13 Grilled Beef Recipes Perfect For Backyard Dinners

Grilled beef recipes are the heart and soul of unforgettable backyard dinners. There’s something undeniably satisfying about the smoky aroma of beef sizzling on the grill, the sound of a good sear, and the anticipation of that first flavorful bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, enjoying a quiet dinner with family, or planning a casual weekend gathering with friends, grilled beef brings bold, savory flavors that are always a crowd-pleaser.

This handpicked collection of 13 grilled beef recipes is your go-to guide for transforming ordinary evenings into flavorful feasts. From juicy steaks marinated to perfection to tender kebabs, burgers bursting with toppings, and globally inspired dishes with zesty flair, each recipe is crafted to bring out the best in your grill. You’ll find a variety of options to suit every preference—whether you’re craving something spicy, smoky, sweet, or tangy.

Beyond just recipes, this roundup also includes grilling tips for achieving perfect doneness, choosing the right cuts of beef, and adding complementary sides that round out the meal. Whether you’re using charcoal, gas, or even a stovetop grill pan, these dishes are designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

So fire up the grill, grab your favorite tongs, and let these beefy creations inspire your next backyard dinner. Each recipe promises satisfaction, simplicity, and that unmistakable joy of cooking and eating in the open air.

Herb-Crusted Beef Tenderloin

Herb-Crusted Beef Tenderloin is a deliciously simple dish that brings a burst of flavor to any backyard dinner. This recipe combines the tenderness of beef with a zesty herb crust, making it a standout choice for gatherings with friends and family. The rich, savory flavors of garlic, rosemary, and thyme create an aromatic experience that will impress your guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for those warm evenings, this beef tenderloin is not only easy to prepare but also quick to cook on the grill. With just a few simple ingredients, you can serve up an impressive main course that pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. Get ready to elevate your next backyard dinner!

Ingredients

2 pounds beef tenderloin
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
Marinate the Beef: Rub the beef tenderloin with Dijon mustard, then coat it evenly with the herb mixture. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure the grates are well-oiled to prevent sticking.
Grill the Tenderloin: Place the marinated beef tenderloin on the grill. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (135°F for medium-rare).
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the beef from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Spicy Barbecue Beef Ribs

Spicy barbecue beef ribs are a delightful treat for any backyard gathering. Tender, juicy, and layered with a rich barbecue sauce, these ribs bring a punch of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds. They’re surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few hours of marination and grilling time.

The combination of spices and sweetness in the barbecue sauce creates a mouthwatering balance that pairs perfectly with sides like coleslaw and corn on the cob. You’ll love how they caramelize on the grill, bringing a savory aroma that fills the air.

Ingredients

4 pounds beef ribs
1 cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, brown sugar, and hot sauce if desired. Rub this spice mix generously over the beef ribs.
Marinate: Place the seasoned ribs in a large resealable bag or dish, and pour the barbecue sauce over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Preheat the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium heat.
Cook the Ribs: Remove the ribs from the marinade, letting the excess sauce drip off. Grill the ribs for about 4-5 minutes on each side, continuously basting with leftover marinade, until nicely charred and cooked through.
Serve: Once cooked, let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra barbecue sauce and your favorite sides.

Teriyaki Beef Skewers

Teriyaki beef skewers are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them a favorite for any backyard gathering. The marinated beef is grilled to perfection, creating a deliciously smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the rich teriyaki sauce. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare, which means more time to enjoy with friends and family.

The tender pieces of beef, kissed by the grill, are often complemented by colorful vegetables like bell peppers and onions, adding a fresh crunch. These skewers are not just tasty but also visually appealing, making them a great addition to your dinner table.

Ingredients

1 lb flank steak, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Wooden skewers, soaked in water
Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add the beef pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge.
Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated beef onto the soaked wooden skewers. You can alternate with vegetables like bell peppers or onions if desired.
Grill the Skewers: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
Make the Sauce (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, heat the remaining marinade in a saucepan and stir in cornstarch until thickened. Brush it over the skewers during the last minute of grilling.
Serve and Garnish: Remove from the grill, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious teriyaki beef skewers!

Classic Marinated Flank Steak

Classic marinated flank steak is a go-to choice for backyard grilling, combining a rich, savory flavor with a tender texture. The marinade typically features ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and herbs, which infuse the meat with a delicious depth of flavor. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for any gathering, making it a favorite among casual cooks and seasoned grillers alike.

With just a bit of marinating time, the flank steak transforms into a juicy, mouthwatering centerpiece for your summer barbecues. Serve it sliced thinly against the grain for the best results, and watch as your guests rave about this delightful dish!

