The Best-Ever Backyard Party Planning Checklist
Updated: Apr. 13, 2023
Follow this easy outdoor party checklist to make sure your next cookout goes off without a hitch.
Backyard cookouts are a staple for summer, filled with cool drinks, big laughs and plenty of delicious food that just tastes better in the backyard. Leading up to your party, space out tasks and prep food ahead of time so you can take it easy on the day of! And if you’re worried about putting it together, we’ve got this handy outdoor party checklist so you’ll know if you’ve got everything covered.
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Check Out Our Best BBQ Recipes
Mushroom Bacon BitesWe love barbecue recipes that use the grill for everything from appetizers to salads and desserts. These bacon-wrapped morsels are easy to assemble and will make your party guests go wild for more.
Smoked Pork ButtYou always want to cook a pork butt, also known as pork shoulder, low and slow so the meat has time to become fall-apart tender. While it doesn’t take too much time to prepare the pork, plan on a long cooking time. You won’t regret the results!
Grilled Glazed DrummiesChicken wings are the perfect barbecue recipe for parties and cookouts. Instead of Buffalo-style sauce, try this sweet honey-ginger glaze. Here’s a really good primer on how to grill chicken wings.
Sweet & Spicy Barbecue SauceThis spicy, deep-brown sauce clings to everything, from chicken legs to pork chops. Make extra and store it for later. Better yet: Give some to friends or as party favors when your guests leave the cookout.
BBQ Chicken SandwichesWhen you don’t have time for a whole grill routine but crave the taste of barbecue, make these easy and quick sandwiches with pre-cooked chicken and a really great homemade sauce. Plus, you can make extra and freeze for another time.
Kansas City-Style RibsLook for well-marbled country-style pork ribs at your grocery store or butcher; they stay beautifully moist during this long cook time. And make a big batch of the dry rub to keep handy for future grilling nights. It’s great on pork, beef and chicken!
Barbecued BurgersBurgers are the quintessential cookout food, and these will be the hit of any backyard barbecue. The secret: A small amount of quick-cooking oats and an egg will help bulk up and keep those beef patties from crumbling on the grill. Baste them with barbecue sauce to take them to a whole new level.
Grilled Marinated RibeyesMarinate ribeye steaks in this tangy marinade before throwing them on the grill. It’s just as good for leaner steaks like strip, flank or flat-iron, too.
North Carolina-Style BBQ SauceNorth Carolina is known for its vinegar-based barbecue sauce. This recipe uses two different vinegars, and it doesn’t disappoint. Here’s everything you need to know about other regional barbecue sauces.
Ultimate Grilled Pork ChopsThe way to a great pork chop: Brine overnight and use a rub. These thick pork chops are juicy, full of flavor and perfect for the summer grilling season.
Quick Barbecued BeansBarbecue recipes aren’t only for meats and other proteins. Throw these simple, classic baked beans on the grill for great smoky flavor.
Dr Pepper BBQ SauceThis is one of those sauces you’ll want to slather on everything, from sliced brisket to ribs. Make ahead of time and store in the fridge to make grilling day a little easier.
Teriyaki Shish KabobsYou’ll love how the fresh vegetables and pineapple chars and caramelizes on the grill. While this recipe is for beef, the homemade teriyaki recipe is just as good on pork and chicken.
Southwest SteakThis is a really simple recipe for marinated and grilled flank steak. The lime juice helps tenderize the meat, while chili powder and red pepper flakes add just enough heat.
Grilled Huli Huli ChickenLet boneless chicken thighs soak up a delicious brown sugar, soy sauce and ginger marinade before throwing on the grill. The glaze is great on pork chops, too!
Grilled Vegetable PlatterJust when you thought you could only grill meat and seafood. Gather all the pretty summer vegetables, brush with olive oil or use a marinade, and cook until that natural sweetness comes through.
Sweet Tea Barbecued ChickenYou’ve heard of sauces and marinades that use coffee or espresso, so why not tea? Apple juice and sweet tea make a delicious sauce for grilled chicken (or any protein).
Lime-Rosemary Shrimp SkewersTurn fresh rosemary sprigs into skewers for this easy grilled shrimp dish. Pair with couscous and a bright salad to complete the meal.
Campers Favorite DipThis dip is the perfect appetizer for cookouts, picnics and camping (even backyard camping). Layer cream cheese, chili and cheese in a disposable aluminum pan and slip on the grill for extra smoky flavor.
Tuna Teriyaki KabobsWhen making skewers, keep the proteins and vegetables on separate sticks so they can cook more evenly. And reserve some of the light teriyaki marinade for drizzling after everything comes off the grill.
Grilled Sausages with Summer VegetablesEverything for this meal can be made on the grill, making cleanup a breeze. The sausages have a good snap, and the vegetables have just enough char to match their natural sweetness. You can easily increase or decrease the ingredients according to how many people you’re feeding.
80 Greek Recipes Everyone Will LoveCan't get enough of your local Greek restaurant? This one's for you! Here are some incredible Greek recipes, as well as Mediterranean-inspired recipes, that are sure to satisfy.
