Vegan BBQs can be just as flavorful, smoky, and satisfying as traditional ones.
With plant-based ingredients, you can create hearty, delicious dishes that everyone will enjoy.
From marinated vegetables and tofu skewers to jackfruit “pulled pork” and vegan burgers, the possibilities are endless.
These 15 vegan BBQ recipes bring bold flavors, creative twists, and healthy alternatives to your grill.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or a casual weeknight meal, these recipes promise to make your vegan BBQ experience fun, tasty, and completely cruelty-free.
15 Easy Vegan BBQ Recipes for Your Grill

Vegan BBQs prove that plant-based cooking can be indulgent, smoky, and satisfying.
These 15 recipes show how versatile vegan ingredients can be, from grilled veggies and savory skewers to hearty sandwiches and sides.
Incorporating these dishes into your BBQ repertoire adds flavor, nutrition, and creativity while keeping meals cruelty-free.
Trying out these recipes can make outdoor cooking exciting and inclusive for everyone.
Whether for family, friends, or solo dining, these vegan BBQ creations are sure to inspire, impress, and delight all taste buds.
Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches
These vegan BBQ jackfruit sandwiches are smoky, tender, and bursting with bold barbecue flavor.
Young green jackfruit mimics pulled pork perfectly, absorbing the rich, tangy BBQ sauce while staying juicy and meaty.
Served on toasted buns with crunchy slaw, these sandwiches are satisfying, hearty, and ideal for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup vegan BBQ sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 burger buns
- 1 cup vegan coleslaw
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and golden.
- Add jackfruit, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring to coat the jackfruit in spices.
- Pour in the BBQ sauce and reduce heat to low.
- Simmer for 15–20 minutes, shredding jackfruit with a fork as it softens.
- Toast the buns and layer the jackfruit mixture with vegan coleslaw.
- Serve warm and enjoy immediately.
These vegan BBQ jackfruit sandwiches are flavorful, smoky, and full of texture.
They perfectly replicate the taste of pulled barbecue meat without animal products.
Each bite offers a delicious mix of tang, spice, and crunch — ideal for any BBQ lover.
Vegan BBQ Cauliflower Wings
These vegan BBQ cauliflower wings are crispy, tangy, and delightfully addictive.
Tender cauliflower florets are coated in a light batter, baked until golden, and tossed in a smoky BBQ glaze.
Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, these wings are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup vegan BBQ sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Dip cauliflower florets in the batter, shaking off excess.
- Arrange on the tray and bake for 20 minutes until lightly golden.
- Remove from oven, brush with BBQ sauce, and return for 10 more minutes.
- Serve hot with vegan ranch or extra BBQ sauce.
These vegan BBQ cauliflower wings are crunchy on the outside and tender inside.
The smoky-sweet glaze makes every bite irresistible.
They’re healthy, flavorful, and an excellent alternative to traditional wings — perfect for parties or snacks.
Vegan BBQ Tempeh Skewers
These vegan BBQ tempeh skewers are smoky, savory, and high in plant protein.
Tempeh cubes are marinated in a zesty BBQ blend, then grilled or baked to perfection.
They deliver a satisfying meaty texture and a caramelized coating that makes them irresistible at any barbecue.
Ingredients:
- 1 block tempeh, cut into cubes
- ½ cup vegan BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes for skewering
Instructions:
- Whisk together BBQ sauce, soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Add tempeh cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Thread tempeh, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes onto skewers.
- Grill over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and caramelized.
- Brush with extra BBQ sauce before serving.
These vegan BBQ tempeh skewers are smoky, satisfying, and rich in umami flavor.
The caramelized glaze adds depth while the veggies bring freshness.
They’re a perfect addition to any summer barbecue, offering a wholesome and protein-packed alternative to meat.
Vegan BBQ Portobello Burgers
These vegan BBQ portobello burgers are hearty, juicy, and deeply flavorful.
Large portobello mushrooms soak up the tangy BBQ marinade, creating a smoky, meaty centerpiece for a satisfying burger.
They’re perfect for both indoor and outdoor grilling and pair wonderfully with fresh toppings.
Ingredients:
- 4 large portobello mushroom caps
- ½ cup vegan BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 burger buns
- Lettuce, tomato, onion, and vegan mayo for serving
Instructions:
- Whisk BBQ sauce, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Coat mushroom caps in the mixture and marinate for 15–20 minutes.
- Preheat grill or pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill mushrooms for 4–5 minutes per side, basting with remaining marinade.
- Assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, onion, and vegan mayo.
- Serve immediately.
These vegan BBQ portobello burgers are smoky, savory, and incredibly juicy.
The mushrooms have a satisfying bite that rivals any meat patty.
Each burger delivers rich BBQ flavor and freshness — a must-try for plant-based grilling.
