8 Best Masterclass BBQ Courses To Try Today (2025)

Who doesn’t love grilled BBQ food? Even though grilling might seem like an easy way to prepare some food for family and friends outdoors (especially when the sun is shining and you want something quick), the truth is that BBQing can be anything but simple.

Sure, while you can no doubt go ahead and fire up the BBQ and get cooking without so much as a second thought, taking the time to really learn the proper techniques will not only make you a better to cook barbecue but will help to improve the flavor and taste of the food that you BBQ, too.

So, regardless of whether you are planning to prepare some grilled food for yourself or you’ve got a next backyard cookout coming up and you really want to impress.

Keep reading to discover six of the online BBQ classes that are worth signing up for. Just read about the BBQ process!

1. Aaron Franklin Texas Style BBQ Masterclass

If you’re already familiar with the world of grilling, then we’re almost certain that you will have already heard of Aaron Franklin’s Texas Style BBQ Masterclass!

A tried and true favorite, Aaron Franklin’s Texas Barbecue Masterclass is created by Aaron Franklin, who is an award-winning owner of the Franklin Barbecue that is located in Austin Texas.

If you’re interested in trying out this course, you will gain full access to all of Austin’s grilling secrets when it comes to making the perfect Texas-style barbecue.

Aaron Franklin masterclass review

At the time of writing this guide, Aaron Franklin’s Texas Style BBQ Masterclass costs $15 per month for total access to this masterclass. If you’re already familiar with grilling pork butt and you’d like to focus on Texan BBQing in particular with an extensive course, – this is the option for you.

2. Wicked Health’s Vegan BBQ Class

If you’re a vegan or vegetarian (or you simply want to learn how to prepare a delicious meal of BBQ food that does not contain any meat) then we think that you might love Wicked Health’s Vegan BBQ Class.

Created by Chef Chad Sarno (who also just so happens to be the co-founder of Good Catch Foods, a coveted blog) this masterclass is all you’ll need to learn how to prepare Texan BBQ food without any meat. And the best part? This course is totally free and can be streamed directly via Youtube.

There are also plenty of other short masterclasses offered by Chef Chad Sarno on his channel that are all entirely free of charge – his BBQ masterclasses are all definitely worth checking out!

3. BBQ Champs Academy

If you’d like to sign up for a school where you can take multiple classes in BBQing, then the BBQ Champs Academy is a great place to consider going with.

In a nutshell, the BBQ Champs Academy is an online barbecue cooking school that offers an extensive range of classes ranging from grilling basics all the way to competition-level BBQ secrets.

Plus, besides being able to gain insider knowledge into professional BBQing as well as being able to hone your technical skills, you will also have the opportunity to make use of a variety of different recipes like beef ribs and others to try preparing for yourself.

If you’re interested in signing up for BBQ Champs Academy, keep in mind that it is a paid platform. That being said, you will need to pay either $8 for individual classes or alternatively purchase a package of classes that currently start out at $100.

4. Jamie Oliver’s MasterClass On BBQ Vegetables

Making great barbecue food isn’t just about the meat that you grill, it also comes down to preparing delicious BBQ vegetables, too!

If you would like to hone your grilling skills in preparing vegetables on the BBQ, then look no further than Jamie Oliver’s MasterClass on BBQ Vegetables!

Nothing beats a side of yummy grilled vegetables, and Jamie Oliver will show you how to grill them to a professional level. Oh, and did we mention that this class is only around 3 minutes? Yes, that’s right!

While it’s quick, you can bet your bottom dollar that you’ll learn plenty of knowledge on how to prepare vegetables on the grill in a matter of minutes. It’s also totally free of charge!

5. Skillshare Grilling Basics Class

If you’re interested in making an investment in a paid course, then you might be interested in trying out the Grilling Basics Class that is currently available over on Skillshare.

A must for all cooks that want to master the basics of grilling, the Grilling Fundamentals Class is led by Zakary Pelaccio, who is an award-winning chef.

Throughout the duration of this class, you will learn everything that you need to know about grilling fundamentals, including how to correctly season your grill all the way to how to build correct fire management to cook.

Keep in mind that if you want to use Skillshare, you will need to pay the yearly membership fee of $99. However, if you have never opened an account with them before, you do have the opportunity to make use of their free trial, which is something to keep in mind.

6. America’s Test Kitchen: Introduction To Grilling

Are you a beginner griller that’s looking for a crash course into the world of BBQ food? If you answered yes to that question, then we think that America’s Test Kitchen: Introduction to Grilling course is everything that you need to get yourself started!

