How to BBQ in Any Weather: Autumn and Winter Grilling Tips

When the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, many people start packing away their BBQs until warmer weather. But the colder weather doesn’t have to stop a great grilling session! With a few adjustments, you can keep the your barbecue grill going all year round. So, here’s how to embrace the colder seasons and keep the flames alight, no matter what the weather throws at you.

Dress for the Weather (and the Occasion!)

It might seem obvious, but if you’re cold, you’ll be less inclined to enjoy your BBQ. Make sure you’re dressed in layers you don’t mind getting a little smoky. Keep some handy BBQ accessories nearby, like a warm jacket and some BBQ gloves—ideally, a pair that’s heat-resistant for handling the grill, as regular mitts might not cut it when things heat up. 

Choose the Right BBQ for Year-Round Use

If you’re planning on grilling through the winter, it’s worth investing in a BBQ that’s built to handle a bit of weather. A well-insulated BBQ, whether that's a gas BBQ or a charcoal BBQ, will help maintain a steady temperature, even on colder days. Look for sturdy, durable models that can withstand wind and rain without too much fuss.

Charcoal BBQ or gas BBQ?

Both work, but a charcoal BBQ tends to be less affected by cold temperatures since you can adjust the heat by adding more coals. A gas BBQ is still great, though you may notice they take a bit longer to warm up. It's best to keep your options open!

Prep Your BBQ Spot

Think about where you’re grilling and make sure your BBQ area is as sheltered as possible. Set up close to the house (but never indoors!), ideally with some cover from the rain. A gazebo or awning works wonders, or if you have a covered patio, even better. If the wind’s strong, position your barbecue grill with its back to the wind so it doesn’t disrupt your cooking.

Manage the Temperature

When it’s chilly outside, keeping your BBQ hot and steady requires a bit more patience. Preheat your barbecue grill longer than usual, as cold metal takes time to warm up, and don’t be afraid to close the lid! Keeping the lid closed not only traps heat but helps avoid temperature fluctuations caused by winter winds.

Top tip: For a charcoal BBQ, consider using a bit more charcoal than you normally would. It’ll help keep the temperature consistent, which is key for those slower, more flavourful winter cooks. For a gas BBQ, consider allowing extra time to preheat your grill, as the colder weather will mean it takes longer to heat up.

Rain or Shine, You’re Ready to Grill!

Rain can be a bit tricky when it comes to BBQing, but it’s by no means a dealbreaker. With a sheltered setup and a little extra patience, you’re good to go. Just avoid opening the lid too often, as it lets rain hit your food (and cools things down).

If your BBQ has a vented lid, point the vents away from the direction of the wind, so any gusts won’t blow rain into your cooking space. And if you’ve got a BBQ cover, keep it handy so you can quickly cover up in a heavy downpour.

Choose Warm, Hearty Recipes

There’s something wonderfully cosy about a winter BBQ. The cooler weather calls for warming dishes, so embrace heartier options like smoked brisket, BBQ pork shoulder, or loaded baked potatoes. Grilled winter veg like root vegetables or corn on the cob work a treat too, soaking up that smoky flavour perfectly.

Looking for a quick meal? BBQ kebabs are fantastic for a winter night—they cook fast, and you can easily customise them with seasonal veg, meats, or even chunks of halloumi. Be sure to check out our other blogs on some of the best barbecue grill recipes. 

Gather Round with Friends and Family

Finally, don’t forget to make it a social occasion. BBQs are about more than food; they’re a chance to gather and enjoy the outdoors, even when it’s chilly. Set up some fairy lights, bring out blankets, and maybe even light a fire pit or chimenea if you’ve got one to hand. And remember, a warm drink pairs perfectly with a winter BBQ. Hot mulled cider, anyone?

Wrapping Up

Barbecuing in autumn and winter has its own magic, with smokier flavours and a satisfying warmth that’s hard to beat. So, don’t pack away your barbecue grill just yet—embrace the colder months and make the most of year-round barbecuing. Whether you're cooking on a gas BBQ or a charcoal BBQ, with a few tweaks to your setup and a bit of hearty food, you’ll be grilling away happily come rain, wind, or even snow!

Cook it Your Way! 

The sizzle & Smoke Co Team.