These 29 Cookout Ideas Help Me Stay Sane During Family Reunions

ByMandy Applegate

Family reunions are loud, unpredictable, and full of people who somehow all brought a different potato salad. That’s where these 29 cookout ideas came in handy. They gave everyone something to rally around that didn’t involve a heated board game or a group photo. Even the picky eaters forgot to complain long enough to ask for seconds.

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.

Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Three baked sweet potatoes topped with minced meat, melted cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions on a white plate.
Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sweet potatoes give Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes a fun twist that’s easy to enjoy outdoors. It’s a smart way to mix up your typical BBQ spread with something hearty and different. People love how the texture and flavor stand up to the traditional version. Make this for your next gathering if you want smiles all around.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Close-up of creamy macaroni and cheese topped with crispy breadcrumbs and chopped parsley.
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is the perfect cookout-style comfort food for big groups. It works great as a crowd-pleaser because most folks love cheesy pasta. The Instant Pot speeds things up so you’re not stuck waiting forever. You’ll appreciate how easy it is while feeding hungry guests.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Grilled Asparagus

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

If you’re grilling anyway, make Grilled Asparagus for everyone to snack on. It’s an easy veggie option that doesn’t overwhelm the main dishes. This side is light and quick to make, fitting seamlessly into your backyard setup. Guests appreciate the balance and variety it brings to the spread.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

Philly Cheesesteak

A sandwich roll filled with grilled steak strips, melted cheese, green bell peppers, and onions on parchment paper.
Philly Cheesesteak. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a classic hit, whip up some Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches during your cookout. Everyone loves this warm and comforting cookout staple, and it’s perfect for picky eaters too. It’s always a solid combo of meat and cheese without needing much else. Keep your crowd happy without overcomplicating things.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Two pieces of fried chicken on a gray plate, garnished with small bits of green herbs.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Fried chicken lovers always rave about Buttermilk Fried Chicken at reunions. The crispy outside and tender meat make it an obvious win at BBQs. You’ll impress guests for sure when this hits the table. Pair it with whatever sides you’ve got, and it’s always going to work.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

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.

A bold choice for the grill is Tomahawk Steak because it’s perfect for meat lovers in the crew. It commands attention, especially for fans of steakhouse-style meals. This feels like more of an event than just a BBQ option. Guests always take notice when this hits the grill.
Get the Recipe: Tomahawk Steak

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.

Grilled Hot Dogs are an obvious pick for family reunions that need something quick. You don’t need anything fancy, just toss them on the grill and they’re ready in no time. Kids and adults alike always seem to enjoy them. They’re simple and reliable when you need backup food options.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Dogs

Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

A bread bowl filled with a creamy dip, garnished with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and bacon bits. Celery sticks are placed on the side.
Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

This dip doesn’t stay on the table long at cookouts. The creamy combo of ranch alongside bacon makes it hard to resist. Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip is perfect for scooping with chips or even veggies for those who prefer it that way. Snacks like this make mingling even easier.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

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.

Seafood at a cookout stands out, which is why Grilled Shrimp works so well. It’s quick to grill and doesn’t feel too heavy when you’re serving a bunch of other stuff. People love grabbing a skewer and heading back to chat and catch up. Put this option out for something different that folks enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp

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.

Fun snacks like Homemade Corn Dogs always bring smiles to family gatherings. They’re easy to hold, so guests can mingle and munch without juggling plates. Whip up a batch, and you’ve got a casual hit that works for kids and adults alike. The perfect mix of simple and comforting makes cookouts flow better.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Corn Dogs

Cowboy Caviar

Close-up of a mixed salad with tomatoes, feta cheese, black beans, chickpeas, corn, cucumber, red onion, and parsley, being drizzled with dressing.
Cowboy Caviar. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Let everyone scoop up Cowboy Caviar as a fresh and fun side option. It’s good for munching while people chat and soak up the outdoor vibes. This dip-style dish goes great with chips or just a spoonful if someone’s feeling bold. It balances heavier plates with something lighter in between bites.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Caviar

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.

When you want something filling but simple, Grilled Chicken Sandwich hits the spot. It’s an easy barbecue option that almost everyone enjoys without hesitation. These sandwiches fit well into hand-held meals that make mingling easy. Plus, they don’t need tons of steps to make guests happy.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Taco Pizza

A close-up of a loaded flatbread pizza topped with avocado slices, diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, seasoned meat, black beans, and a drizzle of creamy sauce.
Taco Pizza. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Pizza fans love Taco Pizza at reunions because it’s so easy to split and share. It’s a good way to combine BBQ fun with a crowd favorite. This keeps things interesting without overloading everyone with one kind of food. You’ll notice how quickly everyone lines up for slices.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pizza

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.

