15 Mouthwatering Fall Cookout Recipes to Enjoy Autumn

Fall doesn’t mean the end of grilling season—it’s the perfect time for cozy outdoor cookouts.

With crisp air, colorful foliage, and seasonal flavors, fall cookouts offer a chance to enjoy hearty, comforting foods.

From smoky meats to roasted vegetables, sweet treats, and warm sides, fall cookout recipes combine traditional barbecue favorites with autumn-inspired ingredients.

Pumpkin, apples, squash, cranberries, and warm spices elevate your outdoor meals and add seasonal flair.

These recipes are ideal for family gatherings, neighborhood parties, or casual weekend cookouts.

They range from appetizers and mains to sides and desserts, ensuring every course is flavorful and festive.

Whether you’re an experienced griller or a backyard beginner, these 15 fall cookout recipes are easy to follow and delicious.

Expect smoky, sweet, savory, and hearty flavors that perfectly capture the essence of fall.

By using seasonal ingredients, these recipes provide a comforting twist on classic cookout dishes.

Get ready to gather friends and family for mouthwatering meals under the autumn sky.

15 Mouthwatering Fall Cookout Recipes to Enjoy Autumn

Fall cookouts are all about hearty flavors, seasonal ingredients, and memorable gatherings.

These 15 fall cookout recipes offer a variety of meats, vegetables, sides, and desserts perfect for the season.

They’re easy to prepare, crowd-pleasing, and full of autumn-inspired taste.

From smoky grilled mains to sweet pumpkin desserts, every recipe captures the warmth of fall.

These dishes are perfect for family dinners, weekend barbecues, or festive holiday cookouts.

With fresh, seasonal ingredients, your outdoor meals can be both comforting and creative.

They provide balanced options for all tastes, including sweet, savory, spicy, and smoky.

These recipes make it easy to enjoy the flavors of fall in every bite.

Cookouts in autumn are not just about food—they’re about creating lasting memories with loved ones.

With these 15 recipes, your fall gatherings will be flavorful, festive, and unforgettable.

Maple-Glazed Grilled Chicken Thighs

Maple-Glazed Grilled Chicken Thighs are juicy, smoky, and infused with a hint of sweetness perfect for fall.

The combination of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and garlic creates a rich glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.

This recipe is simple to prepare, quick to cook, and perfect for family cookouts or weekend gatherings.

It pairs well with roasted vegetables, salads, or warm autumn sides.

Ingredients:

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ tsp smoked paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the glaze generously over the chicken thighs.
4. Place chicken on the grill, skin side down, and cook for 6–8 minutes.
5. Flip the chicken and cook an additional 6–8 minutes, basting with more glaze.
6. Check that internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Maple-Glazed Grilled Chicken Thighs are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly caramelized.

The combination of sweet maple and smoky grill flavors embodies the taste of fall.

They’re ideal for family dinners, cookouts, or festive autumn gatherings.

Every bite delivers tender, savory, and sweet perfection.

Grilled Apple and Brie Sandwiches

Grilled Apple and Brie Sandwiches are warm, gooey, and packed with autumn flavors.

Crisp apples, creamy brie, and a drizzle of honey are layered between crusty bread and grilled to perfection.

This recipe is perfect for a fall cookout side, lunch, or casual outdoor meal.

It offers a balance of sweet, savory, and melty textures that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 8 slices sourdough or whole-grain bread
• 8 oz brie cheese, sliced
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp butter
• Fresh thyme leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat a grill or panini press to medium heat.
2. Spread butter on one side of each bread slice.
3. Layer brie slices and apple slices on the unbuttered side of 4 bread slices.
4. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle fresh thyme if desired.
5. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side out.
6. Grill sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side, until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
7. Slice and serve warm.

Grilled Apple and Brie Sandwiches are sweet, savory, and melty.

They perfectly capture the flavors of fall with apples, honey, and creamy cheese.

Ideal for cookout sides, light lunches, or cozy outdoor snacks.

