Jump to:
If you don’t mind wrapping up outdoors, these Christmas BBQ ideas will bring plenty of cheer to the table.
Nothing brings people together like good food, especially during the holidays. But have you ever thought about firing up the BBQ this season? It’s a popular tradition in warmer parts of the world, and there’s no reason it can’t work here too.
Christmas BBQ Ideas to Warm Up the Cold Season
Some of the dishes you’d usually cook in the oven will surprise you on the grill. That familiar smoky flavour adds a bit of summer warmth to your festive line-up.
1. Christmas turkey
Christmas wouldn’t feel complete without a turkey on the table. The traditional roast is always a winner, but you can cook this favourite on the BBQ. A gas grill will do the job, but a charcoal one gives a richer, smokier flavour. Even better, use your trusty barbecue smoker for the best results.
Grilling takes around 15 to 18 minutes per pound, so a 12-pound bird will need roughly 2 to 2.5 hours. When smoking, expect it to take longer, around 30 minutes per pound – roughly 6 hours to cook through.
2. BBQ chicken lollipops
These bite-sized treats make brilliant appetisers that will please kids and adults. They’re chicken drumsticks seasoned with a dry rub, wrapped in bacon, and smoked with BBQ sauce. Feel free to tweak your own recipe, maybe by brushing with a little honey?
3. Rotisserie prime rib
Sizzling, juicy rotisserie prime rib is perfect for the holidays. Seasoned with garlic, herbs, and basting butter, this BBQ dish lets you serve fancy. Guests will enjoy the rich flavour, particularly alongside classic sides like mashed potatoes.
Roast at 200°C—the high heat creates a crisp crust, while the smoke gives it that rich flavour no oven can match.
4. Salmon with brown sugar and mustard glaze
You can’t go wrong with this menu if you’re after something lighter but still packed with flavour. It’s known as a no-recipe recipe, and the preparation couldn’t be simpler.
- Preheat the gas barbecue to 200°C.
- Mix Dijon mustard and brown sugar to your preferred balance of spice and sweetness.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- Place them skin-side down on a lightly oiled, foil-lined baking tray.
- Spread the mustard and brown sugar glaze over the top.
- Bake on the upper shelf for about 12 minutes.
This grilled favourite pairs nicely with braised greens, too.
5. Pork belly roast
Crispy edges, tender meat, and so full of taste it might steal the spotlight. To grill pork belly to perfection, set up your BBQ for two cooking zones. Follow the steps and ingredients to recreate it this holiday.
Got a hybrid BBQ? You’re in luck. Use the hot side for searing and the cooler side for slow cooking.
6. Barbecued ham
Like turkey, no Christmas table feels complete without a ham. This idea puts a twist on the traditional version by cooking it on the grill.
Make a ham rub by mixing brown sugar, granulated sugar, black pepper, bourbon-smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cinnamon. That’s your perfect glazed finish right there.
7. Roasted seasonal vegetables
Here’s your chance to make the most of freshly picked greens from your vegetable garden. Toss your favourite greens with a little olive oil and herbs before roasting. Finish with a sesame honey glaze and serve as a side. Or use some as toppings for a pizza before baking it in your BBQ pizza oven.
8. Grilled prawns with garlic, lemon & chilli
Don’t miss out on this real treat for your festive spread. These BBQ prawns are simple, tasty, healthy, and need only five ingredients. The garlic brings depth, the lemon adds freshness, and the chilli gives a gentle kick. Follow this recipe and you’ll have them ready in about 30 minutes.
9. Grilled scallops
Hands down, this is the most luxurious thing you’ll cook on the grill this winter. Scallops are best with a quick marinade of honey, garlic, and pimentón (Spanish smoked paprika). Cook them over high heat to keep the texture tender and avoid overcooking. A light char and hint of smoke bring out their rich flavour.
10. Molten chocolate cakes
Dessert is always a highlight of any meal, and the holidays are no exception. For something a bit special, try these molten chocolate cakes. Made with simple ingredients and easy to prepare, it’s sure to impress your guests, especially when they realise it’s cooked on the grill. Follow this recipe for a proper treat to round off the year.
We hope these Christmas BBQ ideas inspire you to create a fantastic barbecue feast. To stay on theme, bring the cheerful spirit to your space with these 30 Christmas Garden Ideas.
What do you think ?