Top tips on how to host the ultimate BBQ

If there’s one thing we know about Brits, it’s that we love a BBQ, come rain or shine. Around 65 million were hosted in the UK in 2023, making Britain the number two BBQ nation in Europe.

Brits’ BBQ habits

But if you’re hosting, there’s a lot to think about. Exploring this topic further, Gozney surveyed 1,500 people across Britain and found that over a quarter of hosts (26%) worry about the weather being bad, nearly a quarter of hosts (23%) worry about having to make sure they have enough food for guests to tuck into, and nearly a fifth (17%) stress about getting the house and garden in tip top shape before everyone arrives.

The research reveals the biggest BBQ faux-pas according to hosts – with nearly a quarter (23%) saying that getting too drunk is the biggest blunder, and a fifth (20%) say that being rude to other guests is the worst.

Brits also expressed that BBQ parties can also be quite costly, with hosts spending an average of £392.

It’s important to ensure that everything is set to make the big day run smoothly and be the host with the most. To do so, Gozney has compiled its top tips on how to host an unforgettable BBQ and master the art of outdoor cooking.

Preparation is key

Avoid last-minute chaos in the kitchen by prepping your food in advance. Marinating foods can take time, so use the night before to marinate any meats and allow the flavour to ooze in. Not only will you prepare delicious and flavoursome dishes, but with everything prepared, all you have to do is throw it on the grill.

A little preparation goes a long way as assembling any side dishes and chopping veg ahead of time will also help make the cooking process run seamlessly on the day. Organisation is key in hosting a smooth sailing BBQ, leaving you feeling stress free and giving you more time to enjoy the party.

Spruce up your garden space

Once you have prepped the food, now it’s time to make the garden look the part. Dressing up your outdoor space with solar powered garden lights will set the mood when the sun goes down. Blankets are not only a great décor addition, but they’re also a useful investment for entertaining outdoors as you can use them to keep the party going after dark if things take a chilly turn.

If you want to invite a lot of guests but don’t have enough furniture for everyone to sit down, place soft cushions or beanbags around your garden to up the cosy and comfortable feeling. Adding cushions with pops of colour will also level up your outdoor space aesthetics, creating a bright and enjoyable atmosphere so you and your guests can dine in style.

For those who have a smaller garden and are in need of BBQ gear that’s compact, Gozney’s Arc oven brings ground-breaking heat control and effortless cooking all within a sleek profile that can fit within any outdoor space.

Cook up a storm

Now it’s time for the main event: cooking the delicious dishes on the grill. Opting for traditional recipes, like BBQ Baby Back Ribs or Smash Burgers are certified crowd pleasers.

However, why not use the occasion to try new adventurous dishes using Gozney’s unique and delectable recipes: Honey Glazed Belly Pork ‘Bún Thịt Nướng’ or Wood Roasted Artichoke. Choosing recipes that aren’t common but don’t compromise on taste will make sure your BBQ isn’t one to forget.

To ensure you have unlimited possibilities with what recipes you can cook, it’s important to choose a grill that’s versatile. Gozney’s award-winning Dome oven gives you enough room to roast, smoke, steam or bake your chosen recipes so your guests can tuck into a variety of dishes.

If you’re struggling to find recipes that hit the spot, Gozney’s Pizza Volume 01 Cookbook has a range of outstanding pizza combination and knockout outdoor cooking recipes that are sure to get mouths watering.

Serve in style

Pairing your mains with scrumptious side dishes will increase your guests’ dining experience, as they can really amplify your meal. In addition to the usual corn on the cob or coleslaw, cooking an insanely juicy salad – like a Rib Eye and Waterfall Salad or a Northern Thai Salad – will treat your guests to an array of delicious foods.

Get tastebuds tingling with a signature drink. Create one of your favourite tipples and add your own twist to it, whether that be with a garnish, flavouring or adding some fruit to the glass. Don’t forget to make an alcohol-free version!

Get groovin’

Finally, whilst the food is being served, why not put some tunes on to set the mood as playing background music is a great way to create ambiance. Try compiling a playlist in advance as this will keep the tunes going without any interruptions. You can make it personal too but adding in songs that you know each of your guests will love.