Every bite is warm, comforting, and full of autumn flavor

Spiced Pumpkin Cornbread on the Grill

Spiced Pumpkin Cornbread on the Grill is moist, flavorful, and perfect for autumn cookouts.

Pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg infuse the cornbread with cozy seasonal flavors.

Grilling adds a slightly smoky taste and a golden crust that enhances its rustic appeal.

This recipe pairs well with chili, pulled pork, or roasted vegetables for a hearty fall meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium heat and lightly grease a cast-iron skillet.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar.
3. In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into the prepared skillet and smooth the top.
6. Cover and cook on the grill for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Spiced Pumpkin Cornbread is moist, flavorful, and perfectly spiced.

The combination of pumpkin and warm spices captures the essence of fall.

Ideal for cookouts, pairing with main dishes, or enjoying as a cozy side.

Every bite delivers warmth, sweetness, and a rustic, seasonal charm

Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops

Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops are juicy, tender, and infused with the warm flavors of fall.

The sweet and tangy apple cider glaze pairs beautifully with the smoky char from the grill.

This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for weekend cookouts or family dinners.

Serve with roasted vegetables or fall-inspired sides for a complete autumn meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in pork chops
• 1 cup apple cider
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Simmer over medium heat until slightly thickened, about 8–10 minutes.
4. Brush pork chops with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill pork chops for 5–6 minutes per side, brushing with glaze during the last few minutes.
6. Check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops are sweet, savory, and full of autumn flavor.

The glaze caramelizes beautifully on the grill, adding depth and richness.

Perfect for fall cookouts or cozy family dinners.

Every bite is juicy, flavorful, and seasonally inspired.

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5. Grilled Veggie and Halloumi Skewers

Grilled Veggie and Halloumi Skewers are colorful, savory, and perfect for fall outdoor meals.

Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and halloumi cheese are marinated in a garlic-herb dressing before grilling.

The smoky flavor from the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables and the creaminess of the cheese.

These skewers are ideal as a main or side dish for cookouts, parties, or family gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced thick
• 8 oz halloumi cheese, cut into cubes
• 1 cup mushrooms, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread vegetables and halloumi onto skewers, alternating pieces for variety.
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush skewers with the marinade.
5. Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until vegetables are tender and cheese is golden.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Grilled Veggie and Halloumi Skewers are smoky, savory, and perfectly balanced.

They’re ideal for fall cookouts, offering a colorful and flavorful option.

Every bite delivers tender vegetables, creamy cheese, and aromatic herbs.

These skewers are simple, nutritious, and satisfying

Pumpkin Spice Grilled Corn on the Cob

Pumpkin Spice Grilled Corn on the Cob is sweet, smoky, and infused with warm fall spices.

A combination of butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar creates a seasonal glaze that caramelizes on the grill.

This recipe is perfect as a side dish for fall cookouts, barbecues, or casual gatherings.

It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or hearty autumn salads.

Ingredients:

• 6 ears of corn, husked
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Brush the corn generously with the spiced butter mixture.
4. Place corn on the grill and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally.
5. Brush with additional spiced butter while grilling for extra flavor.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Pumpkin Spice Grilled Corn on the Cob is sweet, smoky, and perfectly spiced for fall.

It’s an easy, festive side that elevates any cookout menu.

Every bite delivers buttery corn with a warm, autumnal twist.

Perfect for gatherings, backyard meals, or cozy fall celebrations

Cider-Brined Grilled Turkey Breast

Cider-Brined Grilled Turkey Breast is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a fall cookout.

Brining the turkey in apple cider, herbs, and spices ensures tender, moist meat with a subtle autumn sweetness.

This recipe is ideal for family gatherings or weekend cookouts, adding a seasonal twist to a classic favorite.

It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, fall salads, or grilled corn.

