Cooking on the Blackstone has become one of my favorite parts of summer. It’s quick, fun, and gives off those backyard-cookout vibes without heating up the kitchen. Today I’m sharing our go-to summer meals to make on the Blackstone, some easy sides, and a fun little job for the kids- mixing up the perfect pitcher of lemonade or iced tea!
Smash Burgers & Air-Fried Potato Wedges
These are a summer must and anyone who’s owned a Blackstone has surely made them. Crispy edges, melty cheese, and your favorite burger toppings, what’s not to love?
How I make them:
- Roll ground beef into small balls and smash them directly onto the hot Blackstone.
- Add seasoning, flip once, and top with cheese to melt. We actually like to put jalapenos on before the cheese so they don’t escape 😉
- Serve on toasted buns with pickles, ketchup, and whatever extras your crew loves.
Easy side: Air-fried French fries, potato wedges (or sweet potato fries!) Season and crisp them up while you grill and serve with ketchup or spicy bbq sauce.
Philly Cheesesteaks & Macaroni Salad
These are fast, filling, and loaded with flavor. You can make them spicy for adults or plain for the kids.
How I make them:
- Shaved steak on the griddle with sliced onions, peppers, and mushrooms.
- Add provolone or American cheese, let it melt, and pile onto soft hoagie rolls (or homemade rolls)
Easy side:
We like to have an Italian style, zesty pasta salad that I usually made ahead.
Breakfast & Fresh Berries
Cooking breakfast outside makes even a regular weekend feel like you’re camping. Plus, the Blackstone can cook everything at once. No dirtying 4 different pans! Win win.
How I make it:
- Bacon, sausage, pancakes, eggs, hash browns—all go down at once.
- Pancakes can be made mini-size or stick shaped for toddlers.
Easy side: Fresh strawberries, blueberries, and/or raspberries.
Fajitas (Chicken or Steak) + Cheese Quesadillas for the Kids
Fajitas make supper fun for kids with build-your-own toppings. And don’t skip out on the sour cream.
How I make them:
- Toss sliced chicken or steak with fajita seasoning and cook with onions and bell peppers (or just meat if you’re keeping it simple).
- Serve with warm tortillas and toppings like sour cream, cheese, jalapenos, and salsa.
- While you’re at it, throw on a few plain cheese quesadillas for any picky eaters. Slice them into triangles and you’re good to go.
Easy side: Chips and salsa of course! Or if you’re skilled (unlike me) you could make a tequila lime shrimp.
🍋 Kid Job: Mix Up a Pitcher of Lemonade or Iced Tea
Kids love to help. Especially when it involves stirring and taste-testing! While you’re manning the griddle, let the kids be in charge of the drinks, if you dare.
Simple Lemonade:
- 1 cup lemon juice (fresh or bottled)
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 cups cold water
Stir it up and drop in some lemon slices or frozen strawberries.
Iced Tea Option:
- Brew 4–6 tea bags in hot water, then cool with cold water and ice
- Add lemon slices or a splash of fruit juice for a fruity twist
Hand over a long spoon and a towel for spills.
It’s their time to shine as the official drink mixer.
Whether it’s flipping pancakes or loading up Philly cheesesteaks, our Blackstone makes summer meals easy and fun. With simple sides and a little help from the kids, dinner becomes something everyone actually enjoys.