Grilled Corn in HusksThe trick to grilling corn in the husk is soaking it really well before putting it on the grill. When you tear into it, the kernels are soft, a little smoky and super sweet. Use lots of butter after!
Rosemary Lamb ChopsDijon mustard and fresh herbs is a wonderful combination for grilled lamb loin chops. It’s OK to use French-cut lamb rib chops, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Lime and Garlic Grilled Pork ChopsUse frozen limeade concentrate as the marinade base for these zingy grilled pork chops. This fresh pepper mango salsa is the perfect accompaniment.
Grilled Huli Huli Turkey DrumsticksTaking cues from Hawaiian huli huli chicken, these giant turkey legs make a statement! Let the drumsticks sit in the quick and easy marinate overnight for the best flavor.
Texas-Style BBQ SauceMade with pantry staples like ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce and brown sugar, you can have a sweet and spicy Texas-style barbecue sauce in minutes. It’s perfect for all proteins, including beef, pork and chicken.
Sweet Horseradish Glazed RibsHorseradish adds such a great peppery kick to barbecue sauce, and it’s a surprisingly good pairing with apricot preserves and honey. You can roast them ahead of time and finish on the grill to save time.
Red-Eye Barbecue SauceCoffee adds so much depth to this sauce, and harissa and cayenne bring the heat. It’s perfect for steak especially. If you don’t have adobo seasoning on hand, it’s easy to make with spices you have in your cupboard.
BBQ Country RibsWhen your cookout gets rained out, make these saucy oven-baked ribs in a pinch. Serve lots of sides—like potato salad, corn and pickles—for a full spread.
Get the Ball Rolling (3 Weeks Before)
- Send invitations
- Take inventory of your tables, chairs, plates, cups, napkins and utensils
Plan Things Out (2 Weeks Before)
- Build your BBQ menu—this is how much food to serve at a big party
- Sketch out a grocery list—and keep these grocery shopping tips in mind
- Create, cut and fold food label cards
- Buy any additional plates, cups, napkins or utensils
Tie Up Loose Ends (1 Week Before)
- Borrow any additional tables or chairs that you’ll need—ask friends or family members if you can borrow their extras
- Clean the house! You don’t have to cover everything, but make sure the areas your guests will see are sparkling
- Follow up with guests who haven’t RSVP’d
Go to the Grocery Store & Clean the Yard (3 Days Before)
- Double-check your grocery list
- Shop for your ingredients
- Wash the serving dishes you’ll be using
- Mow the lawn
- Clean your grill from top to bottom
Prep, Prep, Prep! (1 Day Before)
- Spot-clean the house—here’s how to tidy up fast
- Buy a bag of extra ice
- Make as many mains, sides and desserts ahead of schedule as you can
- Cut up any fruit and/or vegetables
- Put beverages in the refrigerator to chill
Set the Table (Morning Of)
- Put serving dishes/platters on the buffet table
- Set out plates, cups, napkins and utensils
- Set up extra tables with tablecloths
Final Prep (2 Hours Before)
- Prep any raw food you plan to grill
- Begin reheating any premade hot foods
- Stock coolers with ice and beverages
Get Ready to Eat (30 Minutes Before)
- Set out food with corresponding labels on the buffet table
- Preheat the grill
- Relax!
Tasty Potluck Recipes to Feed a Crowd
My family enjoys this dessert pizza recipe anytime of the year, but it's especially refreshing during the hot months. You can use whatever fruits are in season. —Ida Ruth Wenger, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Healthy Potato SaladThis healthy potato salad is crunchy-delicious with a brilliant zesty dressing. —Brittany Allyn, Mesa, Arizona
Frozen Peanut Butter and Chocolate TerrineThis terrine can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer. When served, it cuts easily, revealing the lovely layers of banana, peanut butter and chocolate. —Jennifer Jackson, Keller, Texas
Zucchini Panzanella SaladI learned how to make panzanella from my friend's grandmother. Once I discovered how to make the perfect vinaigrette, it became a dish I crave during the summer. It's also a great way to use day-old bread and your garden's bounty of zucchini. —Felicity Wolf, Kansas City, Missouri
Creamy Layered Blueberry Ice PopsThese delicious ice pops can also be made with raspberries or blackberries. The rosemary sprig and lemon zest bring another layer of flavor. The pops are quick, easy, kid-friendly and freezable. —Gloria Bradley, Naperville, Illinois
Macaroni ColeslawMy friend Peggy brought this coleslaw to one of our picnics, and everyone liked it so much, we all had to have the recipe. —Sandra Matteson, Westhope, North Dakota
Corn with Cilantro-Lime ButterI like to use fresh cilantro from my garden in this lime butter I created especially for grilled corn. —Andrea Reynolds, Westlake, Ohio
Aunt Frances' LemonadeMy sister and I spent a week each summer with our Aunt Frances, who always had this thirst-quenching lemonade in a stoneware crock in her refrigerator. It makes a refreshing drink after a hot day of running around. —Debbie Reinhart, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania
