Best Grilling Recipes - The Recipe Critic https://therecipecritic.com/grilled-recipes/ Tried and True Recipes for Families | Food Blog Wed, 25 Jun 2025 00:29:46 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://therecipecritic.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/cropped-favicon-32x32.png Best Grilling Recipes - The Recipe Critic https://therecipecritic.com/grilled-recipes/ 32 32 53477294 Balsamic Chicken Marinade https://therecipecritic.com/balsamic-chicken-marinade/ https://therecipecritic.com/balsamic-chicken-marinade/#comments Tue, 01 Jul 2025 12:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=305684 I’ve been on a balsamic kick lately. Drizzling it on salads, veggies, and even watermelon! But this Balsamic Chicken marinade…]]>

I’ve been on a balsamic kick lately. Drizzling it on salads, veggies, and even watermelon! But this Balsamic Chicken marinade is pure magic. It’s tangy, a little sweet, and makes everyday chicken taste incredible!

Overhead shot of grilled chicken that was cooked in balsamic chicken marinade.

Marinade Magic

  • Big Taste, Easy Prep: Balsamic chicken marinade packs bold, tangy flavor using just a few pantry staples.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Marinate ahead of time and then cook when you want. Perfect for quick weeknight meals or weekend grilling.
  • Cook Your Way: Grill it, pan-sear it, or roast it, this marinade performs like a champ no matter how you cook it up.
  • Pairs with Everything: Serve your balsamic chicken on salads, with veggies, rice, or pasta. It’s a tasty go-to for any meal!

Balsamic Chicken Marinade Ingredients

Overhead shot of labeled ingredients.
  • For sweetness: If you prefer brown sugar, it swaps in easily for the honey. Want it sweeter? Then add a tablespoon or two more of honey.
  • Add fresh herbs: Not into Italian seasoning? Skip it and toss in some chopped fresh herbs instead, about a teaspoon each. Rosemary, thyme, and oregano all play really well with balsamic.
  • Balsamic vinegar: No need to splurge here, affordable balsamic works perfectly since it gets mixed in. Save the fancy stuff for a drizzle on top when serving.

How to Make Balsamic Chicken Marinade

This easy balsamic chicken marinade takes 5 minutes to prepare! Just whisk the ingredients together and pour them into a large zip-top bag with your chicken!

  1. Combine: Add the chicken breasts to a gallon ziplock bag, then set aside. Add the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, garlic, mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to a medium bowl, mix until fully combined.
  2. Marinate: Pour the marinade over the chicken in the bag and close it. Be sure to press out all the air from the bag. Squish the chicken around to ensure all of it is covered with the marinade. Set it aside to marinate at room temperature for 1-1 ½ hours, or in the fridge for up to 8 hours. *Tip: Don’t marinate too long. If you do it over 8 hours (or 2 at room temp), the vinegar can make it mushy.
  3. Cook: Once finished marinating, discard the sauce and cook the chicken using your preferred cooking method. *Cooking instructions in recipe card below.
Marinade ingredients in a bowl.
Marinade in a bag with raw chicken breasts added to it and coated in the marinade.
Marinated chicken cooking on the grill.

Alyssa’s Pro Tip

Doubling Up? If you’re marinating more than 2 pounds of chicken, go ahead and double the recipe. Every piece of chicken deserves its fair share of balsamic chicken marinade flavor.

Freezing and Storing Cooked Chicken

  • Freezing: If you’re freezing the chicken in the balsamic chicken marinade, it’ll keep for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking.
  • Storing Cooked Chicken: Once cooked, you can then store the chicken in the fridge for up to 7 days, or freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. 
Print

Balsamic Chicken Marinade

This tangy-sweet balsamic chicken marinade comes together in minutes and works like magic whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing.
Course Dinner, entree, Main Course, main dish, marinade, pantry staple
Cuisine American, Italian, Italian American, Mediterranean
Keyword balsamic chicken cobb salad with pasta recipe, balsamic chicken marinade, balsamic chicken marinade recipe, balsamic chicken recipe, balsamic grilled chicken, balsamic marinade, balsamic marinade recipe, easy balsamic chicken marinade, easy balsamic marinade, Glazed Honey Balsamic Chicken with Potatoes, quick balsamic marinade
Prep Time 5 minutes
Marinating Time 1 hour
Servings 6 servings
Calories 267kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Equipment

  • large ziplock bag

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey optional
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic about 2 cloves
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

  • Add 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts to a gallon ziplock bag and set aside.
  • Add ½ cup balsamic vinegar, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon honey, 2 teaspoons minced garlic, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 ½ teaspoons salt, and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper to a medium bowl and mix until fully combined.
  • Pour the marinade over the chicken in the bag and close it carefully, pressing out all the air from the bag so the chicken is fully covered in the marinade.
  • Squish the chicken around to ensure all of it is covered with the marinade before setting it aside to marinate at room temperature for 1-1 ½ hours, or in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours.
  • Once finished marinating, discard the marinade and cook the chicken using your preferred cooking method.

Notes

Storage: Marinate the chicken for up to 8 hours; any longer and the vinegar can make it mushy. You can freeze the raw chicken in the marinade for up to 3 months, or store cooked chicken in the fridge for 7 days or in the freezer for 3 months.
Grill: Preheat the grill to medium heat, then grill the marinated chicken on both sides for 6-8 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. 
Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. 
Skillet: Cook the chicken in a large skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes on each side, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. 

Nutrition

Calories: 267kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 97mg | Sodium: 771mg | Potassium: 597mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 53IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 22mg | Iron: 1mg
Bag of raw chicken in the balsamic chicken marinade.

More Marinade Recipes

A good marinade can turn a simple meal into something amazing! It adds flavor, softens the meat, and makes it juicy and delicious. Here are some other tried and true favorites!

]]> https://therecipecritic.com/balsamic-chicken-marinade/feed/ 2 305684 Teriyaki Meatball Foil Packets https://therecipecritic.com/meatball-foil-packets/ https://therecipecritic.com/meatball-foil-packets/#comments Sun, 22 Jun 2025 12:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=304515 My meatball foil packets have juicy meatballs, sweet pineapple, colorful veggies, covered in sticky teriyaki sauce, and grilled to perfection.…]]>

My meatball foil packets have juicy meatballs, sweet pineapple, colorful veggies, covered in sticky teriyaki sauce, and grilled to perfection. Easy to make, fun to eat, and no dishes to wash! Yes, please!

Meatball foil packets with veggies and pineapple.

Packet Perfection

  • Sweet & Savory Combo: Tender meatballs meet caramelized pineapple and teriyaki sauce for bold, irresistible flavor.
  • Optional Cooking Methods: These are delicious whether you’re grilling at home or cooking under the stars. They work great in the oven, too!
  • Perfect for Prep or Travel: Make ahead and toss on the grill when you’re ready—ideal for busy nights or weekend getaways.

