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Football & BBQ: The Perfect Autumn Recipes for Game-Day Gatherings
Autumn in Australia means two things: footy season and BBQs. Whether you’re watching the AFL with mates or gathering the family for a big game, nothing pairs better with the action than a sizzling BBQ spread enjoyed in your outdoor kitchen.
With cooler evenings and the excitement of finals footy building, now is the perfect time to fire up the grill and serve up some easy, crowd-pleasing BBQ dishes. Here’s how to host the ultimate game-day BBQ, plus some delicious, easy-to-eat recipes that will keep everyone fuelled from kick-off to the final siren.
How to Host the Ultimate Footy BBQ
To make your footy BBQ a winner, follow these simple hosting tips:
- Set Up a Game-Watching Zone – When you’re hosting in your outdoor kitchen, make sure there’s a screen, comfortable seating, and a good view of the game. An outdoor TV, projector, or even a Bluetooth speaker for live commentary can keep the excitement going.
- Stock Up on Drinks – Footy and a cold beer go hand in hand. Keep the esky filled with a mix of local craft beers, ciders, and non-alcoholic options like sparkling water or a virgin margarita.
- Stick to Hand-Held Foods – No one wants to wrestle with a knife and fork while cheering for their team. Serve BBQ dishes that are easy to grab and eat with one hand.
- Pre-Cook & Keep it Simple – You don’t want to miss the best plays while stuck at the grill. Pre-marinate meats and prepare sides in advance so you can enjoy the game, too.
- Get the Footy Atmosphere Right – Footy-themed plates, napkins, or even jerseys can help set the mood. Got mates who support rival teams? Friendly banter is encouraged!
Easy Game-Day BBQ Recipes
Here are some simple, delicious, and mess-free BBQ recipes perfect for footy season:
1. BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Slow-cooked, smoky, and packed with flavour.
Ingredients:
- 1.5kg pork shoulder
- 2 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp salt & black pepper
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 12 mini brioche buns
- Coleslaw for serving
Method:
- Rub pork shoulder with paprika, garlic powder, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Cook low and slow on the BBQ (indirect heat) or in a slow cooker for 6-8 hours.
- Shred the pork, mix in BBQ sauce, and pile onto buns with coleslaw.
- Serve with extra sauce and enjoy!
2. Loaded BBQ Steak & Cheese Fries
Perfect for sharing during half-time!
Ingredients:
- 500g beef rump steak
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt & pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 500g frozen fries
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup jalapeños (optional)
- BBQ sauce & sour cream for drizzling
Method:
- Season the steak with salt, pepper, and paprika. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, then let it rest. Slice thinly.
- Cook the fries until crispy, then top with cheese and steak slices.
- Add tomatoes, jalapeños, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce and sour cream. Serve hot!
3. Spicy Chicken Drumettes
A footy night favourite with a smoky kick!
Ingredients:
- 1kg chicken drumettes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp honey
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
Method:
- Toss drumettes in olive oil, paprika, garlic, and cayenne. Let marinate for 30 minutes.
- Grill over medium heat for 20 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Mix honey and BBQ sauce and brush over the wings in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Bonus Tips for a Winning Footy BBQ
- Have snacks ready before the game starts – Chips, dips, and nuts are great for pre-game munching.
- Make a DIY burger or snags on bread bar – Let guests customise their own with toppings.
- Light up a fire pit – Keeps the atmosphere cosy and warm as the game goes into the evening.
- Keep dessert simple – BBQ banana boats with melted chocolate and marshmallows make an easy, sweet finish.
BBQs and footy are the ultimate match-up for an unforgettable autumn gathering. Whether you're barracking for the Tigers, the Magpies, or the Swans, these easy-to-eat BBQ recipes will keep everyone well-fed and focused on the game.