13 Sizzling BBQ Recipes Perfect For Potlucks bring all the smoky, savory flavors you need to be the hit of any gathering. Potlucks are all about sharing delicious food with friends and family, and what better way to impress your guests than with some mouthwatering BBQ dishes? Whether you’re hosting or just bringing a dish to contribute, these 13 recipes are sure to make your dish the first to disappear from the table.
BBQ food is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The rich aroma of slow-cooked meats, the tang of a perfect marinade, and the crispy, caramelized crust of grilled vegetables all come together to create something truly special. From classic pulled pork sliders to spicy grilled chicken wings and savory BBQ ribs, these recipes offer something for every taste. Whether you’re serving up traditional barbecue or adding a fresh twist with new flavors, each dish is easy to make and guaranteed to please a crowd.
So fire up the grill and get ready to wow your guests with BBQ dishes that will elevate your potluck to a whole new level. Whether you prefer grilling or slow-cooking, these recipes will have you covered for whatever style you want to showcase at your next get-together.
Zesty Grilled Veggie Skewers
These zesty grilled veggie skewers are a delightful addition to any potluck, bringing a burst of color and flavor to the table. They’re simple to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables, making them a versatile choice for everyone.
With a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and onion, these skewers are not only visually appealing but also packed with smoky, grilled goodness. Plus, they come together quickly, ensuring you can spend more time enjoying the gathering than cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 zucchini, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Thread the vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between different types for a colorful presentation.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the veggies are tender and slightly charred.
- Remove from the grill and serve warm. Enjoy these skewers as a tasty side or a light main dish!
Maple Mustard Grilled Sausages
Maple Mustard Grilled Sausages are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that are sure to make a splash at your next potluck. The combination of maple syrup and tangy mustard adds a unique twist to the traditional grilled sausage, making them not just tasty but also an easy dish to prepare. Perfectly grilled, these sausages are juicy and full of flavor, making them a crowd-pleaser.
This recipe is simple and requires minimal ingredients, making it ideal for those busy days when you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss the sausages on the grill, brush them with the maple mustard glaze, and you’ll have a scrumptious dish ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 8 sausages (your choice of type)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- In a small bowl, mix together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the glaze.
- Place the sausages on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until they start to brown.
- Brush the maple mustard glaze over the sausages and continue grilling for another 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked and caramelized, turning and brushing them with more glaze as needed.
- Once cooked, remove from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Tangy BBQ Shrimp Tacos
Tangy BBQ shrimp tacos are a delightful twist on traditional taco fare. Bursting with flavor, these tacos combine succulent shrimp coated in a zesty BBQ sauce with fresh vegetables and creamy toppings. They are easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for potlucks or casual gatherings.
The balance of tangy sauce, crunchy veggies, and soft tortillas creates a tasty experience that will please everyone. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite toppings for that extra flair!
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 small tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine shrimp and BBQ sauce. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a separate pan. Layer shredded cabbage, cooked shrimp, diced tomatoes, and green onions on each tortilla.
- Add Avocado: Top each taco with sliced avocado before serving. Enjoy!
Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders are a delightfully messy and flavorful treat that brings a hint of heat to your potluck spread. The tender pulled pork, infused with a spicy BBQ sauce, is complemented by crisp coleslaw, making them juicy and satisfying.
This recipe is simple to prepare, allowing you to focus on enjoying the gathering rather than spending all day in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you’ll have a dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons spicy mustard
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Slider buns
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- Pickles for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder with chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place it in a slow cooker.
- Add Sauce: Mix BBQ sauce and spicy mustard together, then pour over the pork. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the cooker and mix it with the sauce.
- Assemble Sliders: On slider buns, pile on a generous portion of the pulled pork, top with coleslaw mix, and add pickles if desired.
- Serve: Arrange sliders on a platter and serve warm for a delicious potluck treat!
Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken
This Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken is a delightful twist on traditional barbecue fare. With a perfect blend of sweet honey and savory garlic, every bite bursts with flavor. It’s incredibly simple to make, making it an excellent choice for potlucks or family gatherings. The chicken is juicy and tender, with a caramelized exterior that adds to its appeal.
Pair this dish with your favorite sides for a complete meal. The marinade works wonders in infusing the chicken with flavor while keeping it moist on the grill. Enjoy the delicious contrast of sweet and savory, and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in and skin-on)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the chicken is well coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, prepare the coals until they’re covered with gray ash.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting. Place the chicken skin-side down on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes. Flip and brush with the reserved marinade. Grill for another 6-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender.
Classic BBQ Beef Brisket
Classic BBQ beef brisket is a smoky, savory dish that brings a taste of the backyard to any potluck. The slow cooking process allows the meat to become tender and absorb all the rich flavors from the spices and smoke. Simple to prepare, this recipe is all about letting the brisket do its thing while you enjoy time with friends and family.
The combination of spices creates a delightful crust on the outside, while the inside remains juicy and packed with flavor. Whether served with a side of coleslaw or on a bun as a sandwich, this brisket is sure to be a hit and has everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4-5 pounds beef brisket
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup beef broth
- Your favorite BBQ sauce for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Rub: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Season the Brisket: Pat the brisket dry with paper towels. Rub the spice mixture all over the meat, ensuring even coverage.
- Slow Cook: Place the brisket in a slow cooker or smoker. If using a slow cooker, add the beef broth. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Rest and Slice: Once cooked, let the brisket rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute.
- Serve: Slice against the grain and serve with your favorite BBQ sauce on the side.
Smoky Chipotle BBQ Ribs
Get ready to elevate your barbecue game with these Smoky Chipotle BBQ Ribs. They pack a flavorful punch with a smoky and slightly spicy kick, making them a crowd-pleaser for any potluck. These ribs are not only delicious but also simple to prepare, allowing you to focus on enjoying the gathering with friends and family.
The combination of tender meat and a homemade chipotle BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. Plus, the recipe is straightforward, so even if you’re new to grilling, you can impress your guests with your skills.
Ingredients
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- Prepare the Ribs: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better flavor absorption.
- Make the Rub: In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub this mixture all over the ribs.
- Cook the Ribs: Place the ribs bone-side down on the grill. Cook for about 2 to 2.5 hours, turning occasionally, until the meat is tender and pulling away from the bones.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, minced chipotles, Worcestershire sauce, and honey. Simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Glaze the Ribs: During the last 30 minutes of grilling, baste the ribs with the chipotle BBQ sauce, turning frequently to caramelize the glaze.
- Serve: Remove the ribs from the grill, let them rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve with extra sauce on the side.
Herbed BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Herbed BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are a delightful addition to any potluck. With a blend of savory herbs and a tangy barbecue glaze, these drumsticks are juicy and full of flavor. The combination of fresh herbs adds a vibrant touch that elevates the classic BBQ taste, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike.
This recipe is simple to prepare, requiring just a few key ingredients and minimal prep time. You can throw them on the grill or bake them in the oven, making it easy to enjoy this dish no matter the cooking setup. Get ready to impress your friends and family!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and coat them evenly with the herb mixture.
- If using a grill, place the drumsticks on the grill and cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally and brushing with barbecue sauce in the last 10 minutes. If using an oven, place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes, basting with barbecue sauce during the last 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your herbed BBQ chicken drumsticks!
Creamy BBQ Potato Salad
Creamy BBQ Potato Salad is a delightful twist on the classic potato salad that is sure to be a hit at any potluck. The combination of tender potatoes, creamy dressing, and a hint of smoky BBQ flavor makes it a refreshing addition to your meal. This salad is simple to whip up and perfect for outdoor gatherings.
With its rich, tangy taste and colorful presentation, this dish is not only pleasing to the palate but also visually appealing. Serve it chilled for the best experience, and enjoy the compliments from your friends and family!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of baby potatoes
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes: Boil the baby potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let them cool. Cut into quarters.
- Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled potatoes, diced celery, chopped green onions, and parsley to the dressing. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.
- Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Before serving, sprinkle with smoked paprika for extra flavor and a pop of color.
Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers
Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, making them a hit at any potluck. The juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a simple blend of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and spices, allowing them to soak up all that deliciousness. They’re not only tasty, but they’re also easy to prepare, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family.
These skewers are perfect for grilling on a sunny day, bringing a touch of summer to your get-together. As they sizzle on the grill, the aroma fills the air and gets everyone excited for a tasty meal. Pair them with fresh vegetables, and you’ve got a colorful and appetizing dish that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (soaked in water if using wooden ones)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, ground ginger, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a resealable bag or container, pour the marinade over, and seal. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers. You can alternate with colorful veggies like bell peppers or onions if you like.
- Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Enjoy your honey garlic grilled chicken skewers hot off the grill!
Savory BBQ Cauliflower Bites
These savory BBQ cauliflower bites are a delightful twist on classic barbecue flavors. They offer a satisfying crunch while being light and healthy, making them an excellent choice for potlucks and gatherings. The combination of smoky barbecue sauce and fresh green onions adds a burst of flavor that’s sure to please a crowd.
Not only are they delicious, but they’re also incredibly simple to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip these up in no time. Serve them with a side of ranch dressing for dipping, and watch as they disappear from the platter!
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sliced green onions for garnish
- Ranch dressing for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until the cauliflower is evenly coated.
- Spread the cauliflower florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and tender.
- Remove the cauliflower from the oven and drizzle with BBQ sauce, tossing to coat. Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
- Once done, garnish with sliced green onions and serve warm with ranch dressing on the side.
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Beans
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Beans are a delightful side dish that brings a warm, comforting flavor to any potluck. The combination of sweetness from brown sugar and a kick of spice creates a delicious balance that pairs well with grilled meats and other BBQ favorites. This recipe is not only simple to make but also allows for customization based on your taste preferences.
Perfect for gatherings, these beans can be prepared ahead of time and served warm or at room temperature. They are sure to become a crowd favorite, with their satisfying texture and rich, smoky flavor. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the kidney beans, black beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, diced onion, and minced garlic.
- Mix everything well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. Stir halfway through for even cooking. Add salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Crispy BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeños
Crispy BBQ bacon-wrapped jalapeños are a deliciously spicy treat that combines the heat of jalapeños with the savory goodness of bacon. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, followed by the smoky flavor of bacon and a kick from the jalapeño. This recipe is not only easy to make but also perfect for gatherings, ensuring you’ll be a hit at any potluck.
The combination of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors makes these jalapeños a crowd-pleaser. They’re simple enough for beginners and fun for seasoned cooks looking to impress. Ready in no time, they can be served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish!
Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapeños
- 12 slices of bacon
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- BBQ sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise and remove the seeds for less heat.
- In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until well combined.
- Stuff each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of bacon, securing it with toothpicks if necessary.
- Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the jalapeños are tender.
- Drizzle BBQ sauce over the jalapeños before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Conclusion
BBQ is always a crowd-pleaser, and these 13 sizzling recipes are perfect for any potluck. They’re packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and sure to bring people together over delicious food. Whether you’re cooking for a large group or just bringing a dish to share, these BBQ recipes are a great way to make your contribution stand out.
Take the time to experiment with these different dishes, and don’t be afraid to add your own personal twist. BBQ is all about flavor and fun, and with these recipes, you can create a spread that’s both satisfying and memorable. Here’s to a successful potluck filled with great food and even better company!