Teriyaki Meatball Foil Packet Ingredients

Overhead shot of labeled ingredients.
  • Meatballs: I used pre-cooked frozen beef meatballs from Costco to save time, but you can make my homemade meatball recipes as well!
  • Teriyaki Sauce: I love using my homemade teriyaki sauce, but you can use store bought if you’re in a time crunch.
  • Veggies: Cut your veggies into even pieces so they cook at the same rate. Feel free to mix it up; zucchini, mushrooms, and broccoli all work!
  • Pineapple: Be sure to drain the pineapple well if you’re using canned. Fresh pineapple or pineapple rings are also an option!

How to Make Meatball Foil Packets

Dinner doesn’t get easier than this! With just a few ingredients and zero cleanup, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table (or around the campfire!) in no time.

  1. Prepare and Assemble: Preheat the grill to medium heat, then cut heavy-duty aluminum foil into 4 large pieces, large enough to wrap around the meatballs and veggies. Place 8 meatballs in the center of each sheet of aluminum foil. Divide the pineapple chunks, chopped bell peppers, and the sliced red onion evenly into each packet. 
  2. Add the Sauce: Prepare Homemade Teriyaki Sauce or use your favorite store bought sauce. Drizzle ¼ cup of the sauce on top of each meatball and veggie mixture and slightly stir together.
  3. Fold and Seal: Bring the two longer sides of the foil together and seal tightly, then fold in the shorter edges of the foil, making sure there are no openings or gaps.
  4. Cook: Place the packets onto the hot grill and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the meatballs are warmed through. To serve, carefully open packets, then garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve meatball foil packets over cooked rice, if desired!
Veggies, pineapple, and meatballs in the middle of the piece of foil.
Teriyaki sauce drizzled over the meat and veggies.
Someone sealing up the foil packets.
Foil Packets placed on the grill.

Alyssa’s Pro Tip

Use heavy-duty foil and seal your meatball foil packets tightly with no gaps. This prevents leaks on the grill and locks in steam for juicy, perfectly cooked meatballs.

Meatball Foil Packet Cooking Methods

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 375ºF. Place the sealed foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through.
  • Grill: Preheat the grill to medium high heat. Place the foil packets directly on the grill grates and cook for 15-20 minutes.
  • Campfire: Place the foil packets over medium hot coals in a campfire or fire pit. Cook for 15–20 minutes, rotating occasionally for even cooking.
Overhead shot of plated teriyaki meatball foil packets.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

  • In the Refrigerator: These meatball foil packets are best served right away! Transfer the cooked meatball packets into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • To Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or toss in the air fryer for a quick option that crisps up the edges.
Print

Teriyaki Meatball Foil Packets

Easy, meatball foil packets with juicy meatballs, veggies, and sweet teriyaki sauce. Great on the grill, in the oven, or over a campfire!
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Keyword campfire foil packets, Hawaiian meatball foil packets, meatball foil packets recipe, teriyaki meatball foil packets
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 385kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

  • 32 frozen meatballs
  • 1 (20-ounce) canned pineapple chunks, drained
  • 1 chopped red bell pepper
  • 1 chopped orange bell pepper
  • 1 small sliced red onion
  • 1 cup Homemade Teriyaki Sauce or store-bought
  • chopped green onion for garnish
  • sesame seeds for garnish
  • cooked rice optional for serving

Instructions

  • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cut heavy-duty aluminum foil into 4 large pieces, large enough to wrap around the meatballs and veggies.
  • Divide the 32 frozen meatballs by placing 8 meatballs in the center of each sheet of aluminum foil. Divide 1 (20-ounce) canned pineapple chunks, 1 chopped red bell pepper, 1 chopped orange bell pepper, and 1 small sliced red onion evenly into each packet.
  • Prepare 1 cup Homemade Teriyaki Sauce or use your favorite store-bought sauce. Drizzle ¼ cup of the sauce on top of each meatball and veggie mixture.
  • Fold and seal the packets. Bring the two longer sides of the foil together and seal tightly. Next fold in the shorter edges of the foil, making sure there are no openings or gaps.
  • Place the packets onto the hot grill and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the meatballs are warmed through. To serve, carefully open packets and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over cooked rice, if desired!

Video

Notes

Storage: Teriyaki Meatball Foil Packets are best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat at 350ºF in the oven or pop them in the air fryer to crisp up!

Nutrition

Calories: 385kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 81mg | Sodium: 2824mg | Potassium: 649mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 1871IU | Vitamin C: 79mg | Calcium: 44mg | Iron: 3mg

More Foil Packet Recipes

These meatball foil packet dinners are such a game changer! Cleanup is a breeze, they’re packed with flavor, and they cook up quickly. Here are some of our other favorite foil packet meals.

]]> https://therecipecritic.com/meatball-foil-packets/feed/ 1 304515 Easy Grilled Pizza https://therecipecritic.com/grilled-pizza/ https://therecipecritic.com/grilled-pizza/#comments Tue, 13 May 2025 12:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=66537 I’m all about pizza and grilling, so when I can combine the two, it’s a win. The grill gives pizza…]]>

I’m all about pizza and grilling, so when I can combine the two, it’s a win. The grill gives pizza that smoky, crispy flavor you can’t get from the oven. Trust me, this grilled pizza will have you hooked!

Overhead shot of grilled pizza.

Why This Is the Best Thing You’ll Make All Summer

  • Customize it your way. Your kids will love getting to make their own pizza the way they like! Load it up with meats, veggies, herbs, or whatever your crew’s into.
  • Outdoor Vibes! Because grilling + pizza + sunshine is the ultimate trifecta. I love spending time with my family by the pool, munching on this pizza.
  • No pizza oven? No problem. Your backyard grill brings that crispy, smoky flavor that tastes straight out of a fancy pizzeria!

Ingredients Needed

Overhead shot of labeled ingredients.
  • Sauce: Try creamy Alfredo sauce in place of classic red pizza sauce.
  • Cheese: You can use any cheese you like, as long as it melts well.
  • Toppings: Top this pizza with whatever you love or have on hand. Use meats like pepperoni and sausage, greens like spinach and basil, or veggies like bell peppers, olives, mushrooms, and onions!
  • Dough: You can use store-bought or make your own homemade pizza dough.

How to Make Pizza on the Grill

Pizza is one of my favorite foods, but it has to be actually good. This grilled pizza recipe makes me feel like I’m eating at a fancy pizza place. It’s great to make on hot days when you don’t want to heat up your kitchen.

