Get your grill going this season with a backyard barbeque! Summer is the perfect time to host an outdoor party and grill out for your guests. Are you planning a party for Father’s Day, Independence Day or Labor Day? Here are a few tips to get you started.

If you’re looking for a fast, convenient way to cook your food, a gas grill is a way to go. Not only is gas quick to ignite, but it also tends to be cheaper than charcoal and easier to clean up. Even though gas run cheaper, the grill itself will be an upfront investment depending on the make and model of your grill.

Charcoal grills, on the other hand, tend to be much cheaper and more portable. The charcoal will burn hotter than gas and therefore cook your food differently. Many people prefer the smoke flavor a charcoal grill provides. The inconvenience of prepping and cleaning is sometimes outweighed by the cost and flavor that charcoal provides.

The most important element of hosting a barbeque is the menu! Make sure you have enough food for your guests and several different options for people to choose from. Keep it simple with burgers and brats, or get a little fancy with kebabs or steak.

Two keys to getting perfectly grilled meat are temperature control and thermometer check. Temperature control is much easier on a gas grill, however, it is possible to achieve this on a charcoal grill as well. Leave one side of the grill free of coals and begin to cook the larger cuts over the direct heat. Then move to indirect if the outside is charring before the meat is cooked through. Get a good meat thermometer so you won’t have to guess whether your steak is done. If you’re looking for a medium-rare steak, aim for 130 degrees. A medium steak will be at 140 degrees, and a well-done steak will be in at 160 degrees. Make sure to let the cut rest for 10 minutes after taking it off the grill.

These tips are sure to make sure your party is a hit! Don’t forget to ask your guests to brings a dish to pass!