Get ready to light up your grill and celebrate the 4th of July with 18 amazing BBQ recipes that everyone will love!

Picture this: juicy cheeseburgers sizzling, BBQ ribs smoking away, and sweet corn grilling to perfection.

These mouthwatering dishes are perfect for a fun and festive gathering that highlights the spirit of America.

Do you want to impress your family and friends this Independence Day?

With these All-American BBQ recipes, you’ll become the star of the party!

Get ready to discover a whole world of flavors that are sure to make your celebration unforgettable.

Don’t miss out on these delicious ideas!

Classic American Cheeseburgers

A quintessential 4th of July staple, Classic American Cheeseburgers are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a backyard BBQ.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 4 hamburger buns
• 4 slices American cheese
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty, about ½ inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent shrinking.
3. Preheat a grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grates or pan with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
4. Place the patties on the grill or pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on the first side, until a crust forms.
5. Flip the patties and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes for medium doneness, or longer if desired.
6. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of American cheese on each patty to melt.
7. Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until lightly golden.
8. Assemble the burgers by placing each patty on a bun and adding your desired toppings.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Juicy Grilled Hot Dogs

Perfectly grilled hot dogs with a juicy snap and smoky flavor, ideal for your 4th of July BBQ.

Ingredients

• 8 hot dogs
• 8 hot dog buns
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Optional toppings: ketchup, mustard, relish, onions, sauerkraut

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C).
2. Lightly brush the hot dogs with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
3. Place the hot dogs on the grill grates at a diagonal angle for nice grill marks.
4. Cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are evenly browned and have a slight char.
5. Toast the hot dog buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes, cut side down, until lightly golden.
6. Remove hot dogs and buns from the grill.
7. Place each hot dog in a bun and serve with your choice of toppings.

Smoky BBQ Ribs

Indulge in tender, flavorful Smoky BBQ Ribs, a perfect centerpiece for your 4th of July barbecue with a rich, smoky taste.

Ingredients:

• 2 racks of pork baby back ribs
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill or smoker to 225°F (107°C) using indirect heat with wood chips for smoke.
2. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better tenderness.
3. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper to create a rub.
4. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
5. Place the ribs on the grill, bone side down, and cook for 3 hours, maintaining a consistent temperature.
6. In a bowl, combine barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
7. After 3 hours, brush the ribs with the sauce mixture on both sides.
8. Wrap the ribs in aluminum foil and return them to the grill for another 2 hours.
9. Unwrap the ribs, brush with more sauce, and cook for an additional 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
10. Remove from the grill, let rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve hot.

Tender Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Savor the smoky, tender goodness of pulled pork sandwiches, perfect for your 4th of July BBQ celebration.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)
• 8 hamburger buns
• Coleslaw (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) or prepare a slow cooker on low setting.
2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to create a rub.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it is evenly coated.
4. Place the pork shoulder in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker.
5. Pour apple cider vinegar and chicken broth around the pork, avoiding washing off the rub.
6. Cover and cook for 6-8 hours in the oven, or 8-10 hours in the slow cooker, until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds.
7. Remove the pork from the cooking vessel and let it rest for 10 minutes on a cutting board.
8. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces, discarding excess fat.
9. Mix the shredded pork with 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce, adjusting to taste.
10. Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns, topped with additional BBQ sauce and coleslaw if desired.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled Corn on the Cob is a classic summer side dish, perfectly charred and bursting with sweet, smoky flavor.

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of fresh corn, husks on
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel back the husks of the corn without removing them, and remove the silk.
3. Brush the corn kernels with softened butter, then pull the husks back over the corn.
4. Place the corn on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
5. Remove the corn from the grill, carefully peel back the husks, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Savory BBQ Chicken Wings

These Savory BBQ Chicken Wings are a perfect blend of smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors, ideal for your 4th of July celebration.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken wings
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Place the wings on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Brush the wings with BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of grilling, turning them to coat evenly.
5. Remove the wings from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Flavorful Steak Skewers

Savor the bold flavors of these steak skewers, perfect for a 4th of July BBQ with a tender, juicy bite.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix soy sauce, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, black pepper, and smoked paprika to create the marinade.
2. Add the beef cubes to the marinade, toss to coat, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C).
5. Thread the marinated beef, bell peppers, and onion onto the skewers, alternating ingredients for color and flavor.
6. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the beef reaches your desired doneness.
7. Remove from the grill and let the skewers rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Crispy Potato Salad

A zesty twist on classic potato salad, this crispy version features roasted potatoes for a delightful crunch, paired with a tangy dressing.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs small red potatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the potatoes for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.
4. Remove potatoes from the oven and let them cool to room temperature.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar to make the dressing.
6. Add the cooled potatoes, dill, green onions, and celery to the dressing, and toss to combine.
7. Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
8. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Creamy Coleslaw Delight

