Not sure how to start a charcoal grill? Here are three easy ways to light up the coals.
How to Start a Charcoal Grill
Updated on Jun. 14, 2023
Whether you love the taste of the perfect grilled side dish or the sweet flavor of grilled ribs, there’s no denying that grilling is one of the best ways to prepare summer staples. Knowing how to use a charcoal grill is an essential summer skill. Charcoal grills are arguably the perfect way to get that classic “grilled” flavor, but if you’ve never used one before, you’re probably wondering how to start a charcoal grill.
Thankfully, it’s not that hard—and once you’ve mastered the process, you’ll be one step closer to that perfect hamburger. And even better, you’ll be able to show off at the next backyard barbecue.
A Few Tips Before You Get Started
If you’re working with a charcoal grill for the first time, there are a few things to keep in mind. They’re not quite as intuitive as gas or electric grills, but that doesn’t mean they’re less effective (or fun).
Know how to prepare a grill for lighting
Before you start adding—or even buying—charcoal, you’ll want to properly clean your grill for the most effective barbecue. If you’re working with a brand-new grill, you can skip this step. But if you’re using a hand-me-down or previously used charcoal grill, it needs to be relatively spotless before you light it back up. Get rid of that grime and debris before you get to work.
Choose the right charcoal
There are a few different types of charcoal to choose from. We prefer brands like Royal Oak Lump Charcoal. It burns hot and clean, with a lightly smoky scent. Another great alternative is Rockwood All-Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal, which uses a blend of oak, hickory, maple and pecan wood. Don’t skimp on this step—a subpar charcoal brand will be harder to light, which will lead to more frustration and fewer delicious grilled burgers.
Learn how to arrange the charcoal
Though it would be much easier, you can’t just dump your charcoal onto your grill and hope for the best. You need to arrange your pieces of charcoal for the best results. Again, this will differ depending on your preferred method—if you use a chimney, you’ll be arranging differently than if you use lighter fluid.
How to Start a Charcoal Grill with a Chimney
Members of our Test Kitchen agree when it comes to charcoal chimneys like this. The cooks love ’em! It’s our recommended method for lighting a charcoal grill. Josh explains, “A charcoal chimney is my preferred method for lighting coals. A chimney allows for proper ventilation around the coals as they heat, and also allows for easy mobility.”
To use a charcoal chimney, start with these steps:
Step 1: Add charcoal to the chimney
Fill your chimney with the amount of charcoal specified by your product. You want your charcoal to reach the top, but not overflow.
Step 2: Place starters under the chimney
Starters will be lit on fire, so you can use any items that catch easily. Many people use newspaper or old paper, but Josh recommends using things you may have around the house that burn more slowly than paper, like paper cups, wood chips, dryer lint or even wax.
Step 3: Light the chimney
Light the starters on fire under the chimney. Keep an eye on the coals for the next 10 or so minutes.
Step 4: Pour coals onto the grill when you see flames
Once you see flames poking through the coals, it’s time to flip the chimney over. Gently grab the handle and pour the coals out.
Step 5: Top with grate when coals turn white
After a few more minutes, once the coals have turned white, spread them and cover with a grate and get to grilling.
How to Start a Charcoal Grill with Lighter Fluid
Lighter fluid is a method well-loved by dads and granddads around the world, but it’s not one that members of our Test Kitchen are too crazy about. Josh Rink, our food stylist and test cook, warns that the use of lighter fluid could be potentially dangerous if you don’t do it properly. Often people light inconsistently, or overcompensate and add more fluid than is necessary. If you’re opting for lighter fluid, we recommend following these steps.
Step 1: Arrange the coals
Arrange your charcoal into a pyramid shape. Make sure you have a large base, then stack the coals into smaller and smaller layers.
Step 2: Carefully pour lighter fluid evenly over coals
You’ll want to use your lighter fluid according to the directions on the package, but generally, evenly coat your coals with the liquid.
