Plus our TCU exclusive summer recipe: Spice Pomme Spritz Cocktail!

Hosting a backyard BBQ can be a fun and exciting way to spend time with friends and family, but can come with a lot of headache.

Here are 11 tips to make your next BBQ a success without the stress!

1. Plan ahead: 

Make a list of everything you need for the BBQ, including food, drinks, utensils, and decorations. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you have everything you need on the day of the event.

2. Choose the right cooking methods:

A BBQ party doesn’t necessarily mean that every single items needs to be cooked on the BBQ. Planning to prepare some things in advance or in the kitchen using the stove, oven, or air fryer could definitely save you time on cooking and clean up so you can spend more of it with your guests.

3. Prepare the grill:

Before you start cooking, make sure your grill is clean and ready to use. This will help prevent food from sticking and ensure that your BBQ is safe and enjoyable.

4. Choose the right food:

When planning your menu, consider the tastes and dietary restrictions of your guests. Offer a variety of options, including vegetarian and gluten-free dishes.

5. Marinate your meat:

Marinating your meat can add flavor and help keep it moist during cooking. Choose a marinade that complements the type of meat you are cooking. Extra tip: Rich salad dressings can usually double as marinades!

6. Use a meat thermometer:

To ensure that your meat is cooked to the proper temperature, use a meat thermometer. This will help prevent foodborne illness and ensure that your guests enjoy their meats at proper/preferred doneness.

7. Provide plenty of drinks:

Make sure you have plenty of water, soda, and other beverages on hand for your guests. Consider offering a signature cocktail or mocktail to add a special touch to your BBQ.

8. Set up a comfortable seating area:

Provide plenty of seating for your guests, including chairs, benches, and tables. Consider adding some outdoor cushions or pillows to make the seating area more comfortable.

9. Add some ambiance: 

Set the mood for your BBQ by adding some outdoor lighting, such as string lights or lanterns. Music is a must! Ensure to pick music appropriate to the crowd.

10. Clean up: 

After the BBQ is over, make sure to clean up any messes and dispose of any leftover food properly. This will help keep your backyard clean and safe for future events. Ants, raccoons, and other critters would love it if you skipped this step!

With these hosting tips, you will make your backyard the place to be this summer without losing your hair. However, if hosting parties yourself gets tiresome, please see Tip #11…

11. Call The Chef Upstairs to hire a certified private chef to do everything for you! Be a guest in your own home, while creating delicious memories!

*****

By Chef Julian Pancer, The Chef Upstairs