I Rely On These 27 Family-friendly Cookout Dishes Every Summer

ByMandy

The sun comes out, and the grill gets busy with familiar favorites. These 27 family friendly cookout dishes always bring smiles and clean plates. Each one works for kids, grown-ups, and even the picky eaters. Summer feels better with easy dishes that never fail at the table.

Close-up of cooked beef slices on a wooden board, with a fork holding one piece. The meat appears juicy with a seasoned crust.
Tomahawk Steak. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Grilled Tri Tip

Sliced medium-rare steak arranged on a wooden board, topped with a green herb sauce.
Grilled Tri Tip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fire up the grill and enjoy perfectly seasoned meat that’s tender and juicy. Grilled Tri Tip is a simple way to bring bold flavors to the table with minimal fuss. It’s a great centerpiece that pairs well with just about anything. Make it once, and it’ll become a go-to favorite.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Tri Tip

Seven Layer Salad

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise.
Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layers of fresh and colorful ingredients come together beautifully with this recipe. Seven Layer Salad brings a variety of textures and flavors in every bite. Great for prepping in advance, it’s perfect for feeding a group. Everyone seems to go back for seconds with this one.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Close-up of a cheeseburger with a sesame bun, bacon, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and beef patty.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Juicy, grilled chicken pressed into soft bread is a meal everyone loves. Grilled Chicken Sandwich combines simple ingredients for a perfect balance of taste and convenience. Quick to make and even easier to enjoy, it fits any occasion. Add your favorite toppings to make it yours.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Mini Tacos

A plate of beef tacos topped with cheese, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, served with avocado sauce and lime wedges. A bowl of cilantro and a jar lid are next to the plate.
Mini Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bite-sized and packed with flavor, these little treats are always a hit. Mini Tacos are an easy way to add fun and variety to your menu. Serve them as an appetizer or make them the star of the meal. They’re so good you’ll want to eat more than just one.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos

Italian Sliders

Close-up of sesame seed-topped sliders filled with sliced meat and melted cheese.
Italian Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Small but bursting with flavor, these handheld bites are crowd-pleasers. Italian Sliders offer layers of tasty fillings tucked into soft, warm bread. They’re super easy to customize and perfect for sharing. Make a tray, and watch them vanish in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Grilled Chicken Thighs

Grilled meat ribs garnished with chopped herbs and garlic, served on a white platter with fresh parsley in the background.
Grilled Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Tender and flavorful, these are hard to resist when they’re fresh off the grill. Grilled Chicken Thighs are a simple yet versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal. The smoky aromas and juicy texture will have everyone coming back for more. Serve them up with anything, and they’re sure to shine.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Thighs

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

With melty cheese and tasty layers, these bites are as easy as they are delicious. Ham and Cheese Sliders are perfect for both kids and adults alike. Make them in a batch to feed a crowd, and they’re ready in no time. When you need a simple, stress-free dish, this one’s a winner.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Grilled Chicken Kabobs

Grilled chicken skewers with red bell peppers, green bell peppers, and onions are served on a white plate, garnished with chopped herbs.
Grilled Chicken Kabobs. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Perfectly grilled on skewers, these create great combinations of flavors. Grilled Chicken Kabobs are fun, easy to make, and great for mixing veggies and protein together. They’re great for sharing and make cleanup super easy. Try them with different seasonings to match your preferences.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Kabobs

Homemade Corn Dogs

Close-up of a bitten corn dog showing its interior with a layer of crispy fried batter and a hot dog inside.
Homemade Corn Dogs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A classic favorite that’s easier to make than you might think. Homemade Corn Dogs bring a bit of nostalgia to the table with their crispy coating and flavorful bite. Handheld and portable, they’re loved by kids and adults alike. Whether it’s a snack or meal, they’re always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Corn Dogs

Grilled Steak Pinwheels

Close-up of sliced stuffed beef roulade with visible layers of meat, cheese, and spinach on a wooden board. A glass of beer is blurred in the background.
Grilled Steak Pinwheels. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Rolled-up goodness combining tender steak with flavorful fillings. Grilled Steak Pinwheels are an exciting twist on your regular grilling options. They’re impressive to look at but surprisingly easy to put together. Give these a try, and they’ll quickly become a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak Pinwheels

Big Mac Sloppy Joe

Two sesame seed burgers with cheese, shredded lettuce, ground meat, and pickles, stacked on a plate.
Big Mac Sloppy Joe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Messy, flavorful, and packed with everything you love about the classic burger. Big Mac Sloppy Joe combines the best parts of two comfort foods into one. It’s easy to whip up for a quick, filling meal. Your family will love this new take on a traditional favorite.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Sloppy Joe

Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

A bowl of rice topped with grilled chicken, creamy sauce, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and red onion slices.
Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Combining smoky and creamy flavors, this is a hearty and comforting option. Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a complete dish in one bowl, full of bold flavors and textures. It’s convenient to assemble and super versatile for adding your favorite extras. Once you dig in, it’s hard to stop enjoying it.
Get the Recipe: Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Grilled Eggplant

Close-up of grilled eggplant slices garnished with chopped herbs and a glossy glaze.
Grilled Eggplant. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A simple, healthy option that’s surprisingly flavorful when done right. Grilled Eggplant is a vegetarian dish that delivers on both taste and texture. Its smoky, tender slices pair wonderfully with a range of sides. Try it out, and you’ll see how tasty it can be.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Eggplant