Step 3: Wait 30 seconds
Allow the coals to absorb the lighter fluid for 30 seconds before lighting.
Step 4: Light coals
Using a grill lighter or match with a long nose, evenly light the coals in several places. Do not add more lighter fluid once your coals are lit.
Step 5: Top with grate when coals turn white
The coals will catch fire, then turn white once they are ready to be used. Spread them evenly, then top with your grate and start grilling.
How to Start a Charcoal Grill with an Electric Starter
Electric firestarters are another option for starting your charcoal grill. We like the Looflighter Electric Firestarter, but there are lots of electric firestarters you can pick up and use for your grill.
Step 1: Arrange your coals
Spread your coals on the grill and arrange into a pyramid shape.
Step 2: Place the nose of the starter in the middle of your coals
Plug your electric firestarter in, then place the nose directly in your coals. It will begin heating immediately.
Step 3: When you see sparks, pull the lighter slightly away
Once the sparks begin, pull the lighter a few inches away from the pyramid.
Step 4: Keep lighting until the fire starts
Keeping the firestarter a few inches away from the stack, move it around and heat the coals until the fire starts. Remove the starter.
Step 5: Top with grate when coals turn white
Once the coals are entirely white, spread the coals and add the grate.
Whether you prefer a chimney, lighter fluid or an electric starter, once you master a method, you’ll be whipping up grilling recipes like it’s no one’s business!
Easy Grilling Ideas for Dinner
Chimichurri SteakTotal Time: 30 minutes
Main Ingredients: Steak, parsley, cilantro, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, garlic, olive oil
Level: Beginner
Chimichurri sauce is an Argentinian sauce made with fresh chopped herbs, spices, garlic, vinegar and oil. We add lime juice and spicy peppers for an extra kick. While you could make the sauce when the steak is resting, I always make it the night before and store it in the fridge to help the flavors come together.
"Steak gets a flavor kick from chimichurri. This piquant, all-purpose herb sauce is so versatile, it complements most any grilled meat, poultry or fish." —Recipe contributor Laureen Pittman, Riverside, California
Grilled Lime ChickenTotal Time: 20 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients: Chicken breast, lime juice, green onions, garlic, dill
Level: Beginner
I'm always looking for quick and easy dinners my kids will love. Luckily, our readers agree that this one is a family favorite. But while it's a low-maintenance main, don't let the chicken marinate in lime juice for more than a few hours. The lime juice tenderizes the meat, which can make its texture soft if it sits too long.
"My family is always delighted when I tell them these grilled chicken breasts are on the menu. Everyone loves the wonderful marinade; I relish the ease of preparation." —Recipe contributor Lisa Dougherty, Vacaville, California
Pork BurgersTotal Time: 25 minutes
Main Ingredients: Ground pork, hamburger buns
Level: Beginner
Skip ground beef for a more exciting option: pork! You'll really only need the ground meat, egg and bread crumbs, but you can also add fresh spices if you wish. If you're feeding a crowd, form the ground pork mixture into two-inch patties and make sliders instead.
"We live on a working hog farm and love this savory burger. Everyone will love these burgers—even if your pork comes from the grocery store, not the farm!" —Recipe contributor Dawnita Phillips, Drexel, Missouri
Steak and Shrimp KabobsTotal Time: 35 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients: Shrimp, sirloin steak, mushrooms, green peppers
Level: Beginner
If you can't decide between surf or turf, these easy-to-make skewers are the best of both worlds. Add some pineapple for extra sweetness. If you want to up the fancy factor, use other types of steak like ribeye or New York strip steak
"You'll make any get-together special with these attractive kabobs. Cubes of marinated steak are skewered with shrimp, mushrooms, tomatoes, green peppers and onions, then grilled. For picnics, I assemble the kabobs at home and carry them in a large container." —Recipe contributor Karen Mergener, St. Croix, Minnesota
Halibut Fish TacosTotal Time: 30 minutes
Main Ingredients: Halibut steaks, mango, avocado, lemon, Bibb lettuce, flour tortillas
Level: Beginner
Whether you're grilling by the beach or just wish you were, this grilled fish recipe hits the spot. Halibut is delicate and might fall apart while it's cooking, but trust us, these tacos will taste just as good. Explore more of our favorite fish taco recipes to make a build-your-own taco bar.
