As spring rolls in, it’s the perfect time to get your grill or smoker cleaned up and ready for action. Whether you’ve been grilling year-round or your equipment has been hibernating through the winter, now is the moment to prep your pit and stock your tools so you’re set for a full season of flavor.

Neglecting your grill can lead to:

Regular maintenance keeps your gear in peak shape and your food tasting just the way it should.

Whether you use charcoal, gas, pellet, or offset smokers, here are some universal maintenance steps:

Pellet Grills

Charcoal Grills

Gas Grills

Offset Smokers

Proper seasoning protects against rust and boosts performance.

High-Heat Bake Method (Charcoal, Gas, Offset):

Low and Slow (Pellet, Offset):

Burn-Off + Oil (New Grills or Deep Clean):

Don’t get caught mid-cook without the basics.

✅ Fuel: Charcoal, pellets, wood chunks

✅ Fire Starters: Quick ignition for consistent heat

✅ Thermometers: Instant-read and wireless models like Thermoworks RFX or FireBoard Pulse

✅ Cutting Tools: Sharp knives and disposable cutting boards

✅ Butcher Paper & Sprayers: For wrapping and moisture control

✅ Cleaning Supplies: Brushes, scrapers, degreasers

Planning late cooks? Invest in quality lighting for your grilling area. Outdoor tripod lanterns or portable LED setups make all the difference when you’re grilling past sunset.

Taking time now to clean, season, and gear up your grill sets you up for a stress-free and delicious BBQ season. Whether you’re smoking brisket or flipping burgers, a well-maintained grill delivers better results every time.

Affiliate Disclaimer:

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them—at no extra cost to you. 

🔥 Join the Backyard SmokeMaster Society – It’s Free!

Ready to take your BBQ game to the next level? Come hang out with fellow barbecue lovers in the free Backyard SmokeMaster Society! Share what you’re cooking, swap tips, ask questions, and get inspired—all in a community built for people who love firing up the grill.

👉 Join here

🎧 Listen to the full episode on:

Apple Podcasts,

Spotify,

Amazon Music

Even the best backyard pitmasters burn a brisket now and then. Whether it’s overcooked beef ribs, underdone chicken, a surprise fireball from your grill lid—or a gear malfunction right in the middle of a long cook—we’ve all been there.

In this episode of the Backyard SmokeMaster BBQ Podcast, we shared some real-life fails (including my own), plus tips for how to bounce back and barbecue smarter next time.

My first attempt at beef ribs was a disaster. I followed someone else’s recipe to the letter—ignoring feel, bark, and instinct—and ended up with scorched, tough ribs that nobody wanted to eat…except my sister-in-law, who’s clearly a saint.

Lesson learned:

Don’t cook by temperature alone. Learn to trust your senses: bark texture, probe feel, and aroma. Recipes are a guide, but every smoker is different.

Joe from Q Bellies BBQ shared a story about serving chicken to a neighbor, only to realize it was undercooked. It happens, even to pros.

Fix it tip:

Use a reliable instant-read thermometer and aim for 165°F in the thickest part of the chicken. Cook at a higher heat (around 350°F) and always dry the skin beforehand if you want it to crisp up.

Layering commercial rubs sounds great until you realize you’ve basically made a salt lick.

How to avoid it:

Opening a blazing-hot grill too fast can create a mini fireball—ask me how I know. My arm hair didn’t survive.

Pro move:

Always burp your grill when it’s running hot—crack the lid slightly first to let out some heat before fully opening it.

Pellet smoker flame-outs. Wireless thermometer disconnects. Connectivity issues mid-cook. Been there, done that.

Must-haves:

Cold or rain might slow you down, but wind is what really wreaks havoc. It can spike or kill temps fast.

How to beat it:

The real takeaway from every BBQ fail is growth. Learn your equipment. Understand your fuel. Trust your senses. And never be afraid to share your story—because odds are, another pitmaster has made the same mistake.

Join the Backyard SmokeMaster Society, where we talk gear, recipes, fire management, and all things low & slow. The community’s full of helpful pitmasters who’ve been through every kind of BBQ fail—and come out better for it.

