How to plan your next summer BBQ blowout

Create your guest list

Creating a guest list and getting a headcount will help you plan your menu and set your budget. When deciding on the size of your barbeque, consider the space you have and how many people you can cook for. In addition, send out invitations early, and don’t forget to ask your guests if they have any dietary restrictions you need to accommodate.

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Set a budget

Setting a budget can help you plan your BBQ party without breaking the bank. Decide how much you’re willing to spend on food, drinks, decorations, and entertainment, and allocate emergency funds towards any last-minute items and expenses.

Create a mouth-watering menu

Here are some crowd-pleasing dishes that are typically served at barbeques:

Meats

• Burgers
• Sausages
• Wings
• Pork chops
• Ribs
• Pulled pork

Vegetarian options

• Veggie dogs and burgers
• Mock meats
• Pulled jackfruit (mimics the taste of pulled pork)
• Marinated tofu

On the side

• Cornbread
• Corn on the cob
• Potato salad
• Pasta salad
• Coleslaw
• Fruit medley
• Chips and dip
• Veggie skewers
• Sandwich bread and buns

Desserts

• Brownies
• Cookies
• Cupcakes
• Ice cream
• S’mores

Quench your guests’ thirst

When planning your drink menu, ensure all guests feel included by offering a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. If you don’t have the extra hands needed for a traditional bar, create a self-serve drink station and encourage everyone to help themselves. No room in the budget for alcohol? There’s no shame in throwing a BYOB BBQ.

Prepare your dishes

Chop vegetables, prepare meats, and assemble any cold dishes the day before your BBQ. This saves time during the big day and give the flavors in your dishes time to marinate. If possible, finish the bulk of your to-do list the night before the party so you can enjoy the festivities along with your guests (even from behind the grill).

Set up your buffet table

If you’re planning a big spread, set up a buffet table and let your guests plate their own food. Arrange your dishes in a logical order, starting with plates and utensils, followed by main dishes, sides, condiments, and desserts. Label each option to help guests navigate the spread and list out any allergens if needed. Organizing your buffet table logically prevents any traffic jams and helps everyone get their food while its hot.

Provide entertainment

Fill your backyard with entertaining options like cornhole, bocce ball, crafting stations, chalk, and water balloons. Inflatable pools are a great option for kids if your BBQ takes place on a particularly hot day. Should your barbeque party go late, end the evening with an outdoor movie theater using lawn chairs and a projector.

Now that you know how to host a great BBQ party, it’s time to start planning your own. Gather your friends and family, and enjoy a memorable summer BBQ blowout with these tips.