Top 3 Stocking Stuffers for BBQ Lovers
Not sure what they have? Sick of the same old ideas? Don’t know anything about barbecue?
Grab these 3 things for their santa stocking.
Hardcore Carnivore Red
- Delicious - We use this on almost all of our cooks
- Consumable - They'll use it even if they have some
- Gluten Free, No MSG, No artificial colors
Rodney Scott's World of BBQ
- Award winning, recent release
- Suitable to any experience level
- Recipes and technique
- Enjoyable read
Wooden Grill Scraper
- Our go-to grate cleaner
- Safe alternative to wired or padded brushes
- Works on any barbecue
- LifeLong guarantee
I love me a full Santa stocking! But, I’m also the first to admit that finding good quality, useful, smaller-sized things to throw in a stocking is difficult.
Especially when you want to make sure you’re getting them decent quality items that aren’t going to set you back a small fortune once the stockings full.
And, because we’re all absolute barbecue fanatics here at Burning Brisket, we’re sharing with you our list of ideas for stocking stuffers for bbq lovers.
In it we’ve tried to include a wide variety of tools plus some edibles that all are good quality but not too expensive.
Most things on this list retail for $25 or less. So, take your pick, mix and match and put together an epic stocking full of useful barbecue gifts they’ll actually use and love.
Any of the ideas on this list would also make great Secret Santa gifts, or could be wrapped alone for a budget-friendly but still great present.
And, if you’re looking for a bbq gift idea that’s a bit more expensive, check out these ideas where none of them are the usual gloves!
Or, there’s our line-up of funny bbq gifts for those a little more gimicky bbq gifts that’ll make your special someone laugh.
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Table of Contents
BBQ Consumables
Something that they can use is a great choice for a bbq stocking stuffer. They’re practical, can try something they might never normally buy, and it doesn’t matter if they’ve had it before.
Hardcore Carnivore Rubs
These are hands-down my favorite rubs out there!
A jar of Hardcore carnivore is always my number 1 thing to include in any bbq lovers gift bag. This stuff is the bomb!
If they’ve never tried it, it’s about to be their new favorite. And, if they’ve already got a jar in their cupboard, they’ll be thanking you they’ve got a replacement.
The Red has incredible flavor but isn’t too sweet or too spicy, the activated charcoal of the Black gives the most awesome look on meat (and as a gift), and the tanginess of the Lone Star MeatChelada is absolutely top-notch.
They’re made in Texas and there’s absolutely no fillers, MSG or gluten.
Do it, put one in there… and grab yourself one while you’re at it too.
Spiceology
For more choice of flavors with the same great quality, Spiceology is another hot Santa option.
Spiceology do over 400 different spice blends. They’re all handpicked and ground in small batches to ensure the best freshness and quality.
Grab a single, or there’s more expensive gift packs. Two of our favorite are the Cowboy Crust: Espresso Chile BBQ Rub and the Black Magic: Cajun Seasoning.
Bryco Goods Pink Butchers Paper
This one might need to go next to the stocking. But, it’s too good not to include in this list so here it is.
Bryco Goods Pink Butchers Paper is food-grade, uncoated and unwaxed making it perfect for wrapping meat during smoking.
If you haven’t already tried this popular alternative to aluminum foil, pink butchers paper lets more smoke in and doesn’t trap the moisture which steams the meat and can ruin the bark.
It also looks really authentic to serve barbecue on. After all, it is what the restaurants use.
And, it’s still a great gift if your special someone uses it already because they’ll always need more.
Traeger All-Natural Grill Cleaner
You might think that a grill cleaner isn’t an exciting enough stocking stuffer for bbq lovers. But, this incredibly effective all-natural spray works like magic to make any type of grill or smoker (it’s not just for Traegers) look brand new again.
Non-toxic, food-safe and biodegradable, it cuts through grease oh so well.
Just spray it on, walk away for a few minutes and then wipe the grime off.
One bottle should last them quite a long time as well.
Kamado Joe Big Block XL Lump Charcoal
If you’re Santa to a charcoal bbqer, you get to be all kinds of funny with this stocking stuffer for someone on the naughty list – a literal piece of coal.
But, after the laugh’s been had, Kamado Joe’s Big Block of lump charcoal is actually a really practical and thoughful gift.
