Planning a barbecue? Don’t forget about the side dishes! While the main course often gets the spotlight, tasty sides can take your cookout to the next level.
A great BBQ spread includes a variety of flavors and textures to complement the grilled meats.
From crisp salads to creamy potato dishes, there are countless options to choose from. You can stick with classic favorites or try new recipes to surprise your guests.
This list of 30 BBQ side dishes will give you plenty of ideas for your next outdoor gathering.
1. Grilled Corn Salad
Grilled corn salad is a tasty and easy BBQ side dish. You can make it by grilling corn until it’s golden and slightly charred.
Cut the kernels off the cob and mix them with other fresh veggies. Try adding bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion for color and crunch.
For extra flavor, toss in some cilantro and a zesty lime dressing. You can also add crumbled cheese or diced avocado if you like.
This salad is best served at room temperature. It’s perfect for outdoor gatherings and goes well with many grilled main dishes.
2. Coleslaw with Apple
Coleslaw with apple adds a sweet twist to a classic BBQ side dish. You can easily make this refreshing salad at home.
Start with shredded cabbage and carrots as the base. Add thinly sliced or diced apples for crunch and sweetness. Choose crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
Mix in a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of honey. This balances the tartness of the apples and adds richness.
For extra flavor, toss in some chopped nuts or dried fruit. This coleslaw pairs well with pulled pork, grilled meats, and other BBQ favorites.
3. Smoky Baked Beans
Smoky baked beans are a must-have at any BBQ. You can make them easily at home with a few simple ingredients.
Start by cooking bacon until crispy. Set it aside and sauté onions in the bacon grease. This adds extra flavor to your beans.
Mix in canned pork and beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. For a smoky taste, add a dash of liquid smoke.
Cook the beans in a smoker or oven at 225°F for about 2-3 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to blend perfectly.
Before serving, sprinkle the crispy bacon on top. Your guests will love these rich, sweet, and smoky baked beans as a side dish.
4. Creamy Macaroni Salad
Creamy macaroni salad is a classic BBQ side dish that’s sure to please a crowd. To make it, cook elbow macaroni until tender, then cool it completely.
Mix mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, and a pinch of sugar for the dressing. Add diced celery, onion, and bell peppers for crunch.
Fold the cooled pasta into the dressing mixture. Add chopped hard-boiled eggs and diced pickles for extra flavor.
Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to blend together. Sprinkle with paprika for a pop of color.
5. Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Garlic butter mushrooms are a tasty and easy BBQ side dish. You can make them on the grill or in a smoker for extra flavor.
To prepare, toss whole mushrooms with melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Place them in a skillet or on a baking sheet.
Grill or smoke the mushrooms for about 20 minutes at 350°F. They’re done when golden and tender.
For extra flavor, add some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley before serving. These savory mushrooms pair well with grilled meats and other BBQ favorites.
6. Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey glazed carrots are a sweet and savory side dish perfect for your BBQ. You can make them on the grill or in a skillet.
To grill, brush carrots with olive oil and cook them in a grill pan or on the grates. Flip every 5 minutes until tender.
For a skillet version, melt butter and add sliced carrots. Cook covered for 4 minutes, then stir in honey and brown sugar.
The glaze is simple. Mix honey, brown sugar, and a bit of olive oil or butter. Drizzle it over the carrots as they cook.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of thyme or a touch of garlic.
7. Asian Cucumber Salad
Asian cucumber salad is a refreshing side dish for your BBQ. You can make it with thinly sliced cucumbers, carrots, and onions.
Mix the veggies in a bowl. Make a sauce with soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar. Pour it over the vegetables and stir well.
For extra flavor, add sesame seeds and a touch of chili powder. This salad is best served right away to keep the cucumbers crisp.
You can store leftovers in the fridge for 1-2 days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. This cool and crunchy salad pairs well with grilled meats.
8. Caprese Skewers
Caprese skewers are a tasty and easy BBQ side dish. You’ll need cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves.
Thread these ingredients onto small skewers or toothpicks. Alternate tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella for a colorful presentation.
Drizzle the skewers with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
You can make these ahead of time and chill them. They’re perfect for grabbing and eating while mingling at your BBQ.
9. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a tasty twist on regular fries. They’re perfect for BBQs and go well with many main dishes.
You can serve them with turkey burgers or BBQ pulled pork. The sweetness of the fries complements the savory meats nicely.
For dipping, try honey mustard sauce or aioli. These add extra flavor to your fries.
