Cookout Menu Items Ranked

When the weather warms up, there's nothing quite like the smell of a cookout wafting through the air. With a wide variety of menu items to choose from, it can be challenging to decide what to include in your cookout spread. To help you make the most of your next outdoor gathering, we've ranked some of the most popular cookout menu items based on their crowd-pleasing potential, ease of preparation, and nutritional value.

Before we dive into the rankings, it's essential to consider the dietary preferences and restrictions of your guests. Including a mix of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options ensures that everyone can enjoy the feast. With that in mind, let's get started on our cookout menu item rankings.

Classic Cookout Staples

No cookout would be complete without these tried-and-true menu items. They're beloved for a reason and should be the foundation of your menu.

Grilled Burgers

Grilled burgers are a cookout staple for a reason – they're delicious, customizable, and easy to prepare in large quantities. Offer a variety of toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and cheese to cater to everyone's preferences. For a healthier option, consider offering turkey or veggie burgers as well.

To make your burgers stand out, try using high-quality, well-marbled ground beef and season them generously with salt and pepper before grilling. For an extra touch, brush the buns with a bit of melted butter before toasting them on the grill.

BBQ Chicken

Tender, juicy chicken slathered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce is sure to be a hit at your cookout. Marinate the chicken in your favorite BBQ sauce or a homemade blend of spices and sauce for added flavor. For a healthier twist, try grilling chicken thighs instead of breasts for more moisture and less likelihood of overcooking.

To make your BBQ chicken even more irresistible, consider serving it on a bed of creamy coleslaw or atop a soft, toasted bun as a sandwich. Don't forget to provide plenty of napkins – BBQ chicken can get messy!

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Including plant-based options ensures that everyone can enjoy the cookout, regardless of their dietary preferences or restrictions. These vegetarian and vegan menu items are just as delicious as their meaty counterparts.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Grilled vegetable skewers are a colorful, flavorful, and healthy addition to any cookout menu. Thread an assortment of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers, then brush them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling. For added flavor, try marinating the vegetables in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before skewering.

To make your grilled vegetable skewers even more satisfying, serve them with a creamy dip like hummus or tzatziki. You can also offer a variety of sauces and dressings for dipping, such as balsamic glaze or chimichurri.

Veggie Burgers

Veggie burgers have come a long way in recent years, with many brands offering plant-based patties that taste just like the real thing. Choose a veggie burger that's high in protein and fiber, and low in sodium and saturated fat. Offer a variety of toppings and condiments to cater to your guests' preferences, and don't forget to provide some gluten-free buns for those with dietary restrictions.

For an even more impressive veggie burger, try making your own patties using a combination of beans, grains, and vegetables. Form the mixture into patties, then grill or pan-fry them until they're crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Sides and Desserts

No cookout menu would be complete without a selection of tasty sides and sweet treats to round out the meal.

Potato Salad

Creamy, tangy potato salad is a classic cookout side that pairs well with just about any main dish. To make your potato salad stand out, try using a combination of red and yellow potatoes for added color and texture. Mix in a variety of ingredients like hard-boiled eggs, celery, onion, and pickles, then bind it all together with a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard.

For a lighter, healthier option, try making a German-style potato salad with a vinegar-based dressing. Toss the cooked potatoes with a mixture of olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and herbs, then top with crispy bacon and sliced green onions.

Fruit Salad

A refreshing fruit salad is the perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day. Combine an assortment of seasonal fruits like watermelon, strawberries, blueberries, and pineapple, then toss them with a light dressing made from honey, lime juice, and fresh mint. For added crunch, consider adding some toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts to the mix.

To make your fruit salad even more special, try serving it in hollowed-out watermelon halves or coconut shells. You can also offer a variety of toppings like whipped cream, yogurt, or granola for guests to customize their own parfaits.

As the sun sets and the last of the charcoal briquettes fade to embers, there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of knowing you've hosted a successful cookout. With a well-planned menu that caters to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences, you'll create lasting memories and ensure that your guests leave with full bellies and happy hearts. So fire up the grill, invite your friends and family, and get ready to enjoy the best cookout menu items that summer has to offer.