Wow Your Friends This Fall With These Creative Grilling Techniques

Grilling is often seen as a summer activity, but why limit yourself? Sure, it's perfect for those warm summer nights by the pool, but that doesn’t mean you need to store your grill away once the leaves begin to fall. Keep it going this autumn to craft some mouthwatering seasonal dishes and become the ultimate grill master among your friends.

The First Step: Cleaning Up

Transitioning from summer to autumn grilling means giving your grill a thorough cleaning. Maybe it was too hot to clean properly during the summer, but now that things have cooled down, there’s no excuse to avoid giving your grill some love. Maintaining your grill is crucial to ensuring the quality of your meals. No one wants their Thanksgiving turkey tasting like last summer’s barbecued chicken!

Start by removing the grates and soaking them in hot water mixed with dish soap—preferably one formulated to break down grease. While you’re at it, cover the heating elements and scrub the inside of the hood and sides. Clean and rinse the grates before putting everything back together and wiping down the exterior.

Cooking Seasonal Favorites on the Grill

One hallmark of fall cuisine is roasted meats and veggies. Traditionally, this was because the cooler weather allowed for roasting without overheating the house—something that was difficult to achieve in the summer without modern air conditioning. But you don’t need to turn to the oven! With just a few adjustments, your grill can handle all the autumn comfort foods you desire.

• Add an infrared rotisserie burner to your grill
• Install a secondary grill grate
• Use indirect heating methods
• Set a timer to ensure perfect internal temperatures

There’s almost nothing you can’t cook on a grill, including the Thanksgiving turkey! Say goodbye to fried turkeys—there’s no juicier or more tender bird than one slowly cooked on a grill, especially with an infrared rotisserie burner and either propane or natural gas heat.

Protect Your Grill Against Unpredictable Weather

Fall brings unpredictable weather patterns. To prepare for this, always keep your grill covered when not in use. Exposure to rain and fluctuating temperatures can damage even the sturdiest grills. If possible, move your grill into the garage or under a carport. Many grills come with wheels that make moving them easy. Additionally, outdoor heaters should also be relocated to safer spots.

Get Your Outdoor Space Ready

Even as the temperature drops, you can still enjoy your outdoor space. If you use patio heaters, they can extend your grilling season well into the winter months. A grill with an automatic gas shut-off timer can make grilling worry-free, so you don’t have to constantly check on it.

Ensure your outdoor area has sufficient lighting, as the days grow shorter in autumn. Poor visibility can lead to overcooked or undercooked food. Make sure you can clearly see what you’re doing. If you live in a region with mild autumns, provide enough seating for your guests.

No matter whether you have a natural gas (NG) or liquid propane (LP) grill, don’t let changing seasons stop you from enjoying your favorite grilled meals. Grilling classic fall roasts and root vegetables adds unique flavors to familiar dishes, taking your grilling skills to the next level.