Get ready to fire up the grill and dive into guilt-free cookout foods that will leave you and your guest’s taste buds dancing with joy. Summer is the season for backyard barbecues and outdoor gatherings, and we've got you covered with a fantastic lineup of healthy recipes that are sure to please everyone, from beginners to seasoned grill masters alike. 

No matter the occasion – be it a Super Bowl cookout, Labor Day or Memorial Day celebration, or a casual weekend backyard party with loved ones – our collection of timeless cookout dishes will make sure everyone can find a recipe they like. In this guide, you’ll discover everything from vibrant salads bursting with seasonal produce to juicy, lean proteins perfect for grilling. So get ready to impress your backyard bbq guests with a summer cookout menu that not only tastes amazing but also supports everyone’s health and well-being. Let's dig into these healthy cookout recipes and make this summer a memorable one filled with good food and great company.

Are you always short on time, but want to make healthy meals that your entire family will enjoy? The expert chefs at Hungryroot have crafted a wide variety of delicious recipes and healthy groceries delivered straight to your doorstep, so you can enjoy tasty meals and backyard cookouts even with a hectic schedule. Take their personalized quiz here and get personalized grocery and recipe recommendations just for you!

Our Favorite Cookout Menu Ideas

Main Meals

Smoky Hamburger with Caramelized Onions: Get ready to sink your teeth into the smoky flavors of our favorite cookout recipe featuring a juicy hamburger with caramelized onions. This dish features grass-fed ground beef burger patties grilled to your preference and then topped off with caramelized red onions, adding richness and depth to the flavors. Toasted organic whole-grain burger buns provide the perfect base for this mouthwatering masterpiece. To elevate the flavors, drizzle each burger with our smoky sweet hickory sauce. With just 460 calories per serving and 27 grams of protein, this burger is a healthy indulgence that will leave everyone craving more.

Chili Cheese Dog: Enjoy another healthy twist on an American BBQ classic – the hot dog. This chili cheese dog recipe features organic, grass-fed beef hot dogs nestled in toasted hot-dog buns. Top each hot dog bun with a generous serving of hearty and flavorful three-bean veggie chili and a generous serving of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. With just 440 calories per serving and 22 grams of protein, this indulgent treat is a must-have for any cookout!

Grass-fed BBQ Sloppy Joes: Explore the mouthwatering and sweet flavors of a classic American cookout dish, the BBQ sloppy joe. Seared grass-fed, beef burger patties are paired with a flavorful and tangy original BBQ sauce to create a rich and savory filling for your burger. Grilled or toasted whole grain buns create just the right base for these sloppy joes tying the dish together. Top each sandwich with a generous amount of bread and butter pickle slices for an extra kick. With just 410 calories per serving and a good balance of protein and fiber, this sloppy joe sandwich will be a crowd-pleaser at your next bbq.

Gluten-free BBQ Caramelized Onion Dog: This hot dog meal offers a low-carb, sweet, and savory twist on a cookout classic. Swap out traditional hot dog buns for cauliflower sandwich thins which are low in carbs and gluten-free. The cauliflower sandwich thins are toasted to a crispy perfection, serving as a delicious alternative base for your hot dog. Organic, grass-fed beef hot dogs are paired with sauteed, caramelized yellow onions and tangy, flavorful original barbecue sauce to create a mouthwatering, savory flavor. With just 270 calories and 13 grams of protein, everyone can enjoy this nutritious hot dog at your next neighborhood cookout.

At The Cookout Plant-based Burger: Get ready to fire up the grill and sink your teeth into the mouthwatering goodness of our "At The Cookout" plant-based burger. This sensational burger features the juicy and flavorful Beyond Meat patty, seasoned to perfection with a savory garlic and herb seasoning. Cooked until crispy, each bite is paired with our super blend salad featuring tender and vibrant veggies. Nestled between two whole-grain buns, this burger is a true delight. With just 380 calories per serving and 26 grams of protein, it's the perfect guilt-free, protein-packed indulgence to feature at your next cookout.

XL-Sirloin Steak Fajitas: These delicious, juicy fajitas will be the highlight of your upcoming gathering with loved ones. The tender, grass-fed sirloin steak takes center stage, expertly seasoned with our preferred taco blend. Combine the steak with a vibrant medley of sauteed bell peppers and onions, alongside grilled tortillas for a delicious feast. Let your guests personalize their fajitas with additional condiments like sour cream and avocado crema, providing a refreshing and zesty touch. With just 430 calories and 36 grams of protein, these fajitas represent a satisfying and health-conscious option for your cookout menu. 

Tzatziki Curry Carrot Dogs: If you're in search of a plant-based twist on a beloved cookout favorite - the hot dog - then you've come to the right place. Prepare to impress your guests with this nourishing carrot dog creation that is bound to leave a lasting impression. The spotlight shines on the roasted curry carrots which boast a perfect blend of spices. Nestled in a toasted organic hot dog bun, these flavor-packed carrots are complemented by the creamy and tangy dairy-free tzatziki. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal. With just 450 calories per serving and a healthy dose of fiber, this nourishing delight is a must-try for your next cookout or gathering.

Southwest Chicken Tacos with Rainbow Slaw: Infuse your upcoming cookout with a fiery flair by incorporating these chicken tacos. Southwest-style chicken patties are combined with toasted white corn tortillas. Elevate the experience with a vibrant and crispy medley of grilled rainbow veggies, a splash of freshly squeezed lime juice, and thinly sliced sautéed red onions. The result is a refreshing slaw that perfectly complements the southwestern flavors of the chicken tacos. With just 370 calories and 20 grams of protein per serving, these tacos offer an indulgent way to enjoy bold flavors, vibrant colors, and delightful textures – all in one meal.

