28 Grilled Dinner Ideas
Grilling isn’t just for summer weekends and special occasions.
It’s a fantastic way to infuse flavor into your everyday dinners and can transform even the simplest ingredients into mouthwatering meals.
Whether you’re looking to jazz up your weeknight routine or planning a casual get-together with friends, having a variety of grilled dinner ideas at your disposal is key to keeping meals exciting and delicious.
In this blog post, we’re firing up the grill to explore 28 delectable dinner ideas that will make you the undisputed champion of the char.
Grilled Dinner Ideas
1. Classic Grilled Burgers
Nothing says “grill season” like the classic grilled burger.
Start with high-quality ground beef, seasoned with salt and pepper, and form into patties.
Grill to your preferred doneness and serve on toasted buns with all the fixings cheddar cheese, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and perhaps a slice of onion for that extra crunch.
Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a simple family dinner, these burgers are always a hit.
2. Grilled Chicken Tacos
Transform your taco night with grilled chicken as the star.
Marinate chicken breasts in a blend of lime juice, cilantro, and spices, then grill until beautifully charred and juicy.
Slice and serve in warm tortillas with diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a taco Tuesday that’s bursting with flavor.
3. Grilled Salmon with Lemon and Herbs
For a lighter fare, opt for grilled salmon fillets seasoned with lemon zest, dill, and parsley.
The key is to cook the salmon skin-side down on the grill to get that crispy skin while the inside remains tender and flaky.
Pair with a side of grilled asparagus and a drizzle of olive oil for a simple yet sophisticated meal.
4. Grilled Vegetable Platter
Celebrate the bounty of the garden with a colorful array of grilled vegetables.
Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and asparagus, brushed with olive oil and seasoned with salt and pepper, grilled to perfection.
This platter is not only a feast for the eyes but also a versatile side that complements any main dish.
5. BBQ Pork Ribs
Slow-grilled pork ribs coated in a rich BBQ sauce are a finger-licking favorite.
The secret is in the slow cooking over low heat, which renders the ribs tender and full of flavor.
Baste the ribs with sauce towards the end of grilling to achieve a sticky, caramelized exterior.
Serve with coleslaw and cornbread for the ultimate comfort meal.
6. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Grilled shrimp skewers are a quick and elegant meal option.
Marinate the shrimp in a spicy garlic-lime mixture before threading them onto skewers and grilling to perfection.
These skewers are fantastic served over a bed of rice or alongside a fresh salad for a light, satisfying meal.
7. Grilled Sausages with Peppers and Onions
Grilled sausages with peppers and onions are a robust and flavorful dish.
Choose your favorite sausages Italian, bratwurst, or chorizo and grill alongside slices of bell peppers and onions until charred and delicious.
Serve in a crusty roll for a satisfying sandwich, or over creamy polenta for a more refined plate.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a summer staple.
Husk the corn and grill until the kernels are slightly charred, turning occasionally.
Slather with butter and sprinkle with salt, or get creative with toppings like grated cheese, chili powder, and lime for a Mexican street corn flair.
9. Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
A grilled steak topped with chimichurri sauce offers a vibrant twist to the traditional steak dinner.
Choose a good quality cut like ribeye or sirloin, season simply with salt and pepper, and grill to your liking.
Drizzle with chimichurri, a zesty sauce made from parsley, garlic, vinegar, and oil, to enhance the rich flavors of the meat.
10. Grilled Lamb Chops
Grilled lamb chops are a luxurious yet easy dish perfect for special occasions or a gourmet meal at home.
Marinate the chops in a mixture of rosemary, garlic, and olive oil before grilling until they are browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
Serve with a side of mint sauce or yogurt for a touch of freshness that complements the lamb beautifully.
11. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Grilled Portobello mushrooms are a fantastic vegetarian option that even meat lovers adore.
Large and meaty, these mushrooms make for a satisfying main or side dish.
Brush them with a mix of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and thyme, then grill until tender.
Serve these delicious caps with a sprinkle of goat cheese and chopped herbs for an extra layer of flavor.
12. Grilled Halibut
Grilled halibut is known for its firm texture and mild flavor, making it perfect for pairing with a variety of seasonings.
Season the fillets with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of thyme, then cook on a hot grill until the fish is flaky and slightly charred.
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright, refreshing taste.
It’s a simple, healthy dish that’s ready in minutes.
13. Grilled Pizza
Who says pizza needs an oven? Take your pizza night outdoors by grilling your dough directly on the grates.
Spread your favorite sauce, sprinkle a generous amount of cheese, and top with vegetables and meats of your choice.
Grill under a closed lid until the crust is puffy and charred and the cheese is bubbly. The smoky flavor is unbeatable!
14. Grilled Caesar Salad
Change up your salad routine with a grilled Caesar salad.
Cut romaine hearts in half and brush with olive oil, then place on the grill cut side down until charred.
Chop the grilled lettuce and toss with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
The grilling adds a smoky depth to the salad that’s unexpectedly delicious.
15. Grilled Peaches and Cream
For a dessert that will wow, try grilled peaches.
Halve and pit the peaches, then grill cut-side down until warm and caramelized.
Serve with a dollop of fresh cream or vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of honey.
This simple dessert is a sweet way to end any grilled meal.
16. Grilled Tofu Steaks
Grilled tofu steaks are a great way to enjoy a plant-based protein.
Slice firm tofu into thick slabs and marinate in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
Grill until the outside is crispy and golden.
Serve with stir-fried vegetables or over a bed of cooked quinoa for a complete meal.
17. Grilled Turkey Burgers
Mix up your burger routine with grilled turkey burgers.
Combine ground turkey with finely chopped onion, garlic, herbs, and a bit of Worcestershire sauce for flavor.
Form into patties and grill until cooked through.
These burgers are lighter than beef but just as satisfying, especially when topped with your favorite condiments.
18. Grilled Bruschetta
Grilled bruschetta is a delightful way to start a meal.
Slice a baguette, brush with olive oil, and grill until toasted.
Top the crispy bread with a mixture of chopped tomatoes, basil, garlic, and mozzarella.
The heat from the bread slightly melts the cheese, creating a perfect meld of flavors.
19. Grilled Scallops
Seafood lovers will rejoice over grilled scallops.
Season large scallops with salt and pepper, then thread onto skewers and grill briefly on each side until just cooked through.
The outside should have a slight char while the inside remains tender and creamy.
Serve with a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of garlic butter.
20. Grilled Ratatouille
A grilled take on the classic French dish, ratatouille combines all the best summer vegetables.
Slice zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers, then grill until tender.
Toss with chopped tomatoes, onion, and plenty of garlic, then season with basil and thyme.
This colorful vegetable medley can be served as a side, or enjoy it as a main over cooked rice or pasta.
21. Grilled Quesadillas
Grilled quesadillas are a quick and customizable meal option.
Fill flour tortillas with a generous amount of cheese and your choice of ingredients like chicken, beans, or vegetables.
Fold the tortillas over and grill until the outside is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Cut into wedges and serve with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for dipping.
22. Grilled Jerk Chicken
Bring some Caribbean flair to your dinner with grilled jerk chicken.
Marinate chicken pieces in a spicy jerk seasoning, which includes allspice, thyme, scotch bonnet peppers, and garlic.
Grill over medium heat until the chicken is cooked through and nicely charred.
Serve with rice and peas or a fresh mango salsa to balance the heat.
23. Grilled Swordfish Steaks
Grilled swordfish steaks offer a hearty texture that holds up well on the grill.
Season the steaks with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then grill until they are beautifully marked and cooked through.
Serve with a caper sauce or a simple side of grilled vegetables for a light, healthful meal that’s packed with flavor.
24. Grilled Korean BBQ Beef
Experience the bold flavors of Korean BBQ with grilled beef.
Marinate slices of beef in a sweet and savory mix of soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
Grill quickly over high heat until caramelized.
Wrap the beef in lettuce leaves with rice and kimchi for a traditional Korean meal that’s interactive and fun.
25. Grilled Fajitas
Grilled fajitas are always a crowd-pleaser.
Marinate strips of beef or chicken along with slices of bell peppers and onions in lime juice, cumin, and chili powder.
Grill until charred and tender. Serve with warm tortillas, allowing everyone to build their own fajita with toppings like sour cream, cheese, and salsa.
26. Grilled Banana Boats
Grilled banana boats are a novel and delightful dessert.
Slice a banana down the middle (leaving the peel on), and stuff with chocolate chips and marshmallows.
Wrap in foil and grill until the contents are gooey and melted.
Open the foil and enjoy a sweet, warm treat right from the peel.
27. Grilled Clams
Grilled clams make for a simple and elegant seafood dish.
Place whole clams on the grill and cook just until they open up, which indicates they’re done.
Serve with a garlic butter sauce or a squeeze of lemon for a touch of brightness.
Pair with a glass of white wine for a perfect seaside-inspired meal.
28. Grilled Polenta Rounds
Grilled polenta rounds are a versatile side that adds a wonderful texture to any meal.
Slice prepared polenta into thick rounds, brush with oil, and grill until warm and slightly charred.
Top with a savory mixture of cheese and tomato sauce, or keep it simple with just some salt and pepper.
They’re a delightful alternative to traditional bread or potatoes.