🎧 Listen to the full episode on:

Apple Podcasts,

Spotify,

Amazon Music

Barbecue isn’t just about food. It’s about connection. It’s the smell of ribs that takes you back to childhood, or the sizzle of steak on the grill that sets the tone for a perfect evening with your partner.

In this special Valentine’s Day episode of the Backyard SmokeMaster BBQ Podcast, I was joined by my wife, Jeannine, to talk about how BBQ has played a role in our relationship—and how anyone can turn their smoker into a tool for romance. From family traditions to funny mishaps, to full-on date-night meal ideas, this episode was all about love, smoke, and flavor.

For us, BBQ has always been more than a weekend hobby—it’s a love language. Whether it’s me trying to impress Jeannine with a new recipe or learning from her dad (a military man and pitmaster in his own right), food has become one of our deepest shared experiences.

We talked about how BBQ brings out the best memories: family reunions, backyard birthdays, and even the tough times—like when her dad dropped off racks of ribs after her mother passed. That’s how BBQ expresses love. It’s thoughtful, it’s time-consuming, and it’s always better when shared.

Spoiler alert: we don’t always agree on flavors! I like a bit of heat. Jeannine? Not so much. She’s all about the sweet, smoky side of things—and a sucker for anything pork. Over time, I’ve learned to make two versions of dishes, because that’s love (and because she’s not wrong—sweet pork belly burnt ends are amazing).

But when it comes to resting meat, we’re aligned now. It took some convincing, but Jeannine finally stopped trying to sneak bites before the meat settles. Mostly.

We had a lot of fun sharing and reacting to five grilled meal ideas that are perfect for Valentine’s Day—or any romantic dinner:

Whether it’s a brisket hash brunch or a steak taco night, BBQ has the power to bring people together and create lasting memories. Use it as an opportunity to cook with your partner, try something new, or revisit a family tradition.

And remember—when you cook from the heart, you don’t need a holiday to make it special.

If you’ve been holding things down in your backyard and wondering what it’s like to step onto the competition BBQ scene, this article is your starting point. I recently had a great conversation with Jared Linnell—a newer competitor with a ton of insight—about what it takes to get involved, how to prep, and what to expect.

Whether you’re just curious or seriously considering throwing your hat in the ring, here’s what you need to know.

Jared put it best: he was already competing with himself every time he fired up the grill. But once a friend invited him to join a team for a Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) event, he jumped in—and he’s been hooked ever since.

For many, competition BBQ is the next natural step. It’s a chance to test your skills, learn from others, and challenge yourself in a whole new way.

KCBS (Kansas City Barbeque Society) is the most recognized competition BBQ organization in the U.S. They host both Master Series and Backyard Series contests.

Judges score each category based on appearance, taste, and tenderness, with taste carrying the most weight.

👉 Learn more at kcbs.us

1. Take a Judging or Cooking Class

If you can find a KCBS judging class near you—jump on it. Understanding what judges are looking for gives you a serious edge.

2. Start Local

Local BBQ events or backyard competitions are a great way to ease into it. No need to go big on your first try.

3. Build a Trustworthy Team

If you’re competing with others, make sure they’re people you actually like being around. You’ll be spending long hours together under pressure. Communication and positive vibes are key.

You don’t need the fanciest setup to start competing. Jared and his team use a mix of Weber kettles, barrel smokers, and basic accessories like:

Also, lots of folks now run pellet grills at comps using battery packs or RV hookups.

Here’s a breakdown:

Fun fact: Jared once added a cherry glaze that threw the judges off, even though it wasn’t “bad.” So keep your flavor profiles simple and predictable—judges aren’t looking for surprises.

Prep starts days before the event:

On comp day, time management is everything. Turn-ins are typically scheduled hourly, and things move FAST. Stick to a timeline, communicate with your team, and have a plan for holding food if it’s done early.

Absolutely. Jared admits he was nervous at first, but once he heard his name called for placing in a category—it was all worth it. Whether it’s a small local contest or a KCBS-sanctioned event, the camaraderie, fun, and challenge are what keep people coming back.

