The 9 Most-Loved BBQ Staples to Fuel Your Fourth of July

The 4th of July is a time for celebration, fireworks, and, of course... incredible barbecued food! As families and friends gather to commemorate Independence Day, certain BBQ staples make the occasion truly special. From sizzling hot dogs to juicy burgers, let's dive into some fun facts about America's favorite 4th of July foods to help you get grilling this Independence Day!

1. Hot Dogs: The All-American Classic

Did you know? On the 4th of July, Americans consume around 150 million hot dogs. That's enough to stretch from Washington, D.C., to Los Angeles more than five times!

Favorite Toppings: Mustard, ketchup, onions, relish, and sauerkraut.

Regional Variations:

• • Chicago-Style: Poppy seed bun, yellow mustard, bright green relish, onions, tomato wedges, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt.
  • New York-Style: Sauerkraut, spicy brown mustard, and onions in a tomato-based sauce.

2. Hamburgers: The King of the Grill

Did you know? Americans consume about 50 billion hamburgers each year, with a significant portion grilled on the 4th of July.

Favorite Toppings: Lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles, onions, and condiments like ketchup and mustard.

Popular Variations:

• • Bacon Burger: Crispy bacon strips added for extra flavor.
  • Veggie Burger: A plant-based alternative for non-meat eaters.

3. Potato Salad

Typically made with mayonnaise, mustard, and hard-boiled eggs.

Did you know? Potato salad has been a BBQ staple since the early 19th century.

4. Coleslaw 

A refreshing mix of shredded cabbage and carrots, usually dressed in a vinaigrette or creamy dressing.

5. Corn on the Cob

Grilled and buttered, often sprinkled with salt or spices for added flavor. There are many different ways to spice up corn on the cob.

Some popular variations for this classic side are: Mexican Street Corn (Elote), Garlic Parmesan, Spicy Sriracha, Herb Butter, BBQ Rub, Cheesy Bacon, Lemon Pepper, Cajun Spice, Honey Butter, Pesto.

Did you know: Today, Americans consume about 3 billion ears of corn each year, especially during the summer months when it’s at its sweetest and freshest!

6. Baked Beans

Often slow-cooked with bacon and a sweet, tangy sauce, a traditional BBQ favorite. 

Did you know? Americans consume millions of cans of baked beans each year, especially during the summer BBQ season and major holidays like the 4th of July.

7. Apple Pie

Often hailed as the "quintessential" American dessert.

Did you know? The saying "As American as apple pie" dates back to the early 1900s.

8. Watermelon

You can never go wrong with this refreshing, hydrating treat perfect for hot summer days like the 4th of July! What's a barbecue without a ripe, juicy watermelon to cool you down? 

Did you know? The biggest watermelon ever grown weighed an astonishing 350.5 pounds. This record-breaking watermelon was grown by Chris Kent of Sevierville, Tennessee, and was officially recognized by the Guinness World Records in October 2013

9. S'mores

A campfire classic made with graham crackers, chocolate, and toasted marshmallows. These are always a huge hit with kids and adults alike... and they are definitely a star food staple at any BBQ! 

Did you know? The first recorded recipe for s'mores appeared in the 1927 publication "Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts," which was published by the Girl Scouts of the USA. The recipe was credited to Loretta Scott Crew, who is said to have made them by the campfire for the Girl Scouts. While it's likely that the treat was enjoyed by campers before this publication, the Girl Scouts are often credited with popularizing s'mores.

The 4th of July BBQ is a beloved tradition that brings friends and family together over delicious food. Whether you’re a hot dog enthusiast, a hamburger aficionado, or a sides and desserts devotee, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and celebrate Independence Day with a feast fit for the occasion!

What’s your favorite BBQ staple to enjoy on the 4th of July?