Father’s Day means honoring your dad or father figure for being a positive role model and influence in your life. So, what better way to show Dad how much you appreciate him than planning a special cookout?
Many of you probably have childhood memories of your dad grilling out. Now that you’re older, return the favor by taking on the job yourself and making a new memory with your dad! Whether this is your first or hundredth time grilling, this article will give you everything you need to know to make Father’s Day something special.
Before diving into cooking these delicious recipes, you first need to know how to operate a gas grill. Being aware of proper usage and precautions is important in keeping you and your family safe.
Follow these simple steps to ensure that your grill is ready to use:
1. Preparing the Grill
To start, identify if your gas grill uses natural gas or propane. Propane tends to be more common and is available in tanks, whereas natural gas is connected to your home’s gas line. If using propane, check the amount in the tank before you begin to ensure you have enough to grill with.
2. Starting the Gas Grill
Starting the gas grill can sometimes be the most dangerous part of the process, so use caution. First, open the lid of the grill so the gas does not collect in the cooking chamber. Next, if operating with propane, open the valve on the tank completely. After that, turn on your grill’s igniter button or use a lighter wand to light the burner. Lastly, turn the burner on high and allow the grill to heat up for around 15 minutes or until you reach your desired temperature.
3. The Grilling Process
Before placing any food on the grill, clean the grill surface with a grill brush. Once clean, lay your food on the grill, allowing enough room so no items touch. It is recommended that you cook with direct heat, meaning the fire is beneath the food. Allow the food to cook with the lid closed until the items are ready to flip. Turn using a spatula or tongs. Once the food is fully cooked, remove from the grill, turn off all burners, close the propane valve, clean the grill surface again, and allow the grill to completely cool before closing the lid.
Level up your skills at the grill with these essential grilling hacks that will make you the hero of Father’s Day and the backyard.
Find your desired char: Prefer burgers with more of a char? Cook them near the center of the grill while the flame is high. For less char, wait until the flame dies down or use the sides of the grill further from the flames.
Ice is nice: Give your burgers a juicy finish by placing an ice cube inside each patty. Form the patty around the ice cube just before grilling, flatten the patty, and grill as normal.
A perfect tin: Consolidate what you carry by serving condiments from a muffin tin. Squeeze, pour, or scoop ketchup, mustard, barbecue sauce, Spice World Ready-to-Use Chopped Easy Onion, and Dad’s other favorite burger toppings into one convenient serving tray.
Clean the grill with an onion: Besides tasting great, onions can actually clean your grill grates. Once your grill is hot, cut an onion in half and skewer the uncut side with a fork. Then, use the onion to scrub the baked-on grease and grime off your grill.
Turn your house into a steakhouse with Dad’s favorite cut of steak and Garlic and Herb Steak Marinade. What better way to show your dad you love him than with a big, juicy steak dinner? Not only is steak a great source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins to keep Dad happy and healthy, but the addition of onions and herbs makes this dish unbeatable for Father’s Day.
Nothing says summer quite like a nice burger on a warm bun with your favorite condiments. This recipe adds flavorful flair to your traditional burger by mixing in garlic and delicious bacon. Be prepared, though. Pops might start asking for Garlic Bacon Burgers every Father’s Day!
Round out your Father’s Day feast with these hearty side dishes.
Say cheese! With its corkscrew shape, cavatappi pasta gives an elegant upgrade to classic macaroni and cheese. This recipe is prepared on the stovetop and comes together in minutes using Spice World Easy Onion for even more bold flavor.
Don’t forget the vegetables! Lightly charred and flavorful, colorful grilled veggies are a simple and delicious side for a summer day. Not only are they tasty, but they are also a healthy option. Pro Tip: Mix melted butter with Spice World Minced Garlic and drizzle over your veggies for an even bigger boost of flavor this Father’s Day.
Create a signature drink named after Dad! Try this Whiskey Ginger recipe made with whiskey, ginger syrup, club soda, ice, and slices of lemon or lime. Save time peeling ginger by using Spice World Ready-to-Use Minced Ginger or Spice World Squeezable Ginger.
This Father’s Day, switch it up and grill something special for your dad with a surprise cookout. Not only will it spark up some old memories from your childhood, but it will also show Dad how much you care. With a little planning and a lot of love, it’s easy to make this Father’s Day one to remember.
For best results, marinate your steak at least 2 hours, but ideally 4-8 hours, in the refrigerator. For tougher cuts, you can marinate up to 24 hours. Always bring the steak to room temperature before grilling.
Absolutely! The steak marinade can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Burger patties can be formed and refrigerated up to 24 hours before grilling. The mac and cheese can be partially prepared ahead and finished just before serving.
These recipes work great on charcoal grills, too! Just ensure your coals are properly heated and evenly spread. You can also use a grill pan on your stovetop for the burgers and vegetables, though you’ll miss out on that classic smoky flavor.
Yes! All recipes can easily be scaled up. For larger groups, consider prepping burger patties in advance, having multiple types of marinades ready, and using the muffin tin condiment hack to create a self-serve station that keeps the line moving.
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