If you’re into barbecue and looking for an easier way to go low and slow without giving up real charcoal flavor, gravity smokers might be worth a serious look.

I recently had the chance to cook on a Masterbuilt Gravity Series smoker while visiting Joe Silva of Q Bellies BBQ in Southern California. After seeing one in action—and tasting the results—I was pretty impressed. So let’s break down what gravity smokers are all about and whether one could be right for you.

A gravity smoker is kind of like the lovechild of a pellet grill and a traditional charcoal smoker. You get the “set it and forget it” convenience thanks to electronic temperature controls, but you’re still cooking with real charcoal—and optionally wood chunks—for that classic BBQ flavor.

Here’s how it works:

Here are some of the biggest benefits I saw firsthand while cooking on Joe’s Masterbuilt 1150:

1. Precise Temperature Control

Set your temp digitally and let the smoker do the work. It maintains a steady heat for hours—perfect for long brisket or pork shoulder cooks.

2. Charcoal Flavor (Without the Babysitting)

Unlike pellet grills, which are great but sometimes lacking in smoke punch, gravity smokers give you real charcoal flavor. Add in wood chunks and you’re getting some seriously rich, traditional smoke.

Joe ran his smoker for over 10 hours using just a bag and a half of lump charcoal, plus a few wood chunks. That’s great fuel efficiency for a long cook with minimal babysitting.

4. Wide Temperature Range

Gravity smokers can go from as low as 225°F for slow smoking all the way up to 700°F for searing. That means you can smoke brisket, grill burgers, or even reverse-sear a steak all on the same cooker.

Some models even support accessories like griddles for more cooking options. Whether you’re doing delicate fish or searing a tomahawk ribeye, a gravity smoker can handle it.

Things to Keep in Mind

They’re more expensive than your standard kettle or bullet smoker. Masterbuilt’s models start around $700 and go up to $1,500. That’s still far below some of the high-end pellet or offset smokers, though.

🔌 Tech-Heavy

While the tech makes things easier, you are relying on electronic components. If you’re a tech-averse BBQ purist, that might be something to consider.

🔧 Learning Curve

Even though it’s mostly automated, it’s worth learning how charcoal reacts to different airflow and how lump vs. briquettes perform.

Brands to Check Out

Arguably the most popular brand in the gravity game. Their Gravity Series 1150 offers 1150 square inches of cooking space and hits temps up to 700°F. Joe Silva swears by his.

Another budget-friendly option, though some users feel Masterbuilt has the edge in build quality. (Interesting note: both brands are under the same parent company.)

These are high-end, competition-grade gravity smokers—starting around $5,000 and going up from there. Overkill for most backyard cooks, but great for catering or serious BBQ business setups.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Switching?

If you’re someone who:

…then a gravity smoker might be just what your backyard needs.

It’s not replacing your offset or kettle, but it could definitely earn a regular spot in your BBQ rotation.

If you’ve ever dreamed of taking your backyard barbecue skills to the next level, you’re in for a treat. I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Todd Johns, the mastermind behind Plowboys BBQ, and let me tell you, this man knows his stuff. From competition wins to successful restaurants and a line of mouthwatering rubs, Todd’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in the world of barbecue.

Todd’s barbecue adventure began like many of ours – in the backyard with friends and family. But in 2001, he and his brother-in-law decided to take things up a notch by entering the world of competitive barbecue. Now, if you think winning comes easy, think again. Todd shared a humbling truth:

“We thought we were geniuses… Little did we know it would take us another seven years to win a contest.”

This just goes to show that even the pros had to start somewhere. It’s a reminder that patience and persistence are key ingredients in the recipe for barbecue success.

You might know Plowboys for their famous Yardbird Rub, but did you know it was born out of a barbecue class? That’s right, the rub that’s now flying off shelves was initially created as part of a learning experience. Todd explained:

“We had to make a barbecue rub for each entry… And it was the recipe that is now today Yardbird Rub.”

What started as a class project eventually became the cornerstone of a barbecue empire. It’s a testament to the fact that you never know where your next great idea might come from.

One of the most valuable insights Todd shared was about the importance of consistency, whether you’re competing or running a restaurant. He emphasized:

“The fewer variables you have, the more you can focus on those variables.”

This approach led Todd to simplify his competition recipes and streamline his restaurant operations. It’s a principle we can all apply in our backyard cooking – focus on mastering a few key techniques rather than trying to do it all.

Todd’s journey to simplification is a lesson for all of us. He shared how he went from an 11-step rib process to just 8 steps, without sacrificing quality. It’s a reminder that sometimes, less really is more.

When it comes to pairing rubs and woods with different meats, Todd offered some golden advice:

Perhaps the most inspiring takeaway from my chat with Todd was his emphasis on the passion that drives barbecue enthusiasts. He beautifully summed it up:

“It’s not so much about impressing, it’s about pleasing… We want people to be pleased with what we’ve done, with what we’ve created, with what we’ve spent time and toiled over.”

This sentiment resonates deeply with me, and I’m sure with many of you as well. It’s a reminder that at its core, barbecue is about bringing joy to others through food.

For those of you looking to take your barbecue passion to the next level, Todd offered some practical advice:

Remember, every barbecue legend started somewhere. Your backyard could be the birthplace of the next great barbecue innovation.

As we wrap up, I’m left feeling inspired and energized about the world of barbecue. Todd’s journey from backyard enthusiast to barbecue mogul is a testament to what passion, persistence, and a great rub can achieve. So fire up those grills, my friends. Who knows where your barbecue journey might lead?

Some of the links on this site are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services I personally use and believe will bring value to the Backyard SmokeMaster BBQ community.

Thank you for supporting the work that goes into creating helpful barbecue content and keeping this site running!

The world of barbecue is buzzing with talk of AI-powered grills, and I’ve got some thoughts to share. Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the debate of tradition versus technology in the realm of smoked meats.

Recently, I stumbled upon an article about a company called Brisk It that’s launching a new AI-infused pellet grill for just $399. Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Kenyatta, have you lost your mind? AI and barbecue don’t mix!” But hear me out, because this trend might be more significant than we think.

This new grill, dubbed the Zelos 450, comes equipped with something called the Vera AI cooking platform. According to the company, Vera can do everything from creating recipes to controlling the entire cooking process. They’re marketing it as a way to “set it and forget it” while still getting that authentic barbecue flavor.

Now, I’m not saying I’m ready to trade in my trusty offset for one of these newfangled contraptions, but it’s got me thinking about the future of our beloved craft.

Let’s break down the potential benefits and drawbacks of bringing artificial intelligence into our pits:

Barbecue is about more than just the end result. It’s about the process, the patience, and the pride that comes from crafting something with your own two hands. Can AI really capture the essence of what makes barbecue special?

When I think about my journey in barbecue, it’s the mistakes, the triumphs, and everything in between that have made me the pitmaster I am today. There’s something deeply satisfying about managing a fire, adjusting your technique based on feel, and creating something truly unique.

Now, I’m not completely against technology in barbecue. I use digital thermometers and have even dabbled with Wi-Fi-enabled smokers. But there’s a big difference between using tech as a tool and letting it take over the entire process.

I believe the sweet spot lies in using technology to enhance our skills, not replace them. For example, the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1150 is a great example of blending traditional charcoal flavor with modern convenience. It gives you the best of both worlds – the authentic taste we love with some helpful tech features.

As we move forward, it’s crucial that we don’t lose sight of what makes barbecue special. The community, the creativity, and the connection to our food are all essential elements that no AI can replicate.

To the newcomers out there who might be tempted by the allure of AI grills, I say this: start with the basics. Learn to manage a fire, understand your meat, and develop your palate. These skills will serve you well, regardless of what technology comes along.

And to my seasoned pitmasters, let’s stay open-minded but critical. We can embrace helpful innovations without losing the soul of what we do.

At the end of the day, barbecue is about bringing people together. It’s about the stories we share, the techniques we pass down, and the memories we create around the pit. No AI can replace the joy of seeing your friends and family dig into a perfectly smoked brisket that you’ve poured your heart and soul into.

