Fall Grilling Recipes & Tips
When the air gets crisp and many are breaking out the throw pillows and pumpkin-scented candles, real grillers know that fall is prime time to fire up the grill. Cooler temps mean you can stand by the flames without melting, football season gives you endless excuses for backyard feasts, and fall flavors were basically made for grilling.
Nothing smells better than meat and veggies sizzling over fire this time of year. We’ve put together some of our favorite fall grilling recipes and tips to help you make the most of the fall season.
20 Fall Grill Recipes That Totally Kick Ash
Fall grilling is all about big flavors and cozy vibes. You can take some grill classics, like steak and burgers, and shake things up or experiment with iconic fall staples like pumpkin and squash!
Steaks
Steaks on the grill are nothing new, but fall gives you a chance to layer in some earthy and rich rubs. Coffee, cocoa, smoked paprika, or even our Shake That Herb rub will really shine with the beef when there’s a little bit of chill in the air and people are looking for those more savory flavors.
Recipe Inspiration:
Burgers
Burgers are a must-have for all your fall tailgating and bonfire nights. Upgrade your patties with fall flavors like sharp cheddar, caramelized onions, and maybe even a slice of grilled apple. (Trust us, it slaps.)
Recipe Inspiration:
Venison
Venison is lean, earthy, and *chef’s kiss* with wood smoke. Plus, it’s the perfect main course during the fall hunting season. Slow and low heat is key here. Keep it juicy with a bacon wrap or baste in garlic butter!
Recipe Inspiration:
Brats
Bratwurst belongs to fall like pumpkin spice belongs to Starbucks, am I right?! Grill these classics over medium heat, pile on sauerkraut or caramelized cabbage, and serve with your favorite style of mustard for some added flavor.
Recipe Inspiration:
Squash
Nothing screams fall veggies quite like squash — and it’s perfect on the grill. Simply slice, oil, season, grill. It’s sweet, nutty perfection with a little bit of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a drizzle of honey. Also makes a great side dish for your holiday and Thanksgiving menu!
Recipe Inspiration:
Pumpkin
Yes, you can grill pumpkin—and it’s amazing! We think grilled pumpkin is one of fall’s best-kept secrets. It’s smoky, slightly sweet, and totally transforms from that canned pie filling you’re used to.
Recipe Inspiration:
Brussels Sprouts
Skewer ‘em or grill in a basket, these babies are delicious either way. For perfect fall brussel sprouts, consider pairing them with balsamic glaze or some cheese and bacon crumbles for that extra bit of flavor.
Recipe Inspiration:
Eggplant
Too many people are sleeping on eggplant. It’s one of those veggies that goes from meh to mind-blowing when it hits the grill. The smoky char balances its natural creaminess, and it soaks up marinades like a champ.
Recipe Inspiration:
Cabbage
Cabbage might not be the sexiest veggie in the produce aisle, but throw it on the grill and it turns into smoky, caramelized magic. Slice into “steaks,” grill until edges char, and it’s sure to be the star of your fall cookout. Underrated and shockingly good.
Recipe Inspiration
Grilled Pizzas & Flatbreads
Grilled pizza is perfect for those family game nights, sporting events, and Halloween parties. Change things up with some fall toppings like sausage, caramelized onions, apples, pears, and smoky cheddar.
Recipe Inspiration:
Tips for Fall Grilling Succes
Don’t pack it in just because temps drop. Honestly, fall is the sweet spot for grilling. There’s no sweltering sun, no mosquito attacks, and nothing quite beats those fall flavors.
Here are some tips to make sure all your fall grilling adventures turn out extra tasty.
Embrace the Chill
Yes, it’s cooler, but that doesn’t mean you can’t grill. Just prepare! Throw on a hoodie or jacket and use the grill as your personal space heater. If need be, snag some outdoor blankets or use tarps to block the wind. (Just make sure to keep them clear of the flames!)
Play with Wood Smoke
Apple, maple, or our Bourbon Barrel smoking wood chips provide an instant fall flavor upgrade. These woods add warmth, sweetness, and that a mouth-watering aroma to everything from steaks to squash.
Use Fall Flavors as Rubs & Marinades
Any of your grilled favorites can suddenly become fall grilling masterpieces with the right fall-inspired rub or marinade. Think flavors like maple, bourbon, apple cider, coffee, cinnamon, and smoked paprika. These fall flavors were made for the grill.
Don’t Sleep on the Seasonal Veggies & Fruits
Fall and winter bring more of the heartier veggies and fruits into season that work well on the grill (and are cheaper at stores and farmers markets). Brussels sprouts, cabbage steaks, sweet potatoes, apples, and pumpkin are often not the first thing you think of, but they’re first-kissed perfection!
Mind the Daylight
Autumn means shorter days and less sunlight. Plan accordingly by starting earlier to accommodate or add some extra lighting near the grill to extend your time outdoors. That way, you can avoid tripping or dropping anything near the grill.
Batch Grill & Meal Prep
Plan to grill a big batch of veggies or proteins while you’re out there. Leftovers make killer lunches or toppings for flatbreads and salads all week, so you’ll save a ton of time.
Ready to Fire Up the Grill This Fall?
Kick Ash Basket is here to help you spice things up this fall. Join our Kick Ash Crew on Facebook for more fall recipes and shop our must-have grill accessories.