"I sometimes serve the fish wrapped in lettuce instead of tortillas. Either way, the mango salsa tastes amazing with grilled halibut. This warm-weather favorite is quick, colorful and full of nutrients." —Recipe contributor Kristin Kossak, Bozeman, Montana
Favorite Grilled Pork ChopsTotal Time: 25 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients: Pork loin chops, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce
Level: Beginner
These aren't your grandma's pork chops. If you're used to seeing them served with gravy and applesauce, give this summery version with Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic, cayenne pepper and lots of fresh parsley a try. You'll need to marinate the meat overnight, so start this dish the night before.
"I start preparing this entree the night before I plan to grill it. The fabulous marinade officially convinced my family to eat pork chops." —Recipe contributor Erica Svejda, Janesville, Wisconsin
Grilled Veggie PizzaTotal Time: 40 minutes
Main Ingredients: Whole wheat pizza crust, mozzarella cheese, pizza sauce, tomatoes, mushrooms, zucchini, sweet yellow pepper, sweet red pepper
Level: Intermediate
Pizza on the grill? It's quick, easy and so tasty. The secret is a 12-inch store-bought, prebaked pizza crust. Add sauce, cheese and your favorite seasonal veggies, then pop it on the grill for ten minutes.
"I came up with this recipe one summer as a way to use up vegetables from our garden. Grilling the veggies first brings out their sizzling flavors. Try it with a sprinkling of olives or pine nuts before adding the cheese." —Recipe contributor Susan Marshall, Colorado Springs, Colorado
How to Grill RibsTotal Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients: Baby back ribs, chicken broth, soy sauce, sugar, cider vinegar
Level: Intermediate
If you've never cooked baby back ribs, the extra-long cooking time might feel daunting. (Yes, these babies require over an hour on the coals.) But the low and slow cooking technique is hands-off and forgiving, so you can focus your time on cooking some tasty side dishes, like corn on the cob and potato salad.
"I like to marinate racks of ribs before adding my zesty spice rub. Then I grill them to perfection. They always turn out juicy and loaded with flavor." —Recipe contributor Iola Egle, Bella Vista, Arkansas
Grilled Chicken Thighs and DrumsticksTotal Time: 40 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients: Chicken thighs and drumsticks, brown sugar, cider vinegar
Level: Beginner
This flavor-packed main dish is just as tasty cooked on a charcoal or gas grill, but you'll need to check the meat more frequently if you're grilling it over coals. Because the grill will typically run a bit hotter and you can't control the temperature, the chicken might cook more quickly than it would on a gas grill.
"When Mom makes grilled chicken thighs and drumsticks, this is the way we like it prepared. It's juicy, has great barbecue flavor and makes a big batch, so it's perfect for a summer picnic and family reunions." —Recipe contributor Brenda Beachy, Belvidere, Tennessee
Chicken SatayTotal Time: 20 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients: Chicken breasts, coconut milk, sugar, peanut butter, soy sauce, ginger
Level: Beginner
Don't jump straight to hot dogs and hamburgers at your next barbecue. Try these Thai-inspired skewers instead. Thanks to the marinade—made with coconut milk, brown sugar, coriander, turmeric, cumin, salt and white pepper—this dish is a delight for the taste buds.
