There is something truly magical about cookout food — the sizzle on the grill, the smell of smoky goodness drifting through the backyard, and the laughter of family and friends gathered around a picnic table. Whether you are hosting your first summer cookout or you are a seasoned grill master looking for fresh ideas, this roundup of 10 incredible cookout food ideas is exactly what you need.

From juicy grilled chicken skewers to sweet and gooey s’mores dip, there is something here that will make every single guest smile. Much like our fan-favorite Grilled Corn on the Cob post, these recipes are simple, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious. Get ready to fire up that grill and make memories that last all summer long!

What is Cookout Food?

Have you ever wondered why we call it cookout food? After all, you could technically cook inside and call it a day — but where is the fun in that? Cookout food is all about bringing the kitchen outdoors, gathering your favorite people together, and enjoying food that is meant to be shared. From smoky meats and colorful veggie skewers to cool pasta salads and sticky BBQ wings, cookout food covers a gloriously wide range of dishes.

As the old saying goes, the way to a heart is through the stomach — and nothing proves that faster than a perfectly cooked burger handed to someone you love. So grab your tongs, preheat that grill, and let these 10 recipes be your guide to the most delicious cookout of the season!

Why You’ll Love These Cookout Food Ideas

Something for Absolutely Everyone

These recipes cover every corner of the cookout table — from protein-packed mains to refreshing sides and even a sweet treat. Whether you have picky kids, vegetarian guests, or spice lovers in your crew, there is a recipe here that will get everyone excited. No one goes home hungry!

Budget-Friendly and Easy to Prep

Hosting a cookout does not have to drain your wallet. Most of these recipes rely on simple, affordable ingredients you can find at any grocery store. Many can be prepped a day in advance, so you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the party. Batch-friendly recipes like pasta salad and coleslaw actually taste better the next day!

Big, Bold Flavors the Whole Family Will Love

From smoky BBQ sauces to zesty citrus marinades, these recipes are packed with flavor without being complicated. Each one is designed to be approachable for home cooks of all skill levels, and kid-friendly enough that even the little ones will ask for seconds. Just like our popular Homemade BBQ Sauce recipe, these dishes prove that great cookout food does not have to be fancy — it just has to be delicious.

Recipe 1: Classic BBQ Beef Burgers

Quick Overview

The ultimate cookout food staple — juicy, cheesy, and completely satisfying. These homemade beef burgers are seasoned simply and cooked to perfection on the grill. They come together in minutes and deliver that classic cookout flavor everyone craves.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes | Serves: 6

Key Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (680g) ground beef, 80/20 blend for juiciness
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 6 burger buns, toasted
• 6 slices cheddar cheese
• Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles for toppings
• Your favorite burger sauce or ketchup and mustard

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently — overmixing makes the patties tough.
2. Divide the meat into 6 equal portions. Shape each into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Press a small indent in the center of each patty with your thumb — this keeps them flat as they cook.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grates.
4. Grill the patties for 4 to 5 minutes on the first side without pressing down. Flip and cook another 4 minutes for medium. Add cheese in the last minute and close the lid to melt.
5. Toast your buns cut-side down on the grill for about 1 minute until golden.
6. Assemble your burger with all your favorite toppings and serve immediately. Enjoy every bite!

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	480 kcal
Protein	30g
Total Fat	22g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	620mg

Recipe 2: Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers

Quick Overview

Sweet, sticky, garlicky, and impossibly tender — these grilled chicken skewers are a cookout food dream. They are kid-approved, endlessly customizable, and take only 30 minutes from start to finish. Pair them with rice or wrap them in flatbread for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Marinate: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 12 minutes | Total: 47 minutes | Serves: 5

Key Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 3 tbsp honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Bell peppers and red onion, cut into chunks (for threading)
• Wooden or metal skewers

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper to create the marinade.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with bell pepper and onion pieces.
5. Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill skewers for 5 to 6 minutes per side until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F) and nicely caramelized.
6. Brush with any remaining marinade in the last 2 minutes of cooking. Serve hot with a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	310 kcal
Protein	32g
Total Fat	10g
Carbohydrates	22g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	510mg

Recipe 3: Smoky BBQ Baked Beans

Quick Overview

No cookout food spread is complete without a pot of thick, smoky, sweet baked beans. This slow-simmered version is made with canned beans and a rich homemade sauce that tastes like it cooked all day — because it kind of did! It is a hearty, filling side dish that pairs with everything on your cookout table.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 55 minutes | Total: 65 minutes | Serves: 8

Key Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) navy beans or pinto beans, drained
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In an oven-safe Dutch oven or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until softened and slightly golden.
3. Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the drained beans and broth. Stir everything together until the beans are well coated in the sauce.
5. Cover and bake in the oven for 45 minutes. Remove the lid in the last 10 minutes to thicken the sauce.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a splash more vinegar. Serve warm straight from the pot.