It’s great quality, all natural, burns very well, and gives them a bit more fuel to keep doing what they love, cooking you oh so good food.
So, do it, be the funny one and leave a bag of this stuff by their stocking. Or, check out our other favorite lump charcoal brands.
By all means you can fill their stocking with it. But, lump charcoal leaves strong black marks that will be difficult to wash out. Next to will be perfectly fine too.
BBQ Related Tools
Whether you’re shopping for a seasoned pitmaster or someone just getting started with their grilling or smoking journey, these essential BBQ tools are sure to delight any outdoor cooking enthusiast.
Although they’re cheaper items, they’re quality tools too and won’t just end up in the bin before next Christmas.
Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper
Wire cleaners can damage the grate and leave small flecks of metal there which you really don’t want to be eating.
This all-natural timber Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper is a safer alternative that’s also super effective.
Ideal for any type of barbecue, the scalloped blade wears into the hot grates so that it fits your grill perfectly. It’s got a lifetime guarantee and works on any grate surface; porcelain, ceramic, stainless steel & cast iron.
It’s our all-time favorite grate cleaning tool. But, if you want more choice, check out our best grill brush review for more cleaning related stocking stuffers for bbq lovers.
Char-Broil Electric Charcoal Starter
If you’re shopping for someone who likes to keep things natural, this Char-Broil Electric Charcoal Starter will give them an easy and quick way to light charcoal or wood without having to use nasty fire starters.
Simply plug it in and use the heat to get the coals going. No lighter fluid, no chemicals, nothing but heat.
Effective and inexpensive, it’s a must-have for anyone who uses lump charcoal or natural briquettes.
Inkbird IBT-4X-B2 Bluetooth BBQ Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is pretty much an essential for anyone smoking. It gives that extra feedback you need to know exactly when to wrap, unwrap and how long to cook the meat for so that it’s not only safe to eat, but perfectly soft and flavorful.
And, this double probe wireless meat thermometer from Inkbird fits the bill, and, is affordable enough for a stocking even if it’s a little over that $25 mark.
With a rechargeable battery and a large LED display panel, it’s magnetic backing sticks straight to your bbq. One probe gives you your internal meat temperature and the other the ambient temp inside your smoker.
From there, you can use the app to connect your smartphone and get real-time updates on exactly how your meat is going.
Set a timer or an alarm and you don’t even need to check the meat.
There’s a 4 probe version that’s slightly more expensive but measures the temp of 3 pieces of meat.
Read our full review of the best wireless meat thermometers for more options.
ThermoPro TP19H Instant Read Thermometer
An instant read thermometer is a handy thing to have in any kitchen. But, it’s particularly essential for grilling where a wireless meat thermometer can’t handle such high heat.
This cheap but accurate model from the reliable ThermoPro gives an accurate reading in 3-4 seconds, auto-rotates, has a backlit display, and is waterproof.
They’ll never overcook a steak again without having to cut it in two. They’ll grill that salmon to a safe but not dry level. And, it’s perfect for checking the water is the right temperature to make dough for their Ooni pizza oven too.
Basically, it’s an all rounder and this model, the TP19H does a good job for a stocking-friendly price.
Read our full review of the best instant read thermometers for more options.
Dry Rub Shakers
If the person you’re buying for likes to make their own dry rubs and doesn’t have one, two or three of these, you’re about to make their life a whole heap easier.
Simple and cheap, these stainless steel large dry rub shakers make it so much easier to get the spice evenly on the meat.
The lid stays on well, the handle is comfortable, and they come with a lid so a big lot of spice mix can be made ahead of time and stored in the shaker for the next barbecue too.
LIZZQ Premium 12" Pellet Smoker Tube
One of these little tubes is good for three things; cold smoking, boosting smoke levels inside a smoker, and, is the cheapest and easiest way to smoke inside a grill.
Simply fill the LIZZQ Premium 12 Inch Pellet Smoker Tube with wood smoking pellets, light it and place it on the grate inside any barbecue.
It’s 12″ length gives you about 5 hours of smoking time. The perforated stainless steel distributes the smoke well, and, the hexagonal shape won’t roll around.
It even comes with a free eBook of recipe ideas.