Grilling sweet potato fries is a great option for BBQs. Let them cool for a few minutes after cooking to get crispier.
Sweet potato fries are not just tasty, they’re also nutritious. They’re a good source of vitamins and fiber.
10. Herb Roasted Potatoes
Herb roasted potatoes are a tasty and easy side dish for your BBQ. Cut potatoes in half and toss them with olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet with the cut side down. This helps them get crispy. Roast them in a 400°F oven for about 30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
The result is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside potatoes with a savory herb flavor. You can add grated Parmesan cheese after roasting for extra taste.
These potatoes pair well with grilled meats and other BBQ favorites. They’re simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser at cookouts.
11. Avocado Tomato Salad
You can’t go wrong with this refreshing side dish at your BBQ. Combine ripe avocados and juicy tomatoes in a bowl.
Add some thinly sliced red onion for a bit of zip. Toss in some fresh cilantro leaves for extra flavor.
For the dressing, mix lime juice and olive oil. Pour it over the salad and gently toss. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This salad is quick to make and pairs well with grilled meats. You can prep it ahead of time, just add the avocado right before serving to keep it fresh.
12. Cajun Corn on the Cob
Cajun corn on the cob adds a spicy kick to a classic BBQ side dish. You can make it by coating corn with a mix of Cajun spices and butter.
To prepare, brush corn with melted butter and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. You can cook it on the grill, in the oven, or on the stovetop.
For oven-baked Cajun corn, wrap seasoned ears in foil and bake at 425°F for about 30 minutes. On the grill, cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
This zesty side pairs well with grilled meats and seafood. It’s perfect for summer cookouts and potlucks.
13. Cheesy Garlic Bread
Cheesy garlic bread is a crowd-pleasing BBQ side dish that pairs well with many grilled mains. You can easily prepare it on the grill alongside your other dishes.
Start by cutting a loaf of bread diagonally, but not all the way through. Mix softened butter with minced garlic, salt, and grated cheese. Stuff this mixture between the bread slices.
Wrap the bread in foil and place it on the grill for about 10-15 minutes. The heat will melt the cheese and infuse the bread with garlicky goodness.
When done, unwrap the foil and let the bread crisp up for a few minutes. Serve it hot and watch it disappear quickly!
14. Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Dill pickle pasta salad is a tangy and refreshing side dish perfect for your BBQ. You’ll love the mix of creamy dressing, crunchy pickles, and chewy pasta.
To make it, cook pasta until al dente and let it cool. Mix mayo, sour cream, and pickle juice for the dressing. Add diced pickles, cheddar cheese, and red onion to the pasta.
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat everything evenly. For extra flavor, sprinkle in some fresh dill and crispy bacon bits.
This salad tastes best when chilled before serving. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with grilled meats and other BBQ favorites.
15. Zucchini Fritters
Zucchini fritters are a tasty veggie side dish for your BBQ. You can make them by shredding zucchini and mixing it with eggs, flour, and seasonings. Form the mixture into small patties and fry them until crispy.
These fritters pair well with many BBQ mains. Try serving them with a tangy tzatziki sauce for dipping. The cool yogurt complements the warm, savory fritters nicely.
For a complete meal, add a light salad on the side. A Greek salad or simple green salad works great. You can also serve the fritters with grilled meats or fish for extra protein.
Zucchini fritters are versatile and easy to make. They’re a good way to use up extra zucchini from your garden too.
16. Watermelon Feta Salad
Watermelon feta salad is a refreshing summer side dish for your BBQ. You’ll love the mix of sweet and salty flavors.
To make it, cut watermelon into bite-sized cubes. Add crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, and fresh mint leaves.
For dressing, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Pour it over the salad and toss gently.
You can prepare this salad up to 2 days ahead. Keep the watermelon cubes covered in the fridge. Add the other ingredients just before serving for the best taste and texture.
17. Balsamic Grilled Vegetables
Balsamic grilled vegetables are a tasty and healthy BBQ side dish. You can use a mix of your favorite veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and mushrooms.
To make them, slice your vegetables and place them in a large bowl. Mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour this marinade over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly.
Let the vegetables marinate for at least 30 minutes. You can even prepare them the night before and let them sit in the fridge overnight.
When you’re ready to grill, preheat to medium-high heat. Cook the vegetables for 8-12 minutes, turning occasionally. They’re done when they’re tender and have nice grill marks.
18. Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are a tasty Southern classic that make a great BBQ side dish. To make them, slice unripe green tomatoes and coat them in cornmeal batter.
Fry the slices until golden brown and crispy. The result is a tangy, crunchy treat that pairs well with many BBQ mains.
You can serve fried green tomatoes with a dipping sauce like remoulade for extra flavor. They also go nicely with other Southern sides like coleslaw or baked beans.
For a twist, try topping your fried green tomatoes with crispy bacon or a dollop of pimento cheese. These additions can take this simple side to the next level at your BBQ.
19. Mexican Street Corn
Mexican street corn is a tasty BBQ side dish. It’s grilled corn on the cob with a spicy, creamy coating. You coat the corn with mayo, sour cream, and chili powder.
Sprinkle cotija cheese and lime juice on top. This adds tangy and salty flavors. You can also add chopped cilantro for extra freshness.
Serve it hot off the grill. It pairs well with grilled meats and tacos. You can make it easier to eat by cutting the corn off the cob and serving it in cups.
20. Chilled Orzo Salad
Chilled orzo salad is a refreshing side dish perfect for BBQs. You can make it ahead of time and let it chill in the fridge.
Cook orzo pasta according to package directions, then rinse with cold water to cool it down. Mix in diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions for crunch and color.
Add some feta cheese and kalamata olives for a Mediterranean twist. Toss everything with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like parsley or dill.
This cool and tangy pasta salad pairs well with grilled meats and vegetables. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make in large batches for your BBQ.
21. Parmesan Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus with Parmesan is a tasty BBQ side dish. You can make it quickly and easily on your grill.
Start by washing and trimming the asparagus. Toss the spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Grill the asparagus over medium-high heat for 5-10 minutes. Turn them occasionally until they’re tender and have nice char marks.
After grilling, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the hot asparagus. The heat will melt the cheese slightly.
For extra flavor, you can add minced garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. This dish pairs well with many grilled main courses.
22. Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeños
Bacon-wrapped jalapeños are a tasty BBQ side dish that packs a spicy punch. You can make them ahead of time and grill or bake them when ready to serve.
To prepare, cut jalapeños in half and remove the seeds. Fill them with a cream cheese mixture for extra flavor. Wrap each stuffed pepper with half a slice of bacon.
Grill the poppers for about 6 minutes on each side. Start with high heat, then reduce to medium-low after flipping. The total cooking time is around 15-18 minutes.
If you prefer, bake them in the oven at 425°F for a similar amount of time. The bacon should be crispy and the cheese melted when done.
23. Brussels Sprouts Slaw
Brussels sprouts slaw is a tasty twist on traditional coleslaw. To make it, shred Brussels sprouts thinly using a mandoline or food processor.
Mix the shredded sprouts with grated carrots in a bowl. For the dressing, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss well. Add some chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for crunch.
For extra flavor, try adding diced apple or dried cranberries. Let the slaw chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors blend.
This crunchy, tangy slaw makes a great BBQ side dish that’s both healthy and delicious.
24. Spicy Mango Salsa
Spicy mango salsa brings a tropical twist to your BBQ spread. This vibrant side dish combines sweet mangoes with spicy peppers for a perfect balance of flavors.
To make it, dice ripe mangoes and mix them with chopped red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Add lime juice and a pinch of salt to enhance the taste.
For extra heat, throw in some diced habanero peppers. You can adjust the spice level to suit your preferences.
Serve this zesty salsa with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or pork carnitas. It also pairs well with tortilla chips as a refreshing appetizer.
25. Crispy Onion Rings
Crispy onion rings are a tasty BBQ side dish. You can make them at home or buy them frozen. They go well with burgers, hot dogs, and other grilled meats.
To make onion rings, slice onions into rings and dip them in batter. Then fry them until golden brown. For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs in the coating.
Serve onion rings hot with dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or barbecue sauce. They’re best eaten right away while still crispy. Onion rings add a crunchy texture to your BBQ plate.
26. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Buffalo cauliflower bites bring a spicy kick to your BBQ spread. These tasty morsels offer a vegetarian twist on classic buffalo wings.
To make them, coat cauliflower florets in a zesty buffalo sauce and bake or grill until crispy. The result is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both flavorful and lighter than traditional wings.
Serve your buffalo cauliflower bites with a cooling blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. The creamy sauce balances the heat nicely.
For a complete meal, pair these bites with a refreshing kale Caesar salad. The contrast of flavors works well together and adds a nutritious element to your plate.