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	210 kcal
Protein	9g
Total Fat	3g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fiber	8g
Sodium	430mg

Recipe 4: Creamy Classic Coleslaw

Quick Overview

Cool, crunchy, and irresistibly creamy — homemade coleslaw is one of those cookout food sides that disappears faster than anything else on the table. This version uses a tangy, balanced dressing that is not too heavy and not too sweet. It is the perfect partner for burgers, grilled chicken, and BBQ ribs alike.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 30 minutes | Total: 45 minutes | Serves: 8

Key Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey or sugar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, and shredded carrots.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until every strand is coated.
4. Taste and adjust — add more vinegar for tang, more honey for sweetness, or more salt as needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This rest time is important — it softens the cabbage slightly and lets the flavors meld beautifully.
6. Toss once more before serving and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	120 kcal
Protein	1g
Total Fat	8g
Carbohydrates	11g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	190mg

Recipe 5: Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter

Quick Overview

Sweet, smoky, charred corn slathered in fragrant herb butter — this is cookout food at its simplest and most satisfying. Grilled corn on the cob is a classic summer treat that kids and adults go absolutely wild for. The herb butter takes this familiar side dish to a whole new level of delicious.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total: 20 minutes | Serves: 6

Key Ingredients

• 6 ears of fresh corn, husks peeled back (or removed)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lime wedges for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with parsley, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
3. If keeping husks on: Pull husks back, remove silk, then fold husks back up around the corn. Soak in water for 10 minutes before grilling.
4. If husks are off: Brush corn lightly with olive oil or a thin layer of the herb butter.
5. Place corn on the grill and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, turning every 3 to 4 minutes until kernels are slightly charred and tender.
6. Remove from grill and immediately spread the herb butter generously over each ear. Serve with lime wedges. Watch them disappear!

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	180 kcal
Protein	3g
Total Fat	9g
Carbohydrates	24g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	180mg

Recipe 6: Tangy Pasta Salad

Quick Overview

Bright, colorful, and loaded with fun mix-ins — this tangy pasta salad is a cookout food staple that doubles as a complete meal. Made with rotini pasta, crisp vegetables, and a zippy Italian-style dressing, it feeds a crowd and keeps beautifully in the refrigerator overnight.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 12 minutes | Chill: 30 minutes | Total: 57 minutes | Serves: 10

Key Ingredients

• 3 cups (300g) rotini pasta, uncooked
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese cubes (optional for kids)
• For the dressing: 1/3 cup olive oil, 3 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1 tsp garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Let cool completely.
2. While pasta cools, prepare all vegetables — halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion, and slice the olives.
3. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and sugar for the dressing.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with all the vegetables. Add cheese cubes if using.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss well to coat everything evenly.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Give it a final toss and taste for seasoning before serving.

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	250 kcal
Protein	7g
Total Fat	11g
Carbohydrates	32g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	320mg

Recipe 7: Sticky Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Quick Overview

These oven-baked BBQ chicken drumsticks are fall-off-the-bone tender, coated in a thick sticky sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. A brilliant cookout food option when your grill is already packed — and honestly, they might be the most popular item on your spread. The kids especially go crazy for these!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Total: 55 minutes | Serves: 6

Key Ingredients

• 12 chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and set a wire rack on top.
2. Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels. Season all over with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Simmer over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside half for basting, and reserve the other half for serving.
4. Arrange drumsticks on the wire rack. Bake for 25 minutes, then brush generously with the BBQ sauce.
5. Continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes, brushing with sauce every 10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is sticky and caramelized.
6. Let rest 5 minutes then serve with the reserved sauce on the side. Napkins required — these are gloriously messy!

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	340 kcal
Protein	28g
Total Fat	14g
Carbohydrates	22g
Fiber	0g
Sodium	540mg

Recipe 8: Grilled Veggie Skewers

Quick Overview

Colorful, smoky, and bursting with natural sweetness — grilled veggie skewers are a cookout food hero that even meat-lovers cannot resist. They are fast, easy, and look absolutely gorgeous on a platter. A simple marinade of olive oil and herbs makes these vegetables shine on the grill.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 12 minutes | Total: 27 minutes | Serves: 6

Key Ingredients

• 1 zucchini, cut into thick rounds
• 1 yellow squash, cut into thick rounds
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 cup whole mushrooms
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well.
2. Add all the cut vegetables to the bowl and toss to coat thoroughly in the marinade. Let sit for 10 minutes.
3. Thread the vegetables onto skewers, alternating colors and types for a beautiful presentation.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill skewers for 10 to 12 minutes, turning every 3 to 4 minutes, until vegetables are tender with lovely char marks.
5. Remove from grill and serve immediately. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or crumbled feta cheese on top makes them extra special.

