What to Bring to a Cookout (Backyard BBQ Ideas)
Invited to the cookout? Don't show up empty handed!
In the Black community, a summer cookout isn't just a meal – it's a cultural experience.
A cookout is a time for family, friends, and neighbors to come together, celebrate life, and enjoy some soul food and Southern barbecue dishes straight from the grill.
I'm talkin’ ribs, fried fish, mac and cheese, and peach cobbler! Oh, and don't forget the music, dancing, and outdoor games (card games, dominos, lawn games, etc.). It's all the way live, basically an outdoor party.
Birthdays, family reunions, and holidays like Father's Day, Juneteenth, 4th of July, Labor Day, or Memorial Day is the perfect time to throw a backyard cookout.
Really any time is a great time to enjoy good food and good people.
Mains
St. Louis Style Ribs
St Louis-style ribs are seasoned with a dry rub and cooked low and slow on the smoker until they are tender and juicy. Brushed in a sweet and tangy sauce, this pork spare ribs recipe is perfect for a cookout or backyard barbecue.
Pulled Pork (Pork Butt)
This smoked BBQ pulled pork recipe features tender pork shoulder cooked with cherry wood and doused in flavorful mop sauce. Pile smoked BBQ pulled pork high on sandwich buns and top with your favorite coleslaw.
Pork Belly Burnt Ends
This smoked pork belly burnt ends recipe features tender, juicy pork belly, cut into cubes and seasoned to perfection.
Dino Ribs
These colossal, slow-smoked dino ribs are smoky, fall-off-the-bone tender, and simply irresistible. A tried-and-true recipe perfect for barbecue enthusiasts!
Plus, fried chicken, rib tips, smoked chicken, and more!
Side Dishes
Baked Beans
Flavorful baked beans with ground beef is a classic barbecue side dish that’s as convenient as it is delicious. Made with canned beans, seasoned beef, bell pepper, onion, and seasonings, these beans are perfect for a cookout.
Mac and Cheese
This recipe feature cheddar, Monterey jack, and mozzarella. It’s decadent and comforting, and an absolute must-try for anyone looking to savor a taste of the South.
Coleslaw
Our creamy and crunchy BBQ Coleslaw is a Southern-inspired side dish that brings the perfect blend of textures and flavor.
Potato Salad
Our Southern potato salad has the best creamy texture and tangy flavor, with ingredients like mayo, mustard, hard-boiled eggs, pickle relish, and seasonings. It’s one of those recipes that always brings people together at barbecues, picnics, family reunions, and holiday gatherings!
Drinks
Hibiscus Lemonade
Inspired by the cultural significance of the iconic “red drink” in the Black community, this hibiscus lemonade is a refreshing twist on a classic recipe.
Desserts
Peach Cobbler
Our easy peach cobbler recipe with canned peaches and flaky pie crust is a quick soul food dessert. Serve it with a scoop of ice cream and enjoy!
Red Velvet Cake
A classic soul food dessert recipe layered with rich and decadent homemade cream cheese buttercream frosting.
More Backyard Cookout Recipe Ideas
Discover your next favorite dish—click to explore more backyard BBQ ideas!
You can also check out these Southern, soul food favorites: