So you’re invited to an exciting summer BBQ and you know you need to take something with you. You don’t want to be the guy who turns up with supermarket sausage rolls, but you also don’t want to overshadow the main event. So what do you take to a BBQ as a guest?
Some of our favourite things to take to a BBQ as a guest include sides such as potato salad, corn on the cob, pasta salad or mac and cheese. If you’re not the best cook, you could also take drinks, dessert, snacks or even party games! Even if you’re told not to bring something, it’s common courtesy to bring at least a gift for the host.
Read on for a variety of great BBQ ideas that you can take to your next summer BBQ as a guest.
Jump to Section:
- Should You Bring Something When Invited to a BBQ?
- What to Take to a BBQ as a Guest: BBQ Food Ideas
- What Can I Bring to a BBQ Without Cooking?
- What Do You Take To a BBQ When Told Not to Take Anything?
- Our Top BBQ Ideas for the Perfect Summer Gathering
Should You Bring Something When Invited to a BBQ?
Typically, when invited to a BBQ or food-related gathering, it is customary to bring something to share - even if the host says not to! It’s a good idea to avoid foods that would usually be considered a main (e.g. burgers, sausages, chicken etc), but sides, desserts and drinks will go down a treat!
What to Take to a BBQ as a Guest: BBQ Food Ideas
If you’re planning on taking food to a BBQ, sides are always a good shout. Extra points if they’re homemade! Good examples include:
- Coleslaw
- Potato salad
- Corn on the cob
- Mac and cheese
- Pasta salad
- Bread rolls
- Fresh fruit platter
What Can I Bring to a BBQ Without Cooking?
If you’re not exactly the next masterchef, you can still contribute with ideas such as:
- Providing essentials such as paper plates, cups, cutlery, skewers etc.
- Bread buns
- Condiments
- Pickled items
- Ice
- Wine or beer (or a pitcher of Pimms!)
- Fancy olive oil or vinegar
What Do You Take To a BBQ When Told Not to Take Anything?
Even if you’re told not to bring anything, in many societies it is considered rude to turn up empty-handed. But that doesn’t mean you have to go all out and cook a showstopper. Often, bringing wine or another gift for the host, or supplying the booze is a great idea. Other ideas include:
- Party games
- Crisps and other light snacks
- Desserts
- A bunch of flowers
If you have dietary restrictions, you should also consider this when thinking about what to take to a BBQ. Don’t assume that you will be catered for unless your group has similar restrictions. Consider bringing your own food, or something to supplement the provided food, where necessary.
Our Top BBQ Ideas for the Perfect Summer Gathering
If you’re the one hosting the BBQ, here are some of our favourite recipes to go alongside all of those items that your friends are bringing.
BBQ Pork Ribs
When it comes to BBQ food, there’s nothing like sticky ribs to really get your taste buds going. But, the key to really good ribs is choosing the right rack. Each rack offers its own unique flavour and texture; from baby back ribs to spare ribs and St. Louis style ribs, there are some great choices for your next BBQ.
Learn more and find our recipe for BBQ Pork Ribs on our blog.
BBQ Beef Brisket
Making BBQ beef brisket is fairly time-consuming and not for the beginner BBQ-er. Firstly, you need to choose and make a marinade before leaving your joint to take on the flavour overnight. It’s a bit more effort than your average BBQ food, but so worth it!
Take a look at one of our favourite BBQ marinades here.
BBQ Beef Ribs with Coleslaw
We all know how good BBQ beef ribs are, but why not take it to the next level this summer with elevated rainbow coleslaw? To make the rainbow, chop carrots, red cabbage, green cabbage, red onion and rainbow chard and mix with the dressing.
Get the full recipe on our blog.
BBQ Chicken and Chorizo Kebabs
Who doesn’t love a kebab at a BBQ? It’s the perfect quick and easy summer dish that always goes down well. This summer, why not try our sizzle chicken and chorizo recipe served with homemade flatbread to wow your guests?
Find the recipe and full instructions on our blog.
Have the Perfect BBQ With Tom Hixson
At Tom Hixson, we’ve got you covered when it comes to exceptional BBQ meats. From succulent ribs and juicy sausages to brisket, steaks and burgers, we’ve got everything you need for the perfect summer BBQ.
