Categories: WTVO

Here are the 10 most popular meats to grill on the Fourth of July

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Fourth of July is in full swing across the Rockford area and beyond, with cookouts sizzling with mouthwatering meats.

Based on current culinary trends and local favorites, here are the 10 most popular meats that are on the grill in Rockford this year.

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class="wp-block-heading">10. Kebabs

Marinated and skewered chunks of chicken, lamb, beef, pork or seafood can make for great kebabs. Grilled with vegetables, they bring an exotic flair to what would ordinarily be just a simple cookout.

Pork on skewers cooked on a barbecue grill. Preparation of shish kebab bbq. (file)

9. Turkey Burgers

A lighter alternative, ground turkey patties are perfect for those who want to stay away from beef for one reason or another.

Big sandwich – hamburger burger with turkey meat, tomato, bacon and lettuce. (FILE)

8. Steak

Grilled ribeye or sirloin steaks or strip steaks are perfect for those Fourth of July meat lovers seeking a premium bite.

Eyewitness News Reporter Jim Hagerty takes a steak off the grill on June 20, 2025, in Rockford, Illinois. (WTVO)

7. Sausages

Beyond hot dogs, bratwurst and Italian sausages are usually a hit.

(Photo courtesy of David Kossina)

6. Pork Chops

Thick, juicy pork chops grilled with a dry rub or marinade can bring a savory depth to any Independence Day party.

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5. Brisket

Slow-cooked and smoky, this Texas-style beef cut is best served sliced or shredded. It may take a bit longer than traditional cookout fare, but it’s tasty.

Sliced slowly-cooked brisket with BBQ sauce. (FILE)

4. Chicken

An Independence Day cookout cannot go by without a few grilled chicken breasts, legs or thighs. Marinate and season them to perfection. The more sauce, the better.

(Getty Images)

3. Ribs

Smoky and tender, baby back or spare ribs glazed with BBQ sauce are a messy, beloved highlight.

(Photo Credit: Getty Images)

2. Hot Dogs

A classic cookout staple, these grilled sausages of course, are great with a variety of toppings like mustard, relish, or chili. No ketchup.

The National Hot Dog and Sausage Council has a very strong aversion to a certain popular condiment. (Getty Images)

1. Burgers

Juicy beef patties reign supreme as the perennial favorite every year in Rockford. Top them with cheese, bacon, or inventive sauces. Serve on toasted buns or plain buns. Eat them plain. It doesn’t matter.

(Getty Images)
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