  1. Prep: Preheat the grill to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oil them. Roll the pizza dough out and brush it with olive oil.
  2. Grill Rolled Out Dough: Place the pizza dough, oiled side down, on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the underside has grill marks.
  3. Add Sauce, Cheese, and Toppings: Remove the pizza crust from the grill and then lay it, grill side up, on a work surface. Spread the pizza sauce on the crust, followed by the mozzarella cheese, then pepperoni, or whatever toppings you like.
  4. Grill and Serve: Place the topped pizza back on the grill, reduce the heat to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, then grill until the cheese is melted and toppings are toasted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the grill, then top with fresh basil, cut, and serve fresh!
Pizza dough rolled out into a circle.
Pizza dough on the grill.
Partially grilled pizza dough with sauce, cheese and pepperoni on it.
Topped pizza on top of the grill, raw side down.

Alyssa’s Pro Tip

Grill Prep: If you want to prevent the pizza dough from sticking, then I suggest cleaning the grill well and lightly oiling it.

Overhead shot of grilled pizza cut into slices.

How to Store Grilled Pizza

  • In the Fridge: Store leftover pizza in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • In the Freezer: Make some pizzas and freeze them for another night! I love getting these out for my kids on date night. Store in the freezer in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
  • Storing raw dough: Wrap dough in plastic wrap and store for 4-5 days.

More Fun Pizza Recipes To Try

If you’re a fan of making pizza at home, try my homemade calzone recipe and these other fun and delicious recipes! Let me know which one you liked best!

Print

Grilled Pizza Recipe

This grilled pizza delivers big flavor with a crispy crust and smoky finish. You can top it however you like!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian American
Keyword grilled pizza, grilled pizza recipe, pizza recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 16 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 202kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

  • 1 pizza dough,  homemade or store-bought
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons pizza sauce
  • ½ cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
  • pepperoni
  • fresh basil

Instructions

  • Preheat the grill to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oil them.
  • Roll the 1 pizza dough,  out and brush it with 2 teaspoons olive oil.
  • Place the pizza dough, oiled side down, on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the underside has grill marks.
  • Remove the pizza crust from the grill and lay it, grill side up, on a work surface. Spread the 3 tablespoons pizza sauce on the crust, followed by the ½ cup shredded Mozzarella cheeseand pepperoni.
  • Place the topped pizza back on the grill, reduce the heat to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, and grill until the cheese is melted and toppings are toasted, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Remove from the grill, top with fresh basil, cut into 6 slices, and serve fresh!

Notes

Updated May 8, 2025

Nutrition

Calories: 202kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 565mg | Potassium: 29mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 96IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 48mg | Iron: 2mg
]]> https://therecipecritic.com/grilled-pizza/feed/ 2 66537 Homemade BBQ Seasoning https://therecipecritic.com/homemade-bbq-seasoning/ https://therecipecritic.com/homemade-bbq-seasoning/#respond Tue, 29 Apr 2025 12:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=298738 My homemade BBQ seasoning brings bold, smoky flavor to just about anything! It’s the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and…]]>

My homemade BBQ seasoning brings bold, smoky flavor to just about anything! It’s the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and just a little kick, ready to shake onto chicken, veggies, ribs, and more.

Overhead shot of a jar of homemade BBQ seasoning with a small wooden spoon.

Why You’ll Want to Keep This on Hand

  • Big flavor, few ingredients: Just a few pantry spices turn into a tasty blend that you can use all BBQ season long!
  • Totally customizable: Dial up the heat or sweetness to make it your own.
  • Use it on EVERYTHING: Perfect for grilling, roasting, or seasoning snacks like popcorn and roasted nuts!

BBQ Seasoning Ingredients

Overhead shot of labeled ingredients.
  • Paprika: Use smoked paprika for a more smoky flavor.
  • Sugar: Brown sugar adds a sweet balance, but feel free to cut it back if you want more spice than sweet in your bbq rub.
  • Spice level: This blend’s got a little kick—skip or reduce the cayenne pepper if you’re not into the heat.

How to Make BBQ Seasoning

Get ready to level up your grilling game! This easy BBQ seasoning mix comes together in minutes and brings rich, smoky depth with a touch of sweetness to everything you add it to!

  1. Add Spices: In a small bowl, add paprika, brown sugar, kosher salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
  2. Mix: Whisk all of the ingredients together until evenly mixed, then store in an airtight container.
Overhead shot of all of the ingredients in piles in a bowl.
A bowl with all of the ingredients whisked together.

How to Store Homemade Seasoning

This is great to have in the spice cabinet to add great flavor to so many different recipes.

  • Storing: Store your homemade seasoning in a spice jar or an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
  • How long does BBQ Seasoning Last? If you make sure it is in an airtight container, it will keep at room temperature for 1 year.
Two steaks seasoned with homemade bbq seasoning.

How Do I Use BBQ Seasoning?

This spice blend is great for meat rubs, seasoning vegetables, steak, pork, shrimp, and more. Here are a few more options for you to try!

Print

Homemade BBQ Seasoning Recipe

Smoky, sweet, and made with clean ingredients—this easy BBQ seasoning has your back for whatever the kids will actually eat tonight.
Course condiment
Cuisine American
Keyword bbq seasoning, bbq seasoning recipe, bbq spice mix, bbq spice rub, homemade bbq seasoning
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 8 tablespoons
Calories 27kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, add 3 tablespoons paprika, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon kosher salt, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 2 teaspoons onion powder, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper.
  • Whisk all of the ingredients together until evenly mixed. Store in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Calories: 27kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 892mg | Potassium: 103mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1643IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 16mg | Iron: 1mg
]]> https://therecipecritic.com/homemade-bbq-seasoning/feed/ 0 298738 Homemade Steak Sauce https://therecipecritic.com/homemade-steak-sauce/ https://therecipecritic.com/homemade-steak-sauce/#comments Sun, 26 Jan 2025 13:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=280555 This A-1 copycat homemade steak sauce recipe is slightly sweet with a delicious tang from the vinegar. It’s perfect for…]]>

This A-1 copycat homemade steak sauce recipe is slightly sweet with a delicious tang from the vinegar. It’s perfect for drizzling over your favorite cut of tender, juicy meat.

Angle shot of someone dipping a piece of steak into the homemade steak sauce.

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: There are only a few simple ingredients that go into this amazing sauce, and you probably already have them in your pantry.
  • Customizable: You can easily adjust this homemade steak sauce recipe to suit your taste preferences.
  • Versatile: This sauce goes well with any steak you whip up, whether it’s a ribeye, T-bone, New York strip, skirt steak, or tuna steak.

Rich, Bold, Savory Steak Sauce

You will love the depth of flavor this homemade sauce gives any steak you make. If you like A-1, you will love this even more. It is similar, but will have ingredients you know and trust. Combined, they make the most incredible steaks taste even better! Trust me, you will want to have this on hand any time you make steaks!

