic Scape, Lemon Grilled Chicken Tenders
What can you do with Garlic Scapes? These Garlic Scape, Lemon Grilled Chicken Tenders are about 5 minutes prep and 10 to cook on grill! What could be easier than that?
Get the Recipe: Garlic Scape, Lemon Grilled Chicken Tenders.
Smoky Chipotle Turkey Burgers On The Grill
These Smoky Chipotle Turkey Burgers on the Grill are easy, moist, and delicious! Have you ever tried to make turkey burgers on the grill, only to be disappointed because they are dry? The reason for this is that the turkey has very little fat. It’s the same reason that sometimes they fall apart, as well. There is no fat to bind them together.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Chipotle Turkey Burgers.
Venison Steak Kebabs- Grilled To Perfection
Sink your teeth into these succulent Venison Steak Kebabs, perfect for a summertime cookout. Marinated in zesty Mexican flavors, they are easy to make. With tender meat in every bite, these kababs will surely be a hit at your next cookout. Kebabs are believed to have originated in the Middle East, but people enjoy them worldwide today.
Get the Recipe: Venison Steak Kebab.
Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Scallops can be made any time of the year in the oven or on the grill! Grilling them alongside some grilled vegetables is an easy, complete meal with no cleanup!!
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Scallops.
Smoked Spare Ribs; Smoker, Grill Or Oven
Few culinary experiences match the primal pleasure of biting into a juicy, smoky spare rib. We order them at festivals or BBQ joints. Why not make them at home? You don’t have to have a smoker to make luscious ribs! We make them on the grill and even in the oven in the winter! Delicious, easy dinner for any night of the week!
Get the Recipe: Smoked Spare Ribs; Smoker, Grill Or Oven.
Smoked New York Strip
This Smoked New York Strip is an outstanding way to savor this exceptional cut of beef. Smoking brings out a tender, juicy texture in the steak, along with a subtle smokiness that enhances its natural flavors. The gentle smoke infuses the meat, creating a rich and complex taste that’s simply irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Smoked New York Strip.
Smoked Beef Brisket
Smoked Beef Brisket can be juicy, tender, and surprisingly straightforward to make. This guide will teach you how to smoke the perfect beef brisket with minimal effort. We’ll cover the essentials from selecting the right cut to mastering the smoking process. By understanding the key techniques like temperature control and choosing the right wood, you can effortlessly produce a delicious brisket.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Brisket.
Smoked Pulled Pork
Smoked Pulled Pork takes the flavor to a new level compared to the standard crockpot method. When smoked, the pork develops a rich, deep flavor profile with a smoky aroma that you just can’t achieve with a crockpot. The meat becomes incredibly tender, practically melting in your mouth with each bite. And here’s the best part: you don’t actually need a traditional smoker to get that authentic smoked taste.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pulled Pork.
Grilled Pork Skewers With Jerk Sauce
Hot, tangy, and full of that classic barbecue flavor, these grilled jerk pork tenderloin skewers (kebabs) are the perfect summertime meal.
Get The Recipe: Grilled Jerk Pork Tenderloin Skewers (Kebabs) – In the Kitch.
Easy Grilled Flank Steak Salad With Arugula
Easy Grilled Flank Steak Salad with Arugula requires a quick marinade, a quick dressing, and a quick sear on the grill! Perfect for entertaining.
Get The Recipe: Easy Grilled Flank Steak Salad with Arugula.
Italian Sausage Skewers
Italian sausage skewers are a unique way to serve sausages at your next barbecue. However, don’t let that delay you as you can also cook them in your broiler or grill, inside!
Get The Recipe: Italian Sausage Skewers.
Bbq Pulled Pork Sliders
My BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders are smoky, tangy, and crunchy—an easy, crowd-pleasing bite perfect for parties, meal prep, or weeknight dinners.
Get The Recipe: BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders.
Simple Grilled Shrimp Kabobs
These grilled shrimp kabobs are tender, full of bold flavor, and cook in 10 minutes. Marinated and grilled with veggies, perfect for summer.
Get The Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Kabobs.
Smoked Chicken Legs | Drumsticks
Welcome to our delicious world of smoked chicken legs! You’re in for a real treat if you love juicy, tender meat filled with deep, smoky flavors. Nothing is better than cold chicken on a picnic!
Get the Recipe: Smoked Drumsticks.
The Best Instant Pot Cabbage Recipes for Quick Comfort Food
Instant Pot cabbage recipes are the perfect way to turn a simple veggie into something extraordinary. Packed with flavor and super easy to make, these dishes will have you enjoying cabbage like never before. Looking for a quick side dish or a hearty main? These recipes are sure to become your new go-to for delicious, fuss-free meals. Cabbage has never tasted this good!
Get The Recipe: The Best Instant Pot Cabbage Recipes for Quick Comfort Food.
These Appetizers Are Built for Backyard Parties
Backyard parties are all about easy fun, great company, and food that disappears fast. These crowd-pleasing appetizers check every box—easy to prep, simple to serve, and impossible to stop eating. Whether you’re setting up a snack table or passing plates on the patio, these bites bring the flavor without the fuss.
Get The Recipe: These Appetizers Are Built for Backyard Parties.
These 18 Recipes Prove You Can Eat Well on a Budget
Food prices are wild right now, but dinner doesn’t have to be. These meals are easy on your wallet and don’t require a ton of ingredients or kitchen skills. Some stretch leftovers, some start with pantry staples, and all of them deliver without draining your budget.
Get The Recipe: These 18 Recipes Prove You Can Eat Well on a Budget.
13 Superfood Recipes That Don’t Taste Like You Tried to Be Healthy
Discover a collection of vibrant recipes that celebrate the power of superfoods! Each dish is designed to elevate your meals with nutrient-rich ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick side or a full meal, these flavorful creations will inspire you to explore the delicious world of plant-based cooking.
Get The Recipe: 13 Superfood Recipes That Don’t Taste Like You Tried to Be Healthy.
