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When it comes to 4th of July celebrations, good food is just as important as the fireworks. A great BBQ party brings together friends, family, and plenty of dishes that feel festive, fun, and perfect for summer.
I like to keep things simple but full of flavor—easy recipes that let you enjoy the party instead of being stuck at the grill or in the kitchen.
This list includes my favorite 4th of July BBQ ideas, from crowd-pleasing mains to colorful sides and sweet treats. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a dish to share, you’ll find something here that’s sure to be a hit.
1. Classic BBQ Chicken
Juicy, smoky, and covered in sticky-sweet BBQ sauce, this is a must-have at any backyard party. I like to grill drumsticks and thighs—they stay tender and soak up the sauce perfectly.
Author’s Note
Brush on the sauce during the last few minutes of grilling so it caramelizes without burning.
Get the Classic BBQ Chicken recipe.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili-Lime Butter
Fresh corn on the grill is simple but always a favorite. I slather it in butter mixed with lime juice, chili powder, and a little salt for a bright, zesty kick.
Author’s Note
Wrap the corn in foil for softer kernels or grill directly for a charred, smoky flavor.
Get the Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili-Lime Butter recipe.
3. Juicy Beef Burgers
No 4th of July BBQ is complete without burgers. I keep mine simple—salt, pepper, a little garlic powder—and let the toppings do the talking. Add cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles… whatever you like!
Author’s Note
Make a small dent in the center of each patty before grilling—it helps them cook evenly without puffing up.
Get the Juicy Beef Burgers recipe.
4. Watermelon Feta Salad
Cool and refreshing, this salad balances sweet watermelon with salty feta and fresh mint. It’s a great side dish that lightens up a plate full of BBQ.
Author’s Note
Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a little extra pop of flavor.
Get the Watermelon Feta Salad recipe.
5. Grilled Veggie Skewers
I thread zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and red onion onto skewers, brush with olive oil and herbs, and grill until tender. They’re colorful, healthy, and always disappear fast.
Author’s Note
Soak wooden skewers in water first so they don’t burn on the grill.
Get the Grilled Veggie Skewers recipe.
6. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Slow-cooked, tender pork piled onto soft buns and topped with coleslaw—it’s messy in the best way and always a crowd-pleaser.
Author’s Note
Make the pork ahead of time and reheat it on the grill to keep things easy during the party.
Get the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches recipe.
7. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Quick to cook and full of flavor, I marinate shrimp in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a little paprika before threading them onto skewers and grilling until just pink.
Author’s Note
Don’t overcook—shrimp only need a couple of minutes per side to stay juicy.
Get the Grilled Shrimp Skewers recipe.
8. Macaroni Salad
Creamy, cool, and the perfect make-ahead side. I toss cooked pasta with mayo, mustard, chopped celery, red onion, and a bit of vinegar for tang.
Author’s Note
Chill it for at least an hour so the flavors meld together nicely.
Get the Macaroni Salad recipe.
9. Grilled Hot Dogs with Toppings Bar
Simple but fun—grill up hot dogs and set out a toppings bar with ketchup, mustard, relish, onions, sauerkraut, jalapeños, and more. Let everyone build their own!
Author’s Note
Toast the buns lightly on the grill for added flavor and texture.
Get the Grilled Hot Dogs with Toppings Bar recipe.
10. Red, White, and Blue Fruit Platter
I arrange strawberries, blueberries, and chunks of pineapple or banana for an easy, colorful platter that fits the theme. It’s a fresh, sweet option that balances out heavier dishes.
Author’s Note
Add a bowl of vanilla yogurt or whipped cream for dipping.
Get the Red, White, and Blue Fruit Platter recipe.
11. Baked Beans
Smoky, sweet, and a BBQ classic. I simmer canned beans with brown sugar, mustard, and a bit of bacon for extra flavor.
Author’s Note
Cook them on the grill in a cast-iron skillet to add a little smoky note.
12. Grilled Sausage and Peppers
I toss sausage links on the grill along with sliced bell peppers and onions. Serve them in buns or on their own—they’re always a hit.
Author’s Note
Slice the sausages after grilling to keep them juicy and easier to serve.
Get the Grilled Sausage and Peppers recipe.
13. Coleslaw
Crisp, tangy, and great as a side or topping for sandwiches. I mix shredded cabbage and carrots with a light mayo-vinegar dressing.
Author’s Note
Make it a few hours ahead so it stays crunchy but has time to soak up the dressing.
14. BBQ Chicken Wings
Sticky, saucy, and finger-licking good. I grill the wings until crispy, then toss them in BBQ sauce right at the end.
Author’s Note
Use indirect heat for most of the cook so the wings don’t burn before they’re done inside.
Get the BBQ Chicken Wings recipe.
15. S’mores Dip
A fun twist on the campfire treat. I melt chocolate chips and marshmallows in a cast-iron skillet on the grill and serve with graham crackers for dipping.
Author’s Note
Watch it closely—the marshmallows toast fast once they start browning.