"These golden skewered chicken snacks are marinated and grilled, then served with a zesty Thai-style peanut butter sauce." —Recipe contributor Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Grilled Chicken Caesar SaladTotal Time: 30 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients: Chicken, red wine vinegar, soy sauce, romaine lettuce, croutons, Caesar dressing
Level: Beginner
There's an art to making the perfect salad. When the warm chicken straight off the grill combines with the umami flavor of the anchovies in the homemade Caesar dressing, you'll be ready to make this dish a weekly favorite.
"Whenever we're invited to potlucks, I'm always asked to bring a salad because people know it's one of my specialties. This dish is especially good on summer days when it's too hot to cook on the stove." —Recipe contributor Deb Weisberger, Mullet Lake, Michigan
Stuffed Grilled ChickenTotal Time: 30 minutes
Main Ingredients: Chicken breast, garlic, seasoned bread crumbs, lemon
Level: Beginner
This six-ingredient recipe is the very definition of "quick and easy." But because the chicken is stuffed, it's elevated enough to serve at a dinner party. Eat it alongside rice pilaf or pasta dishes for hearty pairings, or go lighter with side salads.
"As a single, working mom with two kids, I look for recipes that are fast and simple. My family loves this one and it gets me out of the kitchen fast." —Recipe contributor Candi VanMeveren, Lamberton, Minnesota
Peach-Glazed RibsTotal Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Main Ingredients: Baby back ribs, canned peaches, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar
Level: Intermediate
In the summertime, the last thing I want to do is turn on my oven. Luckily, this dish easily comes together with farmers market finds and a few items I usually have in my pantry. The baby back ribs will need to slow cook on the grill for over an hour, but you can use the hands-off time to make a big summer salad packed with seasonal veggies.
"For a fruity alternative to the usual barbecue sauce for ribs, try this slightly spicy recipe at your next picnic. The peaches add just the right touch of sweetness and a lovely color to this special sauce." —Recipe contributor Sharon Taylor, Columbia, South Carolina
Tailgate SausagesTotal Time: 20 minutes
Main Ingredients: Italian sausage links, brat or hot dog buns, giardiniera, provolone cheese
Level: Beginner
You've probably had giardiniera before, even if you didn't know the official name for it. It's a pickled veggie mixture popularized by Italian-American households, and it adds zip and tang to this sausage sandwich. You can find it in the pickle section of most grocery stores.
"You'll need just a handful of ingredients to fix these tasty sandwiches. Fully cooked sausages are placed in buns with cheese and topped with giardiniera, then wrapped in foil so they're easy to transport and a breeze to grill." —Recipe contributor Matthew Hass, Ellison Bay, Wisconsin
Grilled Barbecued SalmonTotal Time: 20 minutes
Main Ingredients: Salmon, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce
Level: Beginner
Cooking salmon on the grill isn't as daunting as it seems. It's not as flaky as white fish, so it won't fall apart easily, and the smoky flavor is irresistible. Typically, you won't have to flip salmon on the grill, but because both sides are brushed with sauce in this recipe, we recommend that you turn it. If you're using skin-on fillets, start with the skin side up, then flip it over. Or, remove the salmon skin before cooking.
"For a beautiful blend of sweet and spicy, salmon is grilled and basted with barbecue sauce perked up by brown sugar and hints of chili, soy sauce and lime." —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Salmon SaladTotal Time: 25 minutes
Main Ingredients: Salmon, spring mix salad greens, cucumber, tomato, feta cheese, red wine vinaigrette
Level: Beginner
Your friends will step into your backyard and think they've been transported to a fancy al fresco restaurant. Add the grilled salmon to the salad while it is still warm, then drizzle the plate with homemade vinaigrette and fresh lemon juice.
"My son David always ordered the salmon sandwich at a local pub. In trying to replicate it, he came up with this salad. It's the only recipe he's ever made, and our entire family thinks it's superb." —Recipe contributor Susan Griffiths, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
Grilled ShrimpTotal Time: 25 minutes
Main Ingredients: Shrimp, butter, lemon juice
Level: Beginner
These easy shrimp skewers are so versatile. Add them to a salad, eat them as an appetizer, put them on a grain bowl or include some sides to make them the main dish. Make extra seasoned butter and try it on grilled scallops or lobster tails too.
