As you settle in for a day of outdoor cooking, the unmistakable scent of sizzling food wafts through the air, transporting you to a world of mouthwatering flavors. Whether you’re an experienced griller or just starting your culinary journey, we’ve curated a collection of delectable charcoal grill recipes that will elevate your backyard gatherings to new heights.
Grilled Pizza
Grilled pizza is an innovative recipe that combines the simplicity of store-bought or homemade dough with the thrill of open-flame cooking. The versatility of this dish lies in its ability to accommodate a wide range of toppings, from classic meats and vegetables to gourmet cheeses and herbs. A sprinkle of chili flakes and a few fresh basil leaves can add the finishing touches to a truly one-of-a-kind culinary experience.
The dough is initially grilled until it’s bubbly and slightly charred, at which point it’s ready to be topped with your desired ingredients. After adding the toppings, the pizza is cooked for a second time, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together in harmony. This recipe is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique way to enjoy a delicious meal under the stars.
Grilled Wings
Elevate your charcoal grilling experience with our foolproof recipe for Grilled Wings. This delectable dish yields crispy and mouthwatering chicken wings every time, requiring just a few essential ingredients such as fresh chicken wings, baking powder, and a blend of BBQ dry rub. The result is an explosion of flavor that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
The accompanying tips provide invaluable guidance on achieving tender and juicy wings, while offering creative suggestions for seasoning variations. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, Grilled Wings is a must-try recipe that will help take your charcoal grilling skills to new heights.
Steaks
To deliver mouth-watering results, the Steaks recipe focuses on the fundamental principles of preparing the perfect steak over a charcoal grill. By prioritizing seasoning and allowing the meat to rest before grilling, the dish ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Additionally, the recipe provides step-by-step guidance on setting up the grill for optimal heat distribution, streamlining the process and guaranteeing a succulent final product.
Steak
With its simplicity and reliability, the Steak recipe is an ideal choice for anyone looking to create a mouth-watering charcoal-grilled meal that rivals those from a high-end steakhouse. The key to its success lies in the use of a dry brine, which expertly enhances the flavor and tenderness of the steak. Moreover, this recipe stresses the importance of utilizing a meat thermometer to achieve precisely cooked steaks, every time.
For added flair, the option to employ GrillGrates is suggested, allowing for the perfect sear marks that elevate the dish to new heights. By following these straightforward guidelines, anyone can successfully grill a delectable steak on a charcoal grill, yielding a truly exceptional dining experience.
Turkey
Elevate your holiday cooking with this game-changing charcoal grilling turkey recipe. The result is a mouthwatering masterpiece of juicy meat infused with a subtle smokiness, leaving traditional oven-roasting methods in the dust. But that’s not all – this recipe also boasts the advantages of charcoal grilling, such as accelerated cooking time, liberated oven space, and effortless cleanup.
With only a few carefully chosen seasonings and bastes, the turkey emerges tender, succulent, and bursting with flavor. It’s an absolute must-try for anyone seeking to take their holiday meals to new heights.
Butter Bath Chicken Thighs
For those looking to elevate their charcoal grilling game, Butter Bath Chicken Thighs is an inspired recipe that yields impressive results. The key lies in smoking the chicken thighs in a Parkay bath, which creates a delicate and flavorful skin. Once smoked to perfection, the thighs are finished with a rich barbecue sauce, ensuring they reach the ideal internal temperature. This competition-inspired recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking exceptional chicken thighs on their charcoal grill.
Pulled Pork
Pulled pork is a beloved comfort food staple in the Southern United States, renowned for its tender, fall-apart texture and rich flavor profile. The process begins with slow-cooking pork shoulder or scotch until it reaches this coveted state, at which point it can be easily shredded by hand. To add depth and complexity to the dish, a pungent rub is applied to the meat before being cooked low and slow on a charcoal grill, infusing it with a subtle smokiness.
This versatile culinary delight can then be enjoyed in an array of formats, including mouthwatering sliders, crispy quesadillas, or indulgent nachos. When executed correctly, the result is tender, juicy pulled pork that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
BBQ Ribs
Indulge in the rich flavors of slow-cooked BBQ Ribs, expertly prepared on a charcoal grill. The tender meat is first treated to a homemade BBQ spice rub, allowing the aromatic blend to penetrate deep into the flesh. Then, over the course of two hours, the ribs are cooked to perfection using indirect heat, resulting in a fall-off-the-bone tenderness that’s simply irresistible.
