Planning a barbecue this weekend? Why not go for a true American barbecue party? It’s the perfect way to do something different and treat your friends or family to an authentic American-style experience. Get your American flag flip-flops and kitschy T-shirts ready — we’re taking you straight to the USA!
With over 14 years of beer expertise, PerfectDraft shares the best tips to help you prepare and organise a fun, flavour-packed, 100% American barbecue for sunny weekends ahead.
1 – Choosing the right barbecue
The first step to hosting the perfect American barbecue is selecting the right grill. For authenticity, nothing beats a Weber barbecue, a leading American brand since 1952. Stylish, reliable, and easy to use, Weber barbecues guarantee high-quality cooking. Their wide range includes gas barbecues, charcoal barbecues, pellet barbecues, electric models, and even portable versions — so you’ll definitely find one to suit your needs.
Some models, such as the Genesis II EX, even connect directly to your smartphone, allowing you to monitor cooking remotely. Perfect cooking results and more time to enjoy with your guests — stress-free! But if you prefer to stay close to the grill, a traditional charcoal barbecue is always a winning choice, and you can still add modern accessories for more convenience.
2 – Preparing your American barbecue
Once you’ve chosen your barbecue, set the scene in your garden like in an American movie. A few days before, plan the guest list, seating, and food layout. The keyword is conviviality. A buffet-style setup will encourage mingling and movement. And of course, don’t forget the American beer — it’s a must!
The PerfectDraft beer tap makes serving easy, with its 6L keg capacity and built-in cooling system that keeps beer fresh throughout the party. Just set it up, pour into glasses, and enjoy perfectly chilled beer all day long.
To liven up the atmosphere, you can organise fun games or quizzes. It’s all about sharing good food, drinks, and laughter.
3 – Ribs and beef cuts take centre stage
No American barbecue is complete without generous cuts of meat. Go beyond sausages and kebabs, and serve beef ribeye steaks, grilled steaks, or a rack of barbecue ribs. These hearty dishes are perfect for sharing and create a real American vibe. For extra flavour, try preparing beer-marinated ribs — a recipe that will wow your guests!
4 – Serve American beers
To stay true to the theme, stock up on American beers. A classic choice is Bud, a true American icon. Available in 6L PerfectDraft kegs, it’s perfect for serving large groups.
If you prefer craft beer, try Founders’ All Day IPA, bursting with citrus, hops, and malt flavours that pair perfectly with grilled meats. Available in 12-can packs, it’s a great option for sharing. Another excellent choice is Goose Island IPA, available in a 6L PerfectDraft keg, with refreshing floral notes of grapefruit and peach balanced by hops.
For adventurous palates, explore American craft breweries like Fremont, Belching Beaver, or Epic, each offering unique flavours to elevate your barbecue experience. And if you want to mix it up, Belgian beers like Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier Weizen, with its smoky, malty notes, are excellent alongside ribs or grilled chicken.
With the right barbecue, delicious meats, refreshing beers, and a festive atmosphere, your American barbecue party will be unforgettable.
Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health. Please drink responsibly.
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A guide to learning more about English beers https://www.perfectdraft.com/en-gb/blog/post/guide-learning-english-beers
