General Discussion

Just because summer is over doesn’t mean outdoor cooking has to stop. Cooler days and crisp evenings are perfect for firing up a BBQ, pizza oven, or Kamado grill. Autumn brings a wealth of seasonal ingredients, root vegetables, squashes, apples, pears, and meats, that are ideal for cooking outdoors. The flavours are deeper, the cooking slower, and the dishes feel hearty and satisfying, perfect for warming meals shared with friends and family. Outdoor cooking in autumn allows you to experiment with richer textures, smoky aromas, and layered flavours that work beautifully with the season’s produce. We’re sharing some of our favourite autumn food ideas for outdoor cooking, grouped by BBQ, pizza oven, and Kamado oven.

BBQ Recipes

Cajun Grilled Turkey

Turkey isn’t just for christmas, when coated in a bold Cajun spice mix and grilled over smoky coals, it develops a deep, layered flavour with a slight heat that complements the crisp autumn air. The smoky char on the skin locks in juiciness, while the spices bring warmth and richness, making it a standout dish for outdoor gatherings.

Reverse Seared Tomahawk Steak

The tomahawk steak is an impressive, thick-cut ribeye with a long bone that makes it perfect for show-stopping BBQs. Reverse searing it slowly over indirect heat allows the inside to reach the perfect medium-rare while finishing it with a high-heat sear gives a caramelised crust. The result is a tender, juicy steak with intense beefy flavour, ideal for cooler autumn evenings.

Smoked Venison Stew

Venison is at its best in autumn, and smoking it before stewing adds a rich, earthy depth. When combined with root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes, it becomes a warming, hearty meal. The smoky aroma from the BBQ infuses the stew, creating a robust, seasonal flavour that pairs perfectly with crisp outdoor air.

Pizza Oven Recipes

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Roasted butternut squash blended into creamy mac and cheese adds natural sweetness and a silky texture. The pizza oven’s even, high heat ensures the top layer is golden and lightly crisp while the inside remains rich and velvety. It’s a comforting, seasonal dish that combines indulgence with the subtle earthiness of autumn squash.

S’more Brownies

These brownies take the nostalgia of campfire s’mores and turn it into a rich dessert. Chocolate, gooey marshmallows, and biscuit pieces baked in a pizza oven develop a lightly charred top and deep, chocolatey flavour. They are indulgent, warm, and perfect for an autumn evening treat, especially enjoyed straight from the oven.

Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

Cauliflower is roasted in the pizza oven until golden and slightly charred, creating a nutty, caramelised flavour. Combined with warming spices and served in soft tortillas, these tacos are satisfying and full of texture. They highlight the versatility of autumn vegetables and are a fresh, seasonal twist on classic tacos.

Kamado Oven Recipes

Grilled Vegetable Salad

Seasonal vegetables like squash, peppers, aubergines, and courgettes take on a smoky, intense flavour in the Kamado oven. The gentle, even heat allows the vegetables to caramelise while retaining texture and colour. Tossed together, they make a hearty, vibrant salad that’s perfect as a side or a light autumn meal.

Beef Stews

Slow-cooked in a Kamado oven, beef stews develop a deep, rich flavour as the meat tenderises alongside root vegetables and herbs. The controlled heat enhances the natural juices, making each bite satisfying and warming. These stews are ideal for cooler days and bring comforting autumn aromas to any outdoor cooking session.

Duck Legs

Slow-roasted duck legs in a Kamado oven become tender with crisp, golden skin. The Kamado’s gentle, consistent heat renders the fat slowly, allowing the meat to remain juicy while creating a rich, concentrated flavour. Adding autumn fruits like plums or apples enhances the dish with subtle sweetness and seasonal depth.

Beef Bourguignon (with a Jackfruit Option)

A traditional French Beef Bourguignon slow-cooked in a Kamado oven allows the meat to absorb red wine, mushrooms, onions, and herbs. For a plant-based alternative, jackfruit mimics the texture of the beef and soaks up the same rich flavours. This dish is ideal for autumn, providing a hearty, warming meal with deep, layered taste.

Autumn outdoor cooking is all about making the most of seasonal ingredients and enjoying the process, whether it’s the smoky char from a BBQ, the high heat of a pizza oven, or the slow, even cooking of a Kamado. These dishes show that outdoor cooking doesn’t have to end when summer does — in fact, autumn might just be the best season to fire up your favourite outdoor equipment.

Sizzle On,

Team AOS