The Sorted Dad

Grilling in 2025 isn’t just about sausages and charcoal anymore — it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting the neighbours, feeding a hungry family, or just stealing 10 minutes of peace in front of the BBQ with a beer in hand, it’s worth knowing what’s hot (literally) this year.

Here are 10 grilling trends that’ll make your next BBQ a bit more Sorted Dad and a lot less burnt bangers and guesswork.

1. 

Smart Grilling Takes Centre Stage

Tech has finally hit the coals. Smart thermometers, app-connected BBQs, and timers that ping your phone when the steak’s just right — welcome to hands-free grilling.

Even entry-level models now offer Bluetooth monitoring, meaning you can play with the kids or top up drinks while keeping an eye on that pork shoulder. If you’re the kind of dad who loves gadgets and meat, 2025 is your year.

Try this: The Meater+ or ThermoPro wireless probe — easy to use, even if your phone screen’s got BBQ sauce on it.

2. 

Fusion Flavours Are the New Ketchup

It’s time to level up from plain burgers and dry chicken. More dads are experimenting with international flavours, and the results are delicious. Korean gochujang wings, jerk-spiced drumsticks, peri-peri halloumi skewers… It’s all about bold, messy, crowd-pleasing flavours.

Pro tip: Marinades go a long way. Mix yoghurt, lemon, garlic, and tikka spice mix for a killer 24-hour chicken marinade. You’ll look like a legend with very little actual effort.

3. 

Plant-Based BBQ Isn’t Just for Veggies

Even if you’re a confirmed meat-lover, adding a few plant-based stars to your grill is a smart move. It’s healthier, cheaper, and opens up a whole new world of flavour. Plus, it’s one less thing for your veggie mate to moan about.

Think charred corn with chilli lime butter, BBQ cauliflower steaks, or grilled mushroom burgers dripping in smoky cheese.

Dad tip: Grilled halloumi wrapped in foil with lemon and herbs — done in 10 mins, gone in 30 seconds.

4. 

Live Fire Cooking is Back (and Not Just for Camping)

Forget gas grills and electric hobs. Live fire is raw, dramatic, and surprisingly effective. We’re talking lumpwood charcoal, open flames, and cooking straight on the embers caveman-style.

If you’ve got a fire pit or a kettle BBQ, you’re ready to start. It’s rustic, yes — but also fun, smoky, and ideal for slow-cooking meat with character.

Try this: Wrap sweet potatoes in foil and bury them in hot embers. Or rest steaks directly on a pre-heated cast iron pan in the coals.

5. 

Craft Rubs & Small-Batch Sauces Are the New Secret Weapon

We’re seeing a rise in dads making their own rubs and even blending sauces. Whether it’s a smoked paprika and brown sugar mix or a tangy homemade Carolina-style vinegar sauce, these extras take your grilling from “decent” to “do that again!”

Quick rub recipe: Equal parts smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic granules, salt, and black pepper. Add a pinch of chilli flakes if you dare.

6. 

Sustainability Is Sizzling

More dads are thinking about where their charcoal comes from and what happens to all those single-use trays and foil. Look for sustainable lumpwood charcoal, avoid disposable BBQs, and invest in decent gear you can reuse every summer.

Sorted upgrade: Try wood planks for grilling salmon, or reusable skewers and trays. Better for the planet, and honestly — they look cooler.

7. 

BBQ Desserts Are a Thing (and They’re Awesome)

Grilled fruit is the simplest way to look fancy without doing much. Slice a pineapple, grill it for a couple of minutes per side, drizzle with honey. Done.

Or go next-level: bananas in foil with dark chocolate chunks and marshmallows. Stick it on the grill for 10 mins and prepare to be worshipped.

Fun with kids: Let them make their own “banana boats” with toppings. Less mess, more smiles.

8. 

Smoked Cocktails & Charred Drinks? Go On Then.

Smoky drinks are taking off — both alcoholic and not. Grilled lemons, smoked cinnamon sticks, or even oak chips can infuse drinks with next-level flavour.

Quick idea: Grill lemon halves, then squeeze them into soda water with a splash of maple syrup and mint. Boozy option? Add bourbon.

9. 

Accessories That Actually Help (Not Just Clutter)

Forget pointless gadgets — these are the accessories dads are actually using:

• Chimney starter: Game changer for lighting charcoal fast
• Resting blankets: Keeps meat warm and juicy while you get everything else sorted
• Grill baskets: Great for veg, fish, or anything likely to fall through the grates

Bonus tip: A decent meat thermometer saves relationships. And your sausages.

10. 

Hybrid Grills Are Perfect for the Indecisive Dad

Can’t choose between gas convenience or charcoal flavour? In 2025, you don’t have to. Hybrid grills let you switch between the two (or even use both at once).

They’re ideal for dads who want fast midweek sausages but still love slow Sunday brisket. Not cheap, but if BBQ is your thing, it’s worth it.

🔥 Final Thoughts: More Fire, Less Fuss

Grilling in 2025 is all about flexibility, flavour, and feeling like a pro without actually needing a food truck licence. The good news? You don’t need new gear or a garden the size of Wembley — just a bit of inspiration, a few clever shortcuts, and maybe a wireless thermometer or two.

Whether you’re a die-hard griller or just getting into it, there’s never been a better time to fire it up and get stuck in.