Heirloom Tomato & Zucchini SaladTomato wedges give this salad a juicy bite. It's a great use of fresh herbs and veggies from your own garden or the farmers market. —Matthew Hass, Franklin, Wisconsin
Cuban Pulled Pork SandwichesI lived in Florida for a while and loved the pork I ate there, so I started making it for myself. The flavorful meat makes amazing Cuban sandwiches, but you can also use it in traditional pulled pork sandwiches or tacos. —Lacie Griffin, Austin, Texas
Avocado SalsaI was planning a party and thought it might be fun to try a different kind of avocado salsa. This recipe was an absolute success. Scoop it up with chips, spoon it over chicken or steak, or eat it on its own! —Susan Vandermeer, Ogden, Utah
Grandma's Potato SaladThis salad is a must for the Fourth of July feast. The red potatoes hold their shape and texture even after they are boiled. —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Patriotic Cookies & Cream CupcakesBring on the red, white and blue with these creative cupcakes, perfect for the Fourth of July, Memorial Day or any favorite occasion. With some delicious and colorful frosting and a careful arrangement, your sweet display will be a patriotic nod to our great American flag. —Rebecca Wetherbee, Marion, Ohio
Chicken Salad Party SandwichesMy famous chicken salad arrives at the party chilled in a plastic container. When it’s time to set out the food, I stir in the pecans and assemble the sandwiches. They’re a hit at buffet-style potlucks. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Lemon Supreme PieA friend and I often visit a local restaurant for pie and coffee. When they stopped carrying our favorite lemon supreme pie, I got busy in the kitchen and created this version, which we think tastes even better! The combination of the cream cheese and tart lemon is wonderful. —Jana Beckman, Wamego, Kansas
Iced Raspberry TeaFrozen raspberries lend fruity flavor and lovely color to this pretty iced tea that's good throughout the year. The recipe calls for just a few common ingredients and offers make-ahead convenience. —Lois McGrady, Hillsville, Virginia
Cola Hot WingsThese delectable wings are so easy to make, and they offer year-round versatility, from summer cookouts to autumn tailgates. My husband likes them so much he'll stand out in the snow to grill them! —Lisa Linville, Randolph, Nebraska
Buffalo Chicken Deviled EggsMy daughter Sara loves spicy Buffalo chicken and deviled eggs, so I combined the two. Make and chill a day ahead so the flavors mingle. —Robin Spires, Tampa, Florida
Layered Picnic LoavesThis big sandwich, inspired by one I tried at a New York deli, is a favorite with our football-watching crowd. Made ahead, it's easily carted to any gathering. Kids and adults alike say it's super. —Marion Lowery, Medford, Oregon
Tomato & Artichoke BruschettaA healthy and refreshing appetizer, I enjoy bruschetta anytime of year. For serving guests, I like to slice the garlic instead of chopping it for both beauty and flavor infusion. This is also a simple make-ahead dish: You can mix it up, cover and refrigerate for a few hours before serving.—Gina Bergamino, Chanhassen, Minnesota
Sweet Tea ConcentrateSweet iced tea is a southern classic, and this is a fabulous recipe for tea lovers or for a party. The concentrate will make 20 servings. —Natalie Bremson, Plantation, Florida
Grilled Sausages with Summer VegetablesAfter 30 years of camping, we've come up with an arsenal of surefire recipes. Our grilled sausage with veggies would be a superstar at a potluck. —Nancy Daugherty, Cortland, Ohio
Chocolate Strawberry Punch Bowl TrifleI threw this dessert together when I needed something quick to take to my in-laws’. Because it’s beautiful, everyone thinks it requires a lot of effort. It’s easy. And the recipe makes a lot, making this perfect for potlucks and large gatherings. —Kristi Judkins, Morrison, Tennessee
Grilled Huli Huli ChickenI got this grilled chicken recipe from a friend while living in Hawaii. It sizzles with the flavors of brown sugar, ginger and soy sauce. Huli means "turn" in Hawaiian. This sweet and savory glaze is fantastic on pork chops, too. —Sharon Boling, San Diego, California
White Chocolate Fruit TartIt takes a little time to make, but this tart is absolutely marvelous, especially in summer when fresh fruit is in abundance. —Claire Darby, New Castle, Delaware
Texas Taco Dip PlatterWhen I'm entertaining, this colorful dish is my top menu choice. My friends can't resist the hearty appetizer topped with cheese, lettuce, tomatoes and olives. —Kathy Young, Weatherford, Texas
Frozen Berry & Yogurt SwirlsI enjoy these frozen yogurt pops because they double as a healthy snack and a cool, creamy sweet treat. —Colleen Ludovice, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
Tropical Island Shrimp KabobsShrimp, mango and pineapple on skewers make a sunny presentation at parties. To boost flavors, we use a coconut milk, lime juice and cilantro marinade. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, Columbia, South Carolina
Fresh Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon ChipsLime and basil really brighten the flavors in this colorful salsa. It's best when scooped up on a homemade cinnamon chip. —Navalee Hylton, Lauderhill, Florida
Originally Published: May 25, 2018
