The holidays are about warmth, flavor, and togetherness. Believe it or not, you don’t always have to stay indoors to enjoy them! This year, bring your celebrations outdoors with bold flavors, glowing firelight, and a little help from Blue Rhino. Whether you’re grilling a show-stopping main course, roasting cozy sides, or gathering around a propane fire pit with dessert, it’s the perfect time to rethink what holiday cooking can be.
Blue Rhino makes it easy to keep the flame going all season long. So grab your propane tank, bundle up, and let’s fire up some festive inspiration.
A Fresh Take on the Main Course
Forget the oven. This year, let the grill take center stage. Outdoor cooking brings out smoky, rich flavors that make every bite feel like a special occasion. Plus, grilling your main dish frees up valuable kitchen space and adds an unexpected twist to your holiday menu.
If it’s too chilly to dine outdoors, grill outside and serve indoors to keep that just-grilled flavor without freezing out your guests. Here are a few festive main courses that shine on the grill:
- Pork Loin with Cranberry-Pistachio Chutney: Sweet, savory, and grill-friendly. This is a modern classic that looks as good as it tastes.
- Prime Rib: Elegant, juicy, and infused with deep holiday flavor. Slow roast it over indirect heat for a tender, smoky finish.
- Cedar Planked Stuffed Turkey Breast: A lighter, yet still festive alternative to the full bird. The cedar plank adds subtle woodsy aroma and keeps the meat perfectly moist.
Sides That Shine
Every great holiday meal deserves unforgettable sides. Take your favorite classics and add a little flame-kissed magic to make them stand out. Grilling adds caramelization, texture, and depth of flavor that ovens can’t always match.
Even in colder weather, your grill can turn humble ingredients into holiday-worthy dishes. Try these seasonal sides on your gas grill:
- Brussels Holiday Salad with Maple Vinaigrette: Toss grilled Brussels sprouts with cranberries, pecans, and a drizzle of maple dressing for a bright, seasonal salad.
- Skillet Cornbread Pudding: Sweet, savory, and served warm right from the grill. This one pairs perfectly with hearty main dishes.
- Grilled Eggplant with Honey Mustard Syrup: A cozy side that’s smoky, tangy, and packed with comfort-food appeal.
Cozy Desserts from the Grill
Who says dessert needs an oven? Keep the flame alive a little longer and treat your guests to something sweet and unexpected from the grill. These desserts are great for gathering around the grill or a propane fire pit, where the warmth and glow make every bite feel extra special.
The gentle heat brings out caramelized flavors that make these dishes shine:
- Apple Rosemary Galette: Rustic, aromatic, and finished with a cheddar crumb topping for a savory-sweet surprise.
- Peppermint Patty Brownies: Make them in advance on the grill! They are perfectly gooey with a hint of minty holiday flair.
- Holiday Fruitcake: A quick grill gives this classic seasonal dessert a toasty edge and pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream.
Stay Warm, Stay Outside
You don’t have to retreat indoors once the temperature drops. With a few cozy touches, your outdoor space can become the ultimate winter entertaining spot. Add warmth by setting up a patio heater or propane fire pit near your grill to stay toasty while cooking or mingling. Create a comfortable, inviting space with soft blankets, string lights, and steaming mugs of hot cider or cocoa. Or, blend the best of both worlds by grilling outdoors and bringing your meal inside for family-style dining that keeps the warmth and flavor alive. With Blue Rhino powering your setup, it’s easy to keep the fire burning safely and efficiently, no matter the weather.
Tips For a Stress-Free Holiday
A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your holiday grilling smooth, safe, and stress-free. Start by checking your propane levels early. Swap your tank before guests arrive and consider grabbing a spare for your fire pit or patio heater. You can easily find your nearest Blue Rhino location with our Propane Finder. Before starting up the grill, make sure it’s preheated and clean. Cold air can slow down cooking times, so plan ahead and use a thermometer to ensure your food is cooked perfectly. Keep all your grilling essentials close at hand for those shorter winter days. And if you live in an area prone to winter storms, a propane generator is a smart backup plan for unexpected outages. For more cold-weather cooking inspiration, check out our winter grilling tips.
This season, embrace a little adventure by taking your celebration outdoors. From the first sizzle of the grill to the glow of the fire pit, Blue Rhino makes it easy to create warmth, flavor, and connection all winter long. Whether you’re bundled up under the stars or bringing that smoky flavor indoors, we’re here to keep your holidays bright. Happy grilling, and happy holidays from Blue Rhino!
Published: 2025.12.09