Ingredients Needed

How to Make Homemade Steak Sauce

This steak sauce recipe is just as good or better than A-1 steak sauce. I love being able to adjust the ingredients to use more of what I like and make it taste exactly how I want.

  1. Combine: In a mixing bowl, add the Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, mustard powder, pepper, and salt.
  2. Stir: Whisk everything together and then serve or store right away.
Overhead shot of all of the ingredients in a bowl.
Angle shot of ingredients whisked together in a bowl.
Side shot of homemade steak sauce in a bottle.

Tips and Variations

This homemade steak sauce recipe is very straightforward. But you can always adjust something like this to make it suit your tastes. Here are some ideas to get you started.

  • Let it Sit: You can use this sauce right away, but I recommend letting it sit for a couple of hours to allow the flavors to meld together. Shake well before using. 
  • Make it Spicy: If you want to, you can add some spice to this sauce by adding cayenne pepper to it.

Storing Steak Sauce

The nice thing about this homemade steak sauce is that will last you a couple of months! Here are the instructions for how to give it the longest shelf life.

  • Fridge: You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 months. 
  • Freezer: I don’t recommend freezing this sauce, it keeps for a long time in the fridge and will be best kept there.
Overhead shot of a plate with steak next to broccoli, and a small bowl of homemade steak sauce.

More Steak Sauces and Marinades

Most of the time, I like to make my steak with a simple marinade. But there are those special occasions when I like an incredibly flavorful sauce with my steak. Like when I make Steak Frites. Here are a few of my favorites!

Print

Homemade Steak Sauce

This A-1 copycat homemade steak sauce recipe is slightly sweet with a delicious tang from the vinegar. It's perfect for drizzling over your favorite cut of tender, juicy meat.
Course Dressing, Sauce
Cuisine American
Keyword copycat A 1, homemade steak sauce, steak sauce, steak sauce recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 4 ounces
Calories 26kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  • In a mixing bowl add the ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon ketchup, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon ground mustard, ¼ teaspoon pepper, and Salt to taste.
  • Whisk to mix everything together and serve or store right away.

Nutrition

Calories: 26kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 0.4g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.03g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 321mg | Potassium: 164mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 21IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 24mg | Iron: 1mg
]]> https://therecipecritic.com/homemade-steak-sauce/feed/ 3 280555 Grilled Tri-Tip https://therecipecritic.com/grilled-tri-tip/ https://therecipecritic.com/grilled-tri-tip/#respond Thu, 18 Jul 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=259582 Grilled Tri-Tip is a flavorful, juicy steak that will be the star of your barbecue! It’s marinated in a simple,…]]>

Grilled Tri-Tip is a flavorful, juicy steak that will be the star of your barbecue! It’s marinated in a simple, yet tasty marinade, then grilled to perfection. Serve with my sweet and savory chimichurri sauce and your favorite sides for an impressive meal that everyone will love!

If you’re looking for what sides to serve alongside this tri-tip, we’ve got you covered! Try our cool and creamy classic potato salad, chilled cucumber tomato salad and the best baked beans. As the temperatures warm up, you’ll want these delicious side dishes at every cookout!

Overhead shot of grilled tri-tip that has a few slices taken off and a small bowl of chimichuri sauce next to it.

Reasons You Will Love This Recipe

  • Wonderfully Tender and Tasty: This grilled tri-tip is rich with flavor, and will satisfy all of your steak cravings!
  • Easy Recipe: Grilling a well-seasoned steak is soeasy and doesn’t take too much time either! Once this has time to marinate, it can be on the table in less than 15 minutes.
  • Perfect for Backyard BBQs: Pair this with a fresh, crisp broccoli salad, a vibrant fruit salad and grilled corn. Don’t forget dessert!

Grilled Tri-Tip

Tri-tip is a delicious cut of beef! It’s less expensive than other steaks such as the rib-eye, but it’s just as flavorful. It has plenty of great marbling (fat running through the meat), which makes it really juicy and tender as long as you don’t overcook it.

Ingredients Needed

This grilled tri-tip is marinated in a mix of simple yet really flavorful ingredients. In fact, you may already have everything you need in your kitchen right now! To get started, check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

  • Tri-Tip Steak: Because a tri-tip steak has more fat, it will be much more flavorful than top sirloin. Two to three pounds of tri-tip will feed approximately 4 people.

Marinade

  • Olive Oil: Adds moisture for maximum juiciness.
  • Fresh Lime Juice: The acidity that will help to tenderize the meat.
  • Soy Sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor.
  • Brown Sugar: Gives the marinade a hint of sweetness that then balances the more savory ingredients.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Has a sweet, tangy, and spiced flavor that really adds something special to the marinade.
  • Fresh Garlic: A must in any good marinade!
  • Onion Powder: For savory onion flavor.
  • Italian Seasoning: I love to make my own Italian seasoning, but you can certainly use store-bought.
  • Cracked Black Pepper & Kosher Salt: To bring out and enhance all of the flavors.
Overhead shot of labeled ingredients in separate bowls.

How to Make Grilled Tri-Tip Steak

After trying this incredible tri-tip steak, the whole family will be requesting it on repeat. Lucky for you, it takes very little effort to prep! In addition, it only needs 10 minutes on the grill!

  1. Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the marinade ingredients.
  2. Marinate the Steak: First, place 2-3 pounds of tri-tip steak in a gallon-sized sealable plastic bag. Next, pour your marinade into the bag. Then, marinate for one hour or up to 24 hours.
  3. Prep: Preheat the grill to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the meat from the bag, place it on the hot grill, then discard the bag and any leftover marinade.
  4. Grill the Steak: Sear the meat on both sides over direct heat, about 5 minutes per side. Next, move the meat to the section of your grill with indirect heat. Cover the grill lid and turn the meat as needed to cook through. Cook until the instant-read meat thermometer reads 130 degrees Fahrenheit when inserted in the thickest part for medium rare. Feel free to cook the tri-tip to reach your preferred doneness.
  5. Rest the Meat: Remove the tri-tip from the grill and allow the meat to rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. Slice the meat against the grain and enjoy!
Overhead shot of marinade ingredients in a glass bowl.
Add the marinade ingredients to a bowl.
Overhead shot of whisked together marinade ingredients.
Whisk the marinade to combine.
Close up shot of raw tri-tip in large zip-loc with marinade being poured over it.
Pour the marinade into the bag and marinate before grilling.
Angle shot of grilled tri-tip.
Grill the tri-tip.

Tips and Variations

Follow these tips and variation ideas, so that your steak turns out absolutely perfect!

