There is nothing more fun than cooking with your friends and family, but especially when you can do something outside. The outdoor barbeque is almost a symbol of modern American life, which reflects on your love for food, family, and fiestas.

But what is the best way to cook outside? What should you consider worthy of your backyard? These two questions are becoming increasingly common as the years go forward. Fortunately, plenty of options in recent years have surfaced, giving people more control over their exterior cooking experience more than ever before. Whatever your decision, you can have the premium cooking experience inside and outside.

BBQ Grill

Possibly the most famous outdoor cookery purchases, the barbecue grill is a staple in the modern American household. Great for family gatherings, barbecuing is a way of life for many people, and the type of grill you choose will dictate a lot about your guests’ (and your own) experience.

There are propane grills and charcoal grills. Each has their own distinct advantages and disadvantages. On one hand, propane is far cheaper and easier to use than the charcoal variety. But on the other hand, charcoal has a distinct, smokier taste that many people find preferable. The type of grill you buy depends on your personal preference, but both can make a killer burger.

A Fire Pit

Another outdoor feature you might like adding to your exterior cooking roster is a fire pit. When most people think of culinary fire pit experiences, their minds think of s’more ingredients. However, you can make far more sophisticated (and healthy meals) than the classic campfire treat.

For instance, many people love cooking tin foil dinners on the fire. This is when you fill a set of tinfoil with any ingredients you want—meat, veggies, corn, sauces, and literally anything else. Then you set it near the fire (though not in the flames) until it is sizzling and ready to eat. You can also cook on a stovetop above the fire if you so choose. Peach cobbler, anyone?

Brick Oven

If you have ever wanted to eat a classic-style pizza from the comfort of your backyard, then you simply must install a brick oven into your home. It’s exactly what you’d think—it’s a pizza stone that allows you to make your own oven-style pizza.

This installment might not be for everyone, as mastering the art of the stone can be pretty tricky. But it can make for some fun, homemade pizza nights if you persevere! Camaraderie and family is what outdoor eating is all about, and nothing allows your children and family members to express their creativity more than creating something and eating it later.

Propane Stove

You may have a grill or a pizza oven, but what if you want to do more conventional cooking on a nice summer evening. In this case, you should get yourself a propane stove. It can be a great way to relax and enjoy cooking in the open air. Plus, it makes the perfect party preparation area!

There are many reasons to own your own propane tanks. One, you don’t have to constantly throw them away in exchange for new ones. This saves the environment and saves you money. Two, it makes it way less annoying if you run out of propane. When you run low, you’ll always have a spare.

Outdoor Bar

Talk about ways to entertain your friends! An outdoor bar is the perfect way to unwind with your best friends and watch sports, movies, or your favorite TV show finale. Outdoor bars add ambience and style to your backyard patio—especially if you have drinks to match its prestige. Even if you aren’t into alcohol, having the bar there can be incredibly fun.

Make sure you are always stocked up on your favorite drinks. Wine, liquor, and soda bars are all incredibly popular outside since they all have their own entertainment value. Whatever works for your family is the route you should take it. This is also a favorite if you have a pool!

Dining Table

So, you want to make food outside, but do you also want to have a place to eat it? While lawn chairs and other plastic accessories can be a cheap alternative, if you want to have the classy dining experience, you need to set up a proper dining table outside.

Wood can be a pretty cheap option, but if you live somewhere with harsh weather, it might not be the best choice. Metal furniture works perfect for outdoors no matter where you live, and if you want to add comfort, cushions are especially cheap. Lastly, plastic is a perfectly valid option if you are on a budget.

Preparation Area

If you are trying to make it possible to avoid using your indoor kitchen, you are going to want more counter space outside. The prep areas are some of the most important in the kitchen, as they help you organize your thoughts and keep things streamlined. Add a marble or granite work area for extra class.

To prevent bugs from getting into your food, you also might want to get a screen door of some kind. There are plenty of doors like this that can keep your kitchen workable and temperature regulated without needing to compromise having a bug in your food.

Smokers

Are you wanting to cook some amazing food, but want to invest in something that is more hands-off? Then you need to get the crockpot of outdoor dining—the smoker! Smokers cook meat gradually over time, allowing them to marinate in their own juices giving a sensational flavor.

When it comes to buying a smoker, you really can’t go wrong, but there are a few factors to keep in mind. How well does it insulate the food? What does it run on? Is it well-reviewed? These are all factors you ought to consider when thinking of buying a smoker.

Outdoor cooking is a truly American phenomenon. There is something truly special about cooking for your family on a hot summer day, and if you do it in style, you can feel good about where you’re at.

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