Ingredients

2 pounds flank steak
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, brown sugar, black pepper, oregano, and thyme.
Marinate the Steak: Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for more flavor.
Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Grill the Steak: Place the flank steak on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
Rest and Slice: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. Slice thinly against the grain, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve.

Chimichurri Grilled Sirloin

Chimichurri Grilled Sirloin is a fantastic dish that packs a punch with its bold flavors. The sirloin steak is marinated in a zesty chimichurri sauce made from fresh herbs, garlic, and vinegar, giving it a vibrant taste that’s sure to impress at your backyard dinner. This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it a go-to choice for any grilling occasion.

The combination of the juicy, perfectly grilled sirloin with the tangy chimichurri is delightful. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the taste of Argentina right to your table. Perfect for summer evenings, this dish is both satisfying and easy to make, ensuring your guests will be coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

2 sirloin steaks (about 1 inch thick)
1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chimichurri: In a bowl, combine parsley, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Marinate the Steak: Place the sirloin steaks in a resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the chimichurri sauce over the steaks, seal the bag, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Grill the Steaks: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steaks from the marinade and grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness.
Serve: Let the steaks rest for a few minutes after grilling. Slice against the grain and serve with the remaining chimichurri sauce drizzled on top.

Classic Cheeseburgers with Toppings

Classic cheeseburgers are a backyard staple, delivering that satisfying blend of juicy beef and melty cheese. These burgers are not just tasty; they’re incredibly easy to make, perfect for grilling novices and experts alike. With a variety of toppings, you can customize each burger to match your taste, making them a hit at any gathering.

From crispy lettuce and fresh tomatoes to creamy sauces and crunchy pickles, the options are endless. Each bite is a delicious combination of flavors and textures, making these cheeseburgers a go-to choice for any outdoor meal.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
4 slices of cheddar cheese
4 hamburger buns
1 cup lettuce, shredded
1 tomato, sliced
1/2 red onion, sliced
Pickles, to taste
Ketchup and mustard, to taste
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
In a bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper, then form it into four equally sized patties.
Grill the patties for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip them and add a slice of cheese to each patty. Grill for another 4-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the meat is cooked to your desired doneness.
Toast the hamburger buns on the grill for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
Assemble the burgers: place the lettuce, then the patty with cheese, followed by tomato, red onion, and pickles. Finish with ketchup and mustard.
Serve immediately and enjoy your classic cheeseburgers!

Beef Brisket with Smoky Marinade

This beef brisket recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors and tender meat. The smoky marinade adds depth and richness, making every bite a delight. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a newbie, this recipe is simple to follow and sure to impress your guests at any backyard dinner.

The combination of spices in the marinade creates a perfect balance, enhancing the brisket’s natural flavor. After a few hours of marinating, the brisket becomes incredibly tender and infused with a mouthwatering smokiness. It’s perfect for slicing and serving with your favorite sides.

Ingredients

3-4 lbs beef brisket
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons smoked paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
Marinate Brisket: Place the brisket in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. If using charcoal, let the coals burn down until they’re covered in ash.
Grill the Brisket: Remove the brisket from the marinade and let excess liquid drip off. Place the brisket on the grill and cook for about 6-8 hours, turning occasionally, until it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) for optimal tenderness.
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the brisket from the grill and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite barbecue sauce and sides.

Savory Beef Kebabs with Vegetables

Beef kebabs are a fantastic choice for any backyard dinner. They combine tender, juicy chunks of beef with colorful vegetables, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. The smoky flavor from the grill enhances the savory taste of the beef, making every bite satisfying. Plus, putting these kebabs together is easy and fun, perfect for cooking with family or friends.

The combination of marinated beef and fresh veggies provides a great mix of textures and flavors. Enjoy them as a main dish, or serve them up alongside rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. These kebabs are sure to impress your guests and satisfy everyone’s taste buds!

Ingredients

1 pound beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 bell peppers (red and yellow), cut into chunks
1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
1 zucchini, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Wood or metal skewers

Instructions

Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the beef cubes and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated beef and vegetable chunks onto the skewers, alternating between beef and veggies.
Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Once hot, place the kebabs on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Serve: Once cooked, remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!

Southwestern Beef Tacos

These Southwestern beef tacos are a crowd-pleaser, bursting with bold flavors and textures. The combination of grilled beef and fresh toppings creates a delightful mix that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. You can whip these up for a casual backyard dinner or a lively gathering with friends.

The grilled beef is marinated in zesty spices, giving it a smoky kick that pairs beautifully with crunchy vegetables and creamy toppings. Whether you prefer soft tortillas or crunchy taco shells, these tacos are customizable for everyone’s taste.