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	110 kcal
Protein	3g
Total Fat	7g
Carbohydrates	10g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	150mg

Recipe 9: Watermelon Feta Mint Salad

Quick Overview

Refreshing, sweet, and just a little bit fancy — this watermelon feta mint salad is the ultimate palate cleanser at any cookout. It takes just 10 minutes to assemble, requires zero cooking, and the combination of sweet watermelon, salty cheese, and fresh mint is genuinely addictive. Even skeptical kids end up loving this one.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | No Cook Time | Total: 10 minutes | Serves: 8

Key Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh watermelon, cubed (seedless)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, torn
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for richness)
• A pinch of salt and a crack of black pepper
• Cucumber slices (optional, for extra crunch)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cut the watermelon into even cubes and place in a large, wide serving bowl or platter.
2. Drizzle lime juice and olive oil over the watermelon. Toss gently.
3. Scatter the crumbled feta cheese over the top.
4. Add the torn mint leaves and any optional cucumber slices.
5. Season with a tiny pinch of salt and a crack of fresh black pepper.
6. Serve immediately — this salad is best enjoyed fresh and cold on a hot cookout day!

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	90 kcal
Protein	3g
Total Fat	4g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	220mg

Recipe 10: Easy Skillet S’mores Dip

Quick Overview

Save the best for last — this skillet s’mores dip is the most crowd-pleasing, kid-delighting dessert you can possibly make at a cookout. Gooey melted chocolate and toasted marshmallows in a cast iron skillet, served with graham crackers for dipping. It is messy, ridiculous, and completely irresistible. Consider yourself warned.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total: 15 minutes | Serves: 8

Key Ingredients

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 cups mini marshmallows
• 2 tbsp heavy cream or whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Graham crackers, for dipping
• Optional: sliced strawberries, banana coins, or apple slices for dipping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) or prepare your grill for indirect heat.
2. In a 10-inch cast iron skillet, spread the chocolate chips in an even layer.
3. Drizzle the heavy cream over the chocolate chips and add the vanilla extract.
4. Cover the chocolate layer completely with mini marshmallows.
5. Place the skillet in the oven (or on the grill over indirect heat) and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until marshmallows are puffed, golden, and toasted on top.
6. Carefully remove from heat (the skillet will be very hot!). Serve immediately with graham crackers and your choice of fruit for dipping. Watch the kids absolutely lose their minds with joy!

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	280 kcal
Protein	3g
Total Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	42g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	90mg

What to Serve With Your Cookout Food

A great cookout food spread is all about balance and variety. Here are some wonderful pairings and ideas to round out your table:

• Pair the BBQ Beef Burgers with Creamy Coleslaw and Smoky Baked Beans for a classic trio that never fails.
• The Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers pair beautifully with the Tangy Pasta Salad and Grilled Corn on the Cob.
• Serve the Grilled Veggie Skewers alongside warm pita bread, hummus, and a simple cucumber salad.
• The Watermelon Feta Salad works as both a side and a palate cleanser between heavier dishes.
• End the meal with the S’mores Dip alongside tall glasses of homemade lemonade or fruit punch for the kids.
• For drinks, sparkling water with fruit slices, fresh mint lemonade, or a fruity iced tea all complement cookout food perfectly.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cookout Food

Preheat Your Grill Properly

This is the single most important tip for great cookout food. A properly preheated grill (at least 400°F for most meats) ensures you get those beautiful grill marks and proper caramelization rather than steamed, gray protein. Give it at least 15 minutes to preheat fully.

Do Not Press Your Burgers

Pressing down on burger patties with a spatula squeezes out all the delicious fat and juices, leaving you with a dry, sad burger. Resist the urge! The only exception is making smash burgers, which is a completely different technique.

Let Meat Rest Before Cutting

After any grilled meat comes off the heat, let it rest for 3 to 5 minutes before cutting. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat so they do not all pour out the moment you slice into it.

Season Generously and Early

Season your proteins well in advance — even just 30 minutes makes a difference. Salt draws out moisture, which then gets reabsorbed along with the seasoning, making the meat more flavorful throughout rather than just on the surface.

Keep Cold Foods Cold

Coleslaw, pasta salad, and fruit salads should stay refrigerated until serving time. Use a bowl nested in ice to keep them chilled safely during the cookout, especially on hot summer days.

Prep Ahead to Enjoy the Party

Most sides — coleslaw, pasta salad, baked beans, even the burger patties — can be made a day in advance. Less prep on cookout day means more time laughing with your guests!

Tips for Avoiding Common Cookout Cooking Mistakes

Mistake: Flipping Meat Too Often

Resist the urge to constantly flip your meat. Burgers and chicken need time on each side to develop a proper sear and release naturally from the grates. Flip only once for most recipes.