Ingredients:

• 1 turkey breast (about 3–4 lbs)
• 4 cups apple cider
• 4 cups water
• ¼ cup kosher salt
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 tsp black peppercorns
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine apple cider, water, salt, brown sugar, garlic, peppercorns, and thyme.
2. Submerge the turkey breast in the brine and refrigerate for 8–12 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium heat and brush turkey with olive oil.
4. Remove turkey from brine, pat dry, and season lightly with salt and pepper.
5. Grill turkey over indirect heat for 1–1.5 hours, turning occasionally, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Cider-Brined Grilled Turkey Breast is moist, tender, and infused with autumn flavors.

The apple cider brine adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the meat.

Perfect for fall cookouts, family dinners, or festive gatherings.

Every bite delivers juicy, flavorful turkey with a seasonal twist.

Grilled Pumpkin and Sage Skewers

Grilled Pumpkin and Sage Skewers are sweet, savory, and full of fall flavor.

Tender pumpkin cubes are marinated in olive oil, fresh sage, and a hint of maple syrup before grilling.

These skewers are perfect as a side dish for cookouts, vegetarian mains, or festive autumn meals.

They bring a smoky, caramelized flavor with a cozy, seasonal aroma.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups pumpkin, cut into cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp fresh sage, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
2. Thread pumpkin cubes onto skewers.
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, maple syrup, sage, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the pumpkin skewers generously with the marinade.
5. Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Serve hot as a side or main dish.

Grilled Pumpkin and Sage Skewers are sweet, savory, and perfectly smoky.

They capture the essence of fall with pumpkin, maple, and aromatic sage.

Perfect for cookouts, fall gatherings, or cozy autumn meals.

Every bite is tender, flavorful, and seasonally inspired.

Autumn BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

Autumn BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders are tender, smoky, and packed with fall flavors.

Slow-cooked pork is seasoned with warm spices, then shredded and mixed with a tangy apple cider barbecue sauce.

These sliders are perfect for cookouts, tailgating, or casual fall gatherings.

Serve on soft slider buns with coleslaw or pickled vegetables for extra flavor.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs pork shoulder
• 1 cup apple cider
• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• ½ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Slider buns for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill or smoker to 250°F (120°C).
2. Rub pork shoulder with smoked paprika, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Place pork on the grill and cook slowly for 4–5 hours until tender.
4. In a small saucepan, mix apple cider, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, and brown sugar; simmer to make the barbecue sauce.
5. Shred the cooked pork and toss with the apple cider barbecue sauce.
6. Serve on slider buns with optional coleslaw or pickles.

Autumn BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders are tender, smoky, and full of seasonal flavor.

They’re perfect for fall cookouts, parties, or casual gatherings.

Every bite combines juicy pork, tangy apple cider sauce, and soft buns.

These sliders capture the warmth and flavor of autumn in a handheld meal

Grilled Sausage and Apple Skewers

Grilled Sausage and Apple Skewers are savory, sweet, and perfect for autumn cookouts.

Juicy sausage pieces are paired with crisp apple chunks, creating a flavorful combination that caramelizes on the grill.

This recipe is simple, quick, and ideal for a hearty appetizer or main dish at a fall gathering.

It pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, fall salads, or a side of roasted potatoes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb smoked sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 apples, cored and cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
2. Thread sausage pieces and apple chunks alternately onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until sausage is heated through and apples are caramelized.
5. Serve immediately as an appetizer or main course.

Grilled Sausage and Apple Skewers are smoky, sweet, and packed with fall flavors.

The caramelized apples balance the savory sausage perfectly.

Ideal for cookouts, casual dinners, or festive autumn gatherings.

Every bite delivers a satisfying mix of flavors and textures.

Spiced Pumpkin Burgers

Spiced Pumpkin Burgers are hearty, flavorful, and perfect for fall cookouts.

Ground turkey or beef is mixed with pumpkin puree, warm spices, and breadcrumbs for a moist and savory patty.

Grilling adds a smoky char that enhances the autumn-inspired flavor.