"This is easy and delicious! These shrimp are great with steak, but for a special occasion, brush the sauce on lobster tails and grill." —Recipe contributor Sheryl Shenberger, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Sausage Squash KabobsTotal Time: 20 minutes
Main Ingredients: Turkey kielbasa, red potatoes, zucchini, yellow summer squash
Level: Beginner
Sausage and…squash? They might not be as natural as peanut butter and jelly, but I was surprised to discover that this flavor combination is unexpected and delicious. Honey, Dijon mustard and orange zest add extra zip.
"Expect a crowd to gather around the grill when these flavorful kabobs are cooking. The zesty honey-mustard glaze gives a lovely sheen to the sausage and veggies." —Recipe contributor Lisa Malynn Kent, North Richland Hills, Texas
Grilled Salmon SteaksTotal Time: 25 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients: Salmon steaks, white wine vinegar, dill, Dijon mustard, mayo
Level: Beginner
If the idea of making fish on the grill sounds intimidating, push yourself out of your comfort zone and try grilling salmon steaks. They're thicker and more durable than fillets, so they won't fall apart or dry out on the grill. If you're concerned the fish is getting overcooked, use a meat thermometer to check its internal temperature. When it reaches about 145°F, the fish is done.
"This is a terrific way to fix salmon...and it's so easy to do. The marinade mellows the fish flavor, and the dill sauce is a wonderful complement. I once served this recipe to 12 people from the Pacific Northwest who declared it was the best salmon they'd ever eaten!" —Recipe contributor Deb Essen, Victor, Montana
Grilled Meat LoafTotal Time: 1 hour + standing
Main Ingredients: Ground beef, quick-cooking oats, Worcestershire sauce
Level: Beginner
This isn't your mom's meatloaf. The recipe ingredients are traditional, but once you pop it on the grill, it becomes a fun and exciting new dish to try. Serve it with macaroni salad, preferably outside on the back deck.
"This recipe is the perfect twist on a comforting family favorite. Shape the meat into loaves and "bake" them on a grill. Ketchup brushed over the meat lends a little sweetness to each slice." —Recipe contributor Catherine Carpenter, Barnesville, Ohio
Margarita ChickenTotal Time: 20 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients: Chicken breast, frozen nonalcoholic margarita mix, lime juice
Level: Beginner
Remember that can of frozen margarita mix you've had in the freezer since last summer? It's time to put it to good use in this ridiculously simple six-ingredient chicken recipe. Basting the chicken with marinade throughout the cooking process will keep it extra juicy.
"Marinated in flavors of garlic and lime, this tangy margarita chicken is ready to go whenever the coals are hot! Serve with roasted corn on the cob and lemonade." —Recipe contributor Kelly Bruneman, Cedar Park, Texas
Simple Pork Chop MarinadeTotal Time: 20 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients: Bone-in pork loin chops, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic
Level: Beginner
Fancy doesn't always mean better. It doesn't get much simpler or more delicious than this foolproof marinade, which features only brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic and a bit of black pepper. Add a shake of red chili flakes if you like it spicy, or add rice vinegar, sesame oil and grated fresh ginger for a teriyaki twist.
"This marinade is so simple that I use it on all kinds of meat. For a more robust flavor, let the meat marinate in the refrigerator overnight." —Community Cook Lori Daniels, Beverly, West Virginia
Key West Flank SteakTotal Time: 35 minutes + marinating + standing
Main Ingredients: Flank steak, Key limes, wine vinegar, cilantro, red onion
Level: Beginner
This dish is already bursting with flavor, but for an added zip, don't forget to add a squeeze of grilled Key lime. One of our readers calls this recipe "perfect for summer," and we have to agree.
