Want to tantalize your guests’ taste buds with delectable BBQ appetizers at your next weekend gathering? Look no further! With 37 mouthwatering options, you’ll be the host with the most. While burgers and hotdogs are always a crowd-pleaser, why not take it up a notch by showcasing your culinary skills with some innovative starters? Not only will you wow your friends with your cooking prowess, but you’ll also demonstrate the versatility of your barbecue grill.
This collection of recipes offers the perfect opportunity to experiment and push the boundaries of what’s possible on the grill. You’ll discover unique gems like bacon-wrapped pickle spears and grilled watermelon skewers, as well as some surprises that will leave you wondering how you ever lived without them! A few familiar favorites have made the cut too, because let’s be real – sometimes simplicity is key. So what are you waiting for?
Dive in and get ready to impress your guests with these BBQ appetizers that will leave them wanting more!
Grilled Pineapple Salsa
While salsa is often relegated to the role of side dish, its versatility extends beyond this traditional function. In fact, its bold flavors can make it an excellent choice for an appetizer. Simply spoon the harmonious blend of smoky, tangy, and sweet notes atop toasted bread or crackers, and you’re ready to serve a delightful start to your meal.
Bacon Wrapped Sausages
The quintessential appeal of bacon lies in its versatility. When infused into sausages and smoked to perfection, it transcends the ordinary to become an extraordinary appetizer experience. With a harmonious blend of meaty, sweet, savory, and utterly scrumptious flavors, this delectable treat is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
BBQ Pork Loin Sliders
Whether you’re in the mood for an appetizer, a side dish to accompany your burgers and hot dogs, or a satisfying snack to munch on during game day, this recipe delivers. Its versatility is part of its charm, as it can be enjoyed just as it is or elevated with the addition of grilled pineapple salsa. The combination is truly divine.
Hawaiian Chicken Teriyaki Skewers
For a mouthwatering grilled appetizer that’s perfect for a luau, look no further than this incredible option. One of its standout features is its adaptability – the best part being that if you have leftovers, they can be easily transformed into a satisfying meal by serving them with rice.
Grilled Jalapeno Poppers
To elevate your outdoor gathering to the next level, look no further than this mouth-watering recipe. The harmonious blend of spicy, savory, and smoky flavors ensures it’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests begging for more. Whether you’re hosting a casual barbecue or a full-blown party, this dish is sure to be a hit with its bold and tantalizing taste profile.
Margarita Shrimp Kebabs
Grilled shrimp skewers are a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main course. What’s more, they offer endless possibilities for serving. You can easily remove the skewers and present them in a family-style platter or even portion out individual servings into shot glasses, garnishing with lime slices to add a touch of elegance. This dish lends itself perfectly to being served as hors d’oeuvres, perfect for impressing your guests at any gathering.
Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
The allure of this asparagus dish lies in its simplicity and mouthwatering combination. Fresh, crispy asparagus wrapped in the savory fusion of smoky and sweet bacon creates a culinary experience that’s hard to resist. Not only is it effortless to prepare, but its delectable flavors will leave you craving more.
Grilled Peach Crostini
Elevate a classic fruit-based appetizer by infusing it with the rich, smoky flavor of the grill. This versatile crostini is perfect for making in advance, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your gathering as guests arrive.
Grilled Loaded Potato Skins
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your personal preferences. Want to load up on extra vegetables, cheese, or protein? The beauty of this dish is that you can easily modify it to cater to your cravings.
Grilled Crostini Platter
For an impressive gathering, consider presenting a delectable assortment of appetizers on a single platter. This is one creative way to do so. Alternatively, you can set up a ‘make-your-own-crostini’ station filled with grilled crostini, an array of toppings, and cured meats, allowing your guests to craft their own delicious combinations.
Grilled Loaded Nachos
This grilled skillet recipe is a versatile dish that shines as both an appetizer, a snack for game day gatherings, and a delectable side dish accompaniment for any meal. Its versatility stems from the abundance of toppings and ingredients involved, allowing you to easily tailor it to your personal taste preferences.
Grilled Fig With Goat Cheese
For a straightforward yet flavorful start to your meal, consider combining the natural sweetness of figs with the creaminess of cheese. This uncomplicated yet effective pairing offers a perfect blend of sweet and savory notes. To elevate this dish further, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist or a sprinkle of salt for a touch of brininess.