Having a meat option that pleases almost everyone makes reunions a bit easier. Grilled Chicken Thighs are hearty and easy to serve. They’re a great option for guests who love handheld or fork-and-knife meals. Plus, they pair well with almost anything at the table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Thighs

Beef Tacos

Three beef tacos filled with ground meat, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheese, and sliced red onions.
Beef Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Everybody loves a good taco, especially when the choice is Beef Tacos. They’re simple, quick to enjoy, and great for picky eaters. Offering toppings on the side keeps everything customizable. It’s always fun watching the kids pile theirs high.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tacos

BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Three pulled pork sliders with coleslaw on a white plate, topped with a sprig of parsley.
BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sweet and tangy meets crunchy with BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw. These are perfect for grab-and-go moments when mingling. Sliders save plates and keep the vibe casual. Bonus? Everyone seems to love these mini-sized sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Spicy Greek Feta Dip

Spicy Greek feta dip in a bowl with pita bread by the side.
Spicy Greek Feta Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bringing something sharable to the table is always a win, and Spicy Greek Feta Dip does just that. It’s the kind of dish that keeps folks hanging by the snack zone. It’s easy for everyone to grab their own bit without hassle. Works well with chips or veggie sticks nearby.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Greek Feta Dip

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

A bowl of rice topped with grilled chicken, creamy sauce, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and red onion slices.
Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Need something filling but versatile? Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl hits that spot, combining fun sides in one dish. It’s hearty without being too heavy, great for sitting outdoors and chatting. Guests tend to love when everything layers together in one bowl.
Get the Recipe: Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Big Mac Sloppy Joe

Two sesame seed burgers with cheese, shredded lettuce, ground meat, and pickles, stacked on a plate.
Big Mac Sloppy Joe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Burgers sometimes take too long on the grill, so Big Mac Sloppy Joe is a lifesaver. It’s all the flavors people love but without the wait time. Guests enjoy grabbing one even as they stroll through the yard. Perfect for feeding a crowd without doing too much.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Sloppy Joe

Mini Tacos

A plate of beef tacos topped with cheese, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, served with avocado sauce and lime wedges. A bowl of cilantro and a jar lid are next to the plate.
Mini Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes bite-size makes all the difference, which is why Mini Tacos are great for family meetups. They don’t tie up plates and let people snack while chatting. Guests can stack them up or keep things simple. These get a lot of love from kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Reunions need quick options for picky eaters, and Ham and Cheese Sliders always work. Bite-sized yet filling, they’re great for adults chasing active toddlers. Easy to grab and easy to share with minimal cleanup. It’s hard to go wrong with these crowd-pleasers.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Caprese Appetizer

Image shows an overhead shot of Caprese Bites on a wooden board.
Caprese Appetizer. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Summer gatherings are perfect for light snacks, and Caprese Appetizer fits the bill. It’s a dish that’s simple on the eyes and easy to enjoy. You don’t need fancy skills to prep this crowd favorite. Pairing it with toothpicks or crackers keeps it fuss-free.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

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.

Who said cookout dishes can’t be a little upscale? Grilled Salmon brings something fresh to the table while still fitting outdoor vibes. It’s great for guests who want something filling but not overly heavy. Works great alongside veggies or in sandwiches if needed.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Salmon

Mushroom Tacos

Three soft tacos filled with lettuce, mushrooms, shredded cheese, and cherry tomatoes, garnished with a lime wedge.
Mushroom Tacos. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Not all tacos need meat, which is where Mushroom Tacos step in perfectly. They’re rich in flavor, filling, and great for vegetarians at the picnic. Quick to whip up and serve hot or cold, guests love stacking their plates with these. Simple and fun for group gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Tacos

Seven Layer Salad

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise.
Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This one doesn’t get enough credit for how handy it is. Seven Layer Salad keeps things simple while giving guests variety in every bite. Layering the ingredients means easy serving and prep ahead of time. It’s a simple way to add greens to the reunion table without fuss.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

Italian Sliders

Close-up of sesame seed-topped sliders filled with sliced meat and melted cheese.
Italian Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Perfect for feeding a crowd, Italian Sliders bring a mix of savory sandwich bites that everyone loves. They’re small enough to grab and go, so there’s no fuss during busy hangouts. You can prep them ahead of time, making them super convenient for cookouts. Packed into cute little portions, these make reunions way less stressful.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

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.

Gathering everybody around the grill is a breeze when Grilled Vegetables are on the menu. They make a quick and easy addition to any plate without being heavy. Colorful options let everyone personalize their favorite combo without much hassle. Toss them on the grill for a no-mess option that keeps everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables

Black Bean Burger

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it.
Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Switching things up with Black Bean Burger is always a hit, especially for non-meat eaters. It’s hearty enough that even meat lovers dig in without question. Throw these on the table, and you’ll have people asking for seconds while skipping the drive-thru. Cookouts feel way less hectic when everyone enjoys a solid burger alternative.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Burger

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.

Mixing up cookout favorites with Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers is one heck of a stress-reliever. They’re easy to grab and enjoy, which keeps snack breaks moving smoothly. A few skewers go a long way in filling up plates without any extra mess. It’s like the perfect solution for big family gatherings with different tastes.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

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.

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