  • Change the Juice: Try using lemon juice or orange juice in place of the lime juice!
  • Soy Sauce Substitutions: Low-sodium soy sauce can also be used in place of soy sauce. For a gluten-free option, use tamari!
  • Internal Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to know precisely when the steak has reached your desired temperature. When inserted in the thickest part of the meat, the instant-read thermometer should read 130 degrees Fahrenheit for a medium-rare steak. For medium doneness, you’ll want it to be between 140 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit, and for medium well, you want your steak to be 150 to 155 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Let it Rest: It’s important to let your steak rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing into it. This allows time for the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. If you cut into it as soon as it comes off the grill, all of the wonderful flavor will end up on your plate instead of inside the meat.
  • Sauces to Serve With Tri-Tip: Serve with my tasty chimichurri sauce! For a creamy sauce, try my homemade horseradish sauce.
Close up shot of slicing the meat.

Storing Leftover Tri-Tip

This grilled tri-tip makes fantastic leftovers. You can easily reheat slices for a sandwich or salad the next day.

  • Refrigerate: Once the steak is completely cool, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for 3-4 days.
  • Reheat: To warm the leftover steak and keep it from becoming dry, heat it low and slow. Use the oven and warm it up at 200 to 250 degrees F, until heated through.
Overhead shot of chimichurri sauce being poured over slices of meat on a plate.

More Grilled Steak Recipes

Grilled steak is on repeat at our house this time of year! We simply cannot get enough! Here are a few more of my favorite tried and true steak recipes that we love.

Print

Grilled Tri-Tip

Grilled Tri-Tip is a flavorful, juicy steak that will be the star of your barbecue! It's marinated in a simple, yet tasty marinade, then grilled to perfection. Serve with my sweet and savory chimichurri sauce and your favorite sides for an impressive meal that everyone will love!
Course Dinner, Main Course, main dish, marinade
Keyword grilled tri-tip, tri tip marinade
Prep Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 541kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

  • 2-3 pounds tri-tip steak

Marinade

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Kosher salt

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, whisk 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup fresh lime juice, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 2 teaspoons fresh garlic, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper, and 1 tablespoon Kosher salt.
  • Place 2-3 pounds tri-tip steak in a gallon-sized sealable plastic bag. Pour your marinade into the bag and marinate for one hour or up to 24 hours.
  • Preheat the grill to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Remove the meat from the bag, place it on the hot grill, then discard the bag and any leftover marinade.
  • Sear the meat on both sides over direct heat, about 5 minutes per side. Next, move the meat to the section of your grill with indirect heat. Cover the grill lid and turn the meat as needed to cook through. Cook until the instant-read thermometer reads 130 degrees Fahrenheit when inserted in the thickest part for medium rare. Feel free to cook the tri-tip to reach your preferred doneness.
  • Remove the tri-tip from the grill and allow the meat to rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. Slice the meat against the grain and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 541kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 48g | Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 20g | Cholesterol: 150mg | Sodium: 2479mg | Potassium: 866mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 38IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 103mg | Iron: 5mg
]]> https://therecipecritic.com/grilled-tri-tip/feed/ 0 259582 Grilled Bourbon Steak https://therecipecritic.com/grilled-bourbon-steak/ https://therecipecritic.com/grilled-bourbon-steak/#respond Sun, 16 Jun 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=256113 Fire up the grill for these mouthwatering Grilled Bourbon Steaks! Marinated in a blend of whiskey, brown sugar, and savory…]]>

Fire up the grill for these mouthwatering Grilled Bourbon Steaks! Marinated in a blend of whiskey, brown sugar, and savory spices, these steaks are sure to be a hit at your next barbecue.

It’s grilling season, and I couldn’t be more excited! Make this a complete meal by serving this steak with some delicious grilled sides like grilled corn, grilled vegetable kabobs and watermelon for your next BBQ.

Sliced bourbon steak on a plate.

Reasons You Will Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Simple: Making grilled bourbon steak is so easy! Once these have marinated, they can be ready to serve in less than 15 minutes.
  • Perfectly Tender and Juicy: This bourbon marinade will tenderize the ribeyes, so that they are super moist with incredible flavor.
  • Balanced Flavor: The marinade is deliciously balanced with sweet, savory and tangy flavors. Even if you’re not a fan of drinking bourbon, you will LOVE the marinade!
  • Great for Summer BBQs: Serve this with a delicious summer salad, veggies and some fruit for a backyard BBQ meal everyone will love!

Ingredients Needed

This grilled bourbon steak recipe only requires a handful of simple ingredients. Once you whip up the marinade and let your steak marinate for 1-4 hours, then you are on your way to juicy, flavorful ribeyes! Check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

  • Ribeye Steaks: Choose ribeye steaks with plenty of marbling. This will ensure that they are nice and tender after being cooked. If you want to know about other cuts of meat and substitutions, see my post about that here.
  • Bourbon Whiskey: Any brand will work to add flavor and break down the enzymes in the meat, yielding a tender, juicy steak!
  • Brown Sugar: Balances the tanginess of the bourbon, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce with a hint of sweetness.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds bright flavor and also helps to tenderize the meat.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Includes a blend of vinegar, garlic, chiles, molasses and more for a wonderful umami taste.
  • Garlic: 3 cloves of freshly minced garlic will infuse the steak with savory flavor.
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste!
A top view of all of the ingredients individually laid out on a counter and labeled.

How to Make Grilled Bourbon Steak

Grilled bourbon steaks are really simple to make, and they are loaded with a big punch of flavor! Just be sure to plan enough time for the marinating and resting time. It will be just enough time to make my cheesy baked Tennessee Onions!

  1. Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the whiskey, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt and pepper.
  2. Marinate the Steaks: Pour the marinade into a sealable bag, add the steaks to the bag and seal it shut. Allow the steaks to marinate for between 1-4 hours in the fridge.
  3. Heat the Grill: While the steak is marinating, heat a grill up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. When the steaks have marinated, remove them from the fridge and allow them to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. Remove the steaks from the bag and discard the marinade.
  4. Grill the Steaks: Brush the grill with oil and grill the steaks about 4-5 minutes per side. The internal temperature should reach between 120-155 degrees fahrenheit, depending on how rare you’d like the steak to be.
  5. Let Rest and Serve: Remove the grilled steaks from the grill and place on a clean plate to cool for at least 5 minutes before serving.
Marinade in a glass bowl.
Mix the marinade.
Steak added to the marinade in a ziplock bag.
Marinate the steak.
Raw meat added to the grill.
Heat the grill and grill the steak for 4-5 minutes.
Bourbon steak being cooked on the grill.
Flip the steak and cook to the desired doneness.