Creamy Avo Veggie Burger + Sweet Potato Fries: For those seeking a plant-based or vegetarian option, this veggie burger recipe is a must-have addition to your cookout menu. The stars of the show are the crispy and flavorful sweet potato fries. The burger itself features delectable black bean patties, grilled to perfection. Once ready, assemble the patties between two toasted multigrain buns and elevate the flavor with a rich avocado crema sauce. Serve these flavorful burgers with sweet potato fries and your favorite sauces on the side. With just 570 calories per serving, this winning combination is a wholesome treat for any cookout.

Side Dishes

Kale Pesto Pasta Salad: This cookout side dish combines wholesome ingredients, bold flavors, and a fantastic serving of nutrition all in one bowl. This macaroni salad boasts wholesome chickpea pasta, tender baby broccoli, and a delightful sauteed corn black bean salad, all generously coated in a rich kale pesto. This pasta salad is incredibly versatile – serve it at room temperature or chilled, making it an ideal choice for a hot summer cookout. This pasta salad will keep everyone energized and full throughout the festivities.

Simplest Chicken Corn + Black Bean Pasta Salad: This simple, no-fuss recipe is perfect for days when you’re too busy to fully prep for a cookout. This pasta salad combines mini penne pasta, flavorful cucumber corn black bean salad, and seasoned grilled chicken breast to create a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. This salad is a protein-packed side dish that will keep everyone satisfied.

Buffalo Chicken Mac n’ Cheese: Let everyone indulge in the perfect combination of comfort food and bold cookout flavors with this creamy, all-time classic mac and cheese recipe. In just 6 minutes, you can enjoy a creamy and cheesy cauliflower macaroni paired with zesty buffalo sauce. Simply mix the pasta, cheese sauce, and buffalo sauce in a microwave-safe container and cook for 2-3 minutes. While it's cooking, sear the seasoned grilled chicken breasts and slice them before topping the mac 'n cheese. 

Stovetop Bison Chili: Experience the comfort of hearty and savory bison chili, perfect as a side dish that complements burgers, hot dogs, or mac and cheese, or simply enjoy it as a satisfying main course. Sautéed bell peppers and onions are simmered with seasoned ground bison, sauteed veggies, and Cuban black beans, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. For a finishing touch, top off with your favorite fresh herbs for extra flavor. The combination of these ingredients allows the flavors to meld together to create a perfect and tasty chili. With 520 calories and 42 grams of protein per serving, this chili is not only tasty but also nutritious. 

Desserts

Hungryroot Classic Fruit Salad: An easy-to-serve fruit salad that features a tasty combination of juicy pineapple, sweet cantaloupe, vibrant red grapes, and juicy blueberries. This vibrant and refreshing medley of fruits serves as a guilt-free and nutritious dessert option for any summer cookout, providing a refreshing treat to beat the heat.

Abe’s Golden Cornbread Mini Muffins: These cornbread muffins are perfectly bite-sized and offer a tasty balance of sweet and savory flavors. Not only are they incredibly tasty, but they also cater to a variety of dietary preferences as they are vegan, nut-free, and soy-free. Made with locally grown and ground cornmeal, they boast a delectable flavor that will transport you to the heart of comfort food heaven. Enjoy these muffins as a delightful side to a cookout chili or as an irresistible savory snack any time of the day.

Hungryroot Fresh Cut Melon Trio: This refreshing melon blend features juicy watermelon, sweet cantaloupe, and flavorful honeydew melon, all conveniently cut into spears for an easy and hydrating snack. Pair with the berries, for a nutritious and cooling snack on a warm weather day.

Wonder Monday Classic Plain Cheesecake: Let your cookout guests indulge in the luxurious and rich flavors of a classic dessert. This treat brings the timeless flavors of New York-style cheesecake to your cookout. What makes it even more special is that it’s not only vegetarian, but also gluten-free, grain-free, and keto-friendly! With 10 grams of protein and only 3 grams of net carbs, this is a nourishing dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds. 

Hail Merry Key Lime Cups: These bit-size key lime cups are a perfect vegan and gluten-free treat to serve on your next cookout dessert menu. Nestled within a delicate almond shortbread crust, the real magic lies in the creamy and zesty key lime filling. Made with shredded coconut, agave, generous amounts of lime juice, and a touch of coconut sugar for natural sweetness, each bite is a burst of tropical flavor. 

Getting Creative with Your Cookout Menu

Planning a cookout or BBQ doesn't have to be overwhelming, especially when it comes to catering to different tastes and preferences all while keeping the menu healthy. With this extensive recipe list and menu inspiration, you can create a cookout experience that satisfies everyone's cravings while still being nutritious! From delicious plant-based veggie burgers to mouthwatering grilled meats, there's something for everyone to enjoy. 

Whether you're looking for nutritious twists on classic favorites or exploring new flavors and ingredients, we hope that these recipes have opened up a gateway to culinary creativity. So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and start your culinary adventure that not only celebrates the joys of outdoor cooking but also nourishes your body with wholesome, healthy dishes. Happy grilling!

It's no secret that meal planning and grocery shopping can be time-consuming, leaving you with little time to focus on enjoying quality time with your loved ones at your next cookout. At Hungryroot, we take care of the hard work for you with our meal planning and healthy grocery delivery service. You can choose from a wide variety of clean, wholesome recipes that are easy to prepare and perfect for those who are always on the go. No more last-minute trips to the grocery store or unhealthy cookout options. Let Hungryroot help you stay on track and achieve your health and wellness goals, even with a busy schedule. Take our personalized quiz today, and see the difference for yourself!