43 Tasty BBQ Cookout Menu Ideas to Fire Up 2025

If you’re looking to create the perfect 2025 cookout menu, this list of 43 delicious ideas is just what you need to liven up your next get-together. Whether you're hosting a casual family meal or a fun-filled summer party, these options will leave your guests asking for more. From juicy grilled meats to vibrant sides and irresistible desserts, we've got you covered to make your barbecue a success.

A great barbecue isn't just about the grill; it's about creating an experience everyone will enjoy. With a variety of flavorful dishes, you'll be able to please every taste, whether you're serving juicy burgers, savory sides or decadent desserts.

Jump to Section 

• Cheap Cookout Food That Tastes Great
• Easy Cookout Food Ideas 
• Easy Cookout Food for Large Groups
• Simple Sides for a Cookout
• Flavorful Cookout Menu Classics
• Cookout Menu FAQs

Cheap Cookout Food That Tastes Great 

1. Chili and Cornbread

Chili and cornbread make a perfect pair for any barbecue cookout menu, balancing bold spices with soft, slightly sweet cornbread. The combination is hearty, budget-friendly, and easy to prepare, making it a reliable choice for a cookout.

2. Baked Beans

A cookout menu wouldn’t be complete without baked beans, a classic and budget-friendly side that pairs perfectly with grilled meats. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it a favorite, and with just a few ingredients, it’s easy to prepare for any gathering.

3. Macaroni Salad

A fresh macaroni salad is a staple on any cookout menu. With its combination of pasta, mayonnaise and vegetables, its easy to prepare and is a light and tasty option. Plus, it's a great way to add color and texture to your table without breaking the bank.

4. Grilled Chicken Breast

Grilled chicken breasts are a perfect choice for those looking for something healthier and full of flavor at their barbecue. Simply season with your favorite spices and grill them for a tasty and easy-to-prepare dish that's sure to please all your guests.

5. Garlic Parmesan Grilled Potato Wedges

Garlic parmesan grilled potato wedges are a delicious and affordable option to pair with grilled meats. The touch of garlic and parmesan enhances the flavor of the potatoes, and their crispy exterior and soft interior make them a perfect companion for any cookout.

6. Vegetarian Quesadillas

Vegetarian quesadillas are a delicious and affordable addition to your cookout menu. Filled with melted cheese and fresh vegetables, these quesadillas are perfect if you're looking for meat-free options. You can make them ahead of time and then heat them up on the grill, making them an easy and tasty option.

7. Fruit Salad

A fresh fruit salad is the perfect accompaniment to any cookout. Full of vibrant colors and natural flavors, this fruit salad is not only refreshing but also a light and healthy option. Perfect for balancing heavier flavors and adding a sweet touch to your cookout menu.

8. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Buffalo cauliflower bites are a tasty vegetarian option that will delight your guests. With a spicy kick and a crunchy texture, these cauliflower bites are perfect for those looking for a light yet flavorful appetizer. They’re light yet satisfying and a fun option for anyone experimenting with new recipes, like those covered in Zoom cooking classes.

9. Greek Salad Pitas

Greek salad pitas are a delicious and healthy addition to any cookout menu. With a mix of cucumber, tomato, olives and feta cheese inside pita bread, this Mediterranean dish is perfect for those who prefer something light and tasty. Plus, it's easy to prepare and can be served as a side dish or as a main course for your vegetarian guests.

Easy Cookout Food Ideas

10. Chips and Guacamole

Chips and guacamole are a perfect option if you're wondering, "What last-minute item should I bring to a cookout?" This delicious dip is easy to make and always a hit. You only need ripe avocados, onion, tomato, cilantro and a squeeze of lime to create a fresh guacamole that's perfectly complemented by crunchy chips. It's a tasty and quick dish, ideal for any cookout menu.

11. Watermelon Feta Skewers

Watermelon feta skewers are a refreshing and unique option among easy cookout food ideas. These watermelon skewers with feta cheese offer a perfect combination of sweet and savory, which are not only delicious but also add a visually appealing touch to your barbecue. They're easy to put together and perfect for enjoying on a hot day.

12. Grilled Shrimp Piccata Skewers

Grilled shrimp piccata skewers are an elegant and tasty option for your cookout menu. Marinated with lemon, capers and garlic, then grilled, these shrimp offer a blend of fresh, light flavors that are ideal for pairing with any main dish. They're sure to be a hit at your next get-together!

13. Veggie Burgers

Veggie burgers are an excellent option for those looking for a vegetarian alternative at their barbecue. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, these plant- and grain-based burgers offer a healthy and delicious option for all tastes. They're perfect as a main dish or as part of a varied menu.

14. Pineapple Coconut Rice

Pineapple coconut rice is a delicious, tropical side dish that perfectly complements any grilled main dish. The sweetness of pineapple combined with the creaminess of coconut creates a delicious combination everyone will love. If you'd like to learn to cook something new and exotic for your cookout, this rice is an excellent choice.

