How to Cook on a BBQ: A Beginner-Friendly Guide for Grillers

Cooking on a BBQ is one of the simplest pleasures of a British summer. But for many, it's not always straightforward. Especially with uneven grills, changing weather, and the pressure of not burning the burgers.

Whether you're firing up a gas BBQ, charcoal grill, electric BBQ, or a portable barbecue setup in the park. This guide will walk you through the basics of how to cook on a BBQ and how to get great results every time.

Know your BBQ type

Different BBQs cook differently. Here's a quick breakdown:

Gas BBQs: Heat up fast and offer better control, great for precise cooking times (like steak or sausages).
Charcoal BBQs: Give food that deep smoky flavour but take longer to reach the right heat—ideal for low-and-slow cooking.
Electric BBQs: Are cleaner and better for small spaces. Best for quick meals and easy cleanup.
Portable BBQs: Vary in heat output, so adjusting cooking style to the grill size is key.

Before you start, always preheat your BBQ. For charcoal, wait until coals turn greyish white. For gas or electric, give it at least 10–15 minutes.

How to cook corn on the cob on a BBQ

Corn is simple, but timing and prep make a big difference.

Method:

Soak the corn (in husks or foil) in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning.
Place it on medium heat, turning every 5 minutes.
Cook for around 15–20 minutes until the kernels are tender and lightly charred.
Finish with butter, salt, or a brush of chilli oil.

Tip: No husks? Wrap the corn in foil with a knob of butter and herbs to steam while it grills.

How long to cook sausages on a BBQ

Sausages are easy to ruin—charred outside, raw inside. The key is low, steady heat.

Time: Around 15–20 minutes total on medium heat.

Method:

Turn sausages every few minutes.
Avoid high heat—it causes bursting and uneven cooking.
Use indirect heat if your BBQ allows it (especially on gas or charcoal setups).
Check they're firm and juices run clear—use a meat thermometer if in doubt (aim for 70°C inside).

Common mistake: Don't prick them. You'll lose all the flavourful juices.

How long to cook burgers on a BBQ

Nothing says BBQ like a burger. But dry patties or undercooked mince can ruin the moment.

Time: Around 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

Method:

Preheat the grill to high, then lower it to medium before placing burgers.
Flip once only—don't press them down.
Add cheese after flipping if you want a melt.
Let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Tip: For consistent results, shape patties evenly and avoid overhandling the mince.

How to cook steak on a BBQ

Steak can feel intimidating, but it's one of the best foods to BBQ when done right.

Steps:

Take the steak out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking.
Pat it dry and season generously with salt and oil.
Sear over high heat for 2–3 minutes per side for medium-rare (thicker steaks may need a little longer).
Rest the steak for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Bonus Tip: For thicker cuts like ribeye. Start with a quick sear, then move to indirect heat to finish cooking slowly. This avoids burning the outside while keeping the inside juicy.

Common UK BBQ pain points and how to avoid them

Uneven heat: Especially on charcoal BBQs. Spread coals evenly and use a two-zone setup (direct and indirect heat).
Wind issues: Use BBQ windshields or position your grill strategically. Wind affects heat and flare-ups.
Over-charred food: This happens when the grill is too hot. Preheat properly, and use medium heat for most foods.
Sticking: Oil the grill lightly before cooking. Non-stick spray or a brush of oil helps with burgers and fish.

Final Thoughts

Cooking on a BBQ isn't about perfection, it's about confidence, timing, and a bit of patience. Whether you're grilling sausages, burgers, or perfecting your corn game. Knowing your BBQ and how it behaves is half the battle.

Now that you know how to cook on a BBQ, you can enjoy the best bits of outdoor cooking, without the stress, burnt food, or underdone bites.

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