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Two pieces of fried chicken on a gray plate, garnished with small bits of green herbs.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. Made with just the right amount of seasoning, Buttermilk Fried Chicken brings flavor to every bite. Perfect for sharing at family meals, it’s something everyone will enjoy. The crunch and tenderness make it hard to resist grabbing seconds.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Grilled Corn on the Cobb

Four grilled corn cobs topped with crumbled cheese, chopped herbs, and spices are arranged on a white plate.
Grilled Corn on the Cobb. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A simple dish packed with unbeatable flavor, it’s a must at any cookout. Grilled Corn on the Cobb is fresh, slightly charred, and full of natural sweetness. A sprinkle of seasoning takes it to new heights without overcomplicating things. It’s easy to make and always disappears fast from the table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn on the Cobb

BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Three pulled pork sliders with coleslaw on a white plate, topped with a sprig of parsley.
BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bite-sized yet packed with flavor, these little sandwiches combine tender chicken and tangy slaw. BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw are ideal for feeding a big group. They’re messy in the best way possible and come together with ease. Enjoy them as a quick option that everyone will rave about.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Grilled Salmon

A close-up of a cooked salmon fillet topped with a mixture of chopped herbs, garlic, and seasonings.
Grilled Salmon. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Light, flaky, and seasoned just right, it’s a dish everyone can appreciate. Grilled Salmon brings a great balance of smoky flavor with a natural goodness. It doesn’t take long to cook but always leaves a lasting impression. Share it as a main dish that feels special without being complicated.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Salmon

Cucumber Tomato Salad

A bowl of fresh salad with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and herbs, seasoned with black pepper, with a serving spoon.
Cucumber Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Refreshing and colorful, this simple mix brightens up your plate. Cucumber Tomato Salad is easy to put together, with a great crunch in every bite. It pairs perfectly with just about any main dish while standing out on its own. Quick to make and full of goodness, it’s a dish loved by all ages.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Salad

Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

A chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and sauce on a bun, with fries in the background.
Homemade KFC Zinger Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Get the crunch and spice you love without leaving the house. The Homemade KFC Zinger Burger recreates a fan favorite in a simple, perfect way. It’s filling, flavorful, and easy to prepare for any meal. Perfect for those who like a little kick with their bite.
Get the Recipe: Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini slices garnished with chopped herbs on a light-colored plate.
Grilled Zucchini. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Smoky, tender, and so easy to make, this dish adds a healthy touch to any meal. Grilled Zucchini is all about simplicity, letting fresh ingredients shine. A quick trip to the grill gives it just the right amount of char. It’s a versatile side that fits in wherever you need it.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Zucchini

Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Grilled ribs garnished with herbs and served with a side of sauce and onions.
Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fall off the bone tender and covered in flavorful seasoning, they’re unbeatable. The Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe combines taste and texture that impresses every time. Each bite is bursting with deliciousness that keeps everyone coming back. A perfect option when you want something hearty and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Grilled Vegetables

A platter of grilled vegetables including zucchini, mushrooms, asparagus, bell peppers, and red onions, garnished with chopped herbs.
Grilled Vegetables. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Loaded with smoky flavor, they’re a versatile and colorful addition to any cookout. Grilled Vegetables keep things simple, focusing on fresh, wholesome ingredients. Easy to prepare and share with everyone, they work well as a side or even a main course. Packed with flavor and texture, they’re something everyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables

Lobster Roll

A close-up of a sandwich roll filled with chunks of seasoned lobster meat, garnished with chopped chives.
Lobster Roll. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy and rich, it’s a dish that feels just a little special. Lobster Roll blends tender seafood with a soft roll that’s hard to beat. Each bite is tasty without being overly heavy or rich. Great for when you want something that’s quick but not boring.
Get the Recipe: Lobster Roll

Mushroom Tacos

Three soft tacos filled with lettuce, mushrooms, shredded cheese, and cherry tomatoes, garnished with a lime wedge.
Mushroom Tacos. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These are a meat-free option that’s far from boring. Mushroom Tacos offer a hearty, earthy filling that stands out in every bite. Easy to load up with your favorite toppings, they’re a flavorful pick for anyone at the table. Perfect for mixing things up in a fun and delicious way.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Tacos

Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Thai chicken skewers topped with a creamy sauce and garnished with chopped herbs and peanuts, served over a bed of white rice.
Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Marinated just right, these skewers pack bold, balanced flavors in every bite. Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers are a great handheld option for easy eating. They’re quick to assemble and cook but loaded with a mix of spices. A fantastic way to bring something different to your meal lineup.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Beef Tacos

Three beef tacos filled with ground meat, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheese, and sliced red onions.
Beef Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Easy to customize and always a hit, these are the go to for any gathering. Beef Tacos keep things simple yet bursting with all the right flavors. Fill them with tried and true ingredients that everyone loves. Just set up a topping station, and you’ve got a fun meal for the whole group.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tacos

Tomahawk Steak

Close-up of cooked beef slices on a wooden board, with a fork holding one piece. The meat appears juicy with a seasoned crust.
Tomahawk Steak. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Juicy, rich, and impressive, it’s a centerpiece dish that speaks for itself. Tomahawk Steak is all about bold flavor and a perfect char. It’s big enough to share but so good you might not want to. Quick to become the highlight of your gathering, it’s always worth the effort.
Get the Recipe: Tomahawk Steak

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