15. BBQ Chicken Wings

BBQ chicken wings are a classic at any barbecue. Seasoned with your favorite BBQ sauce and cooked to perfection on the grill, these wings are always a hit with diners. They're easy to prepare and serve, making them an ideal choice for your next cookout menu.

16. Grilled Stuffed Peppers

Grilled stuffed peppers are a delicious and colorful option for your cookout menu. Stuffed with rice, cheese, meat or vegetables, these grilled peppers offer a perfect blend of flavor and texture. Plus, they're easy to prepare and can be adapted to different dietary preferences, making them a versatile and tasty dish for any cookout.

17. Tortilla Chips and Salsa

Tortilla chips and salsa is a simple, quick, and always popular option at any barbecue. Crispy chips paired with fresh salsa make this dish a perfect appetizer before main courses. It's easy to prepare and can be customized with different spice levels or a fruity twist like mango, making it a great option for those looking to experiment with new flavors.

Easy Cookout Food for Large Groups

18. Classic Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a classic and affordable side dish for any 4th of July picnic or cookout menu. Its combination of crispy cabbage and creamy sauce is the perfect complement to grilled dishes, especially meats and seafood. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, making it a practical option for large groups.

19. Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Mediterranean pasta salad is a refreshing and tasty option, ideal as an easy cookout meal for large groups. With a mix of pasta, cucumber, tomato, olives and feta cheese, this Mediterranean salad is light, delicious, and easy to prepare in advance, making it a practical option for large outdoor gatherings.

20. Hot Dogs

Hot dogs are a classic staple on any cookout menu. Easy to prepare and loved by everyone, they can be served with a variety of toppings, such as mustard, ketchup, onions, or sauerkraut, so each guest can customize them to their liking. They're ideal for large groups, as they're quick to prepare and very popular with diners.

21. Grilled Teriyaki Cauliflower Steaks

Grilled teriyaki cauliflower steaks are a tasty and light option for large groups. The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce enhances the flavor of the roasted cauliflower, creating a delicious and unique dish that's perfect for those looking for vegetarian or vegan options at their grill.

22. Taco Bar

A taco bar is a great option for a summer-themed party, allowing guests to customize their tacos with a variety of toppings. From carne asada to vegetarian options, tacos are always a crowd-pleaser, and putting them together is both simple and fun. They can be customized with a variety of toppings, making them a versatile choice that suits every guest’s preferences — perfect for large groups.

23. Grilled Corn and Black Bean Salad

The grilled corn and black bean salad is a fresh and flavorful salad that complements any cookout menu. The grilled corn adds a smoky touch, while the black beans add texture and protein. It's a healthy addition to grilled meats or a satisfying main dish for guests who prefer vegetarian options.

24. Hamburgers

Hamburgers are another classic on any cookout menu. Easy to make in large quantities, they can be customized with a variety of toppings and cheeses. Whether with beef, chicken or even plant-based options, burgers are always a hit at barbecues and an ideal option for serving large groups.

25. Grilled Pizza

Grilled pizza is one of the most fun and easy options for serving a crowd at a cookout. With a variety of toppings and a crispy grilled base, each guest can create their own personalized pizza. It's a delicious and unique way to enjoy a meal outdoors, perfect for large gatherings.

26. Grilled Sausages with Peppers and Onion

Grilled sausages with peppers and onions are for large groups — and they're also delicious. Grilled sausages paired with caramelized peppers and onions offer an irresistible blend of flavors. Plus, you can quickly prepare this dish on the grill, making it a great choice for any cookout.

Simple Sides for a Cookout

27. Peach Bruschetta

Peach bruschetta is a fresh and delicious option for your cookout menu. With the sweet taste of peaches combined with a touch of basil and creamy cheese, this light appetizer delivers a delicious blend of flavors that will delight your guests. It's easy to prepare and is perfect as an appetizer or as a side dish at a barbecue.

28. Caesar Salad

A classic Caesar salad is one of the most popular simple sides you can serve at a cookout. Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, and croutons combine to create a refreshing and tasty salad that pairs well with any grilled main dish. It's quick to prepare and fits easily into any menu.

29. Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is a simple yet tasty side dish that never fails at any barbecue. Grilled corn, with a touch of butter and salt, is perfect for adding sweetness and freshness to your meal. It's easy to prepare and a crowd favorite, making it an ideal choice for any cookout.

30. Crispy Fried Onion Rings

Crispy fried onion rings are a delicious addition to any cookout menu. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these onion rings are the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or burgers. Their flavor and texture will make your guests enjoy the meal even more, and they're easy to prepare in large quantities.

31. Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a classic that never goes out of style. Their creamy filling of egg yolk, mayonnaise, mustard and spices is the perfect complement to any barbecue. Plus, they're easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient and delicious option for your cookout.

