Grill and Chill with Fall Recipes
When fall’s crisp chill fills the air, you might think it’s time to cover up the grill and head inside. But consider this: grilling season doesn’t have to be over just yet! Autumn is actually a perfect time for grilling and infusing your favorite foods with warm, smoky flavors.
Cuts of meat like pork chops and ribeye steaks are even more delicious seared over open flames. It renders the fat, creates a mouthwatering crust and results in juicy, tantalizing main dishes. For a crowd-pleasing side or vegetarian entree, you can load up the grill with seasonal vegetables like squash, brussels sprouts and more.
Planning a pizza night? Why not take it outside? You can grill premade naan or your own homemade dough for a lightly charred, crispy-yet-chewy crust.
And don’t forget about fall’s iconic fruits. Crisp apples and pears transform into sweet, caramelized ice cream toppings in a matter of minutes. And if you don’t believe it, just give our Grilled Caramel Apple Sundae a try.
These minimal-prep, quick-firing recipes also provide a fun reason to gather with friends and family. Whip up your favorite mulled drinks, have cozy blankets on hand and make spending time together part of the grilling experience.
Grilled Fig and Prosciutto Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this unique grilled pizza recipe that’s sure to impress.
Hot for Fall: Fig Jam
The rich sweetness perfectly complements hearty fall favorites — from grilled pizzas to charcuterie.
Apple Cider Brined Pork Chops
Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of fall cider with these easy-to-make pork chops.
Hot for Fall: Apple Cider
Add an orchard-fresh fall twist to grilled meats, baked goods and more.
Grilled Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar and Chili
This flavorful recipe combines the sweetness of brown sugar with the heat of chili.
Hot for Fall: Acorn Squash
Nothing says fall like this subtly sweet, nutty flavor.
Grilled Caramel Apple Sundae
With a simple foil packet technique, you can create a decadent apple sundae — and end your cookout on a sweet note.
Hot for Fall: Caramel Sauce
This topping is a pantry must-have heading into fall. Its rich, buttery flavor really shines when paired with fresh apples.
Fall Drinks
Create unforgettable moments around the grill with these cozy concoctions.
Spiced Wine
Simmer a bottle of dry red wine with a splash of brandy, fresh orange zest and juice, a few cinnamon sticks, star anise, honey and a dash of spices like ginger and nutmeg. Garnish with grilled orange slices.
Mulled Cider
Simmer a half gallon of fresh apple cider with sliced oranges, a few cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise and slices of fresh ginger root. Garnish with apple slices.
Autumn Tea Blend
Combine spiced black tea like chai with orange slices, pinches of allspice and cloves. Finish with a swirl of maple syrup.
Maple Bourbon Milkshake
Blend several scoops of vanilla ice cream and 1⁄3 cup whole milk with a splash of bourbon, maple syrup and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract for a boozy shake. Garnish with whipped topping.
Smoke with Wood Chips
Using wood chips for smoking and grilling is an easy way to add incredible depth of flavor. Different wood varieties infuse grilled meats and vegetables with their own distinctive notes:
Type of Wood | Distinctive Notes |
---|---|
Apple Wood | Mild, sweet and slightly fruity |
Hickory Wood | Bold, bacon-y smokiness |
Mesquite Wood | Powerful, earthy smoke flavor |
Oak Wood | Distinctively full-bodied and robust |
Cherry Wood | Subtly sweet and tart smoky flavor |
Maple Wood | Mellow, breakfast-y smokiness |
Tips for Chips:
- Soak wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before using.
- Add chips to smoker box designed for grills, or make your own pouch by wrapping wood chips in a foil packet poked with holes. Place this directly on or next to heat source.
- Experiment with different wood varieties, or mix and match!