Winter grilling? Absolutely! Just because the temperature drops doesn’t mean your Big Green Egg has to hibernate. In fact, winter is the perfect time to fire it up and enjoy hearty, smoky dishes that warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re grilling for the family or hosting a cozy winter BBQ, here are the best winter grilling recipes on the Big Green Egg.
So, grab your toque, bundle up, and let’s get grilling!

Why grill in the winter?
Let’s face it—grilling is often seen as a summer activity, especially if you live in Canada like me. But with the Big Green Egg’s ceramic insulation, you can grill, smoke, roast, or bake no matter how frosty it gets outside. The EGG holds its temperature like a champ, even in freezing weather. Plus, there’s something magical about standing by a warm grill while snowflakes fall around you.
Winter grilling also brings unique flavours to the table. Think rich stews, smoky roasts, and caramelized vegetables that pair perfectly with chilly evenings. Ready to dive in? Here are some of my favourite winter grilling recipes.
1. Smoked chili with three meats
Nothing beats a bowl of chili on a cold day. On the Big Green Egg, this classic comfort food gets an upgrade with smoky flavours from slow-cooked pork belly, beef shin, and short ribs.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pork belly
- 1 lb beef shin
- 1 lb short ribs
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Dark chocolate (optional)
Instructions:
- Set up your EGG for indirect cooking using a plate setter at 250°F.
- Smoke the meats for 2 hours using hickory or mesquite wood chips.
- Transfer the meats to a Dutch oven, add the rest of the ingredients, and let it simmer on the grill for another 3 hours.
- Serve with crusty bread or over rice.
This dish is perfect for lazy Sundays or game nights with the family.
2. Low-and-Slow Pork Shoulder
Pork shoulder is a winter grilling staple that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re making pulled pork sandwiches or pairing it with roasted veggies, this recipe never disappoints.
Ingredients:
- 5 lbs pork shoulder
- Your favorite BBQ rub
- Applewood chips
Instructions:
- Rub the pork shoulder generously with BBQ rub and let it sit overnight.
- Preheat your EGG to 225°F for indirect cooking.
- Add applewood chips for a sweet, smoky flavour.
- Cook low and slow until the internal temperature hits 195°F (about 8–10 hours).
- Let it rest before shredding.
Pro tip: Use leftovers for tacos or stir into soups for extra flavour!
3. Roasted Root Vegetables
Winter veggies like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes shine when roasted on the Big Green Egg.
Ingredients:
- A mix of root vegetables (carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh rosemary
Instructions:
- Toss veggies in olive oil, salt, pepper, and rosemary.
- Set your EGG to 375°F for indirect cooking.
- Roast on a perforated grill pan until caramelized (about 30–40 minutes).
These veggies make a great side dish for any winter meal—or a healthy snack on their own.
4. Prime Rib Roast
For special occasions or family gatherings, nothing beats a prime rib roast cooked to perfection on your EGG.
Ingredients:
- Bone-in prime rib roast (4–6 lbs)
- Kosher salt
- Herbed butter (butter mixed with garlic, rosemary, and thyme)
Instructions:
- Dry-brine your roast by salting it generously and leaving it uncovered in the fridge overnight.
- Preheat your EGG to 350°F with indirect heat.
- Rub herbed butter all over the roast.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium rare (about 2–3 hours).
- Let it rest before slicing.
This dish is a showstopper that pairs beautifully with red wine and good company.
5. Sticky Toffee Pudding
Yes, you can even make dessert on your Big Green Egg. Sticky toffee pudding is a warm and indulgent treat that’s perfect after a hearty winter meal.
Ingredients:
- Dates (chopped)
- Brown sugar
- Butter
- Heavy cream
Instructions:
- Prepare your pudding batter using dates and brown sugar.
- Bake at 350°F using indirect heat until golden brown.
- Make a toffee sauce by simmering butter, cream, and brown sugar together.
- Pour the sauce over warm pudding before serving.
Trust me—this will be an instant hit with kids and adults alike.
Tips for Winter Grilling Success
Grilling in winter comes with its own set of challenges (hello, frozen dome), but these tips will keep things running smoothly:
- Preheat longer: Cold weather means your EGG might take longer to reach its desired temperature.
- Use quality charcoal: Lump charcoal burns hotter and longer—ideal for winter cooks.
- Dress warmly: Standing outside by the grill might be cozy at first but dress in layers to stay comfortable during long cooks.
- Keep tools handy: Use gloves and tongs designed for grilling to avoid fumbling in cold weather.
- Think about light: If you are smoking something that is 10 hours plus, odds are you will be standing in the dark at some point. So have a good outdoor light ready.
Time to do some winter grilling
Winter grilling isn’t just about making delicious food—it’s about creating cozy moments and memories with your loved ones. Whether you’re smoking chili or roasting veggies, you are in good hands with this list of best winter grilling recipes on the Big Green Egg.
So don’t let cold weather stop you from enjoying BBQ magic all year round. What’s your favourite winter grilling recipe? Share it in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you.