Summer may be winding down, but that doesn’t mean you have to put away the grill. We know kids love a good burger, tasty hot dogs, and plenty of the desserts that come with any cookout during this time of year, and with everyone’s schedule getting a little busier, making meals on your gas grill is a quick and easy way to squeeze in some cooking time while enjoying those late summer and early fall nights spent outside. Here are a few of the best back to school barbecue recipes to help your kids start the year off on the right foot!
1. Lean Mean Cheeseburger
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When it comes to packing lunch for your children, don’t overthink it. Simpler is often better, and there’s no simpler burger recipe than the Lean Mean Cheeseburger. Made with 95 percent lean ground beef, this burger is healthy, delicious, and will have your son or daughter asking you to pack an extra one for next time. A unique feature in this burger is the inclusion of quick-cooking oats. One of the healthiest grains out there, mixing oats into your burger provides an added boost of carbs and fiber for any growing boy or girl. |
2. Grilled Summer Vegetables and Corn
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School may be back in session, but the taste of summer lives on with these Grilled Summer Vegetables and Corn. We know how picky kids can be when it comes to their veggies, but you can trust us when we say this recipe is sure to win them over. As they enter a new grade, try introducing your children to new flavors and foods, like the eggplant and zucchini featured in this recipe. When grilling, mix all your ingredients together in a large wok, and include up to six ears of shucked corn. You can pair these vegetables with several main dishes, and save plenty for leftovers too. |
3. Grilled Cheese
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Is there an iconic sandwich that kids adore more than the classic Grilled Cheese? All it takes is bread, cheese and a little butter to make the ultimate lunch for your children. But of course, everyone has their own twist to this favorite. Don’t be afraid to go all-out and get creative with your added ingredients. We recommend adding macaroni and cheese for even more of that great ooey-gooey taste, or spreading a bit of mustard on your sandwich slices before inserting the cheese to get a spicier flavor. Whatever it is you decide to try on your grilled cheese, just know you can’t go wrong! |
4. Grilled Sweet Potato Fries
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Finger-licking fries are an essential part to any kid’s diet, and these Grilled Sweet Potato Fries will pack plenty of flavor in any school lunch. Gone are the days of the boring, plain, crinkle-cuts. Now you and your children can say hello to crispy fries sprinkled with cumin, cinnamon, chili powder, brown sugar and salt. But we all know fries aren’t complete without a tasty condiment to go with them. Try replacing your bottle of ketchup with this Sriracha Yogurt Dip to complement the sweet potato taste and to add a little spice in your life. |
5. Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
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Chicken is a staple of most barbecues and one of the most versatile meats you can throw on the grill. Sending your child to school with just a chicken breast, however, might not make for the best lunch. Instead, try making them this Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwich. Our Ultimate Cheat Sheet for Grilling Chicken has several tips and tricks on how to cook chicken perfectly every time, and will certainly help you create a tender and juicy centerpiece to the sandwich. Brush a fair amount of Buffalo Sauce on your chicken while you wait for it to finish grilling. Lastly, add your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomatoes and mayonnaise to create a memorable meal for your child’s next day at school. |
5. Almond Macaroons Topped with Nutella
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You didn’t think we would forget dessert, did you? We know your kids will be asking for something sweet after their delicious meal, and these Almond Macaroons Topped with Nutella deliver just that. This recipe makes 24 servings, allowing you to satisfy any kid’s sweet tooth, and maybe even your own. Be aware of the temperature of your grill while making these macaroons, as high heat can easily burn this dessert. Once ready, pipe your melted Nutella on top of each macaroon and serve alongside milk or hot chocolate. |
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Who says a new school year is only exciting for the kids? This year, take your lunches, dinners and desserts to another level through the recipes above, and so many others on our Blue Rhino recipes page!
Published: 2019.08.08