Tips for the Best Grilled Bourbon Steak

  • Other Steak Varieties: You can also use strip steak or New York steak for this recipe.
  • Cooking the Steak: Pay attention to how long you cook your steak to have it cooked to your preferred doneness. My steaks were 1-inch thick and I ended up cooking them for 4 minutes on each side at 400 degrees on the grill and they came out medium.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: Using a thermometer is the best way to know when the steak has reached your desired temperature. Refer to my graphic in this guide for how to ribeye for temperatures of each level of steak doneness. You’ll also find more tips and tricks listed!
  • Allow Steak to Rest: For the juiciest, most tender steak, be sure to rest the ribeye after cooking. This allows the juices to reabsorb and distribute throughout the meat.
A close up of grilled bourbon steak on a plate.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Ribeye Steak

Grilled bourbon steak stores and reheats really well for an easy lunch or dinner the next day! You can even freeze it for later!

  • In the Refrigerator: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
  • In the Freezer: You can either wrap your steak in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container. It will stay good for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: First, thaw your steak overnight in the fridge. Next, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. You can then warm it up in a skillet until internal temperatures reach at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Steak and potatoes on a plate, ready to eat.

More Irresistible Steak Recipes

Looking for more perfectly cooked, flavorful steak recipes? You are going to love these other juicy, incredible steaks. They are all so easy to make and are all tried and true recipes that my family enjoys all the time!

Print

Grilled Bourbon Steak

Fire up the grill for these mouthwatering Grilled Bourbon Steaks! Marinated in a blend of whiskey, brown sugar, and savory spices, these steaks are sure to be a hit at your next barbecue.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword bourbon steak, grilled bourbon steak, grilled steak
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 642kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

  • 2 ribeye steaks, 1 inch thick
  • ⅔ cup bourbon whiskey
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together ⅔ cup bourbon whiskey, 1 cup brown sugar, ¼ cup apple cider vinegar, ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce, 3 cloves garlic,and salt and pepper to taste.
  • Pour the marinade into a sealable bag, add 2 ribeye steaks, to the bag and seal it shut. Allow the steaks to marinate for between 1-4 hours in the fridge.
  • While the steak is marinating, heat a grill up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. When the steaks have marinated, remove them from the fridge and allow them to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. Remove the steaks from the bag and discard the marinade.
  • Brush the grill with oil and grill the steaks about 4-5 minutes per side. The internal temperature should reach between 120-155 degrees fahrenheit, depending on how rare you’d like the steak to be.
  • Remove the grilled steaks from the grill and place on a clean plate to cool for at least 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 642kcal | Carbohydrates: 116g | Protein: 0.4g | Fat: 0.03g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 481mg | Potassium: 463mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 110g | Vitamin A: 28IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 138mg | Iron: 3mg
]]> https://therecipecritic.com/grilled-bourbon-steak/feed/ 0 256113 Blue Cheese Burger https://therecipecritic.com/blue-cheese-burger/ https://therecipecritic.com/blue-cheese-burger/#respond Sun, 09 Jun 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=255178 Get ready to be blown away by this Blue Cheese Burger! It’s thick, juicy, and filled with flavor. If you…]]>

Get ready to be blown away by this Blue Cheese Burger! It’s thick, juicy, and filled with flavor. If you love blue cheese dressing, this recipe is for you! That unique tangy flavor is the perfect addition to the juiciest patty ever.

I love creating new and different burgers at home! They turn out even more delicious than what you can get at your local burger joint. If you’re looking to switch things up, try these recipes next: smash burgers, mushroom Swiss burgers, or Oklahoma fried onion burgers!

Side view of a burger with blue cheese dressing, bacon, lettuce tomato and onion on a crispy bun. All atop a wood cutting board with blue cheese crumbles.

Reasons You’ll LOVE This Burger Recipe

  • So Delicious: The combination of creamy, tangy blue cheese with the savoriness of the bacon and hamburger patty is truly a match made in heaven.
  • Versatile: You can easily cook this on a skillet OR a grill! Enjoy these burgers, no matter what the season! 
  • Quick and easy: These are so simple to make! You can have a hot, fat blue cheese burger ready in just about 30 minutes.

What You Need to Make Blue Cheese Burgers

Here is everything you’ll need to make this amazing blue cheese burger recipe. Grab some basic ingredients like ground beef, blue cheese, bacon, buns and your favorite fixings. Serve them up with some In-N-Out Animal-Style Fries for a complete meal! You can find the exact measurements below in the recipe card.

  • Blue Cheese: The star of the show! Blue cheese dressing and blue cheese crumbles add a distinct, yet delicious tangy flavor.
  • Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef to give these burgers maximum flavor!
  • Salt and Pepper: To enhance and bring out all of the flavors.
  • Buns: You can use regular hamburger buns, brioche buns, ciabatta or whole wheat buns. 
  • Butter: For toasting the buns and making them deliciously buttery.
  • Butter Lettuce: Adds extra texture and freshness.
  • Red Onion: I like red onions best on burgers because they are milder and less pungent than white or yellow onions, plus they add a pop of color.
  • Tomatoes: Choose meaty large-sized tomatoes for burgers and slice them into rings.
  • Bacon: Salty and savory, crispy cooked bacon is so good on almost any burger!
Overhead view of ingredients with labels.

How to Make Blue Cheese Burgers

These blue cheese burgers are super easy to make! Start by mixing the blue cheese topping, then cook the meat and assemble. Follow the simple step-by-step instructions and you’ll have juicy burgers in no time!

  1. Make the Blue Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the blue cheese dressing and the blue cheese crumbles, don’t break the crumbles down too much. Cover and place in the fridge while you prepare the rest of the burger.
  2. Prep: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal balls and shape into patties. Heat a griddle or cast iron skillet up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  3. Cook the Patties: Place two patties on the hot griddle or skillet and season with salt and pepper. You can cook all of the patties at the same time if they all fit on the griddle.
  4. Prep the Buns: Cook the burgers 2-3 minutes on each side. Once the patties are cooked, butter and toast the buns on the same skillet.
  5. Assemble: Assemble from the bottom up; starting with a toasted bun spread the mayo, then lettuce, onion, tomato, bacon, hamburger patty, a generous helping of the blue cheese mixture, and the top bun.
Overhead view of blue cheese dressing in a bowl.
Mix together the blue cheese dressing and blue cheese crumbles then refrigerate.
Overhead view of 4 raw beef patties on cookie sheet.
Cook the burgers on a griddle or grill.
Overhead view of hamburger buns on a griddle being toasted.
Butter and toast the buns.
Side view of blue cheese burgers with all of the toppings without the top bun.
Assemble the burgers.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips to keep in mind when you are making blue cheese burgers, and also some ways to customize them to your taste preference.

  • Use a Different Patty: This recipe works great swapping the regular patty out for a turkey or veggie burger, for a vegetarian option just leave out the bacon and use a veggie burger.
  • Prep the Toppings: I recommend preparing the toppings before cooking the patties, so they are all ready to go as soon as the burgers are cooked.
  • Don’t Press: You might be tempted to press down on the patties while cooking, but this will squeeze out all of the juiciness that is meant to be inside the meat.
  • Let it Rest: Let the hamburger meat rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to distribute throughout the patty.
  • Check for Doneness: The temperature of ground beef is ready to eat when it reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit. You can check this by using a meat thermometer!
Overhead shot of burgers without top bun loaded with blue cheese dressing.

