Matt Mulligan

Hey everyone, I’m Matt, co-owner of The Grilling Dad! I’m a father of 4 and love all things grilling and BBQ. My journey into the world of grilling is grounded in memories of my grilling dad lighting up a classic black Weber charcoal grill, infusing the air with the unmistakable scent of charcoal smoke, and serving up his favorite—BBQ chicken drummies.

I’ve been perfecting my own grilling masterpieces for the last 15 years and readily admit I have a lot left to learn! But much to my wife’s chagrin, anything I make on the grill or smoker turns into the kids’ favorite meal (and she’s a REALLY good cook). Coming from those critics??? I must be doing something right!

I believe in always using a meat thermometer, well-placed dad jokes (I’ve got plenty) are wit of the gods, and brats are an automatic dinner-winner… but only if you pre-boil them.

With The Grilling Dad, my goal is to help make outdoor cooking accessible to families. This site should be a resource “by dads, for dads,” offering a wealth of knowledge, from the fundamentals to advanced BBQ techniques. Come for the info, stay for the great food!

Posts By Matt Mulligan

Big Mac and Better Mac with fries

You’ve had a Big Mac, now make a Better Mac!

The Big Mac is iconic, and for good reason. It’s delicious! However, we believed that …

overhead view of vortex installed in Weber kettle grill with chicken wings

Vortex Review | A Must-Have Kettle Grill Accessory

You’re probably asking yourself “What the heck is a Vortex?” and I don’t blame you! …

leftover pulled pork nachos

Leftover Pulled Pork Nachos

Pulled pork is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. It’s perfect for family get-togethers and having buddies …

Leftover Pulled Pork Chili in bowl

Leftover Pulled Pork Chili

So you made a few pounds of deliciously smoked pulled pork, but you didn’t accurately …

Maverick PT-51 instant read thermometer

Budget Instant Read Thermometer…And It Shows | Maverick PT-51 Review

I am one of those guys who cheers for the underdog without exception. As a …

Wagyu Philly Cheesesteak sandwich

Wagyu Philly Cheesesteak

All joking aside, this Wagyu Philly Cheesesteak might be the greatest sandwich I’ve ever put …

ChefsTemp Finaltouch X10

ChefsTemp Finaltouch X10: A Great Value Alternative To The Thermapen ONE

I was really excited to test the Finaltouch X10.  It generated quite a bit of …

Denver-style Hash Brown Omelet

Denver-Style Hash Brown Omelet Recipe

We created a simple and delicious Denver-style Hash brown omelet and it will make you …

Typhur InstaProbe Instant Read Thermometer

Typhur InstaProbe Review: This Instant Read Means Business

I’m just going to come right out and say it: I wanted to HATE the …

Weber Handle Grill 'N Go Light attached to a grill

Weber Handle Grill ‘N Go Light Review

Grilling in low-light conditions can be a hassle. I especially hated squinting at the grill …

Cave Tools Barbecue Grill Light attached on a grill

Cave Tools Barbecue Grill Light Review

For those of us who love firing up the grill well past sunset, finding ways …

Chef Buddy Adjustable LED Barbeque Grill Light placed on top of the grill

72-3101 Chef Buddy Adjustable LED Grill Light Review

Grilling after dark poses some unique challenges, from struggling to see if your food is …

Pair of Permasteel PA-12002-AM Flexible Gooseneck Grill Lights

Permasteel PA-12002-AM Flexible Gooseneck Grill Light Review

Picture this: You’re hosting a backyard barbecue, and the sun sets just as the steaks …

Cuisinart CGL-555 Mount Grill Light mounted on a grill

Cuisinart CGL-555 Mount Grill Light Review

Poor lighting ruins a promising BBQ session, and I learned this the hard way through …

Newly purchased grill lights on their boxes and containers, spread out on a table

Best Grill Lights

When the sun sets, barbecuing can become a challenge, especially if you don’t have any …

delicious wood fired pizza on the GMG-4023 pizza oven attachment

Green Mountain Grills Pizza Oven Attachment (GMG-4023) REVIEW (2023)

The fastest, easiest way to make delicious, restaurant-caliber pizza at home on your pellet grill. …

How to Make Fried Rice on a Flat Top Grill

There’s a reason every rom-com features the protagonist kicking back with fried rice. It’s flavorful, …