Ingredients

1 lb flank steak
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 small flour or corn tortillas
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup diced bell peppers
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese
1 avocado, sliced

Instructions

Marinate the Steak: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the flank steak, coating it well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Grill the Steak: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the steak for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until cooked to your liking. Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.
Warm the Tortillas: While the steak is resting, warm the tortillas on the grill or in a skillet until soft.
Assemble the Tacos: Place sliced steak on each tortilla and top with diced tomatoes, bell peppers, cilantro, avocado, and cheese. Serve immediately.

Peppercorn-Crusted Beef Roast

This peppercorn-crusted beef roast is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for backyard dinners. Its savory crust and juicy interior create a delightful flavor experience that you and your guests will love. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make, making it a go-to option for any grilling occasion.

The combination of black and green peppercorns gives the roast a spicy kick while the meaty richness balances everything out. Pair it with roasted veggies or a fresh salad, and you’ve got yourself a standout meal!

Ingredients

3-4 pound beef roast (like ribeye or sirloin)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons whole black peppercorns
2 tablespoons whole green peppercorns
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, rosemary, thyme, salt, and crushed peppercorns.
Season the Roast: Rub the marinade generously over the beef roast, ensuring it’s well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour at room temperature, or up to overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.
Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using charcoal, let it burn down until it’s covered with white ash.
Grill the Roast: Place the beef roast on the grill and sear on all sides for about 8-10 minutes. Then, reduce the heat to low and cook with the lid closed until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (about 130°F for medium-rare).
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the roast from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Slice and serve with your favorite sides!

Thai Beef Salad with Grilled Strips

This Thai Beef Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together grilled beef strips with fresh veggies. The combination of savory meat and crisp greens creates a delightful balance, enhanced by a zesty dressing that ties all the flavors together. It’s a quick recipe that’s perfect for those warm evenings when you want something light yet satisfying.

The dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a backyard dinner. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a meal that impresses your guests while being easy on the kitchen workload.

Ingredients

1 lb beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
4 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, romaine, etc.)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
2 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Instructions

Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, lime juice, fish sauce, brown sugar, and chili flakes. Add the beef strips, cover, and marinate for 30 minutes.
Grill the Beef: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated beef strips for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the grill and let rest.
Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, toss together salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro.
Assemble the Dish: Slice the grilled beef and arrange it on top of the salad. Drizzle with any remaining marinade for added flavor.
Serve: Enjoy the salad immediately, perhaps with extra lime wedges on the side for a fresh kick.

Grilled Beef and Mushroom Pizza

This grilled beef and mushroom pizza is a delightful fusion of flavors that will make your backyard dinners unforgettable. The combination of tender, juicy beef and earthy mushrooms on a crispy crust creates a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and delicious. Plus, it’s easy to make, allowing you more time to relax and enjoy with friends and family.

Perfect for summer barbecues, this pizza brings together the smoky flavors from the grill with fresh ingredients. It’s a simple recipe that everyone will love, and it’s customizable to suit your taste. Let’s get to the ingredients and instructions!

Ingredients

1 pre-made pizza dough
1 cup pizza sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup cooked beef (sliced or ground)
1 cup assorted mushrooms (sliced, such as button and portobello)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
Brush one side of the dough with olive oil and place it oil-side down on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it’s golden brown.
Flip the dough and spread pizza sauce evenly on the grilled side.
Top with mozzarella cheese, cooked beef, and mushrooms. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Close the grill lid and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the grill and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, slice, and serve warm.

Stuffed Grilled Beef Rolls

Stuffed grilled beef rolls are a fantastic option for your backyard gatherings. These rolls are filled with savory ingredients and grilled to perfection, offering a delicious smoky flavor. The combination of tender beef and flavorful fillings creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.

This recipe is simple to make, making it perfect for both seasoned grillers and those new to cooking outdoors. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these tasty rolls in no time.

Ingredients

1 pound thinly sliced beef (such as flank or sirloin)
1 cup shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar)
1/2 cup cooked spinach or sautéed bell peppers
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for brushing
BBQ sauce for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Beef: Lay the sliced beef on a flat surface. Season each slice with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the Filling: Place a small amount of cheese and spinach or bell peppers at one end of each beef slice. Roll it up tightly, securing the filling inside.
Grill the Rolls: Brush the outside of each roll with olive oil. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place the rolls seam-side down. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side until the beef is cooked and slightly charred.
Serve: Remove from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Serve with BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.

Final Thoughts
Grilling beef is more than just a cooking method—it’s an experience that brings people together. These 13 grilled beef recipes are perfect for creating memorable backyard dinners that feel both comforting and exciting. No matter the occasion or level of expertise, there’s something here to help you make every bite count.