4 Clever Ideas for a Winter BBQ Get-Together

Cooking in the winter is a unique and rewarding experience. While the cold presents challenges, it can also make a BBQ get-together a memorable and enjoyable event. Here are four clever and actionable ideas to help you create a successful winter BBQ. 

1. Master the Two-Grill Tango

A great tip for a winter BBQ is to use two grills — one for high-heat, quick-cooking items and one for low-and-slow dishes. Use the high-heat grill for appetizers like sausages, shrimp skewers, or cheese. 

Queso panela works especially well, as it holds up to grilling, packs 21 grams of protein per 100 grams, and has lower fat than many cheeses. Remember, you’ll need extra charcoal or propane in winter to maintain high temperatures.

2. Cook Hearty, Braised Meats

When the sun isn’t shining, great food keeps a winter BBQ going. Go beyond traditional burgers and use a Dutch oven on the grill for warm, hearty dishes. This keeps food hot in cold temperatures and creates a memorable experience for guests.

Braised short ribs, chili, or beef stew are excellent choices for a Dutch oven — any warm, comforting dish works well. Spare ribs are also ideal for slow cooking, as their tendons break down and tenderize over time. Be sure to cook spare ribs to an internal temperature of at least 145° Fahrenheit to ensure they are flavorful and safe to eat.

3. Create a DIY Hot Cocktail Bar

A DIY hot cocktail bar is a clever addition to a winter BBQ. Set up an interactive station where guests can customize their own hot beverages. Use slow cookers with bases such as hot tea, mulled apple cider, or hot cocoa. Next to the bar, offer a selection of spirits that pair well with warm drinks, like aged rum, spiced whiskey, and brandy.

These spirits don’t have to be alcoholic. Non-alcoholic options have grown in popularity — while beer remains the most common choice, sales of mocktails and spirits rose 70% between 2024 and 2025, making them the fastest-growing segment of the non-alcoholic beverage market.

4. Engineer a Cozy Outdoor Lounge

Creating a cozy outdoor lounge transforms your winter BBQ into a warm, welcoming event. Place outdoor heaters or portable fire pits strategically to provide warmth. Many fire pits reach over 100,000 BTUs, which is ideal for cold weather. Offer extra blankets and warm clothing to keep guests comfortable, and provide lighting for a welcoming glow and added safety. Always keep heaters away from flammable materials and ensure good ventilation.

Embrace the Cold

Throwing a winter BBQ can feel overwhelming. But try to reframe the cold as a unique benefit rather than a challenge. With a little planning, a winter get-together can be more memorable than a typical summer party.

Oscar Collins

Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Modded

With almost 10 years of experience writing about cars, gear, the outdoors and more, Oscar Collins has covered a broad spectrum of topics during his time as a blogger and freelancer. Oscar currently serves as the editor-in-chief of Modded, which he founded to spread his love of cars with an international audience.

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