If you want the title of "grillmaster," you have to put in the work. You can put your skills to work by having a backyard BBQ. Whether you want to have a small cookout or a big party, there are a few things you need to ensure everything goes smoothly. If you forget any of the essentials like the sauce or the propane, your party won't be a hit. Once you have all of your essentials, you'll be able to fire up the grill without worry. From the classic must-have items like a great set of tongs to the new-age items like a barbecue salt plank. There is something perfect for every grillmaster. Beyond what you need for the grill, we've also got the best items you need to compliment what's cooking on the grill. We have a checklist to ensure you don't forget anything so your party goes off without a hitch.
The core of your party is the grill. Without a good grill, you aren't even truly having a barbecue. Barbecue grills come in every shape and size, so it's important to get the grill that fits your needs. Choose between charcoal and gas depending on your preference. Remember to always have an extra propane tank or charcoal in case you run out unexpectedly. You can also buy special things to place on your grill like a Himalayan salt BBQ plank.
You need a great set of barbecue tools. A stainless steel spatula, grilling fork, and tongs are your beginning tools. You will also need a basting brush and cleaning brush. A wooden grill tool set is great to get you started with all of the tools you'll need for the perfect concoctions. A flame-resistant glove will help keep your hands safe. A grill thermometer is an important essential tool that ensures your meat is at the perfect temperature.
Your meat depends on what you feel like cooking on your grill. Some people love to go light with fish or chicken. Some like to perfect their own sausage, steak or chicken. The traditional hot dog and burger on the grill are also perfect. Remember to pick up the essentials that go with your meat. If you're serving up some hamburgers and hot dogs, you need condiments and toppings.. These include things like cheese, mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise, tomatoes, lettuce, onions, and/or bacon. The marinade, rubs and sauces are what make your items like chicken and steak shine. BBQ Sauce is a must if you're serving chicken, ribs or turkey legs. These will give your meat a special touch.
Side dishes must compliment your main meat. You can throw some of your side dishes right on the grill. Things like ears of corn are perfect for your grill. You can also get a BBQ grilling basket to make the perfect vegetables right there on the grill. You can make a pot of beans, some potato salad or pasta salad as a side, too. Some people love pickles on the side for a garnish. Set out some appetizers while people wait on their meal.
You have the barbecue meat, but the beverages are almost as important. You need to keep everyone cool and happy while they wait for their meal. There are a million different beverage choices. If you have kids at your gathering, go for kool-aid and lemonade. Adult beverages like alcohol or beer are perfect to pair with barbecue on a hot day. You can also go for tea, bottles of water and/or soda. Iced beverages pair perfectly on a hot day with seasoned meat, yummy sides and dessert.
You can really make anything you feel to match your barbecue for dessert. The traditional barbecue desserts include things like cobbler and banana pudding. You could also whip up some homemade ice cream for a special treat. You have to remember most people will stuff their face with the barbecue and side dishes, but they will expect a decadent dessert. If you want to go a little lighter, you can make a pineapple fluff with whipped cream or a soft mousse.
While most of what you need for a BBQ party is related to the food, you want to provide some opportunities for socializing among your guests. Silly games like cornhole, lawn darts or bocce might appeal to guests while allowing them to still talk with each other. If your backyard has a pool, make sure the grill isn’t too close. You don’t want those cannon balls to splash the food!
