Prepare to Host: Pro Tips for a Successful Memorial Day BBQ

May 10, 2023

Pro Tips for Hosting Your Memorial Day BBQs from Grill Masters Club

Hey Grill Masters Club Nation — we've got your back as we roll into the best time of the year: Grilling Season!

May kicks off longer days, warmer weather, and the perfect excuse to fire up your smoker and fill the backyard with the mouthwatering aroma of BBQ. With holidays like Memorial Day and the 4th of July just around the corner, there’s no better time to sharpen your tongs, stock your pantry, and prepare for epic backyard cookouts with family and friends.

But let’s be real — hosting a backyard BBQ can be a lot. From planning the menu to juggling cook times and feeding a crowd, stress can sneak up if you’re not prepared.

That’s why we're sharing our Top 5 Tips for Hosting a Memorial Day BBQ Like a Pro — plus a few bonus tricks to help you grill smarter, not harder. Let’s make this summer your smoothest and most flavorful one yet!

🔥 1. Pick Proteins That Cook at Similar Temps & Times

Time management starts at the grill. If you’re serving multiple proteins, choose cuts that use similar cooking methods — like low and slow brisket and pork butt. That way, they can go on the smoker at the same time and stay in the same temperature range.

Pro Tip: Start big cuts the night before to save yourself day-of stress. Once they’re smoked to perfection, wrap them in butcher paper or foil and rest them in a cooler (no ice) until ready to slice and serve — they’ll stay hot for hours!

Add in some hotter-and-faster grilling options like wings, bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers, or smash burgers while your main proteins are resting. That way, you keep guests fed and the grill action going.

🥗 2. Choose Sides That Can Be Made in Advance

Time is your friend when it comes to sides. Cold dishes like coleslaw, pasta salad, and potato salad are even better the next day — just hold the dressing on the slaw until serving.

Pro Tip: Prep mac and cheese the night before and smoke it the day of. Toss a handful of crushed BBQ chips or pork rind crumbs on top for a crunchy finish. Want to go full pitmaster? Stir in chopped brisket or burnt ends.

🛒 3. Store-Bought? No Shame. Just "Doctor It Up"

Not every dish needs to be made from scratch — especially when you’re focused on nailing your proteins. The key? Upgrade pre-made items with a pitmaster’s touch.

Pro Tips:

Baked Beans: Drain excess liquid, stir in your favorite BBQ sauce, and add pulled pork, rib trimmings, or chopped sausage. Let them smoke low and slow in a foil pan alongside your meats.
Potato Salad: Fresh bacon crumbles, chopped pickles, and a handful of herbs like dill or chives go a long way. Even a dash of rub or a splash of pickle juice can work wonders.

👨👩👧👦 4. Don’t Be a One-Pitmaster Show, Accept Help

People want to contribute — let them! Delegate sides, desserts, drinks, or simple grab-and-go items like buns, condiments, and ice.

Pro Tip: Create a shared checklist ahead of time and let guests sign up. That way, you avoid duplicates and ensure everything’s covered without you doing it all.

📝 5. Small Tasks Add Up — Knock Them Out Early

The little stuff always piles up. Unwrapping buns, laying out serving utensils, prepping the drink station — all of it eats into your cooking and hosting time.

Pro Tip: Treat the night before like game day prep. Set the table, organize your serving area, clean your grill grates, refill your propane or charcoal stash, and double-check you’ve got enough foil, gloves, and paper towels.

When early guests arrive and offer to help, hand them easy tasks like filling the cooler or setting out plates.

Bonus Tips from the Pit:

Keep a Grill Log: Jot down your cook times, temps, rubs, and sauces for each protein. Next time you throw a BBQ, you’ll know exactly what worked.
Have a Game Plan for Leftovers: Stock up on takeout containers or foil pans to send extras home — or prep for killer BBQ breakfast burritos the next day.
Safety First: Keep a thermometer handy, always have a clean cutting board for cooked meats, and never leave the grill unattended if kids are around.

Backyard BBQs are about more than just food — they’re about creating memories, sharing laughs, and celebrating community. With the right prep and a pitmaster’s mindset, you’ll be able to relax, grill with confidence, and make this summer unforgettable.

Stay smoky, stay saucy — and remember to tag us on IG or Facebook in your backyard BBQ pics @grillmastersclubvip #grillmastersclubvip / #grillmastersclub!

From all of us here at Grill Masters Club, happy Memorial Day and happy grilling!