So, while the world of barbecue might be changing, the essence of what makes it special remains the same. It’s up to us to keep that flame burning bright, whether we’re cooking on a high-tech pellet grill or a good old-fashioned offset smoker.

What are your thoughts on AI in barbecue? Are you ready to embrace the future, or are you sticking to tradition? Let me know in the comments below, and let’s keep this conversation going. After all, that’s what the barbecue community is all about!

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the work that goes into creating helpful barbecue content and keeping this site running!

Alright, fellow barbecue enthusiasts, gather ’round the pit because we’re about to dive into some seriously juicy knowledge that’ll take your grilling game to the next level. I recently had the pleasure of chatting with none other than Meathead, a living Barbecue Hall of Famer, about his new book “The Meathead Method.” This conversation was hotter than a freshly stoked smoker, and I’m excited to share some of the fantastic insights we uncovered.

One of the things I love most about Meathead’s approach is how he marries the art of barbecue with cold, hard science. He’s not just throwing techniques at us off the top of his dome; he’s explaining why certain methods work better than others.

Take the reverse sear method, for example. Instead of slapping that steak directly onto a blazing hot grill, Meathead suggests starting it on the cooler side of your grill. Why? Because this gentle warming allows the meat to reach an even temperature throughout before you give it that final sear. The result? A perfectly cooked steak with a mouthwatering crust.

Meathead challenges some long-held barbecue beliefs:

You know how we’ve all been told to soak our wood chips before tossing them on the grill? Meathead explains that wood doesn’t actually absorb much water, even after hours of soaking. When you put those “soaked” chips on the fire, you’re just creating steam, not smoke. And steam doesn’t add flavor – it just lowers your grill temperature.

Here’s another shocker: that thick layer of fat on your brisket? It’s not doing what you think it is. Contrary to popular belief, that fat doesn’t “melt into” the meat. Meathead suggests trimming it down to about a quarter inch. This way, you’ll get better bark formation and more flavor from your rub.

According to Meathead, that beer can isn’t doing much for your chicken other than making it look cool. The beer doesn’t reach a high enough temperature to create steam, and even if it did, that steam wouldn’t penetrate far into the meat. Instead, try spatchcocking your bird for more even cooking and better skin.

If there’s one thing Meathead hammered home, it’s the importance of temperature control. Whether you’re cooking on a traditional charcoal grill or a high-tech pellet smoker, knowing and controlling your temperatures is key to barbecue success.

He’s a big fan of digital thermometers, and for good reason. Gone are the days of poking and prodding your meat, trying to guess if it’s done. With a good digital thermometer, you can nail that perfect medium-rare steak or ensure your chicken is safe to eat without turning it into shoe leather.

Speaking of technology, Meathead’s not afraid to embrace the new kids on the block. He sang the praises of pellet grills, highlighting their ease of use and consistent temperatures. These grills might not give you that intense smoke flavor of a traditional offset smoker, but they offer incredible convenience and precision.

“It’s more science than it was art,” Meathead said, describing the evolution of barbecue techniques.

With tools like wireless thermometers and smartphone-controlled grills, we can focus more on perfecting our recipes and less on babysitting the fire.

At the end of the day, barbecue is about more than just following a set of rules. It’s about understanding the principles behind great cooking and using that knowledge to create something delicious. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a competition pitmaster, there’s always something new to learn.

So fire up those grills, grab a copy of “The Meathead Method,” and let’s start cooking smarter. Remember, the best barbecue isn’t just about tradition – it’s about blending the wisdom of the past with the innovations of the present. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a brisket to trim and a myth to bust.

Happy grilling, everyone!

🔒 Affiliate Disclosure

Some of the links on this site are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services I personally use and believe will bring value to the Backyard SmokeMaster BBQ community.

Thank you for supporting the work that goes into creating helpful barbecue content and keeping this site running!

Are you ready to take your backyard barbecue game to the next level? Let’s dive into the sizzling world of grills and smokers, exploring the pros and cons of different types to help you find your perfect match.