27. Lemon Herb Quinoa
Lemon herb quinoa is a tasty and healthy side dish for your BBQ. You can make it easily on the stove or in an Instant Pot.
To prepare, rinse quinoa and cook it with water, lemon juice, and zest. Add herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano for extra flavor.
Garlic and olive oil give the dish a savory touch. Some recipes suggest toasting the quinoa briefly before cooking to enhance its nutty taste.
Once cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This light, zesty side pairs well with grilled meats and vegetables.
28. Mediterranean Couscous
Mediterranean couscous is a tasty and refreshing side dish perfect for your BBQ. This light grain salad combines fluffy couscous with colorful vegetables and zesty flavors.
To make it, cook the couscous according to package directions. Then mix in chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and olives. Add crumbled feta cheese for a tangy kick.
Dress the salad with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like parsley and mint. The result is a bright, flavorful dish that pairs well with grilled meats and vegetables.
You can prepare this couscous salad ahead of time and chill it before serving. It’s a cool, satisfying option for hot summer days.
29. Pineapple Coleslaw
Pineapple coleslaw adds a tropical twist to your BBQ spread. You’ll love the mix of tangy and sweet flavors in this refreshing side dish.
To make it, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and pineapple chunks in a large bowl. For the dressing, whisk together mayo, pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey.
Pour the dressing over the slaw mix and toss until everything is coated. Chill the coleslaw in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
This crisp and creamy side pairs perfectly with grilled meats and burgers. It’s sure to be a hit at your next cookout!
30. Savory Cheese Scones
Savory cheese scones are a tasty addition to your BBQ spread. These flaky, cheesy bites are easy to make and ready in about 45 minutes.
You can use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor or try other cheeses like feta for variety. Add herbs like chives or rosemary to boost the taste.
For extra flavor, mix in crispy bacon bits or chopped onions. Some recipes even include spinach for a healthier twist.
Serve these scones warm as a side dish or snack. They pair well with soups or salads too. Your guests will love these savory treats at your next BBQ.
Pairing BBQ Side Dishes with Main Courses
Picking the right side dishes can make your BBQ meal unforgettable. The key is to balance flavors and consider what’s in season.
Balancing Flavors and Textures
Choose sides that complement your main dish. For fatty meats like ribs, pair with tangy coleslaw or acidic potato salad. These cut through the richness.
Light sides like grilled veggies go well with lean meats such as chicken or fish. They won’t overpower the main course.
For spicy BBQ, cool sides like cucumber salad or creamy mac and cheese offer relief. They balance out the heat.
Mix up textures too. Crunchy corn on the cob pairs nicely with tender pulled pork. Soft baked beans contrast well with crispy grilled chicken.
Seasonal Considerations
Use what’s fresh and in season for the best flavor. In summer, go for light, refreshing sides like watermelon salad or grilled peaches.
Fall BBQs call for hearty options. Think roasted root vegetables or warm potato salad. These match the cooler weather.
Spring brings fresh greens. Try asparagus or a crisp garden salad. They complement lighter grilled meats perfectly.
Winter BBQs aren’t off-limits. Serve warm sides like cheesy potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts. They’ll keep guests cozy while enjoying smoky flavors.
Nutritional Insights on BBQ Side Dishes
BBQ side dishes can be made healthier with smart ingredient swaps and careful portion sizes. These changes let you enjoy tasty sides while keeping an eye on nutrition.
Healthy Ingredient Substitutions
Try Greek yogurt instead of mayo in coleslaw or potato salad. This cuts calories and adds protein. Use whole grain pasta in mac and cheese for more fiber.
Swap white potatoes for sweet potatoes in side dishes. Sweet potatoes have more vitamins A and C. For baked beans, pick low-sodium versions or make your own to control salt.
In veggie sides, use olive oil instead of butter. This adds heart-healthy fats. Try grilled or roasted veggies instead of fried ones to reduce oil. Use fresh or frozen veggies rather than canned to lower sodium.
Portion Control Tips
Use smaller plates at BBQs. This trick helps you take less food.
Fill half your plate with veggies and fruit. Leave a quarter for lean protein and a quarter for grains or starches.
Measure servings with everyday items. A baseball is about 1 cup, good for pasta or potato salad. A deck of cards is about 3 ounces, right for meats.
Try the “three-bite rule” for high-calorie sides. Take just three bites to satisfy cravings without overdoing it.
Drink water between bites to feel full faster. This slows down eating and helps you notice when you’re full.