🔥 The November 2025 Issue of Barbecue News Magazine: Thankful, Flavorful & Full of Fire 🔥

As we move into November and the season of gathering around the table, this issue of Barbecue News Magazine is one that fills both the heart and the belly. Every story in this month’s magazine reminds us why we love what we do — good food, good people, and the good Lord’s blessings that keep us all connected through barbecue.

Whether you’re planning your Thanksgiving feast, dreaming about your next competition, or simply sitting by the smoker enjoying a quiet moment — this issue has something special waiting for you.

🙏 Still Blessed — A Word from Kell

Kell’s publisher’s note, Still Blessed, sets the tone for the whole issue. It’s a heartfelt reminder that even in a world full of noise, there’s so much to be thankful for — our families, our friends, and this incredible barbecue community that continues to show up for one another year after year.

🦃 Thanksgiving on the Pit

This month’s issue is loaded with recipes that’ll take your holiday table straight to the smoker.

• Turkey Pot Pie by Rylee Wright – A comforting and creative way to give leftover smoked turkey new life.

• Cajun Butter Smoked Turkey by Ray Sheehan – Bold, flavorful, and perfect for anyone who likes a little Southern kick.

• Five Great Turkey Smoking Tips from the Minnesota Barbeque Society – Because there’s always something new to learn when it comes to smoking the perfect bird.

• Fire-Roasted Side Dishes from Smoke ’n Magic – Your new go-to sides that will outshine the stuffing.

• The Briner: Simple Brining Process and Buttered-Up Turkey Breast by Ray Sheehan and Meathead – Step-by-step ways to make sure your turkey is juicy, tender, and full of love.

🏆 The Competitive Spirit of BBQ

We’ve also got plenty for those who love the thrill of competition.

• Plato Tailgates at The Jack — Final by Ardie Davis wraps up a year of great storytelling and smoky memories.

• Bill Gillespie: State of Competition BBQ by The Smoke Sheet looks at where the competition scene stands and where it’s headed next.

• The 2025 Jack by Christy Vanover and Frank Boyer captures the excitement, tradition, and community that make this event one of barbecue’s finest.

🌍 Barbecue Across America

From coast to coast, this issue celebrates the people and places that make barbecue more than just a meal.

• American Barbecue Map – A fun and colorful way to explore BBQ culture across the country.

• Best BBQ Hot Spots – Your travel guide for wherever the road (and your appetite) takes you.

• Bolivar Bicentennial BBQ by Memphis Barbecue Network – A hometown celebration that proves community and barbecue always go hand-in-hand.

• Friendship, Flavor, and Fire by Christy Jones – A heartfelt reminder that the best meals are the ones shared with others.

• Grumpy Old Patriot BBQ by the Northeast Barbecue Society – Proof that barbecue passion never grows old.

❤️ Faith, Purpose & Perseverance

• Give Domestic Violence the Boot by Kell Phelps shares how the BBQ community continues to stand up and give back where it matters most.

• Keep the Smoke Rolling by Dana Hillis offers words of encouragement and strength for every pitmaster who’s ever faced a tough season — in life or in barbecue.

🎸 Big News from NBBQA

This month’s issue also includes a special preview of our 2026 NBBQA Conference & 35th Anniversary Celebration in Nashville, Tennessee!

We’re planning an unforgettable weekend packed with classes, live-fire experiences, and our annual Awards of Excellence dinner — all celebrating 35 incredible years of faith, family, and fire. We’re grateful to Prairie Fresh for once again sponsoring the Awards of Excellence and to Sweet Swine O’Mine for graciously hosting the judging again this year.  Make sure to get your entries for the Awards of Excellence in to the NBBQA office by December 1, 2025. 

💻 Read the Digital Flipping-Book Edition

If you haven’t tried our digital Flipping-Book Edition yet, this is the perfect time! It’s easy to read on any device — and for those of us who prefer a little larger print, you can zoom right in without missing a single detail.

Log into your member compass to read this month's issue.

From Our Family to Yours

Kell and I want to wish each of you a season filled with good food, warm hearts, and gratitude for the simple things that make life sweet.
We’re so thankful for our readers, members, and friends who continue to make this barbecue family stronger every year.

Until next month — Keep It Smokin'!

With gratitude,
Janet Phelps
Managing Partner, National Barbecue & Grilling Association
Co-Owner, Barbecue News Magazine