Cookout Menu; An outdoor delight feast that fills the air with the sizzling aroma of burgers, laughter, and chatter resonating through the backyard, and the sun casts a warm glow on a gathering of family and friends. It’s cookout season, a time for embracing the joys of outdoor cooking and indulging in mouthwatering dishes that bring people together.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a picnic in the park, or a beachside feast, a carefully curated cookout menu sets the stage for a memorable culinary experience.
From grilled favourites to refreshing sides and delectable desserts, this article will guide you through the art of crafting a sensational cookout menu that will delight your guests and create lasting memories. Get ready to fire up the grill, prepare your taste buds, and embark on a flavorful journey through the world of outdoor cooking.
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Cookout Menu Ideas
1. Smoked Corn on the Cob
This flavorful and healthy way to grill corn on the cob doesn’t require a smoker. Instead, you’ll infuse the corn with wood smoke using a clever foil packet of wood chips and a grill.
READ ALSO: How to Boil Corn on the Cob
2. Smash Burgers
Super-thin patties and crispy edges are the draws of a smash burger. The patty is so thin it’s almost impossible to dry out because it cooks so quickly, and cooking two patties for each burger gives you more of those lacey edges. Using an ungreased skillet or griddle is important, as it gives the ground beef a chance to really stick to the surface and form a crust.
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3. Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Hawaiian macaroni salad is a creamy, tangy, iconic comfort food that is practically synonymous with the state. It’s very simple to prepare. You might already have all the ingredients on hand! making it the perfect easy side to bring to any cookout.
SEE: List of Easy Recipes for Picky Eaters
4. Classic Potato Salad
This iconic potato salad is creamy and tangy, with a little bit of crunch from the onion and pickles. For potato salad purposes, you need waxy potatoes, such as red potatoes, Yukon Golds, and fingerlings. They hold their shape better when cooking, and they usually have creamier interiors.
5. Baked Beans
Baked beans are sweet, tangy, savoury, and, the best part, surprisingly easy to make. Not to mention, they’re a one-pot wonder! Put them on your hot dogs, pair them alongside your cornbread, or enjoy them all on their own this Memorial Day.
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6. Fruit Salad
A recipe for fruit salad? Yes, you need it. Because this simple dressing takes strawberries, raspberries, and mangoes to a whole new level. Sweet syrupy honey, fresh tart orange juice, and bright lemon zest come together to take your fruit (even if they’re out of season) to new heights.
7. Watermelon Feta Salad
Watermelon and cucumbers are one of the most refreshing combos of all time. Throw in some mint, red onion, and feta, and toss it all with a very simple vinaigrette (olive oil + red wine vinegar), and you’ve got a mean summer salad.
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8. Grilled Scallops
A simple way to elevate your summer cookout: Sub fish for the more standard fare. Scallops only take a few minutes to grill, but the finished product looks like something right out of a five-star kitchen.
9. Memphis-Style Barbecue Ribs
Ribs have a reputation for being hard to cook, but this tender rack requires just two simple steps: Bake them in the oven, then toss ’em on the grill once the cookout begins.
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10. Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken Kabobs
Kabobs are a great make-ahead option for busy hosts since you can prep everything, including any sauce, ahead of time. All you need to do is toss them on the grill, rotating every couple of minutes until they’re done.
11. Jalapeño Cheddar Hot Dog Buns
You don’t need a grill to whip up some of the most beloved summer cookout staples. These over-the-top dogs are wrapped in soft bread, covered in cheddar and jalapeños, and then baked in a 350-degree oven.
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Cookout Menu Milkshake
12. Classic Vanilla Milkshake
It’s a simple yet satisfying milkshake that appeals to all ages. This timeless favourite starts with creamy vanilla ice cream blended with milk until smooth and velvety. The shake is then poured into a tall glass, topped with a generous swirl of whipped cream.
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13. Strawberry Fields Forever
It’s a fruity and delicious treat that captures the essence of summer. Strawberries are blended with creamy vanilla ice cream and milk to create a pink shake. It’s poured into a glass, topped with a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy texture, and garnished with a strawberry on top.