The perfect place to begin for anyone that wants to learn the basics of BBQing, America’s Test Kitchen: Introduction to Grilling course will cover absolutely everything that you’ll need to know to begin cooking on the grill right away like a pro.

From going over the basics of how to season and how to manage fire, how to smoke meat, all the way to sharing top tips and tricks to making perfectly prepared grilled food – America’s Test Kitchen: Introduction to Grilling course is worth every penny.

7. Udemy BBQ Masterclasses

Interested in making the investment in a learning platform that will grant you access to an extensive list of barbecue classes?

If so, then we think that you should definitely consider checking out Udemy! If you have never heard of Udemy before, it is essentially an online learning platform that is very similar to that Skillshare. The only difference?

Udemy specifically focuses on providing lessons, courses, and other learning resources, like how to trim meats, and specifically tailored to people who want to learn more about grilling and BBQing food.

Not only that, but ensuring that everyone will be able to become a better griller, Udemy not only offers a variety of classes tailored to every skill level – but it also offers both free and paid classes, so there’s something for everyone.

If possible, we recommend making the investment in the paid classes, as Udemy offers an immersive learning experience for its paid users that consists of classes, exercises, practice tests, quizzes, and more.

8. Grill Master University

Last but certainly not least, the final BBQ learning resource that we have to recommend to you today is Grill Master University – which is a great platform for grillers of all levels and abilities.

If you decide to sign up for Grill Master University, you will be taken on a course that will allow you to become a pro behind the grill, regardless of whether you are planning on entering cooking competitions or simply want to show out for your guests next time you go through a backyard party.

Offering an extensive range of masterclasses to choose from, Grill Master University caters to every skill level and is also able to offer an immersive learning experience that will help take your cooking bbq skills to the next level.

Not just that, but unlike some of the other recommendations on this list, Grill Master University offers both virtual and in-person classes across many states including North Carolina, New York, Oklahoma, West Virginia, Florida, Georgia, and many others states.

If all that wasn’t impressive enough, signing up for Grill Master University will also grant you access to its thriving community.

Once you have finished your classes, you will have the ability to enter into regular contests that are hosted by Grill Master University, and there is one held at least once every month! It’s a great way to become a better cook and make new friends.

Masterclass BBQ: Expert Techniques for Perfect Grilling

Learning from the Best

When it comes to mastering the art of BBQ, learning from the best chefs in the industry is crucial. One such highly regarded expert is Aaron Franklin, who teaches Texas-style BBQ through his MasterClass. Aaron Franklin is a James Beard Award-winning chef and the owner of the famous Franklin BBQ. In his 16-part MasterClass, he shares his knowledge and skills in detail, training learners as if they were staff members at his renowned establishment.

Not only does this course cover techniques for making delicious Central Texas barbecue, but it also includes lessons on smoking mouth-watering meats such as Franklin’s acclaimed brisket. The MasterClass is designed for learners of all levels, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned BBQ enthusiasts.

Another top chef who offers valuable insights into the world of BBQ is Gordon Ramsay. Known for his culinary expertise and television appearances, Ramsay brings his skills to MasterClass, teaching learners how to create outstanding BBQ dishes. With these experts teaching through the platform, students have the opportunity to learn from the very best in the field.

MasterClass provides an unparalleled learning experience, giving learners access to classes taught by celebrities and experts in various industries. With courses from chefs like Aaron Franklin and Gordon Ramsay, enthusiasts looking to elevate their BBQ game can be confident that they are learning from the best.

Enrolling in MasterClass BBQ courses not only allows students to gain knowledge and expertise from top chefs, but it also provides them with a chance to develop their skills and produce extraordinary BBQ dishes. By learning from the best, students can enhance their abilities and take their BBQ skills to the next level.

Texas Style BBQ

Texas Style BBQ holds a significant place in the world of barbecue, known for its tender, smoky, and flavorful meats. This cooking method hails from the Central Texas region, where it has evolved and gained recognition over the years. Texas barbecue emphasizes the use of high-quality meats, adopting a simplistic approach to seasoning and sauce application, allowing the natural flavors to shine through.

Central Texas barbecue is particularly famous for its brisket, which is slow-cooked to perfection over wood or charcoal fires. The key to achieving this mouth-watering dish lies in its careful preparation: trimming the brisket properly, maintaining precise temperature control, and achieving an ideal balance of smoke penetration. Texas-style pitmasters pay extra attention to the type of wood they use, as it directly impacts the final flavor profiles in the smoked meats. Oak, mesquite, and pecan are among the popular choices, each imparting its unique smokiness to the meat.