These burgers are delicious on buns with toppings like arugula, apple slices, or a maple-mustard sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey or beef
• ½ cup pumpkin puree
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 burger buns
• Optional toppings: arugula, apple slices, cheese, maple-mustard sauce

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, pumpkin puree, breadcrumbs, egg, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
2. Form into 4 equal patties.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill patties for 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked.
5. Toast buns on the grill for 1–2 minutes if desired.
6. Assemble burgers with preferred toppings and serve immediately.

Spiced Pumpkin Burgers are juicy, flavorful, and seasonally inspired.

The pumpkin and warm spices add moisture and autumn taste to each bite.

Perfect for fall cookouts, family dinners, or weekend gatherings.

Every bite is hearty, savory, and comforting.

Grilled Autumn Vegetable Platter

Grilled Autumn Vegetable Platter is colorful, smoky, and packed with seasonal flavors.

A variety of vegetables like butternut squash, bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms are marinated in olive oil and herbs before grilling.

This dish is perfect as a side for fall cookouts or a main for vegetarian meals.

The smoky char from the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, halved
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, toss vegetables with olive oil, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill vegetables in a grill basket or on skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally.
4. Serve warm as a side dish or a vegetarian main.

Grilled Autumn Vegetable Platter is smoky, sweet, and vibrant.

It perfectly captures the flavors of fall with seasonal produce.

Ideal for cookouts, festive gatherings, or healthy family meals.

Every bite is tender, flavorful, and satisfying

Cinnamon-Spiced Grilled Sweet Potatoes

Cinnamon-Spiced Grilled Sweet Potatoes are tender, caramelized, and full of autumn flavor.

The warm combination of cinnamon, brown sugar, and olive oil enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.

This recipe is perfect as a side dish for fall cookouts, pairing beautifully with meats or vegetarian mains.

Grilling adds a smoky char that intensifies the flavor and texture.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium sweet potatoes, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the sweet potato slices with the mixture.
4. Grill for 6–8 minutes per side until tender and caramelized.
5. Serve warm as a side dish for your cookout.

Cinnamon-Spiced Grilled Sweet Potatoes are sweet, smoky, and perfectly seasoned.

They bring the cozy flavors of fall to any cookout menu.

Every bite delivers tender, caramelized sweet potatoes with a hint of warm spice.

These are ideal for family gatherings or festive autumn meals.

Autumn Grilled Portobello Mushrooms

Autumn Grilled Portobello Mushrooms are savory, juicy, and full of umami flavor.

Marinated in balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and thyme, the mushrooms absorb rich autumn-inspired tastes.

This recipe works as a main for vegetarian guests or a hearty side for grilled meats.

Grilling gives the mushrooms a smoky depth that enhances their natural flavor.

Ingredients:

• 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush mushrooms generously with the marinade.
4. Grill for 5–6 minutes per side until tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve warm as a side or main dish.

Autumn Grilled Portobello Mushrooms are tender, savory, and full of smoky flavor.

They’re perfect for fall cookouts and vegetarian-friendly meals.

Every bite delivers rich, umami flavor with a hint of herbs and balsamic.

These mushrooms are satisfying, versatile, and seasonal.

Caramel Apple Grilled Dessert

Caramel Apple Grilled Dessert is sweet, warm, and a perfect ending for a fall cookout.

Fresh apple slices are grilled and drizzled with caramel sauce, creating a caramelized, gooey treat.

This dessert is simple, crowd-pleasing, and captures the flavors of autumn in every bite.

It pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent finish.

Ingredients:

• 4 apples, cored and sliced into rings
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• ¼ cup caramel sauce
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
2. Brush apple slices with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon.
3. Grill apples for 2–3 minutes per side until slightly softened and caramelized.
4. Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
5. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.

Caramel Apple Grilled Dessert is sweet, tender, and bursting with autumn flavors.

It’s the perfect seasonal treat for any fall cookout.

Every bite combines caramelized apples, warm spices, and rich caramel sauce.

This dessert is simple, delicious, and a crowd favorite.