The Ultimate BBQ Guide: Things Needed for a BBQ
The summer is synonymous with bbqing. If you plan on doing it right, it’s important to know the things needed for a bbq.
There is nothing better than having your friends and family over for some time outside in the summer heat with the bbq going and the food flowing. If you’re new to hosting, you may be wondering what you need for your next bbq to be a success. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
Hosting a bbq is actually a fun hosting experience because it’s easier to clean up and much of the preparation can be done ahead of time. All you have to do is learn the things needed for a bbq.
Essential BBQ Tools
The most obvious essential is having a grill. There are different types that offer their own unique benefits.
We use our Weber gas grill and absolutely love it. I would recommend this grill to anyone. It’s well made and beyond reliable. Gas grills are the easiest and quickest to use with little clean up. I love that I can cook dinner quickly on a weekday night, too.
Charcoal is another favorite for many. It takes a little more time to get the temperature ready for cooking, and it’s harder to maintain the temperature you want, but it adds a smokey flavor that you may love. It’s also more affordable than some other options.
When we visit our friends in Texas, they almost always smoke meat for us. Every time I leave, I’m searching smokers up. The meat is so delicious. A pellet grill is most known for smoking meats because it gets to a precise temperature, but it can also cook meats in other ways.
After selecting your grill, be sure to have your basic tools. Honestly, we use our spatula and tongs most. If you’re on a budget, those are the only two you need.
There are tons of accessories out there. Depending on the type of grill you get, you may want to explore what they have. If your budget is tight or if you’re looking for grilling accessories for beginners, the most important grill accessory to invest in is a quality grill brush (some might say a grill cover, too). Anything else is a bonus.
Easy BBQ Party Menu
When planning your bbq, the main dish can be as easy or as complicated as you want, but it’s essential to have a protein. This doesn’t have to blow your budget. It’s also important to consider what you can afford and the amount of people you’ll be feeding.
When you host bigger parties, keep it simple with burgers, hot dogs, and some sort of chicken (chicken thighs being an inexpensive favorite for us). These are perfect because burgers and hot dogs don’t take as much time to cook, so you can get the food flowing faster.
When it’s a smaller gathering, it’s easier to invest in a more expensive cut of meat that may need a little more TLC.
Once you’ve selected your protein, plan on two or three sides to serve with it. A cold salad is a perfect addition because it can be made ahead of time. If you’re looking for a fantastic pasta salad that works well with many types of proteins, try this recipe here. It’s one of my favorites!
Other easy sides include baked beans, fresh tossed salad, other pasta salad options, mac and cheese, potato salad, a broccoli salad (here’s a favorite that gets rave reviews), or cucumber salad.
Notice that most of them are cold salads that can be made ahead of time. Don’t go overboard with sides. Two or three is plenty.
BBQ Must Haves for Serving Your Guests
Now that you have your menu planned, it’s time to think about the other essentials you need to host a fantastic bbq.
Plates, cups, cutlery: Decide if you’re going to use a reusable melamine set or whether it’s smarter to use disposable items. One helpful tip here is to think about the size of your party. Larger parties will already mean that you’ll have tons of cleanup, so disposable plates and cutlery are a better decision.
Serve ware: I love my porcelain platters and bowls, but I do suggest getting some melamine ones for outdoor serving. You’ll be walking back and forth from the bbq to the kitchen, and you’ll be outdoors. Having lighter, unbreakable items is a game changer.
Appetizers: How intricate do you want to go? A beautiful charcuterie board will wow your guests (and who doesn’t love meat and cheese?), but keep in mind where you’ll be keeping your food. If it’s hot outside, choose appetizers that sit well in the heat.
If you’re serving chips or things that turn quickly, put out smaller portions and refill frequently to keep your food from going bad.
Music: My husband always has music going when we’re outside. It doesn’t have to be loud, but it definitely creates an atmosphere of fun.
Dessert: End the night with something sweet! Ice cream and ice pops are a favorite for many. An easy dessert that goes quickly whenever served is a berry shortcake bar. Put out fresh strawberries and blueberries served with fresh whipped cream and a type of vanilla cake.
Games: Depending on your audience, it may be a perfect time to put out the cornhole boards. It keeps the atmosphere fun.
Be a BBQ Planner
The biggest suggestion I have is to plan ahead. Whether you buy your salads premade or you make your favorite side dishes, it’s always easiest to jot down what you’re serving and see how much time you’ll need to cook it.
If you’re unsure of what you need to do to host the perfect dinner, read this post here.
Things Needed for a BBQ Change
Now that you’ve hosted your first bbq, you are on your way to becoming a queen at it. I’ve only shared the basics with you, but what you’ll want to have will grow.
Typically we have the same people over for a bbq time and again. As you have your events, you’re going to determine what you and your guests love to do when together. That will make your bbq essentials grow to suit your needs.
My last piece of advice: enjoy your company and the food you serve. Life is busy, time is precious, and friends and family are important.
