Tailgating is a popular tradition in South Carolina, where fans gather to enjoy delicious food and drinks before cheering on their favorite teams. An essential part of tailgating in South Carolina is barbecued, grilled food. People get to prepare fresh and flavorful smoky dishes on the spot. Whether you’re rooting for the Gamecocks, the Tigers, the Bulldogs, or another team, here are some grilled foods to serve at your next tailgate party in South Carolina:
Burgers
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/20231204-SEA-VeganBurger-FredHardy-00-dbf603c78b694bfd99489b85ab44f4c4.jpg)
You can’t go wrong with a classic burger, especially if you use local ingredients like South Carolina beef, cheese, and produce. You can also try different variations, such as bison sliders¹, turkey burgers, or veggie burgers. Don’t forget to add your favorite toppings and sauces, such as barbecue sauce, mustard, ketchup, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, and cheese.
Hot dogs
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/268494-basic-air-fryer-hot-dogs-BuckwheatQueen-4x3-84d84c97b9084e75ad49d8d6154494ca.jpg)
Another tailgate staple, hot dogs are easy to grill and customize. You can choose from a variety of sausages, such as bratwurst, kielbasa, or andouille. You can also make them more exciting by adding chili, cheese, relish, sauerkraut, or coleslaw. For a twist, try smoked hot dog burnt ends, which are sweet, spicy, and smoky.
Chicken
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__simply_recipes__uploads__2016__10__2016-10-26-OvenBBQChicken-7-af966bad06234540ab5e119bae1802b1.jpg)
Chicken is a versatile and lean protein that can be grilled in many ways. You can marinate it in your favorite sauce, such as barbecue, teriyaki, or buffalo. You can also season it with herbs, spices, or rubs. You can grill chicken whole, in pieces, or on skewers. Some popular chicken dishes for tailgating are grilled chicken sandwich, chicken drumsticks, and barbecue chicken.
Steak
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/__opt__aboutcom__coeus__resources__content_migration__serious_eats__seriouseats.com__recipes__images__2016__06__20110516-cowboy-steak-kenji-lopez-alt-bb4a825bd05b4e91b7672bc1603043a8.jpg)
If you want to impress your guests with a hearty and satisfying meal, steak is the way to go. You can choose from different cuts, such as ribeye, sirloin, or flank. You can also vary the doneness, from rare to well-done. You can season steak with salt, pepper, garlic, or other spices. You can also serve it with sauces, such as chimichurri, horseradish, or blue cheese.
Vegetables
Grilling vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and char. You can grill almost any vegetable, such as corn, zucchini, eggplant, peppers, mushrooms, or asparagus. You can also make vegetable platters, salads, or quesadillas. You can season vegetables with oil, vinegar, lemon, or herbs. You can also serve them with dips, such as hummus, salsa, or romesco sauce.
Special South Carolina Grilled Foods for Tailgate Parties
Mustard-based BBQ
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/970384-c8f79f8781814959b27764689d60a73b.jpg)
South Carolina is known for its mustard-based BBQ, so this is a must-have at any tailgate party. You can grill pulled pork, chicken, or ribs, and be sure to have plenty of sauce on hand.
Related:
8 Popular Tailgating Games to Play in South Carolina
13 Famous Events for Tailgate Parties in Charleston, SC
Top 13 Songs to Play at Your Tailgate Party in Charleston, SC
How to Enjoy College Football Seasons for Tailgate Parties in Charleston
Grilled cheeseburgers and hot dogs
These are always crowd-pleasers, and you can dress them up with different toppings like pimento cheese, collard greens, and Carolina Gold rice.
Shrimp and grits
This is a classic South Carolina dish that is perfect for a tailgate party. You can grill the shrimp and keep the grits warm in a slow cooker.
Chicken bog
This hearty stew is made with chicken, rice, sausage, and vegetables. It is perfect for feeding a crowd and is sure to warm you up on a chilly day.
She-crab soup
This rich and creamy soup is made with crabmeat, cream, and sherry. It is a delicious and unique starter for your tailgate party.
Grilled veggie kabobs
These are a healthy and colorful option that is perfect for vegetarians and vegans. You can use a variety of vegetables, such as zucchini, peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
Portobello mushroom burgers
These are a hearty and flavorful option for vegetarians and vegans. You can grill the portobello mushrooms and then top them with your favorite burger toppings.
Grilled corn on the cob
This is a classic summer side dish that is perfect for tailgating. You can dress it up with butter, salt, pepper, or even some chili powder.
Grilled s’mores
These are a fun and festive treat that is perfect for ending your tailgate party on a sweet note. You can use graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate bars, or get creative with other toppings.
Grilled pineapple
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/693425-eb2c9703a70744bfafacbb36ff8edd0f.jpg)
This is a refreshing and healthy treat that is perfect for a hot day. You can grill the pineapple slices and then top them with whipped cream or a drizzle of honey.
Tips for Grilling at a Tailgate Party
- Come prepared: Bring all of the ingredients and equipment you need to grill your food. This includes charcoal, lighter fluid, grilling tools, plates, utensils, and napkins.
- Marinate your food: Marinating your food ahead of time will help it to cook evenly and flavorfully.
- Cook over indirect heat: This will help to prevent your food from burning.
- Keep your food safe: Make sure to keep your food hot or cold, and don’t leave it out in the sun for too long.
The list above contains some of the most essential grilled foods to serve at tailgate parties in South Carolina. Activate the Southern smoky goodness and get your chomping and dancing away!
And if you need the perfect large or medium-sized charcoal grill for your tailgate party, contact Holy City Grills.