"My husband, Jason, is the cook in our family. This is his recipe, inspired by his Colombian roots and our visits to Key West. Serve with sides of rice and fried plantains." —Recipe contributor Gretchen Ospina, Columbia Heights, Minnesota
Bacon-Wrapped Hot DogsTotal Time: 35 minutes
Main Ingredients: Hot dogs, bacon, hot dog buns
Level: Intermediate
If you live in Los Angeles, you know these delicious guys as "danger dogs." But don't worry, they're just as easy to cook as they are to eat. For best results, look for one of our favorite bacon brands at the grocery store.
"Here's a satisfying meal-in-a-bun I take to tailgate parties, cookouts, picnics and more. To transport the stuffed hot dogs, they are wrapped in foil first, then in paper." —Recipe contributor Peter Halferty, Corpus Christi, Texas
Foil-Packet Potatoes and SausageTotal Time: 50 minutes
Main Ingredients: Red potatoes, smoked sausage links, bacon strips, onions
Level: Beginner
Whether you're camping in the woods or just don't feel like scrubbing pots and pans, foil packet recipes make cooking over a fire so quick and easy. If you can't ensure even cooking (like at a campground), be sure to use fully cooked smoked sausages, or other cooked sausage varieties like spinach and feta chicken sausage.
"My family enjoys camping and cooking over a fire. These hearty foil-packet meals turn out beautifully over a campfire, on the grill or in the oven at home." —Recipe contributor Julie Koets, Elkhart, Indiana
Grilled Lobster TailsTotal Time: 25 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients: Frozen lobster tails, olive oil, chives, garlic
Level: Beginner
If you're like me, the thought of making lobster tail at home is nerve-wracking. How do I devein it? How do I know when it's finished cooking? Luckily, this practically foolproof recipe is here to walk us through it. Give it a try at your next summer dinner party.
"I had never made lobster at home until I tried this convenient and deliciously different grilled recipe. It turned out amazing, and has left me with little reason to ever order lobster at a restaurant again." —Recipe contributor Katie Rush, Kansas City, Missouri
Martha's Fish TacosTotal Time: 35 minutes
Main Ingredients: Haddock, sweet corn, red pepper, avocado, flour tortillas
Level: Intermediate
Transport yourself to the beach with this vibrant fish taco recipe, featuring grilled haddock, grilled sweet corn and even grilled tortillas (if you really want to impress). Serve alongside a refreshing watermelon salad…and a big handful of napkins.
"We can't get enough barbecued fish at our house. This recipe can be made ahead and served cold, or you can eat it hot off the grill. It's fantastic either way!" —Recipe contributor Martha Benoit, Proctorsville, Vermont
Huli Huli ChickenTotal Time: 30 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients: Chicken thighs, brown sugar, ketchup, sherry, ginger, soy sauce
Level: Beginner
You can thank Honolulu businessman Ernest Morgado for this unique twist on grilled chicken, which is marinated in a mixture of ginger, garlic, brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce and sherry. Huli is the Hawaiian word for "turn," which references how many times the chicken is turned while it's grilled.
"I 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. —Recipe contributor Sharon Boling, San Diego, California
Big John's Chili-Rubbed RibsTotal Time: 1 hour, 50 minutes + chilling
Main Ingredients: Baby back ribs, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup
Level: Beginner
If you've ever had dreams of opening up a barbecue joint, making this recipe is the next best thing. Our readers say the spice rub is just as delicious on spare ribs, which are usually less expensive and tend to have more meat.
"When my family thinks of summer grilling, it's ribs all the way. Our Asian-inspired recipe is a welcome change from the usual barbecue-sauce versions." —Recipe contributor Ginger Sullivan, Cutler Bay, Florida
Pesto Corn Salad with ShrimpTotal Time: 30 minutes
Main Ingredients: Shrimp, sweet corn, basil, olive oil, cherry tomatoes, avocado
Level: Beginner
Show off your farmers market haul—and your cooking prowess—with this summery salad that showcases in-season veggies. To make the dish vegetarian, swap the shrimp for veggie kabobs or grilled tofu.
