There’s nothing more fun than throwing a BBQ with friends and family. However, planning a successful cookout can be difficult.

The first step is to know how much meat you’ll need per person. Then, figure out how many side dishes you’ll need to serve alongside your main meal.

Plan Ahead.

Whether you’re hosting an intimate party with your closest friends or planning a large barbecue for a larger gathering, BBQ steak cookouts require careful planning to make them successful. Using the right ingredients and a well-planned menu, you can be sure that everyone will leave happy.

Start planning your event a few weeks in advance, including choosing an appropriate day and inviting guests. This gives you enough time to prepare your menu and plan for the necessary supplies.

Choose a day and time when the majority of your invited guests will be free from work and school. Also, check the weather forecast to determine if any rain is likely on the date of your cookout.

Once you’ve decided on a date and time, go shopping for all the foods that you’ll need for your cookout. This can be done one or two days before the event, and you can even prepare some of your food in advance.

Know Your Meat.

When it comes to a BBQ steak cookout, one of the most important things to consider is how much meat you will need. Having an idea of how much you will need ahead of time can save you a lot of stress when the party comes around.

Before you go shopping for any type of meat, be sure to examine the package carefully to ensure it is safe. This includes checking the packaging, looking for any tears or holes and smelling it.

It’s also helpful to look for the inspection and grading stamps that come on packages. These will tell you if the meat is safe to eat and the quality of it.

Another way to check if your meat is cooked properly is to feel the muscle underneath your thumb. This muscle will become firm when the meat reaches your preferred degree of doneness, from rare to well-done.

Make a Menu.

Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard cookout for neighbors or an elaborate celebration for a family reunion, planning the menu is essential. Having an established list of dishes will help you save time in the kitchen, as well as grocery shopping money.

Aside from the main course, choose sides and snacks that complement the meal you plan to serve. It’s also a good idea to offer plenty of drinks, such as beer, wine and cocktails.

Then, put everything together with a fun and colorful tablecloth, plates, napkins, cups, centerpieces and signs or banners. This will tie the whole meal together, and make for a great party!

One of the most important things to remember when grilling steak is to keep it at a safe temperature. You don’t want your meat to overcook or undercook, so be sure to preheat the grill and use a meat thermometer. Finally, don’t be afraid to flip the steak frequently to achieve that gorgeous cross-hatch grill mark, but do it carefully and be sure to get a crust on both sides.

Set the Table.

Whether you’re hosting a big dinner party or just throwing a casual barbecue for your friends and family, table setting is an important part of the event. Not only does it ensure that you and your guests have everything they need, but it also helps set the stage for a wonderful meal.

First, decide if you’re going to have a formal or basic setting. Regardless of your choice, be sure to line up flatware and glassware in a neat row in front of the table.

Next, center the plates and placemats on the table. Make sure that you have 15 inches between each place setting, so people don’t elbow each other.

Once you’ve established the basics, it’s time to start planning your BBQ steak cookout! Fortunately, planning a cookout doesn’t have to be difficult. Just be prepared with a menu, ingredients, and a few essential tips for a successful BBQ steak cookout! And don’t forget to share your cooking tips and photos with us on Instagram by using #CrateStyle!