Grilled Watermelon, Peach, & Halloumi Skewers
When it comes to grilling alongside beef patties and hot dogs, there’s a versatile option that deserves some attention: meatballs. Not only can they be served on toothpicks for a convenient and easy-to-eat snack, but they’re also perfect for building sliders. Simply place one or two meatballs into a soft bun, and you’ve got a tasty and satisfying meal.
BBQ Meatballs
In addition to serving up juicy beef patties and hot dogs, consider grilling some savory meatballs to elevate your outdoor cooking experience. These bite-sized morsels are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on their own as an appetizer or incorporated into sliders by placing one or two in a soft bun. For a more theatrical touch, thread them onto toothpicks for a fun and easy-to-eat snack.
Zucchini & Hummus Roll-Ups
Looking for a delicious vegetarian option to impress your guests at the next barbecue? You’re in luck! This recipe is easy to make and perfect for heating up on the grill. Plus, it’s a hit with vegans and vegetarians alike – making it an inclusive choice for any outdoor gathering.
Veggie BBQ Skewers
For vegetarians and vegans, consider grilling up a tasty skewer dish that’s easily transformed into a satisfying main course. To do so, simply alternate vegetables on the skewers with firm tofu cubes, ensuring a well-rounded and protein-rich meal for your plant-based guests.
Grilled Tomato Bruschetta
As we continue exploring the world of vegan and vegetarian BBQ appetizers, another standout recipe deserves a mention. This particular dish takes advantage of the grill’s ability to infuse flavors by cooking the vegetables and baguette to perfection. The result is a smoky, slightly charred taste that lingers in each bite, making it an undeniable crowd-pleaser for any outdoor gathering.
Olive & Tomato Grilled Pizza
Grilled pizzas are incredibly adaptable, allowing them to seamlessly transition from a delightful starter to a satisfying main course. The versatility of this dish lies in its ability to be easily portioned and served accordingly. For instance, when serving as an appetizer, simply slice the pizza into bite-sized morsels, perfect for whetting the appetite before the main event.
Grilled Stuffed Mushrooms
Indulge in the rich flavors of this satisfying dish, which can also be easily adapted for oven-roasting. By preparing the filling ahead of time, you’ll have the perfect accompaniment to your barbecue feast – simply fill those mushroom caps and let them sizzle alongside your other grilled favorites as your guests arrive.
Bacon Wrapped BBQ Chicken
When serving this delectable dish, be prepared for enthusiastic requests for refills – it’s that well-received. This mouthwatering appetizer has a way of captivating palates and inspiring repeat orders, making it an excellent choice for gatherings where you want to impress your guests.
Smoked Chicken Wings
Indulge in the irresistible taste of smoked and grilled chicken wings, where every bite transports you to a culinary paradise. The succulent meat, infused with a deep flavor profile that reaches the very marrow, is sure to become the star attraction at your next backyard gathering, with friends and family eagerly anticipating another serving.
Smoked Bacon Wrapped Pickle Spears
While the idea of putting bacon-wrapped pickles in your smoker might raise an eyebrow or two, it’s definitely worth exploring. If you’re a fan of fried pickles, or simply enjoy snacking on the sweet, sour, and crunchy flavor combination of cured veggies, then this unique twist is sure to pique your interest.
Grilled Corn Salad
An excellent alternative to traditional starters or sides, this salad’s unique balance of sweet, tangy, and mild flavors can be further elevated by incorporating a pinch of heat courtesy of pepper flakes or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. When serving, consider presenting it family-style or portioning individual servings in crisp lettuce cups, allowing each guest to customize their experience.
Grilled Artichokes
The simplicity of this appetizer is truly astonishing, yet its flavor and presentation are undeniably impressive. This versatile dish is perfect for a wide range of occasions, from casual gatherings to formal events.
Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip
Indulge in a richly flavored smoky and spicy dip that pairs perfectly with your favorite accompaniments, such as crackers, chips, or crudités. This delectable recipe cleverly employs BBQ twice – initially to infuse tender smoke into the chicken and subsequently to melt the cheese to a velvety consistency.
Lemon & Garlic Grilled Broccoli
For a vegetarian option that’s just as impressive, consider serving this delightful starter. To ensure its veggie-only credentials remain intact, simply omit the Parmesan cheese and you’re good to go, ready to impress your plant-based guests.
Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Bites
Indulge in the ultimate surf-and-turf-inspired grilled appetizer experience. For an added layer of complexity and depth, consider incorporating a hint of heat into the already savory and smoky flavor profile of the Cajun rub by introducing a teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
Smoked Cream Cheese Balls
When it comes to crafting a delicious assortment of smoked cheese balls, why not create multiple options in one go? By preparing four distinct balls with varied toppings simultaneously, you’ll be able to offer a diverse range of cream cheese flavors to pair with your favorite crackers or chips for your guests and yourself. This approach not only streamlines the process but also ensures that everyone will have something to love.
Vietnamese Style Ribs
When it comes to satisfying appetites at gatherings or events, few foods can rival the appeal of tender and juicy ribs. A simple yet effective way to elevate their flavor is by marinating them overnight for an explosion of flavors. However, time constraints are always a consideration, which is why a shorter marinade period of just a few hours can still yield impressive results.
Avocado Bruschetta
Elevate your next backyard gathering with a modern twist on a classic favorite. Inspired by the popularity of avocado toast, we’ve created a unique and delicious recipe that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. This show-stopping appetizer combines the creamy richness of ripe avocados with the savory flavors of perfectly grilled meats, making it an absolute must-have for your next barbecue.
Pulled Pork Nachos
The pièce de résistance for any gathering is this show-stopping appetizer. To prepare it in advance, make the smoked pulled pork well ahead of time and freeze it for future use. This will allow you to effortlessly defrost and reheat the pork when it’s time to serve, making it a breeze to assemble your nacho platter with ease.
Street Corn Flatbread
Savor the flavors of Mexico with a grilled twist! Imagine firing up your outdoor grill and whipping up a mouthwatering appetizer that’s as vibrant as a mariachi melody. This sizzling delight is crafted entirely on the grill, from its humble beginnings to its tantalizing finish.
Tandoori Paneer Tikka
As we venture from Mexico to India, a flavorful and aromatic vegetarian appetizer awaits. This versatile recipe can be enjoyed across multiple cooking methods, including the great outdoors on your grill, or indoors with the ease of an air fryer, oven, or stovetop grilling. The possibilities are endless.
Grilled Zucchini Canapes
Savoring the flavors of tapenade on crostini and bruschetta is a delight, but what if you’re aiming for a lower-carb option? Fear not! You can still indulge in the same rich flavors without the bread by substituting it with this grilled zucchini appetizer. The smoky sweetness of the zucchini pairs perfectly with the savory tapenade, creating a delightful twist on a classic combination.
Grilled Vegetable Agrodolce Crostini
Elevate your barbecue game by infusing it with the bold flavors of Italy. One delectable option is a crostini topped with delicate slices of prosciutto, tangy goat cheese, an assortment of sautéed vegetables, and fragrant herbs, all tied together with the sweetness of agrodolce sauce.
Smoked Deviled Eggs
Traditional deviled eggs are a staple at many gatherings, and it’s easy to see why – they’re a delicious and versatile snack. While many of us have made them countless times, there’s a twist that can take these classic treats to the next level: smoked deviled eggs. This unique variation is a game-changer, offering a rich, savory flavor that will leave your guests wanting more.
Grilled Potato Wedges With Dip
To conclude this list of delicious barbecue recipes, let’s look at one that requires minimal effort and yields impressive results. Simply slice potatoes into wedges and throw them on the grill until they’re tender and feature beautiful char marks. While traditional potato dishes often call for heavy sauces or toppings, here we’re taking a different approach by pairing them with a tangy curry aioli.
Feel free to swap out the dip for your go-to condiment of choice – after all, it’s all about personal preference when it comes to barbecue!
The bottom line
This eclectic list of BBQ appetizers showcases a diverse range of dishes, spanning from straightforward to intricate, plant-based to meat-based, and traditional to innovative. Moreover, it highlights recipes that utilize the BBQ as a grill, hot smoker, cold smoker, and even a pizza oven. This versatility underscores the potential of your BBQ to go beyond the usual fare of burgers and sausages.
With this list, you’ll be inspired to fire up your grill and create mouth-watering appetizers that will impress your loved ones. If you’re eager to tantalize your guests at your next weekend barbecue, look no further – here are 37 delectable BBQ appetizers for you to try!