A hallmark of Texas-style barbecue is its minimalistic seasoning, often consisting of a simple dry rub with salt, pepper, and sometimes, a touch of cayenne. This restraint ensures that the focus is drawn to the smoky, meaty flavors that emerge through slow cooking. Additionally, while sauces are sometimes served on the side, they are not the main attraction in Texas barbecue, allowing the juicy and fork-tender meats to take center stage.

Not limited to just brisket, Texas-style barbecue also covers other smoked delicacies like pork ribs, sausage, and chicken. Each of these meats is prepared with the same dedication to quality and simplicity, making Texas barbecue a distinct and beloved culinary tradition.

Cooking Techniques

Mastering BBQ techniques is crucial for creating mouth-watering dishes. Successful BBQ pitmasters employ several key cooking methods while paying close attention to the fire management, choice of equipment, and a well-executed game plan.

Fire management is essential for controlling the temperature and ensuring even cooking. To achieve a consistent and long-lasting heat source, maintain a suitable coal bed with a mixture of wood and charcoal. Remember to add more fuel in small increments as needed while keeping air vents adjusted for proper airflow.

Grilling techniques form the basis of BBQ mastery. Direct grilling, which involves cooking food directly over an open flame, is ideal for steaks, burgers, and other quick-cooking items. Indirect grilling, on the other hand, places food adjacent to the fire rather than directly above it, making it suitable for roasting whole animals or larger cuts. Mastering both methods allows pitmasters to cook a range of dishes with distinct flavors and textures.

Smoking brisket is a signature dish for BBQ enthusiasts. Award-winning pitmaster Aaron Franklin recommends choosing a high-quality, well-marbled brisket for best results. To prepare, trim any excess fat and season generously with salt and pepper. Smoke the brisket fat-side-up in an offset smoker, maintaining a consistent temperature of 225-250°F. Be patient, as this process can take 12-16 hours depending on the size of the brisket, and make sure to rest the meat for at least an hour before slicing.

In the case of smoking ribs, the low-and-slow cooking method is paramount. Choose meaty, tender baby back ribs and remove the membrane from the bone side. Apply a dry rub for flavor before placing the ribs in the smoker at 225°F for 5-6 hours, with occasional spritzing to keep the meat moist. Wrapping the ribs with foil in the last stage of cooking helps tenderize them further while maintaining their juicy texture.

Using an offset smoker greatly enhances the BBQ experience. These traditional smokers have a separate firebox and cooking chamber, allowing for indirect heat and smoke circulation. When using an offset smoker, pay attention to the smoker’s temperature, ensure proper airflow, and preheat the cooking chamber before adding any food.

Finally, having a solid game plan is critical for successful BBQ cooking. Plan the necessary steps, including the selection and preparation of the meats, seasoning, wood choice, and cooking times. Having a well-structured plan eliminates stress and ensures a flawless BBQ experience.

By mastering these essential techniques, pitmasters of any skill level can create delectable BBQ dishes and elevate their culinary expertise.

Selecting the Right Meat

When embarking on a BBQ journey, one of the most crucial elements is selecting the right meat to ensure the best possible results. The perfect cut and quality of meat can make or break your barbecue experience. Here are some tips based on BBQ Pitmaster Aaron Franklin’s expertise, tailored to different types of meat.

For pork dishes, two popular cuts are pork butt and pork ribs. It is essential to find a well-marbled pork butt, as the fat will melt during cooking, keeping the meat tender and moist. Seek out pork butts with an abundance of intramuscular fat and a consistent shape. This will enable even cooking and optimal results.

Pork ribs, another BBQ favorite, come in two main varieties: baby back ribs and spare ribs. Baby back ribs are smaller and leaner, while spare ribs are larger and fattier, yielding a tender and flavorful result when cooked low and slow. Look for ribs with even thickness and a good amount of meat on the bones. Take care to avoid “shiners,” where the bones protrude through the meat, which typically signifies that the meat has been cut too close to the bone.

When it comes to beef, quality is of utmost importance for a successful BBQ. Opting for high-quality, well-marbled cuts of beef, like brisket or short ribs, will yield tender and juicy results. It’s worth considering certified, grass-fed, or prime grade beef for superior texture and flavor. The marbling, or fat distribution, should be consistent throughout the cut, which ensures a better eating experience.

Remember that selecting the right meat is just the starting point; other factors like cooking temperature and technique, smoking wood, and seasoning will play a significant role in the ultimate success of your BBQ dishes. However, by confidently choosing the appropriate cuts and quality of meat, you are setting the foundation for an unforgettable BBQ experience.

