Eight Tips to Host the Perfect BBQ

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Let’s be honest: we’ve all attended a BBQ or two where the meat had the texture of boot leather, the drinks were warm, and the music was questionable at best. And Perfect BBQ those mosquitoes and flies were a pain …  just like in any outdoor gathering in Austin. It was probably a relief when it was time to go home, right?

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Now that you’re wearing the host’s hat, you must ensure your BBQ doesn’t end up like that. 

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Given Austin’s reputation as one of the top cities for BBQ in the country, you might have sampled some of the best BBQs around and know how perfectly smoked meat tastes. 

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So, take inspiration from your favorite BBQ joints and follow these tips to plan the best-ever BBQ party.

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Pick the Right Spot 

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If you have a backyard, then the problem is solved. Set enough seating for your guests and a designated food preparation and grilling area. And don’t forget to prepare alternative indoor spaces or canopy tents just in case Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate. 

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Don’t worry if you don’t have a backyard. Austin has plenty of public parks and green spaces that allow BBQs. Just arrive before the public to reserve a good spot and check the park’s regulations for grilling.

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Invest in a Quality Grill

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Have you ever wondered how chefs in renowned BBQ restaurants make their meat tender and flavorful? A good quality grill is a big part of the answer. It disposes just the right amount of heat, distributes it evenly, and can even add a smoky flavor to the food.

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Various types of grills are available in Austin, including charcoal, gas, and electric. However, since not all grills are created equal, it’s better to stick to trusted brands. Purchase your grill from one of the best BBQ stores in Austin and enjoy BBQs of restaurant quality at home.

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Plan Your Menu

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Get past the usual hot dogs and hamburgers. Your guests might have had them a million times at other BBQs, and you don’t want your BBQ party to be another dull one. 

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So, plan a diverse menu with meat, seafood, and vegetarian options. Perfect BBQ Think smoked brisket sliders, grilled shrimp tacos, BBQ chicken pizza, BBQ steak sandwiches, portobello mushroom burgers, beef ribs, sausage links, pulled pork, grilled veggies with halloumi cheese, and more. 

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Desserts are also an essential part of any BBQ party. Don’t just stick to the classic s’mores. Get creative with grilled fruit skewers, grilled pound cake with berries and whipped cream, or even a homemade ice cream sundae bar.

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Get Saucy with Sides and Condiments

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Just as Batman needs Robin, BBQ needs its side dishes and condiments. These accompaniments can elevate the flavors of the main dishes, balance out the richness, and provide a refreshing contrast.

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BBQ sides you can consider:

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• Coleslaw
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• Baked beans
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• Macaroni and cheese
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• Potato salad
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• Grilled corn on the cob
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• Bacon-wrapped jalapenos
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• Grilled avocados 
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Condiments you can include:

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• BBQ sauce 
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• Spicy mustard
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• Ranch dressing 
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• Chimichurri sauce 
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• Avocado lime crème
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Don’t Forget the Drinks

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What’s a BBQ party without some refreshing, ice-cold drinks? Serve classic lemonade or iced tea, or show off your mixology skills and make signature cocktails. Watermelon margaritas, cucumber mojitos, or a refreshing berry sangria are all perfect BBQ party drinks. 

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Besides, you can also set up a table with juices, sodas, mixers, fruit, and herbs. It will be a DIY drink station where guests can create refreshing concoctions.

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If your guest list includes non-drinkers or kids, add these drinks to your menu and watch them enjoy the party just as much.

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Set the Mood with Music and Decorations

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Whether your BBQ is an afternoon affair or an evening soiree, creating the right ambiance is as crucial as food and drinks. And nothing sets the mood better than some good music and decorations.

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So, set up some speakers and play upbeat, feel-good songs. Perfect BBQ How about playing classic rock when guests arrive and the grills warm up? Shift to soulful blues when you’re serving the main course and desserts. 

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Keep it light and breezy with pop or indie music during the drinks and dessert hour.

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As for decorations, keep it simple and rustic with wooden crates, mason jars, and string lights. You can also add colorful tablecloths, napkins, and plates to liven up the space. Use fresh flowers or potted plants as centerpieces to add a touch of nature to your BBQ party.

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Games and Activities for Everyone

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You have the perfect food, drinks, and music for your BBQ party. But what about entertainment for your guests? Do you plan on letting them sit and chat the whole time? It’s too boring.

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Plan epic games and activities nobody can resist, such as cornhole, horseshoes, or beer pong. Set up a water balloon toss or scavenger hunt for the kids. Bring some floats and pool toys for kids and adults if you have a pool.

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You can also plan volleyball or badminton matches for the more active guests and let them have some friendly competition. Don’t forget to have some board or card games on hand, too.

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Keep Pests Away

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Nothing spoils a BBQ faster than pesky bugs and insects. So, keep food covered and clean up any spills immediately to avoid attracting ants and other pests. Also, set up a designated area for trash and regularly empty it throughout the party.

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You can also use natural pest control solutions to keep your BBQ area bug-free. If you plan on having a bonfire or lighting candles, consider using citronella products to repel mosquitoes.

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Conclusion:

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Whether hosting a small gathering or a big backyard BBQ, prepare a menu of grill-licious dishes and refreshing drinks, set up an inviting atmosphere with strategic decorations and seatings, and plan fun activities for everyone to keep up the momentum. 

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If you feel like the conversations are winding down and no one is participating in the games, play killer tunes and invite guests to dance and sing along. Or keep the food, drinks, and music flowing throughout the event and watch how everyone grooves. 

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Lastly, keep the area clean and pest-free. That’s what turns a “meh” Perfect BBQ into a mouthwatering feast and an unforgettable experience.

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