What Would the Founding Fathers Have Grilled After Signing the Declaration of Independence?

Picture this.

It's July 4, 1776.

The Declaration of Independence has just been approved. The work isn't finished - not even close - but for one evening, the men who risked everything for a new nation finally have a chance to sit down together.

Now imagine someone rolls a charcoal grill into the courtyard.

What would they cook?

While backyard barbecue wouldn't become an American tradition for many years, we like to think America's first celebration would've included simple food, good conversation, and plenty of smoke.

Here's what's going on the grill.

The Freedom Feast

Thick-Cut Ribeyes

Nothing says "celebration" quite like a perfectly grilled steak.

Season them generously with Burn Pit BBQ Ground Pounder Garlic Seasoning, grill over hot charcoal until medium-rare, and finish with a pat of butter.

Simple.
Bold.
American.

Fire-Roasted Sweet Corn

Fresh corn would have been one of the easiest seasonal foods to find in July.

Grill it right in the husk or over direct heat until lightly charred.

Brush with butter and finish with another sprinkle of Ground Pounder Garlic.

Cast Iron Potatoes

No Independence Day cookout feels complete without potatoes.

Slice baby potatoes, toss them with olive oil, Ground Pounder Garlic Seasoning, and fresh herbs, then cook them in a cast iron skillet right on the grill until crispy on the outside and tender inside.

Honey-Glazed Chicken

Honey was common long before bottled barbecue sauce.

Coat chicken thighs with Pop Smoke Memphis Style Rub, grill until nearly done, then brush with honey during the last few minutes to create a sweet, caramelized glaze.

Apple Crisp on the Grill

Apple desserts have been part of American tables since the beginning.

Bake a simple apple crisp in a cast iron skillet on the grill and serve warm.

No fireworks required.

Freedom Feast Ribeye

Ingredients

• 2 ribeye steaks
• 2 tablespoons Burn Pit BBQ Ground Pounder Garlic Seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter

Directions

1. Preheat your grill to 500–550°F.
2. Lightly coat steaks with olive oil.
3. Season generously on all sides with Ground Pounder Garlic.
4. Grill 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting for thickness.
5. Rest for 10 minutes.
6. Top each steak with butter before serving.

Serve alongside grilled corn, crispy potatoes, and your favorite people.

Because freedom - and great barbecue - is always better when it's shared.