Once the cooking process is complete, the ribs are wrapped in foil to lock in those juicy flavors and continue cooking until they’re succulently tender. For an added layer of complexity, consider adding a char or brushing with BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy glaze. This tried-and-true recipe is an absolute must-have for any charcoal grill enthusiast looking to elevate their backyard barbecue game.
Ribs
The game-changing 3-2-1 Rib Method ensures succulent, tender ribs every time, with a versatility that extends to baby back ribs as well. By combining the rich flavors of dry rub and BBQ sauce with the low-and-slow cooking method on a charcoal grill, you’ll be rewarded with a sweet and sticky glaze clinging to the meat. The method’s simplicity lies in its three-hour smoke, followed by a two-hour wrap in foil, and finally, a one-hour finish unwrapped, allowing for optimal tenderization.
Moreover, the recipe offers practical advice on maintaining a consistent low temperature, making it an absolute must-try for charcoal grill aficionados.
Yakitori Skewers
Savory delights await with Yakitori Skewers, a customizable charcoal-grilled recipe that showcases a medley of meats, vegetables, and mouthwatering toppings. The harmonious blend of chicken, pork belly, bacon, and an assortment of vegetables yields a rich, smoky flavor profile that’s sure to tantalize the taste buds. To further elevate this dish, the Tare sauce – crafted with soy sauce, mirin, sake, water, and brown sugar – imparts a sweet and tangy glaze.
With salt and zesty yuzu or lemon as optional toppings, this recipe presents a delightful equilibrium of flavors that’s sure to please even the most discerning grilling enthusiasts seeking new culinary horizons on their charcoal grill.
Charcoal-Grilled Spatchcock Chicken
Imagine sinking your teeth into a succulent, smoky, and exquisitely flavored spatchcock chicken, perfectly char-grilled to bring out the best of its natural taste. This mouthwatering dish is a game-changer for any barbecue enthusiast, thanks to its unique blend of homemade brine and marinade that adds depth and complexity to every bite. The chicken’s tender meat and crispy skin are cooked to perfection, resulting in an unforgettable culinary experience.
For those who crave the authentic flavor of charcoal-grilled cuisine, this recipe is a must-try – a true masterpiece of smoked-to-perfection poultry.
Charcoal Grilled Pork Roast
With its effortless preparation and mouth-watering results, the Charcoal Grilled Pork Roast is an ideal choice for those who crave a tender and flavorful meal without the fuss. The simplicity of this recipe lies in its straightforward cooking method, which involves rubbing the pork roast with oil, seasoning it with salt and pepper, and then grilling it on charcoal using indirect heat. This approach yields a succulent pork roast topped with a savory herb crust that’s sure to impress.
For added depth of flavor, serve your grilled pork roast with a variety of accompaniments like BBQ sauce, pan sage gravy, or compound butter.
Grilled BBQ Chicken
For charcoal grill aficionados, the Grilled BBQ Chicken recipe is an absolute must-try. A simple brine process and a mouthwatering dry rub combine to deliver consistently succulent and tender chicken every time you fire up your grill. By utilizing indirect grilling techniques, this recipe makes it effortlessly easy to achieve perfectly cooked chicken without breaking a sweat.
What’s more, the affordable ingredients sourced from ALDI ensure that this classic and straightforward recipe is accessible to everyone, guaranteeing it’ll become a beloved summer staple.
Grilled Turkey
Grilled Turkey makes for an exceptional holiday meal option due to its rich flavors and versatility. The preparation process begins with thawing, removing giblets, and brining the turkey (an optional step). Once preheated on the grill, it’s placed in aluminum trays to cook evenly. A savory seasoning blend of salt, pepper, and butter is applied, allowing for customization with various stuffing ingredients.
Grilling the turkey not only infuses it with an incredible flavor profile but also liberates valuable oven space. This delightful dish is sure to impress your guests and make a lasting impression on any holiday gathering.
Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is a delectable and adaptable dish that can be effortlessly prepared on a charcoal grill. Two methods are offered to cook the asparagus: either directly on the grates or in a foil packet, ensuring optimal results through expert tips such as utilizing thick stalks to prevent them from falling through the grates and avoiding over-flipping.
