Ready to host the ultimate cookout? There’s nothing better than gathering with friends and family for some delicious food, sunshine, and good vibes. If you’re wondering what to cook to make your cookout unforgettable, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into some mouthwatering ideas that will keep your guests coming back for more.
Main Dishes
1. Classic Burgers and Hot Dogs
No cookout is complete without burgers and hot dogs. Offer a variety of toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, cheese, ketchup, mustard, and relish for guests to customize their meals. For a twist, try turkey or veggie burgers.
2. Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is versatile and crowd-pleasing. Marinate chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, or BBQ sauce overnight. Grill until juicy and cooked through, serving with BBQ sauce for dipping.
3. BBQ Ribs
Impress your guests with BBQ ribs. Season with a dry rub, cook low and slow on the grill or in the oven, and finish with a smoky BBQ sauce.
Side Dishes
1. Corn on the Cob
Brush corn with melted butter, sprinkle with salt and pepper, wrap in foil, and grill. For a Mexican twist, add mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime.
2. Potato Salad
Boil potatoes, then mix with mayonnaise, mustard, diced celery, pickles, and hard-boiled eggs. Season with salt and pepper. For a lighter version, use a vinaigrette dressing.
3. Coleslaw
Shred cabbage and carrots, then toss with a tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Add mustard or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
Desserts
1. S’mores
Set up a s’mores station with graham crackers, chocolate bars, and marshmallows. Roast marshmallows until golden and gooey, then sandwich between graham crackers with chocolate.
2. Fruit Salad
Combine watermelon, strawberries, blueberries, and pineapple. Toss with honey and lime juice for added sweetness and flavor.
3. Ice Cream Sundaes
Set out bowls of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream, along with toppings like hot fudge, caramel sauce, sprinkles, chopped nuts, and fresh fruit. Let guests create their own sundaes.
