Celebrating Dad is a joy! The weather is great and cooking outdoors is a perfect fit for June.

A Father’s Day cookout is a celebration I can absolutely get behind!

We love this weekend where we get to say THANKS to Dad for all he does. And for us, it’s always steaks. Dad needs to be honored well and a steak is what is called for. Period.

The dads in my life unwaveringly go for a thick Kansas City strip steak. And how can you argue with that?

We’ll pair them with a nice Cabernet Sauvignon to bring out the beefy taste. Because wine makes it a special affair.

Then this year, I’m going to mix it up a little by serving delicious Twice Baked Potatoes on the side. I just pop them in the oven and all the hard work is already done for me.

And some little Molten Chocolate Cakes are the best way to end this fantastic meal. I mean, come on, a liquid chocolate center? Yes, please!

THIS is the ultimate Father’s Day cookout to us. How about you?

Now that we have a checklist for planning a celebration of Dad on Father’s Day, let’s talk MENU!

We’ve got to do it up right for Dad!

APPETIZERS

We’re going to want to whet Dad’s appetite, but not TOO much because there’s lots more to come! Try some Jumbo Shrimp or Basil Pesto Gorgonzola Kisses to get him started.

ENTREE

Now on to the main course! Might I suggest a gorgeous Porterhouse steak for such an occasion? It’s manly, it’s delicious and it’ll let Dad know you’re serious.

SIDE DISHES

This celebration meal calls for Mashed Potatoes with Porcini Mushrooms or decadent Twice Baked Potatoes. Delish!

DESSERT

MY dad is all about the German Chocolate Cake. But maybe yours would love Red Velvet Cake or Vanilla Cheesecake. Pick his favorite!

It’s so much fun to plan a meal for someone you love. Make sure you have all Dad’s faves and it’ll be a hit. Click here for more menu inspiration.

Happy celebrating!

Dad’s big day is coming up and it’s time to celebrate!

Lots of us equate celebrating with food. Why? Because it’s how humans have shown love since the dawn of man.

And what better way to show Dad you love him than with a steak and beef-filled cookout?!?!!

To make sure we don’t forget a thing, let’s make a checklist for planning your Father’s Day cookout to make this cookout DA BOMB:

1. High-quality steaks, burgers and whatever kind of beef Dad loves

2. Veggies for amazing kabobs or fantastic, colorful side dishes

3. A clean grill!

4. Spatula/tongs for optimal grilling

5. Buns or bread

6. Dessert

7. Condiments, condiments, condiments

8. Plates, cups, utensils

9. Ice!

10. Beverages of Dad’s choice

11. A beautiful tablecloth/table setting – Dad-themed, of course!

12. Lots and lots of love!!!

Definitely tailor your fiesta to your specific needs but this is a great start. And check out some yummy menu ideas for Dad’s day over here. Hint:  Steak is the main course!

Follow this list and maybe you’ll find, like I have, that planning to celebrate someone is almost as fun as the celebration itself!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.