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From Breakfast to Dinner: Using Your Outdoor Kitchen All Day Long

An outdoor kitchen isn’t just for weekend barbecues — it can become the heart of your home from sunrise to sunset. With the right setup, you can start your morning with pancakes on the hotplate, enjoy grilled lunches under the sun, and finish with wood-fired pizza as the stars come out.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just enjoying the outdoors yourself, here’s how to make the most of your outdoor kitchen all day long.
Breakfast on the BBQ: Easy Starts with a Twist
Who says breakfast belongs indoors? Morning meals cooked outside taste better — and bring that unmistakable smoky aroma to start the day.
BBQ Breakfast Ideas:
- Hotplate Pancakes: Use the flat hotplate to cook golden pancakes or drop scones. The even heat gives a perfect texture without sticking.
- Big BBQ Breakfast: Combine sausages, bacon, eggs, and tomato on the grill or hotplate. Add sliced halloumi or mushrooms for a gourmet twist.
- Breakfast Wraps: Scramble eggs and veggies on the plate, then wrap them up in warm tortillas for an easy on-the-go option.
Pro tip: Keep a small outdoor fridge stocked with milk, juice, and condiments so you don’t have to dash indoors mid-cook. A quick rinse of the hotplate after breakfast also keeps your setup ready for lunch.
Lunch Outdoors: Light, Fresh and Flavourful
Midday meals are the perfect chance to take advantage of your outdoor kitchen cooking appliances. With a grill, sink, and prep area close by, lunch prep becomes effortless — and cleanup even easier.
Outdoor Lunch Ideas:
- Chargrilled Chicken Skewers: Quick to marinate and cook, skewers are perfect for sharing. Pair them with a crisp salad or grilled flatbread.
- Seafood on the Grill: Prawns, calamari, or barramundi fillets cook beautifully over an open flame. Drizzle with lemon and herbs for a light meal.
- Grilled Veggie Bowls: Combine charred corn, zucchini, and capsicum with couscous or quinoa for a colourful vegetarian option.
If your outdoor kitchen includes a side burner, try wok-tossed noodles or stir-fries — ideal for fast, healthy lunches with minimal fuss.
Dinner in Style: Wood-Fired or Flame-Grilled
As the sun sets, your outdoor kitchen comes into its own. The combination of glowing coals, ambient lighting, and cool evening air makes dinnertime an experience, not just a meal.
Outdoor Dinner Ideas:
- Pizza Night: Fire up the pizza oven and let everyone create their own toppings. Homemade dough, fresh basil, and melted mozzarella — it’s the ultimate family favourite.
- Grilled Steak or Lamb: Use the main grill to sear your preferred cuts to perfection. Pair with roasted vegetables and a glass of red for a classic BBQ dinner.
- BBQ Seafood Platters: Snapper, scallops, or lobster tails with garlic butter make for an indulgent yet simple outdoor feast.
Finish the evening with toasted marshmallows or dessert pizzas — your outdoor kitchen makes it easy to turn any meal into an occasion.
Tips for All-Day Outdoor Cooking
To keep your all-day outdoor dining smooth and enjoyable:
- Plan Ahead: Prep marinades, chopped veggies, or pizza dough earlier in the day.
- Use Versatile Appliances: Combine a grill, hotplate, and pizza oven for maximum flexibility.
- Stay Organised: Have designated storage for breakfast and dinner tools to avoid mid-day cleanups.
- Keep It Comfortable: Shade sails, fans, and outdoor lighting make your kitchen usable in every season.
Make Every Meal an Outdoor Occasion
With the right setup and a little imagination, your outdoor kitchen can serve up everything from a hearty BBQ breakfast to an elegant evening dinner — without ever needing to step inside.
From weekday meals to weekend gatherings, the versatility of your BBQ, hotplate, and pizza oven means you can truly make the most of outdoor dining all day long.
Ready to Cook Outdoors All Day Long?
Bring every meal outside with a well-designed outdoor kitchen built for versatility, comfort, and style. Explore BBQs R Us’ full range of built-in BBQs, pizza ovens, outdoor fridges, and outdoor kitchen modules — everything you need for seamless all-day outdoor dining.