First up, we’ve got pellet grills. These bad boys have been gaining popularity faster than a wildfire, and for good reason.

Pros:

Cons:

Now, let’s talk about the OG of backyard cooking – the charcoal grill. There’s a reason these have been around since your grandpa’s time.

Pros:

Cons:

Drum smokers, also known as UDS (Ugly Drum Smokers), are the unsung heroes of the barbecue world.

Pros:

Cons:

Ceramic grills, like the Big Green Egg or Kamado Joe, are the Swiss Army knives of the barbecue world.

Pros:

Cons:

Last but not least, we’ve got offset smokers. These are the big leagues, folks.

Pros:

Cons:

So, which one’s right for you? Well, it depends on a few factors:

Remember, there’s no “perfect” grill or smoker – it’s all about finding the one that fits your style and needs. And hey, who says you can’t have more than one? In the barbecue world, there’s always room for another cooker in the backyard.

So, fire up those grills, load up those smokers, and let’s get cooking! Your backyard barbecue adventure awaits.

Are you tired of playing the guessing game with your barbecue? Well, let me tell you, choosing the right wireless thermometer can make all the difference in your backyard cooking adventures. As someone who’s been around the barbecue block a few times, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with various wireless thermometers, and I’m here to share some insights to help you make the best choice for your needs.

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why wireless thermometers are such a game-changer for us barbecue enthusiasts. These nifty devices allow us to monitor our meat’s internal temperature and the ambient temperature of our cooking chamber without constantly lifting the lid and losing precious heat. It’s like having a BBQ superpower!

When you’re in the market for a wireless thermometer, there are a few crucial factors to keep in mind:

One of the most important aspects of a wireless thermometer is, well, its wireless capabilities. Look for thermometers that offer reliable connectivity and a decent range. Some newer models, like the Fireboard Pulse, boast both Bluetooth and long-range connectivity options, allowing you to keep an eye on your cook even when you’re not right next to the grill.

There’s nothing worse than having your thermometer die in the middle of a long cook. Opt for a model with impressive battery life. For instance, the ThermoWorks RFX advertises a whopping 50 hours on a 10-minute charge. Now that’s what I call staying power!

The size and shape of the probe matter more than you might think. A well-designed probe, like the hexagonal chisel tip on the Fireboard Pulse, can make insertion easier and minimize the hole left in your meat. This means less juice loss and a better overall result.

Make sure your chosen thermometer can handle the heat (and the cold). A good wireless thermometer should be able to measure a wide range of temperatures, from low and slow smoking to high-heat searing.

In my experience, a user-friendly app can make or break your wireless thermometer experience. Look for thermometers with well-designed apps that offer clear readings and useful features like temperature alerts and cooking graphs.

After trying out various models over the years, here are a few that have stood out to me (in no particular order):

This has been my go-to for a while now. It offers consistent connectivity and a solid app experience. Plus, its slimmer probe design means less meat damage.

I’m excited about this new addition to my collection. With its dual connectivity options and quick charging time, it’s promising to be a strong contender.

The specs are impressive. With its long battery life and ThermoWorks’ reputation for quality, it’s definitely one to watch.

As we look ahead, it’s exciting to think about how technology might further revolutionize our barbecue game. We’re already seeing advancements like solar-powered grills, and I wouldn’t be surprised if AI-integrated smokers become a reality in the near future. Imagine being able to simply tell your smoker what you’re cooking, and having it automatically adjust temperatures and cooking times!

Remember, at the end of the day, the best wireless thermometer is the one that works reliably for you and your cooking style. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different models until you find your perfect match. And hey, if you want to geek out about barbecue tech or share your experiences, come join us in the Backyard Smokemaster Society. We’re always fired up to talk about the latest and greatest in BBQ gear!

Click here to receive a free pocket guide that will help you choose the best wireless thermometer for your needs!

🔒 Affiliate Disclosure

Some of the links on this site are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services I personally use and believe will bring value to the Backyard SmokeMaster BBQ community.

Thank you for supporting the work that goes into creating helpful barbecue content and keeping this site running!