Storing Leftovers

These Blue Cheese Burgers obviously taste the best fresh, but it never hurts to have a few extra patties on hand to reheat and eat over the next few days!

  • Store the Ingredients Separately: Leftover patties and toppings should be stored in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. 
  • In the Refrigerator: The bleu cheese mixture will keep for 1 week.
  • To Reheat Leftover Burgers: Reheat burgers over the stove on medium heat until warmed through or pop them in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
Close up side view of burger dripping with blue cheese dressing, toasted bun, lettuce, tomato, bacon and red onion.

What to Serve With Your Burger

Blue cheese burgers are great on their own or just with a pickle and some chips on the side. However, if you really want to enhance your burger experience, try making some of these easy sides!

Print

Blue Cheese Burger

Get ready to be blown away by this Blue Cheese Burger! It's thick, juicy, and filled with flavor. If you love blue cheese dressing, this recipe is for you! That unique tangy flavor is the perfect addition to the juiciest patty ever.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword blue cheese burger, blue cheese dressing
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 795kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

  • ⅓ cup blue cheese dressing
  • ⅓ cup blue cheese crumbles
  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • butter for toasting buns
  • butter lettuce
  • red onion, sliced into ¼ inch rings
  • tomatoes, sliced into ¼ inch rounds
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked
  • mayonnaise, optional

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, mix together ⅓ cup blue cheese dressing and ⅓ cup blue cheese crumblesdon't break the crumbles down too much. Cover and place in the fridge while you prepare the rest of the burger.
  • Divide 1 ½ pounds ground beef into 4 equal balls and shape into patties. Heat a griddle or cast iron skillet up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Place two patties on the hot griddle or skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste. You can cook all of the patties at the same time if they all fit on your griddle.
  • Cook the burgers 2-3 minutes on each side. Once the patties are cooked, butter and toast the 4 hamburger buns on the same skillet.
  • Assemble from the bottom up; starting with a toasted bun spread mayonnaise, then butter lettuce, red onion, tomatoes, two of the 8 slices bacon, a hamburger patty, a generous helping of the blue cheese mixture, and the top bun. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 795kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 42g | Fat: 58g | Saturated Fat: 22g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 24g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 158mg | Sodium: 939mg | Potassium: 629mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 103IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 172mg | Iron: 5mg
]]> https://therecipecritic.com/blue-cheese-burger/feed/ 0 255178 5-Minute Burger Sauce https://therecipecritic.com/burger-sauce/ https://therecipecritic.com/burger-sauce/#comments Mon, 03 Jun 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=255703 This burger sauce is a game-changer for your cookouts, adding a delicious twist to your favorite meals. Whip it up…]]>

This burger sauce is a game-changer for your cookouts, adding a delicious twist to your favorite meals. Whip it up in minutes and enjoy a flavorful blend that’s perfect for burgers or as a dip for fries.

My family is obsessed with this special sauce! I cannot wait for you to enjoy it yourself. Making different sauce recipes at home is such a great way to elevate meals! Try some of our other favorites like this alfredo sauce, this cheese sauce, or our copycat Cane’s sauce.

Burger sauce in a jar with a wooden spoon.

Reasons You’ll LOVE This Burger Sauce

  • Quick and Easy to Make: Whipping up this spread is as simple as stirring together pantry staples. It can be whipped up in less than 5 minutes!
  • Versatile:  While it’s perfect on burgers and as a dip for French fries, it’s also incredible with other grilled meats, drizzled over roasted vegetables, and spooned onto sandwiches and wraps.
  • Unbeatable Flavor: This secret sauce will totally take your burger game to the next level! It’s creamy with a blend of perfectly balanced sweet, savory and tangy flavors. You’re going to love it!

Burger Sauce Recipe

Take your hamburgers from ordinary to extraordinary with this sensational burger sauce! It could not be easier to make and you can use it on everything from cheeseburger rice and chicken tenders to fries and onion rings. It adds so much flavor to foods, you’re going to want to try it with everything!

It’s a simple mix of mayo, ketchup, sweet relish and a hint of both Worcestershire sauce and seasoning salt for a taste that is absolutely heavenly. Have this available at your next backyard barbecue and everyone will be asking you for the recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just 5 simple ingredients you can make this burger sauce recipe any day of the week. In fact, you probably have everything needed in your kitchen right now! Exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.

  • Mayonnaise: The base of the burger sauce that makes it perfectly creamy.
  • Ketchup: Adds sharp flavor and a touch of sweetness to balance out the mayo.
  • Sweet Relish: It’s a combination of tart, sweet, and salty making it an absolute must in this recipe.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: For a deep, complex taste.
  • Seasoned Salt: To enhance and bring out all of the delicious flavors.
A top view of the ingredients in individual glass bowls and each labeled.

How to Make Burger Sauce

This irresistible burger sauce is ready to serve in just about 5 minutes! It’s so good, you’re going to want to keep this on-hand at all times! Want a BBQ burger sauce? Make my copycat Red Robbin campfire sauce!

  1. Mix Ingredients: Add all of the sauce ingredients to a small bowl and whisk to combine.
  2. Test the Flavor: Taste and adjust ingredients to your liking if needed.
  3. Refrigerate: Chill until ready to serve. The longer it chills the more the flavors meld.
  4. Enjoy: Use as a sauce on burgers or as a dipping sauce for fries.
Top view of the ingredients all whisked together in a glass bowl.
Whisk all of the ingredients together.

Change up the Flavor

Burger sauce can be made just the way you like it! Here are some ideas to adjusting the flavors.

  • Mayonnaise Substitution: It is best to enjoy the thick, rich texture of real mayonnaise but substitute it for Miracle Whip or a veganaise mayo for a preferred taste.
  • Adjust the Sweetness: If you like your burger sauce a little sweeter, add a pinch of granulated sugar. It will help balance out the salty, tangy flavor.
  • Heat: Make this burger sauce spicy if you want! Try adding a dash or two of hot sauce like Tabasco sauce. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper to bring on some extra heat.
A close up of a jar of burger sauce.

Storing Leftovers

Be sure to save any leftover sauce! This burger sauce is so versatile and can be used for more than just burgers. My kids love this sauce with a quick and easy batch of air fryer French fries!

  • In the Refrigerator: Store burger sauce in an airtight jar or container for 4-5 days. Give it a quick stir before using it!
Burger sauce being spread onto a patty that is on a bun with lettuce.

