Heatstrokes Outdoor Cooking

Nicholas Keith

Nick Keith standing behind a table under an outdoor canopy. The table holds a wooden pizza peel, tabletop pizza oven, and other cooking accessories.

From Game-Day Tailgates to BBQ Community Inspiration

Sparking Creativity One Cook at a Time

I've been barbecuing for about 20 years, but my love for it really took off during the countless tailgating weekends at Raider games in Oakland. There's just something about the energy of a game day and the smell of BBQ that pulled me in. A little over a year ago, I decided to start sharing my journey and passion online, hoping to be a spark of creativity and inspiration within our BBQ community.

Hometown:: Fairfield, CA
Favorite Recipe:: Anything using fire!
Fun Fact:: Outside of cooking I love pop culture and comic books.
Favorite Activity:: Hanging with family

FAVORITE GRILL

Masterbuilt Product of Choice

Masterbuilt AutoIgnite™ Series 545 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker

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An open AutoIgnite grill on a patio in front of a wooded area leading to a beach and lakeshore. A rack of ribs cooks on the main grate while corn on the cob roasts on the warming rack and shrimp skewers sear on the hopper grill plate. Utensils hang from the left side shelf. A full drink glass plus a glass bowl of sauce with a brush resting in it sit on the side shelf.

Featured Recipe

Mango Habanero Ribs

Mango Habanero Ribs are the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and smoky! Tender ribs coated in a mango-habanero glaze deliver just the right amount of kick, balanced by tropical sweetness. These ribs are ideal for anyone who loves bold, vibrant flavors that are both satisfying and easy to create.

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Mastering the Grill: Q&A with Nicholas Keith

What inspired you to start barbecuing?: I got into BBQ through some friends I tailgated with at Raider games. The tailgating vibe and amazing BBQ had me hooked, and I wanted to learn the craft myself. I’m excited to keep the tradition alive for my generation of pit masters.
How long have you been barbecuing?: It’s been a few years now since I started, and each cook has been a chance to improve. Every tailgate and backyard BBQ is another opportunity to learn and perfect my skills.
What advice would you give to someone new to grilling?: Don’t be afraid to mess up! Mistakes are part of the journey, and if you’re not having a few fails, you’re not pushing yourself enough. Each mistake is a learning experience.
Do you have any advice for someone starting out as a BBQ content creator?: Embrace the learning curve and share both the wins and the fails. People appreciate authenticity and will connect with you more when they see the real journey behind becoming a pitmaster.
What’s your favorite grilling technique and why?: I’d have to say 2-zone cooking. It’s a foundational technique that lets you control the heat better, so you’re not cooking things too quickly or unevenly.