Essential Equipment

When it comes to mastering barbecue, having the right equipment can make all the difference. This section covers essential BBQ tools that can elevate your grilling experience, helping you achieve that perfect blend of smokiness and flavor.

Offset smokers are a must-have for aspiring pitmasters, as they provide consistent temperature control, crucial for slow-smoked meats. These smokers use an indirect heat source, making it easy to maintain even heat levels while infusing the food with rich, smoky flavor.

Another essential piece of equipment for barbecue enthusiasts is butcher’s paper. This tool is instrumental when it comes to wrapping meats during the cooking process. Wrapping your meat in butcher’s paper helps retain moisture and tenderize it during the smoking process. It also provides a permeable barrier that allows just the right amount of smoky flavor to penetrate the meat.

Choosing the right wood is another critical aspect of successful barbecuing. Different types of wood impart unique flavors to the meat, and experimenting with various options can help you discover your ideal taste profile. Some popular wood choices for barbecue include:

• Hickory: Robust and smoky, hickory is versatile and pairs well with a variety of meats such as pork, beef, and chicken.
• Applewood: With a subtle, fruity flavor, applewood is perfect for pork and poultry.
• Mesquite: A bold and intense wood, mesquite is best suited for grilling beef and game meats.

In addition to these essential items, other barbecue tools can further enhance your grilling experience, such as a reliable thermometer, sturdy tongs, and a basting brush.

By investing in quality equipment and tools, every pitmaster can produce delicious, mouth-watering barbecue dishes with the confidence and precision needed to impress friends and family alike.

Recipes and Cooking Tips

Masterclass BBQ offers a variety of popular recipes and cooking tips to help you achieve succulent and flavorful results. From smoking chicken halves to preparing delicious pork and beef dishes, these expert techniques will elevate your cooking game.

Smoked chicken halves are a flavorful way to prepare chicken. Cutting the chicken in half allows the meat to cook more quickly and evenly, ensuring juicy results. To prepare, pat the chicken dry with paper towels, remove any giblets or water from the inside, and place the bird breast-side down on a large cutting board. Use a sharp knife or poultry shears to remove the backbone and split the chicken in half.

When it comes to smoking brisket, award-winning barbecue pitmaster Aaron Franklin shares valuable tips on selecting, preparing, and seasoning this cut of beef. To achieve the perfect texture and flavor, choose a brisket with even marbling and a thick fat cap. Apply a simple blend of kosher salt and coarse black pepper for seasoning to let the meat’s natural flavors shine.

For those looking to cook pork butts, follow the guideline by Aaron Franklin to ensure tenderness and develop a flavorful bark on the exterior. This involves balancing the cooking temperature, smoke levels, and the type of wood used in the process. Fruitwoods like apple or cherry are great options for imparting a mild, sweet smoke flavor to the pork.

Spare ribs present a moderate level of difficulty, as they require consistent cooking temperatures and adequate smoking time. Allow the ribs to cook at a consistent temperature and wrap in foil during the cooking process to ensure they remain moist and tender.

In summary, these Masterclass BBQ recipes and cooking tips cover a range of popular dishes, including chicken, brisket, pork butts, and spare ribs. By following expert guidance, you can achieve impressive results and enhance your overall cooking skills.

Masterclass Subscription Details

A Masterclass subscription offers a wealth of knowledge for those looking to improve their BBQ skills. With a focus on quality and expert instruction, subscribers have access to unlimited courses, sessions, and classes taught by renowned professionals in their respective fields. Some popular BBQ-themed classes include Aaron Franklin’s Texas-Style BBQ and Wicked Healthy’s Vegan BBQ Class.

Signing up for a Masterclass subscription offers several benefits, including the ability to watch and learn on various devices, such as computers, TVs, phones, or tablets. Subscribers can also access bonus class guides and supplementary content to enhance their learning experience.

The cost of a Masterclass subscription is billed annually, starting at $10 per month, translating to a total of $120 per year. This competitive pricing unlocks a catalog of over 180 classes and sessions across various categories, including cooking, leadership, photography, writing, and more. Furthermore, all membership plans offer a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, providing an opportunity to explore the platform risk-free.

It is important to note that the Masterclass subscription provides unlimited access to all current classes and sessions, as well as new courses launched each month. There is no extra cost associated with accessing additional courses, ensuring that subscribers can continually expand their knowledge and skills.

In summary, a Masterclass subscription presents a fantastic opportunity for those wanting to develop their BBQ abilities and learn from top industry experts. With unlimited access, affordable pricing, and a vast array of classes available, subscribers can confidently invest in their personal and professional growth.

