Father’s Day is basically the Super Bowl of backyard grilling. Whether your dad is the King of Charcoal, a gas grill loyalist, or just in it for the beer and company, there’s one universal truth: he’s earned a plate full of ridiculously good food.
So instead of stressing over gifts he’ll never use (sorry, novelty golf socks), why not throw him a cookout he’ll actually remember? We’ve rounded up 8 knockout recipes to help you build the ultimate Father’s Day menu—one that covers all the bases from spicy to saucy to straight-up classic.
Let’s fire it up 🔥
🥩 For the Carnivore King: Marinades That Mean Business
Whether he’s Team Steak or Team Chicken, a good marinade makes all the difference.
- The Best Chicken Marinade by Mom on Timeout
Juicy, flavorful, foolproof. If you want the kind of chicken that doesn’t need any sauce (but still tastes like it has one), this is it. - 5 Easy Steak Marinades by Gimme Some Oven
From balsamic rosemary to spicy chimichurri, these options let you customize your steak to match Dad’s mood. Or, you know, his beer.
🍔 Burger Battle: Classic vs Gourmet
You could just throw frozen patties on the grill… but why do that when you’ve got these two gems?
- The Classic Burger by Butter Be Tasty
No-frills, all-flavor. This one keeps it simple and satisfying—with the perfect smash, a buttered bun, and that “you did good” look from Dad after the first bite. - Grise’s Great Burger by Butter Be Tasty
A little more flair. A little more kick. A burger for dads who appreciate a twist (and maybe think they’re secret chefs).
🌶 For the Dad Who Likes It Hot
If he loves a little heat—and has been known to declare things “not spicy enough” while sweating—these are for him:
- Chipotle Honey Chicken Skewers by Belle of the Kitchen
Smoky, sweet, spicy. These skewers are summer-on-a-stick and pair perfectly with a cold drink. - Spicy Lime Shrimp with Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce by The Recipe Critic
If Dad’s a seafood lover, this one’s a must. Bonus: That avocado sauce is lick-the-bowl good.
🫑 Sides That Steal the Show
Even the meatiest meals need a little veggie love. These sides are not afterthoughts—they’ll actually have people going back for seconds (and asking for the recipe).
- Grilled Peppers with Basil Butter Bread Crumbs by How Sweet Eats
Charred peppers, buttery crumbs, and fresh basil? Yes. This is the side dish that low-key upstages the main course. - Really Good Pasta Salad by Inspired by Charm
It’s not just good. It’s really good. And it holds up perfectly next to anything hot off the grill.
🧡 Final Thought: It’s Not Just About the Food
Sure, the recipes matter. But so do the laughs, the grill-side beers, the dad jokes, and the maybe-too-intense lawn games. So here’s to full plates, full hearts, and full bellies this Father’s Day.
Cook something great. Or better yet, cook it with him.
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