5 Backyard BBQ Setup Ideas You’ll Be Copying This Weekend

Backyard BBQs are one of the best parts of the weekend. 

Whether you're grilling for your family or hosting friends, setting up the right way can make your cookout unforgettable.

From the look of your space to how easy it is to grill, small upgrades can make a big difference.

If you're ready to impress without spending hours planning, here are 5 backyard BBQ setup ideas you’ll be copying this weekend.

Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel :)

Create a BBQ Zone That Feels Like an Outdoor Kitchen

A dedicated BBQ zone instantly upgrades your backyard.

Instead of dragging your grill out each time, set up a permanent (or semi-permanent) space for it.

Choose a flat area, ideally close to your home’s entrance for easy access to the kitchen.

Add a prep table next to your grill; this gives you room to season, chop, or serve.

If your budget allows, consider installing a small outdoor cart or cabinet for storing tools and spices.

A garbage bin nearby is also a smart move.

To take this a step further, you can explore how to design a full outdoor island-style grill setup.

Check out our full guide on BBQ Grill for Island Setups: Outdoor Grill Station Guide for layout ideas, space-saving tips, and must-have features.

Once your space is clean and organized, keep it that way.

After every session, give your grill a proper clean.

If you're using a traditional grill, a bristle-free scraper is a safer alternative to wire brushes; it can help remove cooked-on grime without damaging your grates.

🛠️ If you're in Canada, check out the Easy Function Bristle Free Scraper Brush for a safe and easy cleaning option.

Buy Easy Function Bristle Free Brush - Amazon Canada

Buy Easy Function Bristle Free Scraper Brush - Amazon Canada

Set Up a DIY Condiment & Topping Station

Nobody wants to walk in and out of the house for ketchup, mustard, or pickles.

Set up a small folding table or bar cart with all your favorite sauces, toppings, and extras.

You can use jars or small trays for organization.

Don’t forget the basics:

• Ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce

• Pickles, onions, sliced tomatoes

• Lettuce, jalapeños, relish

• Shredded cheese

You can also keep a cooler under the table with drinks or extra meat if space allows.

Make it self-serve; your guests will love the freedom.

Add String Lights for an Instant Mood Boost

If your BBQ might run into the evening, string lights are a game changer.

They’re simple, cheap, and they totally transform the vibe.

Hang them over your seating area or around the fence.

Even solar-powered options work well and don’t require extra wiring.

This one small step makes your BBQ feel less like a backyard chore and more like a casual outdoor party.

Make Temperature Guesswork a Thing of the Past

One of the easiest ways to ruin a BBQ is undercooking or overcooking meat.

It’s hard to tell when things are done; especially if you're working with thick cuts or cooking different types of meat together.

That’s where a meat temperature chart comes in.

Instead of constantly checking your phone, mount a waterproof magnet chart near your grill.

It gives you instant temps for beef, pork, chicken, and more.

🧲 In the U.S., the Easy Function Meat Temp Guide Magnet is a smart addition to your grill setup.

It's quick to read and always handy.

You can also combine this with a digital thermometer to ensure spot-on cooking every time.

Buy Easy Function Meat Temp Guide - Amazon Canada

Buy Easy Function Meat Temp Guide - Amazon USA

Bring the Heat With a Smoking Station

Ready to go beyond burgers and hot dogs?

Try adding a smoking station to your setup.

If you have a smoker, great.

If not, even a gas or charcoal grill can work with a smoker box and wood chips.

Not sure where to start?

Learn everything you need to know in our article on How to Use a Smoker for BBQ Grill Cooking.

It walks you through setup, smoking times, and flavor pairings for next-level BBQ.

Use your smoker to cook ribs, brisket, or smoked chicken thighs low and slow.

Not sure how long to smoke your meats or what temperature you need?

In that case, the Easy Function Meat Smoking Guide Magnet is a great tool.

It gives you clear, fast info on smoke times, wood pairings, and internal temps.

This takes the guesswork out and makes you feel like a true pitmaster; without years of trial and error.

Buy Easy Function Meat Smoking Guide - Amazon Canada

Buy Easy Function Meat Smoking Guide - Amazon USA

Final Thoughts

With just a few small upgrades, your backyard BBQ setup can go from basic to brilliant.

Organize your space, give your grill the love it deserves, and use tools that make the job easier.

Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned griller, these ideas are easy to copy and fun to try.

Want to explore more ways to level up your grilling?

👉 Click the button to check out our full range of BBQ tools from Easy Function.

P.S. We regularly publish new recipes and grilling tips. Here’s the most recent one: Learn How Long to Soak Wood Chips for Smoking.