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10 BBQ and Grilling Hacks That Save Time, Cut Costs, and Boost Flavor

ByBecky Cross

Summer’s not the only season for firing up the grill—any time is a good time when you’ve got the right tricks up your sleeve. Whether you’re a backyard pitmaster or just trying to keep the chicken from sticking (again), these BBQ and grilling hacks will help you save time, cut costs, and boost flavor. And while the eternal debate between Texas and Oklahoma BBQ rages on, let’s just say the smoke signals point to a delicious tie.

BBQ and Grilling Hacks Everyone Can Use

Below are the ten easiest Pit Master hacks you can grip with your tongs. Happy Grilling!

1. Preheat Like You Mean It

Don’t rush the warm-up. Give your grill 10–15 minutes to reach the right temperature. This helps sear meat properly and prevents sticking. Bonus: it burns off leftover residue from your last cookout.

2. Oil the Grates with an Onion

Flame-grilled steak with onions and tomatoes on a barbecue grill, ready to savor.
photo by mustafa türkeri via Pexels

Skip the spray. Slice an onion in half, dip it in oil, and rub it across the hot grates with tongs. It’s natural, effective, and adds a subtle flavor boost.

3. Use a Two-Zone Setup

Create a hot zone and a cooler zone. This lets you sear on one side and finish cooking gently on the other. It’s especially handy for thick cuts or anything prone to flare-ups.

4. Marinade in Zip Bags, Not Bowls

Zip-top bags save space and ensure even coverage. Plus, they’re easy to flip and stash in the fridge. Just don’t reuse them unless you’re marinating veggies.

5. Keep It Clean with a Foil Shield

Line the bottom of your grill with aluminum foil to catch drips and make cleanup easier. Just remember to poke a few holes for airflow.

6. Rest Your Meat, Always

A rustic outdoor cooking setup featuring fresh sliced vegetables and grilled meat on logs.
photo by Dương Nhân via pexels

After grilling, let the meat rest for 5–10 minutes. This keeps juices locked in and avoids the dreaded dry bite. It’s the simplest of BBQ and grilling hacks with the biggest payoff.

7. Add Wood Chips for Instant Smokiness

Even on a gas grill, you can get that smoky flavor. Wrap soaked wood chips in foil, poke holes, and place them over the flame. Hickory, mesquite, or applewood—your call.

8. Grill Your Sides

Close-up of sliced cantaloupe and melon on a barbecue grill, perfect for summer cooking.
photo by Askar Abayev via pexels

Corn, zucchini, peaches—grill them all. It saves time and adds charred depth to your meal. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to make veggies exciting.

9. Use a Meat Thermometer

Guessing is for game shows. A digital meat thermometer ensures perfect doneness every time. No more cutting into steaks “just to check.” The best of all the BBQ and grilling hacks, in my opinion.

10. Embrace the BBQ Plank

salmon, cedar plank salmon, fish, food, nature, planked, cedar, delicious
photo by rickbella via Pixabay

Grilling on cedar or maple planks infuses flavor and prevents sticking. Ideal for fish, chicken, or even tofu. Just soak the plank first to avoid a fire hazard.

Final Thoughts

BBQ and grilling hacks aren’t just for pros—they’re for anyone who wants to make outdoor cooking easier, tastier, and more fun. Whether you’re team brisket or team ribs, team Texas or team Oklahoma (we’re calling it a draw), these tips will help you grill smarter and eat happier. So, grab your tongs, light the fire, and let the flavor games begin.

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