More Delicious Sauce Recipes

Homemade sauces not only taste better than store-bought, but they’re also free of additives and preservatives! In addition, they’re super easy to mix up and usually only take a few simple ingredients to make. Most of which you probably already have in your pantry! Here are some other favs:

Print

5-Minute Burger Sauce

This burger sauce is a game-changer for your cookouts, adding a delicious twist to your favorite meals. Whip it up in minutes and enjoy a flavorful blend that’s perfect for burgers or as a dip for fries.
Course pantry staple, Sauce
Cuisine American
Keyword Burger sauce
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 95kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

  • ⅓ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons sweet relish
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon seasoned salt, or more to taste

Instructions

  • Add ⅓ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon ketchup, 2 tablespoons sweet relish2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce, and ½ teaspoon seasoned salt, to a small bowl and whisk to combine.
  • Taste and adjust ingredients to your liking if needed.
  • Chill until ready to serve. The longer it chills, the more the flavors meld.
  • Use as a sauce on burgers or as a dipping sauce for fries.

Nutrition

Calories: 95kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 362mg | Potassium: 27mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 83IU | Vitamin C: 0.4mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 0.2mg
]]> https://therecipecritic.com/burger-sauce/feed/ 2 255703 Grilled Tilapia https://therecipecritic.com/grilled-tilapia/ https://therecipecritic.com/grilled-tilapia/#comments Thu, 23 May 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://therecipecritic.com/?p=255347 Fire up the grill! This grilled tilapia is deliciously seasoned and has the best flaky texture. Mix a few simple…]]>

Fire up the grill! This grilled tilapia is deliciously seasoned and has the best flaky texture. Mix a few simple ingredients for the marinade, give it a little time to get super tasty and then it is grilled to perfection in a matter of minutes!

Grilling recipes are some of the best! They are easy, quick to prepare and have the best smoky flavor. I love to pair this grilled tilapia with grilled sides like grilled zucchini, grilled Mexican street corn and this fresh grilled caesar salad!

Top view of grilled tilapia on a platter.

Reasons You Will Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Simple: Making grilled tilapia is so easy and can be ready to serve in just over 30 minutes including marinating time.
  • Light and Filling: Fish is a great source of lean protein and includes essential healthy fats.
  • Versatile: This is the perfect dinner that pairs with EVERYTHING!
  • Filled with Bright Flavors: Fresh lemon and garlic create the best flavors combined with the smokiness of grilling. You will love the taste and texture of this fish!

What You Need to Make Grilled Tilapia

You’ll only need a handful of simple ingredients to make this super tasty grilled tilapia! They come together for tender tilapia that will rival even the best seafood restaurant! The complete list of ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

  • Fresh Lemon Juice: Lemon adds fresh flavor to almost any grilled fish.
  • Olive Oil: Provides the marinade with a bit of fat and also is used for cooking the filets on the grill.
  • Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds a delicious savory taste.
  • Seasoning: A simple blend of fresh ground black pepper, salt and mustard powder brings out all of the flavor in the fish.
  • Tilapia Filets: This recipe calls for 4 tilapia filets to feed 4 people.
Top view of all of the ingredients laid out individually and labeled.

How to Make Grilled Tilapia

Tilapia is one of the easiest proteins to grill! Marinate the fish for about 30 minutes, and then grill it for less than 12 minutes. You will want to make this recipe all season long!

  1. Make the Marinade: Whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, black pepper, salt, and mustard powder to prepare the marinade.
  2. Marinate the Fish: Pour the marinade into a large sealable bag or container and place the tilapia filets into the container. Marinate the tilapia for 30 minutes to an hour. While the filets are marinating, preheat a grill to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  3. Grill: Once the tilapia filets are ready, remove them from the marinade. Brush the grill with olive oil and grill the filets for 4-6 minutes per side. The filets should easily come off the grill, if they are sticking give them another 1-2 minutes.
  4. Serve: Remove the grilled tilapia from the grill and enjoy!
Marinade whisked in a clear glass bowl.
Whisk together the marinade.
Tilapia in a ziplock bag with marinade.
Marinate the tilapia in a Ziplock bag for 30 minutes.
Tilapia on a grill.
Grill the tilapia for 4-6 minutes.
Tilapia flipped on a grill.
Carefully flip the tilapia and grill for 4-6 minutes on the other side.

How to Know When Tilapia is Cooked

You’ll know your fish is cooked through when it’s completely opaque. However, you definitely don’t want to overcook it, or it will become dry. Additionally, you can use a meat thermometer to check and see if it has an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tips for Grilling Tilapia

Here are a few things to keep in mind when grilling tilapia. They are simple tips, but will ensure your fish turns out perfect!

  • Serving Options: This dish goes great with rice, couscous and your favorite vegetable side like grilled asparagus!
  • Thaw Filets: If using frozen, be sure they are thawed before you marinate. Thaw overnight in the fridge or place packaged frozen filets in cold water for about 10 minutes.
  • Discard the Marinade: Be sure to discard the used marinade after using.
  • Cook Time: The fillets I used were a little on the thicker side, so about 5 minutes was perfect. If your fillets are thinner, reduce the time.
Close up of grilled tilapia.

How to Store Leftover Tilapia

Although grilled tilapia is best served right away, here’s how to store leftovers to enjoy them later!

  • In the Refrigerator: Once it has cooled, then place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Put it in your fridge, and your fish will stay good for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: The quickest way to reheat your grilled tilapia is in the air fryer for a couple of minutes at 350 degrees. You can also reheat it over medium heat on the stove with a little melted butter in the pan.
Close of of tilapia on a plate with a fork.

More Seafood Recipes

We love to enjoy seafood dishes often because they are satisfying yet light and typically contain many nutrients. Here are some of our favorite fish recipes that we make on repeat. And if you’re looking for more, browse through our many other seafood recipes!

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Grilled Tilapia

Fire up the grill! This grilled tilapia is deliciously seasoned and has the best flaky texture. Mix a few simple ingredients for the marinade, give it a little time to get super tasty and then it is grilled to perfection in a matter of minutes!
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Keyword grilled tilapia recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 68kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon mustard powder
  • 4 tilapia filets

Instructions

  • Prepare the marinade by whisking together 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 cloves garlic, 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon mustard powder.
  • Pour the marinade into a large sealable bag or container and place 4 tilapia filets into the container. If using frozen be sure they are thawed before you marinate.
  • Marinate the tilapia 30 minutes to an hour. While the filets are marinating, preheat a grill to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Once the tilapia filets are ready, remove them from the marinade. Brush the grill with olive oil and grill the filets for 4-6 minutes per side. The filets should easily come off the grill, if they are sticking give them another 1-2 minutes.
  • Remove the grilled tilapia from the grill and serve!

Nutrition

Calories: 68kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 582mg | Potassium: 22mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 3IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 0.1mg
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