Top Easy Grilled BBQ Appetizers

I don’t know about you, but I love Summer! The longer days and extra sunshine are just fuel for my soul. Summertime is the season for picnics, outdoor gatherings and sizzling BBQ parties. While the main courses and smoked meats often steal the spotlight, let’s not forget the appetizers that set the stage for a memorable feast.

BBQ timing can be finicky, so it’s important to have several appetizer options available just in case that brisket hit a longer than expected stall or that pork butt hasn’t quite rested long enough and isn’t ready to serve off the smoker when your guests arrive.

I often look forward to the appetizers just as much as the main course, especially if those appetizers are packing a flavorful punch off the grill.

In this St Pierre blog post, I will answer frequently asked questions when preparing for a BBQ or outdoor grilling event and I will share some of my favorite and easy grilled BBQ appetizer ideas that will leave your taste buds dancing and make you the star of any summertime BBQ. Get ready to bring the perfect dish, serve the best finger foods, and cook up sensational appetizers on the grill!

JOSH HUNT’S TOP EASY GRILLED BBQ APPETIZER IDEAS

What’s A Good Appetizer to Bring to a BBQ?

When attending a BBQ as a guest, it’s important to bring an appetizer that is not only delicious but also easy to transport and share. It’s also important that the type of dish can be out in the elements for a bit, without losing quality quickly. An appetizer that can be replenished from the fridge is often a great choice and can also last throughout the entire event.

One appetizer that never fails to impress is a flavorful and refreshing Mediterranean-inspired dip. Prepare a batch of homemade hummus, loaded with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice and olive oil. Pair it with an assortment of fresh vegetables, brioche or pita bread, and crispy tortilla chips. Your contribution will be a crowd-pleaser, pleasing both the health-conscious, vegetarians and the flavor enthusiasts.

What is the best Finger Food for a BBQ Party?

Finger foods are perfect for BBQ parties as they allow guests to mingle, enjoy their food, and have fun without the need for utensils. Here’s an unbeatable finger food option that will keep everyone reaching for more:

Smoked Roast Beef Sliders

Sliders of any kind are always a hit at get togethers! They are easily displayed, picked up and devoured! For example Smash Burger Sliders, Mini Hot Dog Sliders or Pulled Pork Sliders are always crowd pleasers.

Using St Pierre Brioche Slider Rolls, these Smoked Roast Beef & Cheddar Sliders were a hit at one of my recent gatherings! The slow smoked roast beef packs a ton of flavor and really puts these sliders over the top. The ingredients can be prepared a few days in advance, leaving you plenty of time on the day of your event, to prepare the main courses.

I recommend leaving the melted cheddar on the side and allow folks to add as needed. This will help keep the buns from getting soggy.

The full recipe can be found on my Instagram page.

What are the best appetizers to cook on the grill?

Grilling isn’t just for main courses. It can also lend incredible flavors to appetizers of all kinds.

Grilled Brisket Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers

Here in Texas, no outdoor food event is complete without them. They often take on the flavors of that particular region and can be filled with all sorts of deliciousness like BBQ’d meats, crawfish, chorizo etc. The variations can be endless. The recipes can often be slightly altered to please the vegetarians in the group as well.

Prepare these fiery and cheesy delights that pack a punch. Cut jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and ribs. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, chopped brisket, shredded cheddar, minced garlic, and chopped fresh cilantro. Stuff the jalapeño halves with the cream cheese mixture and wrap each one with a slice of bacon. Season the poppers with your favorite BBQ rub and grill until the bacon is crispy and the peppers are tender.

These poppers are a harmonious balance of heat and creaminess that will keep your guests coming back for more.

As you gear up for your summertime BBQ, remember that appetizers play a vital role in setting the mood and satisfying your guests’ cravings. Whether you’re looking for a winning contribution to bring to a BBQ, the best finger foods to delight your guests, or appetizers that shine on the grill, these ideas have you covered. So, let your culinary creativity soar, infuse your dishes with the flavors of the season, and watch as your friends and family gather around, and enjoy your creations!

MORE ABOUT ST PIERRE AMBASSADOR, JOSH HUNT

Josh is one of our St Pierre Ambassadors, who is just as passionate about magnifique brioche and bakery products as we are, and the many ways you can use them. He describes himself as “a self-taught backyard chef” and has created an array of delicious recipes already with the St Pierre range.

Check out his dedicated Ambassador page. And for more of Josh’s recipes and grilling techniques, make sure to follow him over on his Instagram and Facebook pages,