Juicy Grilled Chicken Skewers
Nothing screams summer like perfectly grilled chicken skewers. They’re easy to prepare, customizable with your favorite marinades, and perfect for sharing. To make the most of your BBQ weekend, marinate chunks of chicken breast or thighs in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper for at least 2 hours. Thread the chicken onto skewers, alternating with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, red onions, and zucchini for added flavor and visual appeal. Grill over medium-high heat for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has a beautiful char. Serve with a side of tangy yogurt sauce or fresh tzatziki for an irresistible main that pairs beautifully with grilled sides.
Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
For a hearty vegetarian option that’s still satisfying enough for a main, stuffed Portobello mushrooms are a fantastic choice. Remove the stems and brush the caps with olive oil, then fill them with a flavorful mixture of chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and breadcrumbs. Season with garlic, salt, and pepper, then place on the grill for about 8-10 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden. The smoky flavor from the grill enhances the earthy mushrooms, creating a savory main that even meat-eaters will love. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving, and consider pairing with a crisp salad or grilled corn on the cob for a complete meal.
BBQ Ribs with Homemade Sauce
No BBQ weekend is complete without tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs. For the best results, choose pork or beef ribs, depending on your preference. Prepare a dry rub with brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Rub generously onto the ribs and refrigerate for at least an hour to absorb the flavors. Pre-cook the ribs in the oven or on a smoker until they’re nearly tender, then finish them on the grill for that perfect smoky char. Brush with a homemade BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling. A simple sauce can be made by simmering ketchup, apple cider vinegar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a dash of hot sauce. Serve with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread to round out this indulgent main.
Seafood Skewers
Seafood is a fantastic option for a lighter, flavorful main on your BBQ weekend. Combine chunks of shrimp, scallops, and firm fish fillets like salmon or halibut on skewers. Marinate with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs such as thyme or dill for at least 30 minutes. Grill over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side until the seafood is opaque and slightly charred. The natural sweetness of seafood pairs beautifully with citrus and herbs, making these skewers a crowd favorite. Serve alongside a fresh cucumber and tomato salad or a zesty rice pilaf for a well-rounded meal.
Classic Cheeseburgers
A BBQ weekend wouldn’t be complete without classic cheeseburgers. Use high-quality ground beef with a fat content of around 20% for juicy, flavorful patties. Form the beef into equal-sized patties and season with salt and pepper. Grill over high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, adding cheese slices during the last minute to melt. Toast hamburger buns on the grill for a minute until lightly crispy. Assemble the burgers with all your favorite toppings—lettuce, tomato, pickles, red onion, and condiments like ketchup, mustard, and mayo. For an extra touch, try adding crispy bacon or avocado slices. Serve with a side of homemade potato chips or a fresh coleslaw for the ultimate BBQ main.
Grilled Vegetable Platter
For a colorful and healthy addition to your BBQ mains, a grilled vegetable platter is perfect. Slice vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes. Toss them with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper. Grill over medium heat until tender and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes per side. Arrange the grilled vegetables on a platter and sprinkle with fresh herbs like oregano or basil. This dish not only adds vibrant color to your table but also complements grilled meats and seafood beautifully. Serve as a main alongside your other mains or as a substantial side dish for vegetarians and health-conscious guests.
BBQ Chicken Wings
For a finger-licking main that’s perfect for sharing, BBQ chicken wings are always a hit. Marinate wings in a mixture of hot sauce, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and smoked paprika for at least 1 hour. Grill over medium-high heat for about 20-25 minutes, turning frequently and basting with extra marinade or BBQ sauce. To achieve extra crispiness, you can also bake the wings at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes before finishing on the grill. Serve with celery sticks and a side of creamy blue cheese or ranch dressing. These wings are great for casual gatherings and pair well with chilled beers and lively music.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
While not a main in itself, Mexican street corn makes an excellent accompaniment or can even be a main for those who love bold flavors. Grill fresh ears of corn until charred and slightly smoky. Brush with a mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, or crema, then sprinkle generously with crumbled Cotija cheese, chili powder, and chopped cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top before serving. This vibrant and flavorful dish adds a spicy, tangy element to your BBQ lineup and complements grilled meats perfectly. For a vegetarian main, consider serving alongside a hearty bean and rice salad or grilled veggie tacos.