Vegan BBQ Baked Beans
These vegan BBQ baked beans are rich, smoky, and slow-cooked to perfection.
They combine tender beans with a tangy, sweet, and spicy barbecue sauce that develops incredible depth of flavor as it simmers.
It’s a classic comfort dish that pairs perfectly with grilled veggies, cornbread, or vegan burgers.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked navy or pinto beans
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup vegan BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Stir in BBQ sauce, maple syrup, vinegar, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooked beans and mix well to coat evenly.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 40–45 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Serve warm as a side or main dish.
These vegan BBQ baked beans are hearty, flavorful, and wonderfully smoky.
They’re the perfect complement to grilled dishes or a standalone comfort meal.
Every bite is rich, sweet, and tangy — a classic BBQ favorite made entirely plant-based.
Vegan BBQ Lentil Sliders
These vegan BBQ lentil sliders are small but mighty in flavor and texture.
Tender lentils are blended with breadcrumbs and smoky spices, shaped into mini patties, and glazed with tangy vegan BBQ sauce.
They’re perfect for parties, picnics, or casual dinners, offering all the taste of a barbecue in bite-sized form.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water (flax egg)
- ½ cup vegan BBQ sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slider buns
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix flaxseed and water to create a flax egg. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine lentils, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, spices, salt, and the flax egg.
- Mash lightly until the mixture sticks together.
- Form small patties and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Brush each patty with vegan BBQ sauce and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Assemble sliders with lettuce, tomato, and extra sauce.
These vegan BBQ lentil sliders are smoky, satisfying, and protein-packed.
They’re light yet flavorful, delivering the essence of barbecue in every bite.
Perfect for gatherings or meal prep, they prove that plant-based BBQ can be both fun and filling.
Vegan BBQ Chickpea Wraps
These vegan BBQ chickpea wraps are flavorful, colorful, and bursting with texture.
Smoky BBQ chickpeas meet crisp vegetables and creamy vegan dressing, all wrapped in a soft tortilla.
They’re quick to prepare and ideal for a portable lunch or a light summer dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup vegan BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 carrot, grated
- ½ cup sliced cucumber
- 4 large tortillas
- Vegan ranch or cashew dressing
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chickpeas, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly crisp.
- Stir in BBQ sauce and simmer for 5 minutes until thick and sticky.
- Warm the tortillas and layer with lettuce, cucumber, and carrot.
- Spoon the BBQ chickpeas over the vegetables and drizzle with vegan dressing.
- Roll tightly and slice in half before serving.
These vegan BBQ chickpea wraps are smoky, refreshing, and satisfying.
They combine creamy, tangy, and crunchy textures in perfect harmony.
Easy to make and great for on-the-go meals, they bring bold BBQ flavor to every bite.
Vegan BBQ Grilled Veggie Kebabs
These vegan BBQ grilled veggie kebabs are colorful, smoky, and bursting with charred goodness.
Fresh vegetables are marinated in a zesty BBQ blend and grilled until caramelized and tender.
They’re a showstopper at any cookout and pair beautifully with salads, grains, or vegan dips.
Ingredients:
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red onion, quartered
- 8 button mushrooms
- ½ cup vegan BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add vegetables and toss to coat evenly. Marinate for 20 minutes.
- Thread the veggies onto skewers, alternating colors.
- Grill over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until charred and tender.
- Brush with more BBQ sauce during grilling for extra flavor.
These vegan BBQ veggie kebabs are smoky, juicy, and naturally sweet.
The grilled edges create irresistible depth of flavor.
They’re a fresh and healthy BBQ favorite, proving that simple ingredients can create extraordinary taste.
Vegan BBQ Seitan Ribs
These vegan BBQ seitan ribs are chewy, smoky, and unbelievably meaty.
Made from vital wheat gluten and coated in a sticky BBQ glaze, they capture the texture and richness of real ribs without any animal ingredients.
They’re perfect for grill nights or hearty weekend meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup vital wheat gluten
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¾ cup vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup vegan BBQ sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
- In a bowl, combine vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Stir in broth, soy sauce, and olive oil to form a dough.
- Knead for 2–3 minutes, then press into a rectangular shape about ½ inch thick.
- Bake for 25 minutes. Remove and brush with BBQ sauce.
- Grill or broil for 5–7 minutes per side until caramelized.
These vegan BBQ seitan ribs are smoky, sticky, and packed with bold flavor.
Their meaty texture and saucy coating make them a true BBQ showpiece.
Even non-vegans will be impressed by their taste and satisfying chew.
Vegan BBQ Pineapple Fried Rice
This vegan BBQ pineapple fried rice is a tropical twist on traditional BBQ flavors.
Sweet pineapple blends with smoky BBQ sauce, crisp vegetables, and nutty rice for an irresistible dish.
It’s vibrant, sweet-savory, and perfect for summer meals or BBQ potlucks.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably chilled)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- ½ cup peas and carrots
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp vegan BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp chili flakes
- 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok.
- Add onion and bell pepper, sauté until slightly softened.
- Add peas, carrots, and pineapple chunks, cooking for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in rice, soy sauce, and BBQ sauce.
- Toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.
- Sprinkle with chili flakes and chopped green onions before serving.
This vegan BBQ pineapple fried rice is colorful, tangy, and bursting with flavor.
It’s a fun and tropical fusion dish that brings sweet and smoky elements together beautifully.
Perfect as a side or main, it adds freshness and flair to any vegan BBQ spread
Vegan BBQ Tofu Burgers
These vegan BBQ tofu burgers are smoky, juicy, and packed with plant-based protein.
Firm tofu absorbs a flavorful BBQ marinade and grills to perfection, creating a satisfying burger experience.
Paired with fresh toppings and a soft bun, these burgers are ideal for outdoor cookouts or casual dinners.
Ingredients:
- 1 block firm tofu, pressed and sliced
- ½ cup vegan BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 burger buns
- Lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles for serving
Instructions:
- Mix BBQ sauce, soy sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Marinate tofu slices in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat and brush with olive oil.
- Grill tofu slices for 4–5 minutes per side until caramelized and heated through.
- Toast buns and assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and grilled tofu.
These vegan BBQ tofu burgers are flavorful, smoky, and perfectly textured.
Each bite is juicy, tangy, and satisfying.
They’re a wholesome, protein-packed alternative to traditional meat burgers, perfect for BBQ gatherings.
Vegan BBQ Tempeh Bacon
This vegan BBQ tempeh bacon is smoky, crispy, and packed with bold flavor.
Thin slices of tempeh are marinated in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, then pan-fried until caramelized and crisp.
They’re perfect for sandwiches, salads, or breakfast plates, adding a smoky depth to any dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 block tempeh, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup vegan BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Whisk BBQ sauce, soy sauce, smoked paprika, and maple syrup in a bowl.
- Marinate tempeh slices in the mixture for at least 20 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry tempeh slices for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and slightly crisp.
- Serve warm as a side, in sandwiches, or crumbled over salads.
This vegan BBQ tempeh bacon is smoky, sweet, and savory.
Its crispy edges and rich flavor make it an irresistible plant-based bacon alternative.
It adds depth and texture to any meal without any animal products.
Vegan BBQ Sweet Potato Wedges
These vegan BBQ sweet potato wedges are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and full of smoky-sweet flavor.
They’re coated in a BBQ-spiced marinade and roasted until perfectly caramelized.
Ideal as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, they’re a healthier, plant-based twist on classic BBQ fries.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, cut into wedges
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp vegan BBQ sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Toss sweet potato wedges in the mixture until well coated.
- Arrange on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.
- Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
These vegan BBQ sweet potato wedges are smoky, tender, and naturally sweet.
They’re satisfying as a side dish or snack.
Every bite delivers rich flavor, crisp edges, and a comforting texture that everyone will enjoy.
Vegan BBQ Portobello Steaks
These vegan BBQ portobello steaks are hearty, juicy, and smoky.
Large portobello mushrooms are marinated in a tangy BBQ sauce and grilled or baked until tender.
They’re perfect as a main course for a BBQ dinner, paired with roasted vegetables or grains.
Ingredients:
- 4 large portobello mushroom caps
- ½ cup vegan BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Whisk BBQ sauce, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Marinate mushrooms for 20–30 minutes.
- Preheat grill or oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grill or bake mushrooms for 10–12 minutes per side until tender and caramelized.
- Serve as a main dish with sides of choice.
These vegan BBQ portobello steaks are smoky, juicy, and full of umami flavor.
They make a satisfying centerpiece for any plant-based BBQ.
The tender mushrooms soak up the sauce beautifully, delivering bold flavor in every bite.
Vegan BBQ Pulled Mushroom Tacos
These vegan BBQ pulled mushroom tacos are savory, smoky, and bursting with flavor.
Shredded mushrooms are cooked in a rich BBQ sauce and served in soft tortillas with fresh toppings.
They’re perfect for Taco Tuesdays, casual dinners, or summer BBQ nights.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded oyster or cremini mushrooms
- ½ cup vegan BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small tortillas
- Coleslaw, avocado slices, and lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add shredded mushrooms, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 5–6 minutes until mushrooms soften and release moisture.
- Stir in BBQ sauce and simmer for another 5 minutes until thick and flavorful.
- Warm tortillas and fill with BBQ mushrooms.
- Top with coleslaw, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime.
These vegan BBQ pulled mushroom tacos are smoky, tender, and satisfying.
The combination of savory mushrooms and tangy toppings creates bold, fresh flavors.
They’re a fun, plant-based twist on classic BBQ tacos that everyone will love.