"This recipe showcases the beautiful bounty of summer with its fresh corn, tomatoes and delicious basil. Prevent browning by spritzing the salad with lemon juice." —Recipe contributor Deena Bowen, Chico, California
Grilled Chicken Ranch BurgersTotal Time: 25 minutes + chilling
Main Ingredients: Ground chicken, ranch salad dressing, panko, Parmesan cheese, hamburger buns
Level: Beginner
Chances are, you've eaten ground beef burgers at least once since summer began. Spice things up with grilled chicken ranch burgers, which are still leaner than beef burgers, but bring in a whole new depth of flavor. Serve with sliced avocado and, of course, extra ranch sauce.
"This is one of the most fantastic, flavorful burgers I've ever made. Ranch is a favorite in dips and dressings, and believe me, it doesn't disappoint in these burgers, either!" —Recipe contributor Kari Shifflett, Lake Mills, Iowa
Korean Short RibsTotal Time: 20 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients: Beef short ribs, soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, Asian pear, ginger
Level: Beginner
If you've ever cooked beef short ribs on the grill, you can easily master this recipe. The secret is in the marinade, which uses soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, sesame oil, onion, garlic, ginger and one secret ingredient: Asian pear. The pear contains calpain, an enzyme that helps tenderize the meat.
"These Korean short ribs are cut across the bone lengthwise or flanken-style. The ginger gives the sweet and savory marinade a nice freshness." —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Chicken and Zucchini Foil PacksTotal Time: 1 hour
Main Ingredients: Chicken breasts, mushrooms, tomato paste, zucchini
Level: Intermediate
While the prep work doesn't require much skill beyond chopping and sauteing veggies, you will need about 45 minutes to get the ingredients ready before you start cooking. Save this recipe for a relaxed summer weekend night.
"I enjoy foil-wrapped dinners cooked on the grill because there are no pots or pans to wash. You can try this with most fresh vegetables you have on hand." —Recipe contributor Dianna Smith, Newport, Tennessee
Grilled Pork TenderloinTotal Time: 30 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients: Pork tenderloins, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, fresh ginger
Level: Beginner
It's easy to get stuck in a chicken and ground beef rut. Tonight, give pork tenderloin a chance. It's just as easy to cook as chicken, but with a juicy and tender new flavor the whole family will devour. To shake things up, try a tropical-inspired marinade with pineapple, orange juice and spices.
"We do a lot of grilling during the summer months, and this recipe is one my family asks for again and again." —Recipe contributor Betsy Carrington, Lawrenceburg, Tennessee
Chicken with Peach-Avocado SalsaTotal Time: 30 minutes
Main Ingredients: Chicken breast, peach, avocado, red pepper, lime
Level: Beginner
Jazz up chicken breasts with this summery twist, featuring peaches, avocado, red pepper and lime juice. If you're not a spicy food fan, simply omit the hot pepper sauce.
"This super fresh dinner is pure summer—juicy peaches, creamy avocado, grilled chicken and a kick of hot sauce and lime. To get it on the table even quicker, make the salsa ahead. —Shannon Norris, Cudahy, Wisconsin
Banh Mi Baby Back RibsTotal Time: 3 hours, 15 minutes
Main Ingredients: Pork baby back ribs, naval orange, Korean barbecue sauce, rice vinegar, daikon radish
Level: Intermediate
Get the tang and crunch of a banh mi sandwich on your grill this season. The recipe calls for some quick pickling, so get the rice vinegar ready for the carrots, daikon radish and green onions. Our readers call this dish a "must-try."