BBQ Monster Meat Injector Syringe Kit
Open up a whole new world of next-level juicy meat with this BBQ Monster Meat Injector Syringe Kit.
Ideal for brining chicken, turkey, pork, lamb, beef, or anything really, it’s made from food-safe stainless steel with silicone seals. The needle is a little wider than others on the market so it’s less likely to get clogged. And, it comes with 4 different needle heads depending on what you’re doing.
Complete with cleaning brushes and spare O-rings, it’s a great kit that can handle pretty much any task you give it.
P.S. You’ve got to try injecting extra icing into cupcakes and fillings into donuts as well! I really do love barbecue but frosting filled cupcakes are my favorite thing to use this stocking stuffer for… haha…
GRILLHOGS 18" Basting Mop
Standard basting brushes aren’t great for thinner sauces like vinegar-based ones or what’s commonly used in Texas-style barbecue. But, these soft brush heads soak up the good stuff to transfer it to the meat better for more flavor and more moisture.
With an extra long handle, the Grillhogs Basting Mop keeps your hands away from the heat when you’re basting mid-cook. The heads are machine washable, and, this 18 inch handle comes with 2 replacement heads.
They also work perfectly well for regular stuff in the kitchen like glazing pastry. And, there’s a 5 year warranty so you know what you won’t be getting them for Christmas next year.
Victorinox Fibrox Pro 6" Boning Knife
A quality boning knife really does make light work of trimming up meat to barbecue. And, the Victorinox Fibrox Pro 6″ Boning Knife is great quality at what’s a surprisingly affordable price.
The thinner 6″ blade is ideal for slipping under the fat to remove it without taking the good stuff with it. It’s made from carbon stainless steel so with a bit of love, it’ll last for years and years to come.
It’s a must-have for anyone who grills or smokes. Plus, it’ll get use for regular inside cooking too.
MAIRICO Brisket Slicing Knife
The perfect shape to fit in a stocking and slice through brisket, this affordable but incredible MAIRICO Brisket Slicing Knife is a superb gift for the smoking enthusiast who normally gets the job done with an ordinary kitchen knife.
Its razor-sharp, long, and slender blade is designed to effortlessly slice through smoked brisket and other smoked meats, ensuring perfect, uniform cuts every time.
Made from high-quality stainless steel, this knife is a game-changer for anyone serious about their BBQ, making it easier to achieve those mouthwatering, professional-quality results.
Oklahoma Joe's Blacksmith Cleaver & Chef Knife
Because having the right knives makes all the difference in a bbq kitchen, this third knife we’re recommending can be given separately or along with all the other knives we’ve listed so far.
The Oklahoma Joe’s Blacksmith Cleaver & Chef Knife is a versatile duo. It combines a robust meat cleaver design that can slice through any large cut of meat. But, it’s curved blade also doubles as a chef’s knife to cut through vegetables, slicing and dicing the small stuff just as well.
Great quality, this Oklahoma Joe’s knife comes with a holster to safely store it away as well. It’ll become a cherished tool for any grill master.
Yukon Glory™ Magnetic LED Grill Light
Even if they’ve got outdoor lighting, having a dedicated light on your grill or smoker is the ideal setup for night-time cooking.
And, although a cheaper option like this one will definitely do the trick, this ultra-durable grill light from the well-respected Yukon Glory makes it that extra bit special Santa gift.
The strong magnetic base quickly snaps onto any magnetic barbecue. But, there’s also the grill clamp for manual attachment too.
The rotating 23 inch gooseneck means your giftee can get the light in exactly the right position. And, the 3 x AAA batteries (not included, grab some here too), will power the really bright LED light for a long time before they need changing.
Cuisinart Propane Tank Gauge
Small, inexpensive and oh-so-useful, the Cuisinart Propane Tank Gauge is an awesome item to include in any propane griller or smoker’s stocking. They’re also great for anyone who uses the Ooni Koda gas-fired pizza oven.
It works on any 20 pound propane tank. Simply hook it on and lift it up. The gauge weights the tank to give you a more accurate reading than your intuition will so you’ll know exactly when it’s time to fill up.
BBQ Boxes, Subscriptions and Gift Cards
Buy them a bbq box that gets delivered later, give them a gift card, or, get a box delivered now and just put all the items in their stocking. It’s the work done for you while you, ahem… Santa, takes all the credit.
