Feature 10 meaty vegan BBQ recipe ideas to sink your teeth into this summer

Are you looking for vegan BBQ recipe ideas that look and taste the part? Try these meaty-yet-meatless plant-based meals at your next summer cook-up!  

With summer in full swing, it’s the perfect time to start planning your next sunny gathering. And we’ve got you covered with all the vegan BBQ recipe ideas and product recommendations you need to make it a hit!  

Whether you’re craving smoky mushroom skewers, mouthwatering plant-based burgers, or crispy, golden pieces of marinated tempeh or tofu, these easy, protein-packed vegan BBQ ideas are simple, satisfying, and sure to impress. From mouthwatering mock meat to veggies done just right, every single one will have you licking your fingers clean 🤤

Without further ado, here are our best vegan BBQ recipe ideas – so you can spend less time planning the menu and more time soaking up the sunshine! 

1. Spicy Italian Sausages

Packed with aromatic veggies, herbs, and spices, these homemade vegan sausages deliver bold, comforting Italian flavours that pair beautifully with all the classic BBQ sides. Crafted from a hearty blend of seitan, lentils, and sun-dried tomatoes, they have just the right balance of smokiness and heat.  

Whether you grill them to perfection and serve them in a bun with caramelised onions or slice them up for a vibrant BBQ platter, these sausages bring an authentic, robust flavour that will satisfy vegans and meat-eaters alike. 

2. ‘Lamb’ Shish Kebabs  

These mouthwatering skewers recreate traditional lamb shish kebabs’ juicy, crispy texture using meaty oyster mushrooms marinated in spiced vegan yoghurt. Grilled to perfection and brushed with a fragrant blend of Middle Eastern-inspired spices, each bite delivers layers of smoky, savoury goodness.  

Drizzle with a luscious tahini sauce and serve with warm pita and fresh herbs for an irresistible plant-based take on a BBQ classic. 

3. Vegan Korean BBQ ‘Ribs’

These irresistibly sticky, smoky, and ‘meaty’ vegan ribs are a game-changer for Korean BBQ lovers. Made from a combination of jackfruit and seitan, they offer the perfect balance of chew and tenderness, with a bold umami-packed marinade that caramelises beautifully on the grill.  

The most unique part? They even feature edible ‘bones’ crafted from enoki mushrooms for an extra-authentic bite. Glaze them with a rich gochujang-based sauce, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and prepare to impress your guests. 

4. Teriyaki Tofu Skewers 

These sticky-sweet teriyaki tofu skewers are an effortless yet delicious addition to any vegan BBQ spread. Marinated in a glossy homemade teriyaki sauce infused with soy, ginger, garlic, and maple syrup, the tofu develops a deliciously caramelised crust on the grill while staying soft and juicy.  

Pair these skewers with charred bell peppers, pineapple chunks, or zucchini slices for a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as colourful as it is delicious. 

5. ‘Chicken’ Stinger Burger 

Craving a fiery, flavour-packed burger with the perfect crunch? This easy recipe transforms TVP slices into a crispy, golden ‘chicken’ fillet coated in a spiced batter and fried to perfection. 

The real kicker is the punchy, tongue-tingling stinger sauce – spicy, tangy, and super addictive. Stack it high on a soft brioche bun with crisp lettuce, pickles, and creamy vegan mayo for a bold BBQ burger that delivers some serious heat and a killer texture. 

6. Crispy BBQ Tofu Bites 

These bite-sized tofu cubes are marinated in a smoky, spicy-sweet sauce and then grilled to crispy perfection for a snackable BBQ treat. Infused with ginger, garlic, and a touch of gochujang for that irresistible kick, they caramelise beautifully on the grill, creating the perfect balance of crispy edges and juicy insides.   

Toss them in a little extra sauce before serving, and watch them disappear within minutes. These addictive tofu bites are guaranteed to be a hit at any cookout. 

7. Beetroot Burgers with Roasted Capsicum & Tzatziki 

These vibrant beetroot burgers prove that plant-based grilling can be both wholesome and indulgent. Made with earthy roasted beetroot and chickpeas, these patties offer a satisfying bite with a naturally sweet, smoky depth.  

This Mediterranean-inspired delight balances richness and freshness in every bite. It’s topped with silky roasted capsicum and a dollop of cooling, garlicky vegan tzatziki. Serve it on a toasted bun or alongside a crisp salad for the ultimate BBQ treat.
 

8. Crispy Southern Fried Tofu  

Crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with bold seasoning, these Southern-style tofu nuggets are a true game-changer for any vegan BBQ. A well-seasoned buttermilk-style batter locks in moisture while delivering the perfect crispiness when fried or air-fried to golden perfection.   

Whether enjoyed on their own with a side of creamy ranch dip or stuffed into a sandwich for a BBQ twist on a fried ‘chicken’ po’ boy, this dish is sure to steal the spotlight. 

9. Mushroom & Kidney Bean Veggie Burgers 

Hearty, protein-rich, and bursting with umami, these mushroom and kidney bean veggie burgers are an easy swap for traditional beef patties.  

Combining sautéed mushrooms, mashed beans, and warming spices creates a patty with the perfect texture—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether stacked with classic burger toppings or kept simple with some smoky BBQ sauce, these burgers are guaranteed to satisfy even the most die-hard meat lovers at your next cookout. 

 10. Tempeh Goreng  

Few things are more satisfying than crispy, caramelised tempeh fresh off the grill, and this Indonesian-inspired dish brings all the bold flavours. Marinated in a rich blend of soy sauce, palm sugar, garlic, and chilli, each piece of tempeh develops a beautifully crispy exterior while staying firm and chewy inside.

The sweet, salty, and umami-packed glaze ensures every bite is bursting with flavour. Serve with a squeeze of lime and fresh herbs for a simple and utterly irresistible dish.

Love these vegan BBQ recipe ideas? Time to fire up the grill 🔥 

We hope this roundup has inspired you to take your vegan BBQ game to the next level! From smoky, sticky ‘ribs’ to crispy, golden tofu bites, there’s no shortage of delicious, juicy plant-based options.

With bold flavours, hearty textures, and all the classic BBQ vibes, these recipes prove that you don’t need meat to create a feast that’ll impress everyone at the table. So, fire up the grill, grab your favourite sauces and sides, and enjoy a plant-powered BBQ like never before!