Top 20+ Classic American BBQ Foods You've Been Waiting All Year To Eat

Ready To Eat Good This Summer?

Every year, you anxiously wait for June to come around so that summer barbecue parties are back in play. It's the best time of the year, after all. And while spending time with friends and family, relaxing, and having a good time are a big part of why you get so excited, it's only half the reason. The other half? The food! From chicken wings to macaroni salad, BBQ foods are simply delicious and are best enjoyed in the summer heat. To get you pumped up for the season to come, here are 20 classic American BBQ foods we know you've been waiting to devour. 

1. Ribs

When you think about delicious and smoky classic American BBQ foods, one of the first things that probably comes to mind is the ribs. After all, once they've been slow-cooked to utter tender perfection, each melt-in-your-mouth bite is loaded with so much tangy sauce. It's simply irresistible and worth drooling over every year. 

2. Pulled Pork

Another staple to any backyard barbecue is the pulled pork, a classic favorite that's shredded up and mixed with some deliciously addictive BBQ sauce. Whether you eat it in a sandwich or just on its own with some coleslaw and mac 'n cheese on the side, it's always a standout dish at any summer party.

3. Brisket

People all over the world come to the US to try some world-class BBQ brisket that is beyond tender and juicy. It's some of the best food the country has to offer after all! But for home cooks having a simple, down-to-earth barbecue party, you can rest easy knowing this cut of meat never disappoints when cooked at home too. 

4. BBQ Chicken

If you want to throw the best barbecue party ever, that means you've got to include every kind of meat on the menu, including chicken. When cooked well, BBQ chicken is always a hit with the crowd. Just marinate it properly so every bite is flavorful or slather it in a delicious sauce to really elevate it. Throwing it on the grill is the best way to bring out its smoky charm.

5. Hot Dogs

Can you really have a barbecue without any hot dogs? This American staple belongs at every summer party, and the good news is, it's so easy to prepare. There's deliciousness in simplicity after all! And when these hot dogs are grilled to give it that nice smoky taste, it's so tasty to enjoy for kids and adults like. 

6. Burgers

If we're going to include hot dogs, of course we have to give burgers a shout out too. Just leave out a wide spread of different toppings for everyone to choose from, and watch them go crazy. Everyone's favorite part of any summer party is getting to build their dream burger and taking that first bite.

7. Corn on the Cob

It's not just about the meats and the mains, the sides at any barbecue are just as important! Take corn on the cob for example; it's a must-have side dish! It's an addictive side thanks to its sweet kernels that give off a slightly charred taste thanks to being thrown on the grill. If you want to spice things up, serve it with some butter, salt, and a sprinkle of chili powder to really blow your guests' minds.

8. Coleslaw

Tangy, acidic, and crunchy, coleslaw is an underrated star at every gathering. It might seem plain and boring, but this simple salad is what helps you get through all those fatty and rich meats on your plate! 

9. Baked Beans

If you're craving something a bit heartier, more filling, and something a bit richer, baked beans are where it's at. It's the ultimate BBQ side dish that complements every item on the menu. Often cooked with some smoky bacon and brown sugar that gives it a unique sweetness, you'll have to be careful not to fill up on the beans before even touching the meat.

10. Potato Salad

Another excellent must-have side is potato salad. Compared to the tangy and acidic coleslaw, potato salad tends to be a lot creamier. It's made from boiled potatoes mixed with a hearty sauce of mayo, mustard, and sometimes eggs and pickles. It's a bright and filling addition to your already loaded plate. 

11. Grilled Sausages

No, sausages are not the same as hot dogs! Grilling sausages of your choosing completely elevates the meat and tastes different from your typical breakfast sausage. They offer a different texture and flavor from most of the other barbecued meats, giving you some extra variety that is always welcomed.

12. BBQ Shrimp

Let's not forget about the seafood lovers, shall we? Switch things up and offer a different protein by grilling up some delicious BBQ shrimp. Whether you have them skewered up or just tossed on the grill, you'll be surprised how well this seafood works for a summer barbeque. It's a great lighter option too!

13. Macaroni Salad

Though you might initially be taken aback by this cold rendition of macaroni, the creamy taste and addictive nature of this unique salad will quickly win you over. Because under the hot summer sun, nothing tastes better than cool and refreshing sides. It also works great as a nice complement to all those heavy BBQ meats.

14. Grilled Vegetables

It doesn't hurt to include something a bit healthier on the menu too! When it comes to grilled veggies, simple is best. Grab a handful of the best vegetables summer has to offer, like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, and toss them onto a grill for a nice charred flavor. This alone elevates them to new heights, possibly making you appreciate them in a way you've never been able to before.

15. Watermelon

Is any backyard gathering complete without watermelon served for dessert? This refreshing and hydrating fruit is exactly what you want after a filling and heavy meal. It's light, juicy, and so satisfying to snack on after a large BBQ meal. You don't even need to add anything to it - it's perfect served as is. 

16. Macaroni and Cheese

While macaroni salad is a cool side dish, you can't go without the classic mac and cheese too! The perfect comforting side dish to complete your meal, this beloved cheesy dish makes every plate so much better. Throw some BBQ meat on top to create the most delicious and satisfying combination of flavors.

17. Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs always make an appearance at every summer barbecue, making them an easy favorite for guests to enjoy. These go quick, so grab one while you can! With so much flavor packed into one little bite-sized app, it's the perfect way to get the party started.

18. Peach Cobbler

We can't forget about dessert! What barbecue would it be if you didn't finish off on a strong note? In the summer, peaches are in their prime, bringing a juicy and sweet taste that's best enjoyed in a cobbler. Combining that fruity flavor with a buttery, crumbly topping is the best way to ends things off right. For a nice bonus, a big scoop of vanilla ice cream on top really takes it up a notch. 

19. Cornbread

Down in the South, if there's one side dish that always makes its way to the table at any barbecue, it's the classic cornbread. Your plate definitely feels empty without it! Sweet and buttery, it's the perfect accompaniment to all those grilled meats and flavorful sides. Simple yet tasty.

20. BBQ Chicken Wings

Chicken wings are a popular choice at any event, whether it's a summer barbecue, football watch party, or late night snack. There are so many different ways you can prepare them, from dry rubs to marinated sauces, but no matter what you choose, grilling them always ensures they're crispy but juicy at the same time.