Get a Quality BBQ Experience with This Easy Backyard Guide

Introduction

There’s nothing better than the smell of food on a grill.

Whether it’s a weekend cookout or a quiet dinner at home, BBQ brings people together.

But before you can enjoy those delicious bites, you need to get the grill going—and that’s where many beginners get stuck.

This guide is here to help.

If you’re wondering about the best way to get a BBQ going, you're in the right place.

We’ll walk you through everything from setup and safety to expert tips and tasty extras.

Whether you’re using charcoal or gas, this easy-to-read guide will make sure your BBQ is off to a sizzling start.

So grab your apron, and let’s fire it up!

Understanding BBQ Basics

A Quick History of BBQ

Barbecue has been around for centuries.

It started as a way to cook meat over an open fire.

Over time, BBQ became part of many cultures—from slow-cooked Southern ribs to quick-grilled kebabs.

Today, it’s more than just cooking—it’s a tradition.

Read More: BBQ Cleaning Hacks: Easy Function's Expert Tips - Behind The Grill

Different Types of BBQ

Before you start your grill, it’s good to know your options:

• Charcoal grills give your food a smoky flavor.

• Gas grills heat up quickly and are easier to control.

• Electric grills are great for indoor grilling or small spaces.

Each one has its own strengths. 

What’s important is knowing how to get it going the right way.

Tools You’ll Need

To get started, here are some must-have items:

• A reliable grill (charcoal, gas, or electric)

• Long-handled tongs and spatulas

• A grill thermometer

• Fire starters or a charcoal chimney

• A grill brush or scraper for cleanup

We personally love using the Easy Function wood grill scraper. 

It’s made from pine wood, shapes itself to your grill over time, and helps clean grates without using metal bristles. 

It’s eco-friendly and easy to use—perfect for regular post-BBQ care.

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The Best Practices for Getting a BBQ Going

Preparation Steps

Before lighting your grill, make sure you're in a safe, open space away from anything flammable.

Keep a water spray bottle nearby—just in case.

Always check that your grill is clean and working properly.

For charcoal grills:

• Empty the old ashes.

• Set up your charcoal in a pyramid or use a chimney starter.

• Add some crumpled newspaper under the chimney and light it.

For gas grills:

• Make sure the propane tank is full and connected properly.

• Open the lid before lighting.

• Turn on the gas, then push the igniter or use a lighter stick.

This simple setup is part of the best way to get a BBQ going—safe, easy, and fast.

Discover More: Efficient Grilling Cleaning Guide: Wood Grill Scraper Instructions

Step-by-Step Lighting Guide

Charcoal Grill:

• Place your charcoal in a mound or chimney.

• Use fire starters or newspaper to ignite.

• Let the coals turn gray—this means they’re hot and ready.

• Spread them evenly for cooking.

Gas Grill:

• Open the lid.

• Turn the knob to start the gas.

• Ignite the burners.

• Preheat for 10–15 minutes with the lid closed.

No matter which method you use, always preheat your grill to get the best sear and flavor.

Expert Tips for Grill Success

• Keep your grill grates clean. A bristle-free brush like Easy Function’s bristle-free grill cleaning brush is great for safe and deep cleaning. It’s rust-free, long-lasting, and safer than wire bristles.

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• Season your grates with oil to prevent sticking.

• Use wood chips for smoky flavor on charcoal grills.

• Watch the weather—wind and cold can affect cooking time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Uneven Heating

This happens when charcoal isn’t spread evenly or burners are blocked.

Use a heat map test (place slices of white bread across the grill to see which spots burn first).

Adjust coals or burners as needed.

Flare-Ups and Safety

Flare-ups come from dripping fat.

Trim excess fat from meats and keep a spray bottle handy.

Don’t close the lid during big flames.

If you’re using a bristle brush, make sure it’s a safe one like the Easy Function bristle brush, which has a built-in scraper and safe design—no loose wires to worry about.

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Maintenance and Cleaning

After grilling:

• Turn off your heat source.

• Let the grates cool slightly.

• Use a wood grill scraper or safe brush to clean off food bits.

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• Wipe down surfaces and empty ash (for charcoal) or check your tank (for gas).

Taking care of your grill helps it last longer—and keeps your food tasting great.

Enhancing Your BBQ Experience

Marinade and Seasoning Ideas

Want more flavor? 

Try these:

• Lemon garlic marinade for chicken

• Honey mustard glaze for pork

• Dry rubs with paprika, cumin, and brown sugar for ribs

Let your meat rest in the marinade for at least an hour—or overnight for bold taste.

Side Dishes and Pairings

A great BBQ includes more than just meat! 

Try:

• Grilled corn on the cob

• Coleslaw or potato salad

• Lemonade or iced tea for drinks

• Watermelon slices for dessert

These simple sides round out the meal and add color to your plate.

Hosting Tips

If you're inviting friends or family:

• Set up lawn chairs and outdoor games.

• Use string lights for evening events.

• Keep music low and casual.

• Offer veggie options for guests with different diets.

Conclusion

Let’s recap: The best way to get a BBQ going starts with choosing your grill, using the right setup steps, and making sure safety always comes first.

From lighting charcoal to turning on the gas, it’s all about preparation and practice.

Don’t forget to clean up using tools like the Easy Function wood grill scraper or our safe bristle-free brush.

They help keep your grill ready for next time without the worry of dangerous loose bristles.

Grilling is meant to be fun.

So play around with new flavors, invite some friends over, and try out your favorite techniques.

And if you need a hand getting started or cleaning up, we’ve got your back with tools built to make BBQ better.

Ready to fire up the grill? 

Try these tips and let us know how it goes. 

Click the image below to explore more helpful BBQ tools from Easy Function.

Happy grilling!