Grill Masters BBQ Box
Yes, the Grill Master’s Club is a subscription box. But, there’s no reason you can’t just send one box to add to a stocking.
In it you’ll get one barbecue sauce, one rub, wood chips, a new recipe and a Chef’s Select surprise item. It’s really great value and can pretty much fill up a stocking in one go.
Great if you’re not quite sure about flavors and brands. All the products included in Grill Masters Club boxes are great quality. A lot of them are even award-winning.
And, if Santa wants to send a recurring subscription, ain’t nothing wrong with that either!
Southside Market Gift Card
You probably don’t want to put chilled meat in a stocking. But, a gift card to get meat from one of the most historic bbq restaurants in the country is totally doable.
Texas-based Southside Market ship already smoked meats on dry ice anywhere in the United States.
Grab a gift card and let them choose what and when they’d like their goodies to be delivered. They also sell their awesome seasonings and sauces if the person you’re giving it to would prefer to recreate their own historic bbq.
Carnivore Club Jerky
A meat option you can put straight into a stocking is Carnivore Club’s Jerky box.
Order as a one off or a recurring subscription and get two premium bags of jerky, selected from top brands around the country.
Featuring new artisans and unique flavors, the quality and taste is incredible.
BBQ Books
Yes, a barbecue books are filled with a heap of great recipes. But, they’re also like a short course on how to barbecue better.
These grilling and smoking books are more than just a recipe, they’re straight up entertaining. With excellent photography and even better copy, they’re a collectable perfect for any bbq lovers stocking.
Check out our full list of the best barbecue cookbooks if you want more choice.
Rodney Scott's World of BBQ
For a bbq book stocking filler they’re less likely to have on their shelf, Rodney Scott’s World of BBQ is one of the hottest new releases.
This book has received accolades from The New York Times, The Washington Post, Time Out, Epicurious, Vice, and Southern Living to name just a few.
It in you’ve got a comprehensive exploration of barbecue, from foundational knowledge and history to core recipes and a variety of sides, along with personal family recipes. But, the best thing about it, apart from the mouthwatering photography, is that it’s written in a friendly, approachable tone that makes you feel like you’re right there with Rodney himself.
Suitable for both seasoned pros and beginners, Rodney Scott’s World of BBQ is a well worth it buy!
Franklin Barbecue
LOVE THIS BOOK!
If you’re gifting to someone who wants to really learn how to smoke, Franklin Barbecue is a great guide that’s more focused on the technique behind smoking rather than the recipes themselves.
If you’re not familiar with the name Franklin Barbecue, it’s one of the top bbq restaurants in the country. And, Aaron Franklin, the man who started it, literally gives away his ‘secrets’.
There are recipes in here too. It’s not all talk. But, most are very simple and doable. It’s not fancy flashy business. Just darn good barbecue as it should be.
Smokin' with Myron Mixon
Another top-rated barbecue cookbook written by a man with a very well-proven track-record is this, Smokin’ with Myron Mixon.
Like Franklin Barbecue, Myron keeps things simple and shows you how to adapt his recipes to your barbecue. There’s no stressing about measuring exact quantities or being a stickler to times and temperatures.
He also talks about how he barbecues in his own backyard instead of focusing on competitive or restaurant cooking.
Meathead: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling
For a book that’s more focused on grilling with a bit of info on smoking, Meathead is our go-to.
Written by the well-respected Meathead Goldwyn, Meathead’s got something to teach everyone from the greenest of beginners to the more experienced pitmaster.
In here, you’ll find detailed teachings of the why, how, when and where of bbq. The focus being, giving you the knowledge to really barbecue, not just follow the steps in a recipe.
With over 100 recipes that cover everything from the basics to more creative meals, it’s suitable for using with any type of grill or smoker.
Other Stocking Stuffers for BBQ Lovers
Here you’ll find some extra stocking stuffers for bbq lovers that might not be the first thing that comes to your mind. But, make great barbecue-related gifts nevertheless.
DOSS SoundBox Touch Portable Bluetooth Speaker
This cheap, portable, IXP5 waterproof speaker isn’t a blowing the budget type of bbq stocking filler. But, it’s great for the bbq enthusiast who’s got most of the bbq gear themselves.
