Summer is for gathering—backyard parties, block parties, and family reunions that fill your yard with laughter. But when you’re feeding a crowd, do you really want to settle for the same old burgers and hot dogs? Not this year. With your pellet grill and Grillers Gold Premium BBQ Pellets, you can serve up smoky, mouthwatering dishes that are budget-friendly and impressive enough to keep your guests talking.
Here are 5 pellet grilling hacks to help you feed a crowd without breaking the bank—or a sweat.
1. Pulled Pork Perfection
Why it’s a hack: One pork shoulder can make 20+ generous pulled pork sandwiches.
What you’ll need:
- 8–10 lb pork shoulder (bone-in)
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1/2 cup BBQ rub (your favorite blend of paprika, brown sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, cayenne)
- Smokeshack Grillers Gold Pellets
- Soft rolls
- DIY topping bar: coleslaw, pickles, and a trio of sauces
Steps:
- Rub mustard all over pork shoulder as a binder. Coat heavily with BBQ rub. Let rest in the fridge overnight.
- Preheat pellet grill to 225°F using hickory or mesquite pellets.
- Place pork shoulder on grill and smoke until internal temp reaches 195–203°F (about 1.5 hours per pound).
- Rest for 1 hour wrapped in foil, then shred and serve.
Pro Tip: Set up a sandwich bar so guests can customize with slaw, pickles, and sauces.
2. Chicken Drumsticks 3 Ways
Why it’s a hack: Drumsticks are inexpensive, cook quickly, and make eating fun.
What you’ll need (for each flavor):
- 5 lbs chicken drumsticks (about 24 pieces)
- Olive oil
- Rubs & sauces for variety:
Steps:
- Toss drumsticks in olive oil, season as desired.
- Preheat pellet grill to 300°F. Cook until internal temp hits 175°F (~45–60 min).
- Finish with sauce/glaze during last 5 minutes.
Pro Tip: Use a wire rack on the grill for even airflow and easy serving.
3. Grilled Veggie Platters as a Main Event
Why it’s a hack: Filling, colorful, and perfect for vegetarians.
What you’ll need:
- Corn on the cob (shucked and brushed with herbed butter)
- Zucchini spears, bell peppers, portobello mushrooms
- Fruitwood Blend Grillers Gold Pellets
- Dips: smoked hummus, garlic aioli, chipotle crema
Steps:
- Toss veggies in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat grill to 350°F. Grill veggies directly for 10–15 minutes, turning halfway.
- Arrange on platters with dips.
Pro Tip: Grill corn in husks for a smoky-sweet flavor boost.
4. Pellet-Grilled Sandwich Fixings
Why it’s a hack: Flexible proteins + a DIY sandwich bar = no line at the grill.
What you’ll need:
- 3–5 lbs chicken breasts or tri-tip roast
- Simple marinade: olive oil, garlic, herbs, lemon juice
- Pitmaster Blend or Hickory Grillers Gold Pellets
- Assorted breads: ciabatta, brioche rolls, baguettes
- Toppings: smoked mayo, mustard, sliced cheeses, fresh veggies
Steps:
- Marinate proteins for 4–6 hours.
- Grill chicken at 275°F until 165°F internal, or tri-tip to desired doneness (130°F for medium rare).
- Slice thin and serve on bread boards with toppings.
Pro Tip: Make ahead and hold in a warm oven wrapped in foil.
5. Dessert on the Grill: Smoked Peach Crisp
Why it’s a hack: Minimal prep + maximum wow factor.
What you’ll need:
Steps:
- Slice fruit and place in a greased foil pan. Mix sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle over fruit.
- In a bowl, cut butter into oats until crumbly. Spread over fruit.
- Smoke at 350°F for 30–40 minutes until bubbling and golden.
- Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream.
Pro Tip: Make individual foil packet crisps for easy serving.
This summer, you don’t need to spend big—or settle for bland—to feed your favorite people. Fire up your pellet grill, grab a bag of Grillers Gold Premium BBQ Pellets, and show off your crowd-pleasing skills. Because nothing brings people together like great food—and great smoke.
Cheers my friends – Enjoy the Grill!