32. Mac and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is a beloved simple side, making it a perfect addition on any cookout menu. With its tender pasta topped with a creamy cheese sauce, this comforting side dish is perfect for serving alongside grilled dishes. It's easy to prepare and always ensures your guests are satisfied.

33. Panzanella Salad

Panzanella salad is a fresh Italian dish that’s perfect for your cookout. Toasted bread, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and basil come together to create a light and flavorful option for hot days. It can also be made ahead of time, making it a practical choice for large gatherings.

34. Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is a healthy addition to any cookout menu. Grilled with a touch of olive oil, garlic and salt, the asparagus acquires a delicious, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled meats and fish. It's easy to prepare and adds a touch of freshness to your cookout.

Flavorful Cookout Menu Classics

35. Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Hawaiian chicken skewers are a delicious, tropical option for your cookout menu. These chicken skewers, marinated in a sweet and sour pineapple and soy sauce, offer a mild, exotic flavor that pairs perfectly with the smoky taste of the grill. They're easy to prepare and will always be a favorite with guests.

36. Carne Asada

Carne Asada is a standout dish for any cookout. Marinated in a mix of spices and citrus juice, this cut of meat is grilled until juicy and tender. Serve it in tacos or with a touch of guacamole and onions, and it’s sure to be a hit at your barbecue.

37. Pulled Pork Sliders

Pulled pork sliders are small bites packed with flavor. Slow cooked to tenderness, pulled pork is served on small buns with BBQ sauce, creating a perfect combination of textures and flavors. They're ideal for casual gatherings and are easy to eat with your hands, making them a perfect choice for your barbecue.

38. Grilled Stuffed Jalapeños

Grilled stuffed jalapeños are a great option if you want to add a spicy dish on your cookout menu. Stuffed with creamy cheese and then grilled, these jalapeños offer an explosion of flavor and a spicy kick your guests won't be able to resist. They're perfect as an appetizer or as a side dish for meats and burgers.

39. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes are a healthy and delicious side dish for any barbecue. Roasted with a touch of olive oil and herbs, the sweet potatoes develop a sweet, smoky flavor that perfectly complements grilled meats. They're easy to prepare and offer a twist on typical potatoes.

40. BBQ Ribs

BBQ Ribs are the quintessential centerpiece for any cookout menu. Slow-cooked and tossed in a delicious BBQ sauce, these grilled ribs are tender, juicy and full of flavor. With every bite, your guests will enjoy an irresistible combination of meat and sauce that will make your cookout a success.

41. Charcoal Grilled Steak

​​A charcoal-grilled steak is a classic choice for any barbecue. Perfectly cooked over charcoal, this cut of meat develops a smoky, juicy flavor that's hard to match. Whether it's a rib-eye, T-bone or sirloin, a chargrilled steak is always a top choice for meat lovers.

42. Spicy Shrimp Tacos

Spicy shrimp tacos are a great seafood option for any cookout menu. Shrimp seasoned with bold spices, paired with guacamole and fresh salsa in corn tortillas, create a perfect balance of heat and freshness. They’re easy to prepare and sure to be a hit at your outdoor gathering.

43. BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches

BBQ jackfruit sandwiches are a great option for those looking for a vegan or vegetarian alternative to their barbecue. Slow-cooked jackfruit takes on a texture similar to shredded beef, and the addition of BBQ sauce turns it into a tasty and satisfying dish. Served on soft rolls, these sandwiches are perfect for a plant-based option on your cookout menu.

Cookout Menu FAQs

What Is Usually at a Cookout?

At a cookout, you'll typically find grilled staples like burgers, hot dogs, and steaks, along with classic side dishes such as coleslaw, potato salad, and corn on the cob. Chips and dip are a must, and refreshing drinks are always on hand to keep everyone cool while they enjoy the good food and company.

What Should I Buy for a Cookout?

For a successful cookout, stock up on grilling essentials like burgers, hot dogs and chicken, along with buns and condiments. Don’t forget sides like chips, salads and grilled vegetables, as well as drinks to keep everyone refreshed.

How Many Hamburgers Should I Make for a Cookout?

It’s generally recommended to plan on serving one hamburger per person, with extra just in case. A good rule of thumb is to buy 10% more than your guest list to account for varying appetites or if guests want seconds.

What Last-Minute Item Should I Bring to a Cookout?

A great last-minute item to bring to a cookout is a fresh fruit salad or a bag of chips and salsa. These are easy to grab from the store and will complement the main dishes while adding a light, refreshing option.

With these 43 cookout menu ideas, you’ve got everything you need to throw a barbecue that keeps guests coming back for seconds. Whether it’s smoky BBQ ribs, zesty shrimp tacos, or a fresh watermelon feta salad, your spread will be anything but boring.

So fire up the grill, pile on the sides, and get ready for a summer feast that’s all about bold flavors and good times. Just don’t be surprised if your cookouts become the stuff of legend.

For more summer party inspiration and tips to elevate your cookout menu, explore other experiences on Classpop!