When you think of summer, what comes to mind? The sound of laughter, the warmth of the sun, and the irresistible scent of BBQ wafting through the air.
There’s something undeniably special about gathering friends and family around the grill, enjoying classic BBQ dishes and sides, and celebrating the good times. Whether it’s a casual weekend cookout, a holiday gathering, or just a weeknight dinner, BBQ brings people together like nothing else.
And while you might be tempted to fire up the grill yourself, what if you could enjoy all the smoky, savory goodness of BBQ without having to spend hours cooking?
Imagine booking a talented private chef to cook your favorite BBQ dishes right in the comfort of your own home. It’s the perfect way to take your BBQ experience to the next level, no shopping, no prepping, and definitely no cleanup required. Sounds amazing, right?
Now, let’s dive into the best BBQ food in the US, main dishes, sides, and everything in between, that will make your next BBQ unforgettable!
Table of Contents
The classics: main BBQ dishes you can’t miss
No BBQ is complete without the right main dishes. While each region of the US has its own take on BBQ, certain dishes are universally loved and enjoyed. Here’s a rundown of the must-have BBQ mains.
1. Ribs
Let’s start with the undeniable star of any BBQ: ribs. Whether you prefer baby back ribs, spare ribs, or St. Louis-style, ribs are a BBQ classic that everyone craves. Cooked low and slow, ribs are seasoned with a dry rub or slathered in a tangy sauce before being grilled or smoked to perfection.
The result? Meat that falls right off the bone with each delicious bite.
2. Pulled Pork
If you’re a fan of smoky, flavorful meat, pulled pork is a BBQ dish you simply can’t miss. Originating in the Southern US, pulled pork is made by slow-cooking a pork shoulder until it’s fall-apart tender.
It’s then shredded and typically served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce (or a sweeter BBQ sauce, depending on your preference). Pulled pork sandwiches are popular, but this dish is also great served on a platter with classic sides.
A good pulled pork takes hours to cook, but the payoff is worth it.
3. Brisket
If you’ve ever been to Texas, you’ve probably tasted brisket, a BBQ dish that’s as legendary as the state itself. Brisket is a large, tough cut of beef that, when cooked properly, turns into something incredibly tender. It’s typically smoked for hours (sometimes up to 12 or 14), which allows the fat to break down and the meat to become melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Brisket is usually served sliced, with the leaner cuts and the fatty parts offering different textures and flavors. It’s often paired with a classic BBQ sauce or enjoyed on its own to appreciate the depth of flavor from the slow-smoking process.
4. Chicken
Not everyone is a fan of red meat, and that’s where BBQ chicken comes in. Whether you prefer wings, thighs, or whole grilled chicken, BBQ chicken is a must-have at any cookout. It’s versatile and can be marinated, dry-rubbed, or basted with sauce while grilling, allowing you to customize the flavor.
No matter how it’s prepared, it’s certain to be a hit. Plus, it’s a great option for those looking for something a little lighter than beef or pork.
5. Sausages
Another BBQ staple is sausages. From classic hot dogs to smoky bratwurst or spicy Italian sausages, grilled sausages offer a quick, easy, and flavorful option for any BBQ spread. They’re great on their own or paired with onions, peppers, and a variety of sauces.
The great thing about sausages is the variety, there’s something for everyone. Whether you prefer a mild sausage or something with a little more kick, you’re guaranteed a satisfying BBQ experience.
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Side dishes: the perfect accompaniments to your BBQ feast
While the main BBQ dishes steal the spotlight, the side dishes are just as important to creating a memorable BBQ experience. Here are some essential sides that will complement your main BBQ dishes and take your cookout to the next level.
1. Coleslaw
A BBQ classic, coleslaw adds a nice crunch and a creamy contrast to the smoky, savory flavors of your BBQ mains. This dish is typically made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing (mayonnaise or vinegar-based). It’s the perfect side to pair with rich meats like pulled pork or ribs, as it provides a refreshing balance.
Coleslaw can be made ahead of time, and you can even get creative by adding apples, raisins, or even a spicy kick with jalapeños.
2. Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a BBQ favorite, and for good reason, it’s easy to prepare and adds a sweet, smoky flavor to your meal. You can grill the corn directly on the grill, brushing it with butter and seasoning it with salt, pepper, and a little chili powder for extra flavor. You can also add cheese, lime, and cilantro for a Mexican-inspired version.
The smoky flavor from grilling pairs perfectly with just about any BBQ dish, and the sweetness of the corn contrasts beautifully with the savory meats.
3. Baked Bean
Baked beans are a hearty, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for BBQs. Made with kidney beans or navy beans, they’re typically slow-cooked with brown sugar, molasses, and smoked meat (like bacon or ham). The result is a rich, slightly sweet, and savory dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ meats.
These beans are comfort food at its finest and a great way to fill up your guests. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a small family gathering, baked beans are always a hit.
4. Potato Salad
Another essential side dish at any BBQ is potato salad. Creamy and filling, potato salad is the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats. It’s typically made with boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, and a variety of seasonings. You can add eggs, celery, onions, or pickles to customize the flavor to your liking.
Potato salad is ideal for prepping ahead of time and is always a crowd-pleaser.
Prefer staying in? Book a private BBQ chef to cook for you at home
Sometimes, you just want to enjoy the best BBQ food without the hassle of cooking it yourself. That’s where a private BBQ chef comes in!
Private BBQ chefs are experts in grilling and smoking, bringing the best flavors right to your home. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party, a family reunion, or just a quiet evening with friends, a private chef from Take a Chef can craft a personalized menu tailored to your tastes. You’ll get to enjoy mouth-watering dishes like slow-cooked ribs, juicy pulled pork, tender brisket, and more.
Time to fire up the grill!
There’s no denying it, BBQ food is a big part of American culture, and for good reason.
So, next time you fire up the grill, be sure to include your favorite BBQ dishes and sides. And if you’re looking to take the experience to the next level, consider booking a private BBQ chef. With the right chef in your kitchen, you’ll get to enjoy the best BBQ without lifting a finger.
Now, grab your tongs, light that grill, and let’s get cooking!
