Host your BBQ with confidence this National BBQ Month!

Welcome to your how-to guide for mastering your grill. If you’re just starting out, or are curious about how to grill, we have compiled a list of 5 Easy steps, along with some tips and tricks to help you achieve your grilling goals. 

Learn the basics of prepping and using the grill from our Pitmasters. Here are the essentials to getting started:

A Clean Grill Is A Happy Grill

  • Always make sure the grill is hot and ready before putting any meat on it. Different cleaning methods depend, on the type of grill you have. If your grill comes with a special cleaning tool, it’s best to trust that. If not, use a stiff bristled steel brush on steel or cast iron grills, and a nylon bristled brush on porcelain-coated grills. Simply wipe away the previous rust and leftover food with your tool and you are good to go!

Season The Grill

  • Now that the grill is feeling fresh and clean, it’s time to add the oil and seasoning. This is a key step to prevent your meats from sticking to the grill. Aim for a thin layer on the grill, just enough to coat it, not leave it dripping. Use canola oil on a paper towel for best results, or spray oil and wipe off the access with a paper towel.

Hot & Ready 

  •  The grill is prepped and now it’s time to make it hot hot hot! Similar to how an oven must be preheated, you want to ensure the grill is hot before adding any meat. Go by your specific grill’s manual to find the correct way to turn it on.

Set It & Forget It

  • Place the food you are grilling onto the grill and forget it. Let the grill do all the work, no need to press the meat into the grills, or worry about moving it around, most foods only need a single flip. Close the lid to allow for the classic char and grill flavor by keeping the inside hot, and preventing your meat from drying out. 

Let It Rest

  • Give your meat time to rest before cutting and serving it. This time allows for the meat to cool off and get the juices to move evenly for tenderness. The bigger the piece of meat, the longer it needs to rest for at least 5-15 minutes. Making a tent over the meat with tin foil is a great way to ensure moisture during this process. 

Speed Round Bonus Tips!

  • Invest in a meat thermometer.
  • Clean the grill with half an onion. It works! 
  • Experiment with different rubs and spices.
  • Use a spatula for fish and burgers. 
  • Use tongs for everything else. 

As we wrap up our journey through these essential grilling tips, we hope you’ve learned something new and are ready to take the grill with confidence. Whether you are grilling or just eating BBQ, we hope you find a way to celebrate National BBQ Month!

4R is here to support you at any point in your at-home grilling journey! Check out the rubs, sauces, and pitmaster kits we have to offer for nationwide shipping with 4R On The Road!

Happy Grilling!