Prime Rib Roast
If you’re aiming to impress your guests with a luxurious main, a perfectly cooked prime rib roast is the way to go. Season the roast generously with salt, pepper, and garlic, then let it come to room temperature before grilling or roasting in the oven. For grilling, set up your grill for indirect heat and cook the roast for about 15-20 minutes per pound at 350°F (175°C), until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness—125°F (52°C) for rare, 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare. Rest the meat for at least 15 minutes before carving to allow juices to redistribute. Serve with horseradish sauce, roasted potatoes, and seasonal vegetables for an elegant and indulgent main that elevates your BBQ weekend to a special occasion.
Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
For a hearty and vegetarian-friendly main, stuffed Portobello mushrooms are an excellent choice. Clean the mushroom caps and remove the stems. Prepare a filling with ingredients like cooked quinoa or rice, chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and crumbled feta or mozzarella cheese. Add herbs such as thyme or oregano for extra flavor. Spoon the filling into the mushroom caps, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is bubbly. These stuffed mushrooms are not only satisfying but also bring a savory, umami-rich option to your BBQ lineup. Serve alongside a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Sidelines for Your BBQ Main
- Grilled Cornbread: Prepare a smoky cornbread batter and grill in a cast-iron skillet until golden. Serve warm with butter and honey.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Slice sweet potatoes into fries, toss with olive oil and smoked paprika, then grill or bake until crispy. They make a delightful alternative to regular fries.
- Grilled Fruit Skewers: Thread chunks of pineapple, peaches, or watermelon onto skewers. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until charred and caramelized. Perfect for a sweet finishing touch or a refreshing snack.
- Homemade Pickles: Quick-pickle cucumbers, radishes, or carrots with vinegar, sugar, and spices. Serve as a tangy side that cuts through rich mains.
- Garlic Butter Mushrooms: Toss whole button mushrooms with melted garlic butter and grill until tender. A simple yet flavorful side that pairs well with any main.
Creative BBQ Sauces and Marinades
Enhance your mains with unique sauces and marinades that add depth and excitement to your BBQ. Consider making a smoky chipotle barbecue sauce by blending chipotle peppers in adobo with ketchup, honey, and vinegar. For a tangy twist, prepare a homemade mustard-based marinade with Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic, and herbs. Marinate your meats for at least 2 hours to absorb the flavors fully before grilling. These homemade sauces allow you to customize the flavor profile to suit your taste and impress your guests with gourmet touches. Don’t forget to serve extra sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling!
Delicious Skewers and Kebabs
Skewers and kebabs are perfect for BBQ weekend mains because they are easy to prepare, customizable, and visually appealing. You can use a variety of proteins such as chicken, beef, lamb, shrimp, or even vegetables for a vegetarian option. Marinate your chosen ingredients in flavorful sauces or herb-infused oils for at least 30 minutes to ensure delicious results. Alternate pieces of meat, vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes on skewers for a colorful presentation. Grill over medium-high heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through and slightly charred. Serve with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and a side of rice or flatbread for a complete, satisfying meal that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
For a wholesome and visually appealing main, stuffed bell peppers are an excellent choice. Choose large bell peppers and cut off the tops, removing seeds and membranes. Prepare a filling with cooked ground meat or plant-based protein, cooked rice or quinoa, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and seasonings like cumin, chili powder, and garlic. Mix everything well and spoon into the hollowed peppers. Top with shredded cheese and place on the grill or in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. These stuffed peppers are hearty, flavorful, and perfect for serving alongside fresh salad or grilled vegetables.
Herb-Infused Grilled Fish
Seafood lovers will appreciate a simple, flavorful grilled fish as a main for your BBQ weekend. Choose firm fish fillets like salmon, halibut, or swordfish. Marinate with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or thyme for 20-30 minutes. Grill over medium heat for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon, a side of grilled asparagus, or a light cucumber salad. This healthy, protein-rich option adds variety to your BBQ lineup and is quick to prepare, making it ideal for a relaxed weekend feast.
Conclusion
Preparing flavorful and satisfying mains for BBQ weekend can elevate your gathering and impress guests. With a variety of options and simple techniques, you can create memorable dishes that bring everyone together around the grill.
Embrace your creativity and enjoy the process, ensuring that each main is cooked to perfection for a delicious and enjoyable barbecue experience.