Your Ultimate Guide to Fall Grilling & Smoking

Fall Off the Bone BBQ

September marks the changing of the seasons. The air gets a little crisper, football kicks off, and the BBQ community starts to pivot from summer favorites to cozy, smoky comfort foods. At Big Poppa Smokers, we believe fall is one of the most exciting times to fire up your smoker or grill. Whether you’re cooking for tailgates, family dinners, or weekend backyard sessions, this is your guide to making the most of September with bold flavors, smart techniques, and all the BBQ inspiration you need.

Why September is Prime Time for BBQ

After a hot summer of burgers and quick grilled meals, September invites you to slow things down and dive into low and slow. The cooler temperatures make it easier to manage your cooker and allow you to spend more time outside without melting. It’s also the kickoff of competition season for many teams and a time when backyard cooks return to ribs, pork butts, and brisket.

With kids back in school and routines reestablished, there’s also a renewed appetite for hearty meals. Fall BBQ brings together the warmth of smoked meat and the excitement of gathering with friends and family. Plus, it's the perfect excuse to load up on new rubs and sauces.

 

Fall BBQ Flavor Profiles That Hit Different

September cooking means leaning into flavor. This is the season to go bold. Think sweet heat, savory depth, and layers of smoke. Our top picks for this month:

• Sweet Money: A sweet and savory BBQ rub that shines on ribs, pork shoulder, and even chicken thighs. The perfect balance for fall-inspired cooks.

• Cash Cow: If you’re planning brisket or beef ribs, this championship-level rub adds richness and umami.

• Desert Gold: For a bright, herbaceous kick, this citrusy blend is perfect on grilled veggies, chicken, or halibut.

 

Pair these with hardwoods like pecan, oak, or hickory to enhance fall flavors. You can also mix and match rubs for layering: start with Little Louie’s Garlic Black Pepper Seasoning and finish with a sweet rub like Sweet Money.  Make sure to check our blog on how to choose the right wood.

3 Must-Try BBQ Recipes for September

Let’s get to the good stuff: what should you cook? Here are three top-performing recipes from Big Poppa that are perfect for fall:

1. Pork & Noodles

Big Poppa’s Pork Loin with Butter Noodles is the ultimate comfort meal for BBQ lovers. Perfectly seasoned with Big Poppa’s Desert Gold, the tender pork loin pairs beautifully with rich, buttery noodles for a simple yet flavorful dish. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with savory goodness. Elevate your meal with Big Poppa Smokers seasonings and turn your pork loin into a show-stopping dish. Try it today and taste the difference premium BBQ seasoning makes!

Try today: Pork & Noodles Recipe 

2. 24 Hour Brisket

Brisket isn’t a last-minute decision—it’s a commitment. And with Big Poppa’s 24-hour brisket method, you’ll learn exactly how to make that time count. From prep to rest, we break down the full process so you can stay in control at every step: injecting for moisture, seasoning for bark, smoking with precision, and resting for that tender, juicy finish. Whether it’s your first brisket or your fiftieth, our recipe and video guide give you the confidence (and tools) to get it right.

Cook this Weekend: 24 Hour Brisket

3. Pineapple & Bacon Pork Chop

Big Poppa’s Pineapple Bacon Tabasco Pork Chops are a bold fusion of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors that will take your dinner to the next level. Juicy, tender pork chops are grilled or seared to perfection, then topped with caramelized pineapple and crispy bacon. A drizzle of Tabasco glaze adds the perfect kick of heat, creating a dish that’s as balanced as it is flavorful. Ideal for BBQs, weeknight meals, or entertaining guests, these pork chops pair beautifully with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Easy to make and packed with vibrant flavors, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Sunday dinner recipe: Pineapple & Bacon Pork Chop

Tailgating with Big Poppa: Game Day BBQ Ideas

Football season is back, and that means one thing: tailgates. September is the kickoff to both college and NFL action, and BBQ is essential for your game day spread.

Game Day Grilling Ideas:

• Wagyu Burnt End Bites: The ultimate game day indulgence—rich, smoky, and guaranteed to disappear fast.  Get recipe now!

• Pork Steak Skewers: Use your favorite vegetables and season with Sweet Money Hot or Cuckoo Racha, then glaze with a BBQ sauce like Granny's or Blues Hog.

• Pulled Pork Sliders: Smoke ahead of time and reheat in foil. Serve with pickles and slaw.

Set up your tailgate or backyard viewing party with all the fixings. Don’t forget gloves, foil pans, and a good thermometer.

Must-Have BBQ Tools for September Cooks

As the season changes, it’s a great time to do a gear check. Here are some of our best sellers that will help you cook like a pro this fall:

• Thermoworks Thermometers: Accurate temps are key in cooler weather.  Shop Thermoworks

• Big Poppa's Drum Smoker: Holds temps beautifully for long cooks.

• Gloves (cotton + neoprene): Essential for safety and handling hot meat.

• Butcher Paper/Foil: For wrapping brisket, ribs, or pork butts.

Check out BBQ Tools & Accessories

Seasonal Pro Tips for Fall Smoking & Grilling

1. Watch the Wind: Wind can impact your cooking temps. Use wind blocks if necessary.

2. Control Moisture: Cooler air can lead to longer cook times. Use water pans in your smoker to maintain moisture.

3. Embrace Longer Cooks: Now that the heat of summer is gone, let your pork butt go the full 12-14 hours.

4. Keep Fuel Handy: If you're using charcoal or pellets, always have extra on hand. Longer cooks = more fuel.

5. Don’t Neglect Resting: In the cooler air, meat can cool quickly. Wrap and place in a cooler to hold temp.

More tips: 7 Tips for Low & Slow Success

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What’s the best meat to smoke in September?

Pork shoulder is affordable, forgiving, and full of flavor. Brisket is another great option for longer weekend cooks.

Can I use my pellet smoker in cooler weather?

Yes! Pellet smokers like MAK and GMG are great in fall. Just make sure to keep pellets dry and watch temps in the wind.

What rubs work best for fall BBQ?

Try Sweet Money for pork, Cash Cow for beef, and Desert Gold for veggies and chicken.

Are there any Big Poppa seasonings good for tailgating?

Yes! Try Cuckoo Racha, Jallelujah Jalapeno, or Little Louie’s Seasoned to boost flavor on sliders, ribs, and wings.

How do I keep BBQ warm during a party?

Wrap meat in foil, then place in a cooler with towels. It will stay hot for hours and remain juicy.