Mistake: Skipping the Marinade or Resting Time

Marinades do more than add flavor — they also help tenderize the meat. Even a short 20-minute marinade makes a noticeable difference. Similarly, skipping the rest period after cooking leads to dry, less flavorful results.

Mistake: Not Oiling the Grill Grates

Protein sticking to the grill is one of the most frustrating cookout food experiences. Before placing any food on the grill, use tongs to rub a folded paper towel dipped in oil over the hot grates. This simple step prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.

Mistake: Overcrowding the Grill

Putting too much food on the grill at once lowers the temperature and causes steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if needed, and remember that rested food held in a warm oven stays delicious.

Mistake: Using High Heat for Everything

Not all cookout food needs high heat. Chicken drumsticks, thick sausages, and bone-in cuts benefit from indirect heat — place them away from the direct flame, close the lid, and let them cook slowly and evenly. Use high heat only for the final few minutes to caramelize the surface.

Storing and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftover Cookout Food

Most grilled proteins — burgers, chicken skewers, and drumsticks — keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure food cools to room temperature before refrigerating, but do not leave it out for more than 2 hours on a hot day.

Storing Cold Sides

Pasta salad and coleslaw keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. In fact, pasta salad typically tastes even better on day two after the dressing has had time to fully absorb. Always store with a tight-fitting lid.

Reheating Grilled Meats

For best results, reheat grilled burgers and chicken in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Alternatively, wrap in foil and reheat in a 325°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you can — it tends to dry out grilled meats.

Can You Freeze Cookout Food?

Yes! Cooked burger patties, grilled chicken, and BBQ drumsticks all freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Do not freeze pasta salad, coleslaw, or watermelon salad — the textures suffer significantly.

S’mores Dip Storage

If you somehow have leftover s’mores dip (rare, but possible!), cover the skillet tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes until the chocolate is melted and the marshmallows are warm again.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cookout Food

What are the most popular cookout food ideas?

The most popular cookout food choices are hamburgers, grilled chicken, hot dogs, corn on the cob, pasta salad, coleslaw, baked beans, grilled veggie skewers, and various desserts like s’mores. These classics are popular for good reason — they are easy to prepare in large quantities, suitable for all ages, and universally delicious.

How do I keep cookout food warm for a party?

To keep cookout food warm during a party, use chafing dishes with hot water underneath, keep grilled items tented with foil, or use a cooler with the vent plugged as an insulated holding box. Baked beans and side dishes can stay warm in slow cookers set to the ‘warm’ setting.

What cookout food can be made ahead of time?

Many cookout foods are ideal for making ahead. Coleslaw, pasta salad, and baked beans all taste better after sitting overnight. Burger patties can be shaped and refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance. Chicken can be marinated overnight for maximum flavor. Getting ahead on prep means you actually enjoy your own cookout!

What is a good vegetarian option for a cookout?

Grilled veggie skewers are always a hit. You can also make grilled portobello mushroom burgers, black bean burgers, grilled halloumi cheese, corn on the cob, and caprese salad skewers with tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. These options ensure every guest has something delicious to enjoy.

How much cookout food do I need per person?

A general rule is to plan for about 1/3 to 1/2 pound of protein per adult and slightly less for children. Plan for 2 to 3 side dish servings per person. For a party of 20 people, expect to make roughly 25 burger patties (accounting for seconds) and large batches of at least 3 to 4 sides.

What is the best way to season cookout food?

The best approach for most cookout food is a simple dry rub of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This combination enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them. For marinades, an acid (like lemon juice or vinegar), oil, and aromatics (garlic, herbs) work beautifully on chicken and vegetables.

Is cookout food kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Almost all of the recipes in this collection are designed to be kid-friendly. Burgers, chicken drumsticks, pasta salad, corn on the cob, grilled veggie skewers, and especially the s’mores dip are all massive hits with children. The key is keeping flavors approachable — not too spicy — and making the food fun and easy to eat.

What sides go best with BBQ at a cookout?

Classic BBQ cookout food sides include coleslaw, baked beans, corn on the cob, pasta salad, potato salad, garlic bread, and fruit salads. These sides balance the richness of grilled meats with freshness, crunch, and variety. Having a mix of hot and cold sides ensures everyone finds something they love.

Ready to Make the Best Cookout Ever?

There you have it — 10 incredible cookout food ideas that cover every corner of your spread, from sizzling mains to refreshing sides and a showstopping dessert. Whether you are feeding a crowd of 5 or 50, these family-friendly recipes are approachable, budget-conscious, and above all, genuinely delicious.

The beauty of cookout food is that it brings people together in the most natural, joyful way. There is no pressure, no formal dining room, no stiff table settings — just great food, sunshine, laughter, and the people you love most.

We would love to see your cookout creations! Drop a comment below, share your photos, and let us know which recipe was the crowd favorite at your gathering. Happy grilling!