Behind the Scenes

At the heart of the MasterClass BBQ courses lies the expertise of Aaron Franklin, a Central Texas barbecue legend. Franklin is the owner of Franklin Barbecue, a renowned BBQ joint in Austin, Texas, often praised for its mouth-watering smoked meats and long queues of customers eager to get a taste of Franklin’s famous brisket. With his self-taught skills and passion for BBQ, Aaron Franklin has become one of the most influential pitmasters in the United States.

The MasterClass BBQ course, taught by Aaron Franklin, takes students on a journey through the ins and outs of Central Texas-style BBQ. As the course progresses, Aaron shares the secrets behind his awarded techniques in a clear and knowledgeable manner, ensuring that every participant can grasp and apply the skills required to achieve the deliciousness commonly associated with Franklin Barbecue.

To make the learning experience even more engaging, the MasterClass BBQ course provides its students with a unique behind-the-scenes look at how things are done at Franklin Barbecue. This unique glimpse into the workings of the famed Austin BBQ joint allows students to not only learn directly from the pitmaster himself but also experience the atmosphere and culture that have made Franklin’s a must-visit destination for BBQ enthusiasts from around the globe.

Throughout the MasterClass BBQ course, Franklin covers a wide range of topics, including everything from preparing the perfect brisket and firing up flavor-packed smoked meats to fundamental BBQ techniques and equipment considerations. By taking part in this MasterClass, students not only bolster their knowledge on how to create delectable BBQ dishes but also gain a deeper understanding of the meticulous planning and dedication that goes into running a successful restaurant.

The confident and neutral tone used during the course ensures that students feel comfortable with the knowledge they’re gaining, allowing them to apply these techniques to their own BBQ endeavors with ease. Whether a person is a novice or an experienced BBQ enthusiast, Aaron Franklin’s MasterClass BBQ course provides the opportunity to learn from the best in an accessible, enjoyable format.

Frequently Asked Questions

What techniques does Aaron Franklin teach?

Aaron Franklin teaches the techniques for creating delicious Central Texas-style barbecue, including his famous brisket and other smoked meats. The lessons cover fire management, meat selection, trimming, flavor enhancement, and various cooking processes, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of barbecue.

How long does Aaron Franklin let his brisket rest?

Aaron Franklin recommends letting the smoked brisket rest for at least one hour and up to a few hours, allowing the meat to reabsorb its juices, making it more tender and flavorful.

Where does Aaron Franklin get his brisket?

Aaron Franklin sources his brisket from reputable suppliers who provide high-quality meats. Although specifics may vary, it’s crucial to choose a well-marbled brisket to achieve the best results.

Where can I find BBQ smoking classes?

BBQ smoking classes can be found both online and in-person. Platforms like Masterclass offer online courses, such as Aaron Franklin’s Texas-Style BBQ class. For in-person classes, research local barbecue joints, community centers, or culinary schools that offer workshops and courses.

Who is the masterclass BBQ guy?

The masterclass BBQ guy is Aaron Franklin, a renowned pitmaster who teaches a comprehensive online course on Texas-style barbecue through the Masterclass platform.

What topics are covered in the BBQ masterclass?

The BBQ masterclass covers topics such as meat selection, trimming, injections, brines, flavor profiles, rubs, seasonings, sauce blends, and the entire cooking process. The course aims to help students improve their barbecue skills and achieve the best results.

What are the best tips from BBQ Master TV show?

The BBQ Master TV show offers valuable advice, such as using indirect heat for slow cooking, maintaining consistent temperatures, using a digital thermometer for accurate measurements, using the right type of wood for smoke flavor, and allowing the meat to rest before serving.

How can I attend BBQ classes?

To attend BBQ classes, search online for courses like Aaron Franklin’s masterclass or look for in-person workshops offered through local barbecue restaurants, culinary schools, or community centers.

Are there any BBQ masterclasses on Netflix?

There might not be any specific BBQ masterclasses on Netflix, but the platform does feature a variety of cooking shows where chefs may share some barbecue tips and techniques. Look for shows such as Chef’s Table, The Mind of a Chef, or The Chef Show for potential barbecue insights.

The Bottom Line

We’ve made it to the end of the guide. After taking the time to read through our list of BBQ masterclass recommendations above, we hope that we have been able to help you discover some of the best masterclasses available for you to choose from. If we could choose one it would be aaron franklin’s masterclass, the barbecue knowledge of Aaron is second to none.

Regardless of whether you’re a newbie looking to pick up the basics of grilling or you’ve been BBQing for years and simply want to hone your technique – our list above offers something for everyone, regardless of skill level.

Thank you for reading, and good luck with your learning!