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Nothing kicks off the summer season quite like firing up the grill. But if that's not your typical mode of cooking, the whole process might seem intimidating. Some people spend years perfecting the craft so beginners or just the occasional cook might think standing in front of an open flame isn't for them. But fear not! Grab those grill tools and head outdoors, because everyone can master these easy recipes.
The best grilling recipes for beginners will work whether you have a charcoal, gas, or electric grill. A lot of them work on an indoor grill, too! Besides the basic tools like a meat thermometer and your trusty appliance, there's nothing complicated required. You won't find gadgets like expensive smokers or specialty grill baskets here! Just make sure to clean those grill grates before you start and then follow these recipes.
You'll find all the best summer recipes here, including hot dogs, burgers, and grilled chicken recipes. You'll also find classic BBQ sides like grilled corn and even a few summer treats, like grilled watermelon and doughnut hole kebabs. Once you master these easy grilled dishes, you can move on to more complicated BBQ recipes... or not! Having these go-to summer dinner ideas on hand will make for easy weeknight meals no matter what skill level you are. So get fired up! You're about to be the proud pitmaster of your own backyard.
Beer Brats
Beer brats are an easy way to work on testing for meat doneness. That's because they're braised and fully cooked first, then simply charred on the grill for added flavor and texture.
Get the Beer Brats recipe.
Cheeseburgers
What's better than a burger fresh off the grill? Once you master the simplicity of this particular recipe and know all the right internal temperatures, you'll be flipping burgers all summer long.
Get the Cheeseburgers recipe.
Grilled Chicken
The key to flavorful grilled chicken is an easy marinade. Even if you only have 30 minutes to spare, it makes all the difference. Bone-in, skin-on drumsticks hold up to high heat and remain juicy. Nothing bland or dry here!
Get the Grilled Chicken Marinade recipe.
Poblano-Potato Bundles
Make your life easier by putting smaller bites in foil packets. That way, they cook easily and nothing falls through the grates. Plus, foil pack recipes make cleanup so much easier.
Get Ree's Poblano-Potato Bundles recipe.
Grilled Veggie Skewers
Veggies get so much flavor on the grill but the can be complicated to cook on their own. But if you make skewers, you can make sure they all stay put on the grates. Turning them is a cinch with tongs.
Get the Grilled Veggie Skewers recipe.
Grilled Salmon
Do not be intimidated to cook fish on a grill! Salmon fillets are quite sturdy so you don't have to stress about them flaking and falling apart. Just make sure your grates are well oiled.
Get the Grilled Salmon recipe.
Grilled Pork Chops
The secret to these flavorful pork chops is an easy marinade that's made from pantry ingredients. Letting them rest for a few minutes before eating ensures that they cook to the right temperature.
Get the Grilled Pork Chops recipe.
BBQ Hot Dogs with Cilantro Slaw
You can't get much easier than cooking hot dogs. Instead of just the boring ol' kind, slathered them in barbecue sauce and top them with a pile of cilantro slaw.
Get Ree's BBQ Hot Dogs with Cilantro Slaw.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Face it, there's nothing better than fresh corn on the cob come summertime. And grilling them couldn't be easier. You can cook them right in the husks!
Get the Grilled Corn on the Cob recipe.
Lemon-Pepper Grilled Rib-Eyes
Rib-eyes are some of the easiest to types of steak to grill because the marbling helps them stay tender and juicy even if you slightly overcook them. (Reminder: Have this doneness chart handy!)
Get Ree's Lemon-Pepper Grilled Rib-Eyes recipe.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Don't bother to try grilling shrimp any other way! A skewer will keep them secure. They only take about two minute to cook, so they'll be easier to remove from the heat this way, too.
Get the Grilled Shrimp Skewers recipe.
Grilled Watermelon
Everyone's favorite summer fruit really shines with a bit of char. They only need a few minutes per side to cook and then they're seasoned with lime, salt, and sugar.
Get the Grilled Watermelon recipe.
Turkey Burgers
If you're a little concerned about getting everyone's burger temperature right, make turkey burgers instead of beef! They should all be 165 degrees internally, making them less fussy to serve.
Get the Turkey Burgers recipe.
Grilled Lamb Chops
These garlic-and-herb marinated lamb chops seem extra special, but they're really quite easy to cook. They only need about three to five minutes per side depending on their size.
Get the Grilled Lamb Chops recipe.
Beer Can Chicken
Yes, you can absolutely grill a whole chicken without too much effort. Cooking it over a can of beer keeps it flavorful and moist and you don't even need to flip it while it cooks.
Get the Beer Can Chicken recipe.
Doughnut Hole Kebabs
Everyone will feel like a kid again when you serve grilled doughnut holes. They're already cooked, so all you're doing is adding a little flavor and fun. Serve with berry sauces for dipping.
Get Ree's Doughnut Hole Kebabs recipe.
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