A classic Creamy Coleslaw Delight, perfect for your 4th of July BBQ with its crisp veggies and tangy, creamy dressing.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium green cabbage, finely shredded
• 2 large carrots, grated
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seed

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and celery seed until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture.
4. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
6. Stir the coleslaw before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Zesty Baked Beans

A classic side dish, Zesty Baked Beans bring a tangy and sweet flavor to your 4th of July BBQ with a perfect balance of spices.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) navy beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
3. Add the drained and rinsed navy beans to the sauce mixture, stirring to coat evenly.
4. Transfer the bean mixture to a greased 2-quart baking dish.
5. If using bacon, sprinkle the crumbled pieces over the top of the beans.
6. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the beans are bubbly and the sauce has thickened.
7. Remove from the oven, let cool for 5 minutes, and serve warm.

Refreshing Watermelon Salad

This invigorating watermelon salad combines sweet, juicy watermelon with tangy feta and crisp cucumber for a perfect summer side dish.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cubed watermelon
• 1 cup diced cucumber
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon and diced cucumber.
2. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped mint over the watermelon and cucumber mixture.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, and salt until well combined.
4. Drizzle the lime dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
5. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before serving for a cooler taste.

Tangy BBQ Sauce Recipe

This tangy BBQ sauce is a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and smoky flavors, ideal for enhancing your 4th of July barbecue dishes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine all the ingredients.
2. Whisk the mixture until the brown sugar is fully dissolved.
3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
5. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature.
6. Transfer the sauce to a jar or bottle and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before using to allow flavors to meld.
7. Use as a marinade, basting sauce, or dipping sauce for your BBQ dishes.

Grilled Vegetable Medley

A vibrant Grilled Vegetable Medley, perfect for your 4th of July BBQ, showcasing a colorful array of fresh, smoky veggies.

Ingredients

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
• 1 yellow squash, sliced into rounds
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine all the cut vegetables.
3. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Place the vegetables in a grill basket or directly on the grill grates if they are large enough not to fall through.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
6. Remove from the grill and serve hot as a colorful side dish.

Cheesy Stuffed Jalapeños

Cheesy Stuffed Jalapeños are a spicy, creamy appetizer perfect for your 4th of July BBQ, combining bold flavors in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until smooth.
4. Stir in the crumbled bacon and green onions, if using, into the cheese mixture.
5. Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling them generously.
6. Place the stuffed jalapeños on a grill-safe tray or baking sheet.
7. Grill or bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the jalapeños are tender and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
8. Remove from heat, let cool for 5 minutes, and serve warm.

Sweet Cornbread Muffins

These Sweet Cornbread Muffins are a delightful blend of sweet and savory, perfect for your 4th of July BBQ.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup honey

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the milk, eggs, melted butter, and honey until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; do not overmix.
5. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Patriotic Berry Dessert

A vibrant and invigorating Patriotic Berry Dessert, perfect for 4th of July celebrations with red, white, and blue layers of fresh berries and cream.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 cup raspberries
• 1 cup blackberries
• 2 cups whipped cream or vanilla yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse all the berries under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. In a clear glass or trifle dish, layer half of the strawberries at the bottom.
3. Add a layer of whipped cream or vanilla yogurt over the strawberries, spreading it evenly.
4. Create a layer of blueberries over the cream or yogurt.
5. Add another layer of whipped cream or yogurt on top of the blueberries.
6. Top with a mix of raspberries and blackberries for the final berry layer.
7. Drizzle honey over the top if desired for a touch of sweetness.
8. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a festive look.
9. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Smoky Grilled Shrimp

Smoky Grilled Shrimp is a quick, flavorful dish perfect for your 4th of July BBQ, featuring succulent shrimp infused with smoky spices.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to make a marinade.
2. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
4. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the soaked wooden skewers, piercing through the tail and head to secure them.
5. Place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
6. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 1-2 minutes before serving.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce.

Spiced Apple Pie Bites

Spiced Apple Pie Bites are delightful mini treats that capture the essence of classic apple pie in a bite-sized form, perfect for your 4th of July BBQ.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups diced apples (peeled and cored)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
• 1 egg (beaten for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Mix well to coat the apples evenly.
3. Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a lightly floured surface and cut out 3-inch circles using a cookie cutter or glass (you should get about 12 circles per crust).
4. Place a small spoonful of the apple mixture in the center of half of the dough circles.
5. Top each filled circle with another dough circle, pressing the edges with a fork to seal.
6. Brush the tops of the pie bites with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
7. Cut small slits in the top of each pie bite to allow steam to escape.
8. Place the pie bites on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Let the pie bites cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.