"We love both banh mi and ribs. This creative entree has all the flavors of the beloved Vietnamese sandwich–sans bread. Sprinkle the pork with roasted peanuts and sesame seeds, in addition to the other garnishes, for a fun crunch." —Recipe contributor Bonnie Geavaras-Bootz, Chandler, Arizona
Steak and Potato Foil PacksTotal Time: 40 minutes
Main Ingredients: Steaks, red potatoes, onion, rosemary, garlic
Level: Beginner
Bookmark this recipe for a night you feel fancy, but lazy. You'll feast on hearty steak and potatoes, but you won't do a single dish! If you're too exhausted to even fire up the grill, you can pop these in a 400°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes instead.
"As a park ranger, I've cooked a lot of meals outdoors. I often assemble foil packs and toss them into my backpack with some ice. Then when I set up camp, it's easy to cook them over a campfire. If I'm at home, I use my grill, and the food is just as good." —Recipe contributor Ralph Jones, San Diego, California
Grilled SalmonTotal Time: 20 minutes + standing
Main Ingredients: Salmon, garlic, lemon, rosemary
Level: Beginner
Once you've mastered these basic grilled salmon fillets, get fancy with different seasonings. This week, sprinkle on a little fresh oregano and thyme. Next week, add ginger and slather the fish with cucumber lime sauce. The possibilities are endless!
"The grill is a perfect cooking method for salmon. The smokiness is a subtle way to amp up salmon's mild flavor, and the high heat creates a delicious charred finish." —Recipe contributor Lindsay Mattison, Hillsboro, Oregon
Vietnamese Pork ChopsTotal Time: 30 minutes + chilling
Main Ingredients: Thin-cut pork loin chops, lemongrass, shallots, soy sauce, fish sauce, garlic
Level: Beginner
Pork is a delicious staple of Vietnamese cooking, and after trying these fragrant pork chops, it's easy to see why. If you can't find lemongrass at your local supermarket, try the farmers market or an international grocery store.
"Serve these tender Vietnamese pork chops with rice and sliced cucumbers. In addition to grilling or broiling, they can also be cooked in a skillet." —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Grilled Pork ChopsSoaked in brine and rubbed with a fragrant spice blend, these grilled pork chops burst with flavor.
Greek Lemon ChickenTotal Time: 30 minutes + marinating
Main Ingredients: Chicken thighs, lemon, olive oil, garlic
Level: Beginner
Transport yourself to the Greek Isles with this bright and citrusy main that's also really good for you. With only 359 calories and 30g of protein per serving, it's time to add this Mediterranean diet dish into your weekly rotation.
"This grilled Greek lemon chicken is so easy to make yet so full of flavor! The lemon and oregano flavors shine in this simple dish. It pairs perfectly with some roasted vegetables or a side salad." —Recipe contributor Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
Grilled Dinner Ideas FAQ
What can you serve at a barbecue besides hamburgers?
Hamburgers are a trusty cookout staple, but there are so many other foods to explore when it comes to barbecue menu ideas. While the grill heats up, prepare a plate of appetizers and flavorful salads for guests to snack on like Greek salad, broccoli slaw and marinated tomatoes.
For the main course, try tuna teriyaki kebabs, grilled pork chops or grilled cauliflower wedges. And don't forget dessert: You can cook peach bread pudding, grilled honey-balsamic glazed fruit or banana butter pecan kabobs right on the grill.
What is the easiest meat to grill?
Once you've gotten comfortable cooking burgers and hot dogs over the coals, chicken is the easiest meat to grill. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and evenly over high heat, while bone-in chicken thighs can be cooked on either low or high heat. Because they have a higher fat content, chicken thighs are exceptionally flavorful. Leaving the skin on will keep the meat juicy and tender.
What kind of side do you serve with a grilled dinner?
Why grill the meat, then go inside to cook the rest of the meal in the kitchen? Just toss corn on the cob, mushroom kabobs and spicy eggplant on the already-hot grill while cooking the main dish or right afterwards. Since most veggies cook quickly over high heat, your family will be ready to eat in a flash.