This versatility allows for experimentation with various seasonings to personalize the dish, making it an ideal accompaniment to diverse proteins, salads, pastas, and soups. Furthermore, the grilled asparagus can be topped with cheese and nuts for added texture. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated in the oven or air fryer, providing a convenient and scrumptious option for charcoal grill enthusiasts.
Grilled Duck and Blue Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your sandwich game with the Grilled Duck and Blue Cheese Sandwich, a flavorful twist on a classic. Slices of tender duck are expertly seasoned and grilled to perfection over charcoal, infusing them with a rich, smoky flavor that sets the tone for this innovative creation. The addition of creamy blue cheese sauce provides a tangy contrast, while caramelized grilled onions add a satisfying crunch.
This recipe is a must-have for those seeking to take their charcoal-grilled sandwiches to new heights.
Char-Grilled Roast Beef
Indulge in the rich flavors of Char-Grilled Roast Beef, where the harmonious blend of charcoal grill heat and wood smoke infuses the tender meat with an unparalleled depth of taste. This mouth-watering dish boasts a savory herb and umami crust that elevates the roast’s natural flavor profile to new heights. With its straightforward and reliable cooking method, Char-Grilled Roast Beef is an ideal choice for those seeking a delectable and foolproof culinary experience.
BBQ Char Siu Roast Pork
The BBQ Char Siu Roast Pork recipe offers an innovative take on traditional roast pork, yielding a mouthwatering culinary experience. By cleverly combining a marinade with the right cut of meat – ideally pork shoulder for its tender and juicy properties – this dish is sure to impress. The key to achieving succulent results lies in carefully cutting the pork to include the fat and membrane on the outside, thereby creating a natural protective barrier that prevents drying out.
As the grilling process unfolds, high heat searing gives way to reduced heat to prevent charring, while regular basting ensures the pork remains moist and flavorful. The end result is a sumptuously charred and juicy pork dish that beautifully captures the essence of Chinatown’s iconic char siu.
Smoked Leg of Lamb
For charcoal grill enthusiasts, the Smoked Leg of Lamb recipe offers a delightful combination of simplicity and flavor. The key to this recipe’s success lies in its restraint – allowing the natural flavors of the lamb to take center stage while adding subtle depth with aromatics like rosemary and garlic. The smoking process on a charcoal grill imbues the dish with a rich, velvety texture that complements the tender lamb perfectly.
This recipe caters to varying tastes by providing a guide for achieving both medium-rare and well-done doneness levels. Whether you’re serving family or guests, the Smoked Leg of Lamb is sure to impress and satisfy.
Brisket
With its tender texture and rich flavor profile, brisket is a BBQ favorite that never goes out of style. This recipe takes a whole hog approach by smoking a full brisket on a charcoal grill, yielding a juicy and intensely smoky slab of meat with a satisfyingly crispy crust.
Beyond the cooking process itself, this article also provides valuable insights into slicing and serving the finished product, making it an essential guide for anyone looking to master the art of smoked brisket – especially those who swear by their trusty charcoal grill.
Whole Hog
Grilling a whole hog may seem like an intimidating task, but with the right guidance, it can be a rewarding experience for even the most novice of cooks. The Whole Hog recipe provides a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process from start to finish. This includes thorough preparation and seasoning techniques, as well as detailed instructions on injecting the pork and setting up your grill.
With hour-by-hour tips to keep you on track, you’ll be able to confidently cook your way through the day, ensuring that your whole hog is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. A key aspect of this recipe is the emphasis placed on the mouthwatering cheek meat – a true showstopper for any backyard BBQ. Of course, not all guests may share your enthusiasm for pork, so the recipe also offers thoughtful suggestions for accommodating squeamish or vegan visitors.
To make cleanup a breeze, the recipe suggests using foil to catch any stray juices and debris. Once cooked, the pulled pork can be served in aluminum pans alongside Hawaiian buns, coleslaw, and an array of barbecue sauces. With its foolproof instructions and attention to detail, Whole Hog is an ideal recipe for anyone looking to take their grilling skills to the next level.
Grilled Ham with Orange Mustard Glaze
A sizzling twist on traditional glazed ham, Grilled Ham with Orange Mustard Glaze is an indulgent delight that showcases the versatility of charcoal grilling. By marrying tangy orange marmalade, rich Dijon mustard, and savory smoky ham, this recipe yields a glaze that harmoniously balances sweet and savory notes. The judicious addition of a BBQ rub lends a satisfying depth of flavor, while incorporating fruit beer, soda, or juice into the cooking process ensures a tender and juicy finish.
A subtle kick from hot sauce adds an extra layer of excitement, making this grilled ham a guaranteed showstopper at any dinner gathering.
Marinated Grilled Pork Chops
For charcoal grill aficionados, the Marinated Grilled Pork Chops recipe is a culinary gem. This mouthwatering dish boasts a rich homemade marinade that infuses tender and juicy pork chops with an unparalleled depth of flavor. By using thick chops and adopting one of two recommended cooking techniques, home cooks can confidently achieve succulent results.
The harmonious union of the savory rum and mustard glaze on the pork chops with complementary side dishes like Grilled Corn on the Cob and Kale Brussels Sprouts Salad creates a well-rounded grilling experience that’s sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Grilled Sweet Potato
Combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich flavors of smoked honey butter, this grilled sweet potato recipe is a game-changer. By grilling instead of baking, we unlock a deeper level of complexity in the dish, with a tender interior and crispy exterior that’s simply irresistible. As an added bonus, this gluten-free and vegan-friendly side dish is perfect for any gathering or celebration, and can be easily scaled up or down depending on your needs.
Grilled Asian Steak with Cilantro Basil Chimichurri
Indulge in the bold flavors of Grilled Asian Steak with Cilantro Basil Chimichurri, a culinary masterpiece that redefines the art of grilled steak. The harmonious blend of ginger, fish sauce, and toasted sesame oil in the Asian marinade results in a tender and juicy cut that tantalizes your taste buds with its rich umami flavor. The addition of Cilantro Basil Chimichurri brings a burst of freshness to the dish, expertly balancing the savory notes of the steak.
This show-stopping recipe is a game-changer for charcoal grill aficionados seeking to wow friends and family with an unforgettable culinary experience.
Charcoal Grilled Tri-Tip
Indulge in the rich flavors of the Charcoal Grilled Tri-Tip, an impressive centerpiece for any gathering. This mouthwatering dish is elevated by a savory rub that marries umami and beer notes, yielding a satisfyingly crunchy crust. By employing a low-and-slow cooking method on a charcoal grill, the beef roast emerges tender and succulent, boasting a bold, beefy flavor that’s sure to leave you wanting more.
Whether served in tacos, as a sandwich filling, or paired with comforting sides, this recipe is poised to become a new favorite.
Grilled Cherry Pandowdy
Imagine indulging in a sweet treat that’s not only refreshing but also boasts a delightful grilled twist – enter the Grilled Cherry Pandowdy. This clever dessert innovation offers a unique summer escape, allowing you to enjoy a warm-weather dessert without ever having to turn on your oven. At its core is a luscious cherry filling, perfectly balanced and naturally sweet from the use of fresh cherries.
This flavorful foundation is then enveloped in a crispy, buttery crust that takes on a beautiful golden hue when grilled, resulting in an irresistible combination of textures and flavors.
Crawfish Boil
Indulge in the quintessential Cajun experience without sacrificing convenience with this simplified Crawfish Boil recipe. By leveraging frozen crawfish and a charcoal grill, you’ll enjoy a stress-free approach to cooking that eliminates the need for a large pot of water. This classic dish is elevated by traditional ingredients like crawfish, sausage, potatoes, and corn, all infused with the bold flavors of New Orleans.
The result is a mouthwatering, yet messy, outdoor feast that’s perfect for seafood enthusiasts. With its effortless preparation and delectable outcome, this Crawfish Boil on the grill is an absolute must-try.
Grilled Wisconsin Beer Boiled Brats
For charcoal grill aficionados, Grilled Wisconsin Beer Boiled Brats is an absolute must-try recipe that yields mouthwatering results. By marinating bratwurst sausages in beer before grilling, the dish achieves a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key to success lies in allowing the brats to soak up the beer’s rich flavors, resulting in a tender and juicy final product. With the grill handling all the cooking duties, cleanup is remarkably easy.
Enjoy your summer feast with a refreshing drink and a couple of sides for a truly satisfying meal.

I’m Brandon, the face behind the recipes. As a dedicated food enthusiast, I love experimenting with flavors and sharing my culinary adventures with you.