Perfet to get the music cranking for entertaining, or just chilling out to some tunes while they’re out there tending to the bbq by themselves.
The DOSS SoundBox Touch syncs with your smartphone to play non-stop music for about 20 hours before it needs a recharge.
With surprisingly great volume and sound quality, it’s not just us who rate this very affordable speaker. There’s thousands of others who recommend it.
Hydro Flask Cooler Cup
This multifunctional cup serves as both a cooler and an insulated beverage holder. It keeps drinks cold for extended periods, which is a must for those long barbecue sessions under the sun.
Its durable stainless steel construction ensures it can withstand a bit of rough love. And, the sweat-free design prevents condensation, so hands stay dry.
A perfect blend of form and function, it’s a thoughtful addition to any BBQ enthusiast’s stocking, guaranteeing their beverages stay refreshingly chilled during their cookouts.
The Barbecue Smoker's Journal
There’s a lot of variables that go into cooking that perfect brisket. Help your barbecue enthusiast remember them all when they finally nail that brisket with this gift; a Barbecue Smoker’s Journal.
With enough room to record 55 cooks, covering the type of meat, weight, prep method, marinades, sauce and spices used, weather and results, this journal prompts you to write down the variables that really matter.
It’s pocket sized so it’s not huge to haul around, thick, quality paper that doesn’t get ruined quickly. And, it’s a super cheap thing to throw in that stocking that’ll make barbecue life so much easier.
HAKA State City BBQ Trucker Hat
Suitable for both men and women, this hat gives you just a little bit of bbq in a stylish and definitely eye-catching way. But, it’s not so out there you can’t wear it absolutely anywhere.
Really great quality and comfortable to wear, HAKA package their hats up very carefully so Santa doesn’t end up delivering a squashed gift.
With an adjustable snapback so you don’t need to worry about this cap not fitting, it’s a bbq gift that’s good for anytime, not just the backyard.
Funny Burger Socks Box by Rainbow Socks
We were really trying out hardest not to include any of your typical, kitschy bbq stocking stuffers in this list. But, here we are with these burger socks from Rainbow Socks… hahaha…
I don’t know about you but I just know too many people who would love to open a box of these on Christmas day.
They’re great quality and exceptionally well packaged in their burger box. One pack comes with 2 pairs and they’re unisex so grab them for your bbq loving man or woman.
Just as I wrote this my son put in a request for these too. They’re a hit.
FAQs About the Best BBQ Stocking Stuffers
Consumables like barbecue dry rubs, sauces, pink butchers paper and a grill cleaning spray are always great items to put in a bbq gift basket because someone who grills or smokes often will always need more of that sort of stuff.
But, adding a few edible items like jerky or a quality raw meat gift card is also a favorite with grill and smoke lovers alike.
Then there’s always the long host of useful barbecue tools like electric charcoal starters, meat thermometers and knives that will be a hit too.
For a full list of our recommended and cheaper bbq products that are perfect to include in a bbq gift basket, scroll up.
If your boyfriend grills and smokes, bbq stocking stuffers are always a hit.
Think something they can eat, something they will keep using and a tool that they can keep and you’ve hit the jackpot.
You’ll find all of these things and more in our stocking stuffer list above.
Every barbecuer needs a good quality pair of tongs. But, if they’ve got a grill or smoker, they’ve probably got a set of those.
Our number one essential tool for any bbq loving guy or girl is a quality meat thermometer.
For a budget-friendly stocking stuffer option, scroll to the top and use the table of contents to find our recommendation. Or, check out our best wireless smoker thermometers and our best instant read thermometer reviews for more expensive, top quality options.
Any of our 30 quality stocking stuffer ideas above make great gifts for the bbq lover. And, if you’re looking for something special that’s a bit bigger or more expensive, check out our long list of bbq gift’s that aren’t gloves.
Kate Brown, the founder and voice behind Burning Brisket, is not your typical pitmaster or restaurateur. Her expertise in barbecue grew from a humble desire to cook exceptional meals for her family. From overcoming burnt brisket mishaps to establishing her boutique cattle ranch, Kate shares her passion to help 'ordinary' individuals cook extraordinary barbecue, believing that simplicity often yields the best flavors. Kate is commited to making great barbecue accessible to all with the right resources and some tasty practice.
