Hands-on grilling techniques class in Minneapolis with Chef Laura Bonicelli

Go Beyond Burgers — Learn to Really Grill

Master real grilling techniques with Chef Laura in Minneapolis. Heat control, marinades, perfect searing, grilled vegetables, and the kind of outdoor cooking that makes you the hero of every backyard gathering.

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Fire, Technique, and Flavor

Everyone grills, but most people are guessing. They flip too early, overcook the chicken, undercook the vegetables, and end up with the same burgers and brats they've been making for years. Chef Laura's grilling class changes that.

In this hands-on class, you'll learn to work with fire instead of fighting it. You'll understand direct vs. indirect heat, how to create temperature zones on your grill, and why resting your meat matters as much as the sear. You'll make marinades and dry rubs from scratch, learn to grill vegetables until they're caramelized and smoky (not charred and sad), and discover how to get a perfect crust on everything from a thick-cut steak to a whole spatchcocked chicken.

Minnesota summers are short, and Chef Laura believes every backyard cookout should be worth remembering. This class gives you the skills to make that happen — whether you're grilling for two or feeding the whole block.

What You'll Learn

Heat Control

Learn direct vs. indirect heat, temperature zones, and when to use each method.

Marinades & Rubs

Build bold flavor with homemade marinades, dry rubs, and Mediterranean-inspired seasonings.

Perfect Searing

Get the crust right on steaks, chicken, fish, and more — no more guesswork.

Vegetables & Sides

Grill vegetables, fruits, and sides that steal the show — not just an afterthought.

Seasonal Outdoor Cooking in Minnesota

When summer finally arrives in Minnesota, there's nothing better than cooking outside. Chef Laura's grilling classes make the most of the season — you'll work with what's fresh at local farmers markets, from sweet corn and stone fruit to heirloom tomatoes and zucchini. Everything tastes better with a little smoke and char.

Classes are held in small groups of 6–8 at Chef Laura's Minneapolis kitchen. All ingredients are provided, and you eat everything you grill. Come hungry — you'll leave with new skills, printed recipes, and the confidence to grill anything.

What Our Students Say

“I've taken three classes now and each one has been wonderful. Laura is a gifted teacher who makes everyone feel comfortable, no matter their experience level.”

— David R., Edina

“My husband and I took the in-person Mediterranean class together and now we cook from Laura's recipes every week. It's become our new date night tradition.”

— Jennifer & Mark T., Bloomington

“I bought a class as a gift for my mom, and she absolutely loved it. The small group size made it feel so personal and welcoming.”

— Jamie L., St. Paul

Chef Laura Bonicelli

Meet Chef Laura

Chef Laura Bonicelli is an Italian-American chef with over 15 years of culinary experience. Her approach to grilling is rooted in Mediterranean traditions — simple preparations, quality ingredients, and letting fire do what it does best.

She founded Bonicelli Cooking Club in 2018 to help home cooks discover the joy of making delicious food from scratch. Her seasonal grilling classes are among the most popular she offers and have been featured in the Star Tribune, Twin Cities PBS, and Mpls.St.Paul Magazine.

Ready to Up Your Grill Game?

Browse upcoming grilling classes and reserve your spot before summer fills up. Small groups mean limited availability.

Browse Upcoming Classes