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14. Cookies and Cream Dream:
For those who love cookies and cream, this milkshake is a must-try. Chocolate sandwich cookies are crushed and mixed with creamy vanilla ice cream and milk, resulting in a cookies-and-cream-infused shake. The mixture is poured into a glass and garnished with a sprinkle of cookie crumbs and whipped cream.Â
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15. Salted Caramel Indulgence
Indulge your taste buds with the Salted Caramel Indulgence milkshake. Creamy caramel ice cream is blended with milk, creating a luscious caramel base. A pinch of sea salt is added to elevate the flavour and perfectly balance sweet and salty. The shake is poured into a glass, drizzled with caramel sauce, and sprinkled with sea salt flakes for a touch of elegance and a hint of crunch.
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16. Mint Chocolate Chip Bliss
Mint chocolate chip lovers will love this milkshake. Mint chocolate chip ice cream is blended with milk, creating a creamy and minty base. A hint of mint extract enhances the mint flavour for an extra refreshing kick. The shake is poured into a glass and adorned with chocolate shavings and a fresh mint leaf for an elegant touch. It’s a cool and refreshing treat that will leave you blissfully satisfied.
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Cookout Menu Tray
17. Grilled Chicken Skewers:
Tender and juicy chicken pieces marinated in flavorful spices and grilled to perfection. Serve them on skewers for easy handling.
18. Mini Sliders:
Create a variety of mini sliders using beef, chicken, or veggie patties. Offer a selection of toppings such as cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, and condiments. Serve them on small buns.
Assorted Grilled Vegetables:
Grilled vegetables add a healthy and flavorful touch to the tray. Include a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and onions. Season them with herbs and olive oil.
Caprese Skewers:
Skewer cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves for a refreshing and vibrant appetizer. Drizzle them with balsamic glaze for added flavour.
19. Pasta Salad:
Prepare a cold pasta salad with colourful rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, black olives, and feta cheese. Toss everything in a tangy vinaigrette dressing.
20. Watermelon Wedges:
Watermelon slices are a refreshing addition to the tray. Cut them into wedges for easy handling and a burst of sweetness.
Assorted Dips:
Offer a variety of dips such as guacamole, salsa, and hummus. Serve them in small bowls alongside the tray for dipping the grilled items and vegetables.
Assorted Beverages:
Include a selection of canned or bottled beverages like soda, sparkling water, or iced tea. Make sure to provide ice and cups for convenience.
21. Sweet Treats:
Add some sweet treats to the tray, such as cookies, brownies, or fruit skewers, for a delightful ending to the meal.
Arrange all the items on a large, sturdy tray with compartments or sections to keep them organized and easily accessible. Ensure the tray is lined with parchment paper or disposable liners for easy clean-up. This way, guests can pick and choose their desired items, creating a customized meal experience.
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Cookout Menu Gluten-Free
Appetizers:
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Marinated shrimp skewered and grilled to perfection, served with a gluten-free dipping sauce.
- Caprese Salad Skewers: Skewers with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze.
Main Course:
- Grilled Chicken: Seasoned chicken breasts or drumsticks grilled to juicy perfection.
- Grilled Salmon: Fresh salmon filets marinated in herbs and grilled to flaky perfection.
- Vegetable Kebabs: Skewers loaded with various marinated gluten-free vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and onions.
Sides:
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad made with cooked quinoa, mixed vegetables, fresh herbs, and a light lemon vinaigrette.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with salt and pepper.
- Mixed Green Salad: A vibrant salad with fresh lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a gluten-free dressing.
Gluten-Free Buns/Bread:
- Gluten-Free Burger Buns: Offer gluten-free burger buns as an option for those who want to enjoy burgers.
- Gluten-Free Hot Dog Buns: Provide gluten-free hot dog buns for those who prefer gluten-free options.
Condiments:
- Gluten-Free BBQ Sauce: Make or purchase a gluten-free BBQ sauce to accompany the grilled meats.
