Easy Weeknight Dinners Ideas

Back-to-School BBQ

Just because the backpacks are packed and the school bell’s ringing doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to the bold flavors of summer. At Big Poppa Smokers, we know the transition from summer freedom to school-year schedules can hit hard. Between juggling work, practices, homework, and the daily to-dos, dinner often becomes a stress point. That’s where we come in.

Big Poppa is here to make dinner easy, flavorful, and fun. Whether you’re cooking on the griddle, firing up the smoker, or tossing ingredients in the slow cooker before heading out the door, we’ve got your back. Our mission? Help busy parents keep dinner delicious and stress-free—while holding onto that summer BBQ magic just a little longer.

Why Back-to-School Doesn’t Have to Mean Boring Dinners

Back-to-school season often brings quick fixes and frozen meals. But let’s be honest—those don't always hit the spot. What if your weeknight dinners could still have that backyard flavor without taking hours of prep and cook time? With the right tools, ingredients, and a little help from Big Poppa, you can have the best of both worlds: weeknight ease and weekend-level flavor.

Your Secret Weapons: BBQ, Griddle & Slow Cooker

Let’s break it down. Here’s how each method can work for your busy schedule:

BBQ (Pellet Smoker or Drum Smoker)

BBQ isn’t just for weekends. You can smoke chicken thighs, pork tenderloin, or even burgers while helping with homework or folding laundry. Prep the night before, season with your favorite Big Poppa rub, and you’re ready to roll.

Weeknight Tip: Use a higher-temp cook (275°F-300°F) to cut down time without sacrificing flavor. Try pre-trimmed cuts like chicken wings or thin pork chops.

Griddle (Flat-Top)

Perfect for quick meals. Think chicken fajitas, smash burgers, or hibachi-style stir fry with leftover proteins.

Weeknight Tip: Prep veggies and proteins the night before. Dinner hits the griddle and your table in under 20 minutes.

Slow Cooker (Set It and Forget It)

Nothing beats walking into a house that smells like dinner is done. Pulled pork, brisket chili, or shredded chicken tacos can cook low and slow while you're out doing life.

Weeknight Tip: Use leftover brisket or pork to create a new dish without starting from scratch. Check out our blog on BBQ leftovers here.

5 Easy Weeknight Recipes to Keep the BBQ Spirit Alive

1. Chicken and Dumpling Biscuit Sliders

• Take leftover chicken and combine with vegetables and biscuits and make the ultimate comfort food.  
• Features Big Poppa's Desert Gold and Little Louie's 

2. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sliders

• Take the leftover pulled pork and reheating in the slow cooker.
• Season the pulled pork with Big Poppa’s Sweet Money and let it go low and slow all day on low.
• Serve on mini buns with coleslaw for a kid-approved win.
• For the original recipe of pulled pork, visit Big Poppa's YouTube Channel

3. BBQ Burnt End Flatbread Pizza

• Use leftover smoked brisket on naan or flatbread.
• Top with BBQ sauce, mozzarella, red onions, and argula.

4. Brisket Cheesesteak 

• Reheat your brisket on the griddle with onions and cheese.
• Quick, easy, and customizable.
• Watch full recipe, plus get tips on your brisket.

   

  

5. Chipotle Chili Recipe

• Use the slow cooker to combine ground beef, tomatoes, chipotle, onions, chili powder, and cumin.  Make sure to include Big Poppa's Little Louie and Cash Cow.
• Top with cheese and sour cream for a hearty meal.

The Big Poppa Difference: Real BBQ Help for Real Life

You don’t have to choose between great flavor and fast meals. At Big Poppa Smokers, we’ve built our brand on the idea that food is fun—and dinner shouldn’t be a burden.

From competition-quality seasonings and sauces to easy recipes and expert tips, we’re here to help you cook with confidence. Whether you’re just learning or you’ve got a trophy shelf full of BBQ awards, we’re in your corner.

And when life gets busy (because let’s be honest—it always does), you can count on Big Poppa to bring the flavor without the fuss.

 

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FAQs: Back-to-School BBQ for Busy Families

What’s the best cut of meat for quick weeknight BBQ?

Chicken thighs, pork tenderloin, and sausage links are all fast-cooking options that deliver big flavor with minimal prep.

Can I prep BBQ meals ahead of time?

Absolutely! Marinate or season proteins the night before, chop veggies, and store everything in containers so it’s ready to go after school.

How can I repurpose leftover BBQ into new meals?

Use brisket, pork, or chicken in pizzas, tacos, nachos, quesadillas, or even soups. Check out our full blog on leftover BBQ ideas here.

Is it safe to cook BBQ while I’m not home?

Yes—slow cookers and pellet grills with Wi-Fi controllers make it easy to monitor temps and cook time safely from anywhere.

What Big Poppa products make weeknight dinners easier?

Our rubs like Sweet Money, Desert Gold, and Little Louie’s are great all-purpose flavors. Plus, our drum kits and griddles are fast, versatile tools for family meals.