27 Grill Recipes Made Our Backyard Feel Like A Vacation

Every weekend started feeling less like chores and more like flipping open a beach chair. Grilling 27 ways turned dinner into a low-key staycation without packing a single bag. Even the neighbors started “just happening” to walk by. Who knew backyard smoke signals doubled as an open invite to paradise?

Grilled meat ribs garnished with chopped herbs and garlic, served on a white platter with fresh parsley in the background.
Grilled Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Grilled Lobster Tail

Cooked lobster tail with herbs and seasoning served on a white plate.
Grilled Lobster Tail. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Lobster tail on the grill brings out its unique flavor in a way nothing else can. The grilled char boosts its richness. Grilled Lobster Tail is a must-try for seafood lovers. This dish feels like a treat meant for a special day outdoors.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lobster Tail

Grilled Eggplant

Close-up of grilled eggplant slices garnished with chopped herbs and a glossy glaze.
Grilled Eggplant. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Eggplant on the grill gets a smoky touch that pairs well with its natural texture. Grilled Eggplant works great if you’re aiming for something lighter but satisfying. This veggie becomes a great option for barbecue lovers looking to mix things up. It’s simple but leaves an impression with each bite.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Eggplant

Copycat Smash Burger

Close-up of a copycat smash burger with lettuce, tomato, and a thick beef patty on a sesame seed bun.
Copycat Smash Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Smashing burgers on a hot grill gives them crispy edges that make them stand out. Copycat Smash Burger mimics the ones you get at restaurants but with a backyard twist. They hit that balance between crunchy and juicy. Perfect for casual grill days with friends.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger

Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini slices garnished with chopped herbs on a light-colored plate.
Grilled Zucchini. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Throwing zucchini on the grill gives it a unique crisp exterior, balanced by its mild interior flavor. Grilled Zucchini is a solid choice for those who want to add variety to their spread. It’s gentle but sturdy enough to handle the grilling process. Works great as a complement to grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Zucchini

Cheeseburger

A cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion, and ketchup on a plate. A bowl of lettuce is in the background.
Cheeseburger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Few things satisfy barbecue cravings like a stacked cheeseburger. The melted cheese ties Cheeseburger together beautifully as it warms on a grilled patty. Juicy beef paired with soft buns is always timeless. It’s a classic for good reason.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger

Grilled Peppers

Grilled red and yellow bell peppers with char marks, topped with crumbled feta cheese and garnished with herbs.
Grilled Peppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Peppers on the grill turn their natural sweetness up a notch as their skin starts to char. Grilled Peppers are colorful, versatile, and bold enough to stand out. They bring a mix of smoky undertones and crunch. Perfect for sliding onto any barbecue plate.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peppers

Best Oven-Baked Ribs Recipe

Grilled ribs garnished with herbs and served with a side of sauce and onions.
Best Oven-Baked Ribs Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For times you want that tender rib texture, baking in the oven offers control and ease. Best Oven-Baked Ribs Recipe locks in flavors while saving some grill space. The ribs are cooked low and slow to get that softness just right. A hit for rib fans who don’t mind skipping the big smoker setup.
Get the Recipe: Best Oven-Baked Ribs Recipe

Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Close-up of a cheeseburger with a sesame bun, bacon, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and beef patty.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Grilled chicken between fresh buns is always a dependable go-to. Grilled Chicken Sandwich pairs grilled meat with soft bread for contrast. Lightweight but still fills you up during those outdoor meals. It’s easy to make and hits all the right notes while enjoying the backyard.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Sandwich

The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Fork lifting a serving of cheesy cheeseburger casserole garnished with parsley.
The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Instead of individual cheeseburgers, this casserole brings those flavors into one dish. The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole is made for sharing during gatherings. It’s hearty without feeling heavy, perfect after a long grilling session. Great options for turning a cheeseburger into something new.
Get the Recipe: The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Grilled Veggie Kebobs

Close-up of grilled veggie kabobs with zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and onions, garnished with fresh herbs.
Grilled Veggie Kebobs. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Veggies on a stick work great for casual BBQ spreads. Grilled Veggie Kebobs bring variety and color to your grill lineup. Their char gives them depth while maintaining a bite. Fun and easy to enjoy straight from the skewer.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggie Kebobs

Korean Burgers

Close-up of a hamburger with a sesame seed bun, beef patty, green onions, and rich brown sauce.
Korean Burgers. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Adding Korean-inspired flavors to burgers turns them into something different. Korean Burgers offer a mix of bold, sweet notes with grilled beef. They’re hearty like a classic but bring unexpected pops of flavor. These burgers are ideal for experimenting on the grill.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Thai chicken skewers topped with a creamy sauce and garnished with chopped herbs and peanuts, served over a bed of white rice.
Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chicken skewered and grilled adds ease and flavor to every bite. Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers bring something inspired that’ll stand out on grill day. The grilling process locks in every layer perfectly. They’re good for bringing variation to plain grilled chicken dishes.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Veggie Burger

A homemade veggie burger in a bun, on a wooden plate, ready to eat.
Veggie Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This dish focuses on texture and flavor without meat. Veggie Burger shows how grilling can make plant-based patties more appealing. A great choice for those looking to balance out meat-heavy BBQ spreads. Whether you’re vegan or not, this dish earns its place on the grill.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Burger

Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken breast slices served over a bed of greens with lemon wedges on the side.
Chipotle Grilled Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chipotle flavors pair well with the smokiness of grilled chicken. Chipotle Grilled Chicken gets golden-crisp edges while locking in every bit of flavor. It’s bold enough to stand alone or work with sides. This chicken dish keeps things simple yet satisfying for backyard meals.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Homemade Corn Dogs

Close-up of a bitten corn dog showing its interior with a layer of crispy fried batter and a hot dog inside.
Homemade Corn Dogs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Corn dogs grilled outside bring a fun, fairground vibe to the backyard. Homemade Corn Dogs make snacks that are easy to share and enjoy as the grill comes to life. The hot surface ensures every bite has the right consistency. Perfect for casual snacking during outdoor parties.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Corn Dogs

Grilled Steak Pinwheels

Close-up of sliced stuffed beef roulade with visible layers of meat, cheese, and spinach on a wooden board. A glass of beer is blurred in the background.
Grilled Steak Pinwheels. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Rolling steak with fillings levels up what grilled steak can do. Grilled Steak Pinwheels bring surprises with every bite thanks to their layers. The grilling locks each layer together for tasty results. A fun option when you want something different with steaks.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak Pinwheels

Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

A chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and sauce on a bun, with fries in the background.
Homemade KFC Zinger Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crisp chicken stacked burger-style steps things up. Homemade KFC Zinger Burger feels indulgent while keeping fried chicken flavors intact. It works well with other grilled dishes, giving a different texture that stands out. Bold flavors hit perfectly for sandwich lovers.
Get the Recipe: Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

Grilled Vegetables

A platter of grilled vegetables including zucchini, mushrooms, asparagus, bell peppers, and red onions, garnished with chopped herbs.
Grilled Vegetables. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Grilling a mix of veggies together allows each one to shine. Grilled Vegetables are easy to adapt based on what’s available. Their charred touch contrasts with their natural textures. Great side for all kinds of grilled proteins.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables

Grilled Shrimp

Grilled shrimp skewers served on a plate, topped with chopped herbs and a drizzle of sauce.
Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Shrimp on the grill cooks fast and holds flavor like a pro. Grilled Shrimp checks the box for seafood fans wanting something lighter yet impactful. Their texture takes well to grilling heat without losing shape. A versatile choice for skewers or plates.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp

Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings

Close-up of grilled chicken wings with a crispy texture, next to a red bowl of creamy dipping sauce.
Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Wings rub-grilled bring a different twist to barbecue nights. Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings focus on textures and bold flavors while skipping excess heaviness. Bite into barbecue-style without the mess of sauce. They pair well with easy outdoor setups.
Get the Recipe: Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings

Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

A bowl of vibrant pasta salad with penne, cherry tomatoes, black olives, diced cucumbers, red onions, and a drizzle of dressing.
Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pasta paired with grilled veggies keeps things light but filling. Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies brings smoky edges while still serving as a refreshing dish. Perfect addition to balance out heavy grilled items. Works great during heat-heavy outdoor cookouts.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Grilled Chicken Kabobs

Grilled chicken skewers with red bell peppers, green bell peppers, and onions are served on a white plate, garnished with chopped herbs.
Grilled Chicken Kabobs. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Chicken cut into bites is quick and simple for grilling. Grilled Chicken Kabobs offer a flexible way to serve chicken during backyard meals. Whether as stand-alone or paired with veggie skewers, they’re great in every bite. Solid choice for both small or large gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Hot Dogs

Four hot dogs in buns topped with crispy fried onions are arranged on parchment paper in a basket.
Grilled Hot Dogs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Hot dogs over the grill always hit the nostalgia mark. Grilled Hot Dogs sizzle and blister in all the right spots when they hit that perfect heat. Whether you want them plain or dressed up with toppings, they belong at the grill. Classic easy-to-make choice that’s always welcome.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Dogs

Grilled Salmon

A close-up of a cooked salmon fillet topped with a mixture of chopped herbs, garlic, and seasonings.
Grilled Salmon. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Salmon on the grill keeps its flaky layers intact while adding smokiness. Grilled Salmon balances the fish’s natural flavor without feeling too heavy. Great option when you’d like grilled seafood minus extra fuss. It pairs well with both veggie sides or fresh salads.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Salmon

Tomahawk Steak

Close-up of cooked beef slices on a wooden board, with a fork holding one piece. The meat appears juicy with a seasoned crust.
Tomahawk Steak. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Thick steak with the bone in looks as good on the grill as it tastes. Tomahawk Steak is about going big while grilling outdoors. It’s a commitment to bold steak flavors and a showstopper at any BBQ setup. Requires patience on the grill but pays off well in flavor.
Get the Recipe: Tomahawk Steak

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus spears served on a plate with two charred lemon halves.
Grilled Asparagus. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Asparagus hits the grill quickly and brings subtle crispiness. Grilled Asparagus works well as part of a balanced BBQ menu. Light but pairs great with heavier grilled proteins. Easy way to add green to your plate without losing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

Grilled Chicken Thighs

Grilled meat ribs garnished with chopped herbs and garlic, served on a white platter with fresh parsley in the background.
Grilled Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Chicken thighs grilled bring great flavor due to their balance of texture. Grilled Chicken Thighs allow you to serve up juicy cuts without hassle. Portioned well for casual servings during BBQ setups. Dependable option for chicken fans wanting full flavor.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Thighs

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *