My BBQ Staples: The Must-Haves for Every BBQ
There’s just something about a BBQ that makes everything feel better.
Maybe it’s the smell of the grill, the sound of food sizzling, or just having everyone outside together. But for me, BBQs have always been more than just food. They’re memories.
Over time, I’ve found my go-to staples. The things I always come back to, whether it’s a quick midweek BBQ or a full-on hosting moment.
My Love for BBQ
Growing up, BBQs were a constant in my life. Rain, shine, or even snow… my dad (aka The BBQ Master) would find a way.
So now having my own garden, my own space, and my own BBQ setup. It’s something I don’t take for granted.
Even at my wedding, the food was a BBQ. Everyone was up on their feet, grabbing what they wanted, chatting, going back for seconds (and thirds). No waiting, no fuss. Just amazing food and even better vibes. It was simple, but it made such a difference to the whole day.
And it doesn’t stop there.
For my birthday last year, me, Joe, and our friends Dan and Will went to the Smoke and Fire Festival… and honestly? A dream come true.
There was everything. Desserts, BBQ meats, competitions, games, live music, seasonings, K-dogs… even a wing-eating competition (which one of our friends actually won - hilarious).
But the best part was trying BBQ food you just can’t recreate at home. Proper brisket, next-level burgers, chicken cooked in every way imaginable… it was unreal.
Oh and did I mention…
K-DOGS???
We even came back with loads of goodies, including a brand I now swear by: Lumberjaxe (more on them later ).
I could go on forever about BBQs, but what I love most is how everyone does it differently. Everyone has their own “staples” and “non-negotiables”… and somehow, they’re always good.
BBQ MUST HAVES
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BBQ MUST HAVES |
The Meat
Let’s start with the classics, because honestly, you just can’t beat them.
The butcher loves to see me coming…
Burgers (homemade or good quality butcher-made)
Sausages (a mix if you’re hosting, as everyone has their fave, but mine are Lincolnshire)
Hot dog & burger buns (we’re a brioche household)
Cheese slices, and not the plastic kind, proper cheese only
Simple, reliable, and always the first thing people go for. I love putting everything out and letting people build their own. It just makes it more fun (especially for the picky eaters, like me).
The Non-Negotiable’s
Oh… as Nessa once said: “Are we talking burgers and sausage in a long-life bun, or are you takin’ it serious?”
We’re definitely taking it seriously.
Prawns - skewered with tomatoes or peppers… unreal
Chicken - wings, thighs, or drumsticks (we’re drumstick people)
Steak or brisket - not always necessary, due to the cost mainly, but when it’s there? Game changer
These are the things that make it feel like more than just a standard BBQ.
Just listen to the sizzle.
The Sides
What’s a BBQ without sides?
I keep mine quite simple, but still make sure they hit.
Potatoes - a childhood staple, we used to have tinned potatoes with butter (chef’s kiss), but now I’ve upgraded slightly to baby potatoes with seasoning and crème fraîche
Corn on the cob - grilled, with butter melting over the top… perfect
Salad - baby leaves with a light lemon dressing
Coleslaw - not for me, but a must for everyone else
Grilled veg - tomatoes, onions, asparagus, peppers… all amazing on the BBQ and each compliment a different meat
Crisps & dips - essential while everything’s cooking
They balance everything out and make the whole meal feel complete.
Marinades & Flavour
This is where everything really comes alive.
I don’t overcomplicate it, but a good marinade makes all the difference:
BBQ glaze
Garlic & herb
Honey & mustard
Olive oil, salt, pepper & lemon (simple for potatoes or salad)
And then… my newest obsession: Lumberjaxe.
We discovered them last year and haven’t looked back. Their seasonings are so easy to use and honestly take everything up a level. Our favourite combos are:
Prawns - Louisiana Cajun
Brisket - Smokehouse Beef
Steak - Cowboy Butter
Chicken - Moonshine Mango
If you’re trying to level up your BBQ, this is it.
Drinks & Hosting Vibes
For me, BBQs aren’t just about the food. It’s the whole vibe.
Cold drinks ready (soft or something stronger)
Music in the background
Everything laid out so people can help themselves
(And of course… the inevitable argument over which way to spin the lazy susan.)
I love hosting, but I’ve learned it doesn’t need to be stressful. The best BBQs are the ones where everyone just feels relaxed and at home.
Final Thoughts
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that BBQs aren’t about being perfect.
They’re about good food, good people, and enjoying the moment.
Whether it’s a big gathering or something quick after a long day, I’ll always love a BBQ. It reminds me of home, being young and now I get to create that feeling in my own space too.
And honestly… this is just the beginning of BBQ season.
Catch up next time x