- Gluten-Free Mustard, Ketchup, and Mayonnaise: Have a selection of gluten-free condiments available for burgers and hot dogs.
Dessert:
- Grilled Fruit Skewers: Skewers loaded with various fresh fruits like pineapple, watermelon, and berries, lightly grilled for a caramelized touch.
- Gluten-Free Chocolate Brownies: Indulge in rich and fudgy gluten-free chocolate brownies as a sweet treat.
Beverages:
- Infused Water: Prepare refreshing infused water with sliced citrus fruits, berries, or cucumber.
- Gluten-Free Beer or Cider: Offer a selection of gluten-free beer or cider for those who prefer an alcoholic beverage.
Remember to carefully check all ingredients and labels to ensure they are gluten-free. Designate a separate area for preparing and cooking gluten-free items to prevent cross-contamination.
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Cookout Menu and Prices
Cookout Tray
| Hamburger | Regular | $4.99 |
| Barbecue | Regular | $4.99 |
| Hot Dogs | 2 Pc. | $4.99 |
| Big Double Burger | $4.99 | |
| Quesadilla – Chicken or Beef | $4.99 | |
| Chicken | Regular | $4.99 |
| Cajun Chicken | $4.99 | |
| Spicy Chicken | $4.99 | |
| BBQ Char-Grilled Chicken | $4.99 | |
| Chicken Strips | 3 Pc. | $4.99 |
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Homemade Char-Grilled Hamburgers
| Hamburger | Small | $1.39 |
| Hamburger | Regular | $2.79 |
| Hamburger | Big Double | $2.99 |
| Hamburger | Huge | $3.39 |
| Cook Out Style | Small | $2.24 |
| Cook Out Style | Regular | $3.64 |
| Cook Out Style | Big Double | $3.84 |
| Cook Out Style | Huge | $4.24 |
| Out West Style | Small | $2.14 |
| Out West Style | Regular | $3.54 |
| Out West Style | Big Double | $3.74 |
| Out West Style | Huge | $4.14 |
| Steak Style | Small | $2.04 |
| Steak Style | Regular | $3.44 |
| Steak Style | Big Double | $3.64 |
| Steak Style | Huge | $4.04 |
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Cookout Menu Chicken with calories
| Menu | Calories |
| Small Burger | 240 |
| Regular Burger | 330 |
| Big Double Burger | 340 |
| Cookout style- Chilli, slaw, mustard, onion | 130 |
| Cheddar style- Cheddar, bacon grilled onions | 240 |
| Out West Style – BBQ Sauce, Bacon, Mayo, Pickles, Onion | 210 |
| Nacho Chili Style – Nacho Cheese Sauce, Chili | 100 |
| 100 | |
| House Style – Quesadilla Sauce, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion | 65 |
| Tomato | 10 |
| Bacon | 60 |
| Cheese slice | 70 |
| Homemade Chilli | 70 |
| Homemade Slaw | 40 |
| A1 Sauce | 25 |
| Cup of cheese sauce | 140 |
| Quesadilla sauce | 35 |
| Fresh jalapeno | 50 |
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Conclusion
In conclusion, a well-planned cookout menu is more than just a collection of dishes; it’s a gateway to creating cherished moments with loved ones. From the sizzle of burgers and the enticing aromas of grilled delicacies to the laughter and conversations shared around the table, a cookout brings people together in a way that few other gatherings can.
By carefully selecting a range of appetizers, main courses, sides, and desserts, you can elevate your cookout experience to new heights, satisfying your guests’ palates and leaving a lasting impression.
So, fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and let the enchantment of outdoor cooking unfold. With a thoughtfully crafted cookout menu, you’ll create an atmosphere where laughter, good food, and cherished memories blend seamlessly.
Embrace the joy of gathering around the table, savour the flavours of the season, and relish in the delight of a well-curated cookout menu that will leave a lasting impression on all who partake. Cheers to unforgettable cookouts and the culinary adventures that await!
