You’ll want to consider a diverse range of flavors when it comes to BBQ side dishes. While classic potato salad and macaroni salad are always crowd-pleasers, it’s also great to offer a variety of dips and breads to complement the main event. Whether you’re serving up burgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken, or other popular BBQ fare, having some sweet options alongside savory ones can help keep things interesting for your guests.
KFC Coleslaw Recipe
Regardless of whether it’s a summer BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner, a side dish of coleslaw is always a welcome addition. It pairs perfectly with charred chicken thighs, served hot off the grill, or in a soft bun with a thick and juicy burger patty. This classic recipe serves as a great foundation for coleslaw, consisting of shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and mayonnaise as its base ingredients.
To add a bit more flavor and zing, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of pepper are added to the mix. If you’re looking for something a little more vibrant and exciting, why not try mixing things up with a spicy twist like our Jalapeño-Lime Slaw recipe? It’s an easy and delicious way to put your own spin on this classic dish.
The Best Potato Salad
Similar to traditional potato salads, this recipe is made with potatoes, eggs, mustard (instead of mayonnaise), and pickles, resulting in a great texture that perfectly complements its excellent flavor. The addition of mustard and pickles provides an extra kick without overpowering the dish, making it an ideal side for any BBQ. To achieve the right balance, start by adding a small amount of mayonnaise and gradually add more until you reach your desired consistency.
This way, you can enjoy the perfect potato salad as a side dish to accompany your favorite grilled foods.
Jalapeño Popper Grilled Corn Salad Recipe
Visually appealing and deliciously flavorful, this recipe is a true winner. Varying textures are perfectly balanced with the crunch of bacon, the creaminess of cheese, and the spicy kick from chopped jalapeños, all while showcasing fresh corn’s natural sweetness. Whether you’re looking for a new side dish to accompany your favorite meals or just want to try something exciting, trust me when I say you’ll be eager to make a big batch!
BBQ Baked Beans
Achieving perfectly cooked baked bean sides typically requires several hours in the oven. However, what happens when time is of the essence, and the BBQ is last-minute? Fortunately, these quick-fix BBQ baked beans can be made and on the table within a mere 40 minutes. The secret to their speed lies in using canned baked beans, but don’t worry – you’ll be elevating them with some fantastic ingredients.
Not only will your beans be combined with ground beef, molasses, and BBQ sauce, but you’ll also add some mesquite seasoning for an authentic smoky flavor.
Quick Collard Greens
Very often, slow-cooked recipes can be made in a fraction of the time without sacrificing flavor. In this case, the key is to cook the ingredients quickly and carefully, stirring every 30 seconds or so until they’re wilted and have absorbed the garlic and salt. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving will elevate the dish into a perfect BBQ side that’s sure to impress.
The Best Green Beans
Rethinking green beans is a common phenomenon after experiencing a bland or watery serving. It’s easy to understand why some people might steer clear of this vegetable, especially if their past experiences have been unimpressive. However, by employing a few simple yet effective techniques, it’s possible to elevate green beans from an unremarkable side dish to a truly exceptional one.
The key is to steam them instead of boiling and then sautéing them in garlic butter that’s nothing short of heavenly. While the green beans are steaming away, feel free to attend to other matters, but do keep a watchful eye on them when they’re sizzling in the pan, as you want them to achieve a delightful crispness without letting the garlic burn.
Pink Lemonade Cupcakes
People often think that a BBQ is all about serious, savory foods, but I believe it’s the perfect excuse to get creative and mix things up. You can put sweet and savory side by side on the table, without worrying about what others might think. For instance, grabbing a cupcake with your hot dog is completely acceptable – in fact, adding some strawberry yogurt to the cupcake batter will not only add flavor but also keep the crumb moist, just like when you add sour cream.
What’s more, if you make the frosting slightly firmer, it will hold up better while you enjoy that hot dog with all your favorite toppings!
Grandma’s Macaroni Salad
Having been to countless barbecues, I’ve often found myself prioritizing the side dishes over the main course. The macaroni salad in this recipe is so satisfying that it’s hard not to make it the centerpiece of your meal. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish made with peppers and celery, but feel free to get creative by adding some diced tomatoes, crumbled cheese, or crispy bacon for extra flavor.
Chocolate Covered Cherry Pie Pops
Recreating these adorable pops is remarkably simple, requiring just a few basic ingredients and some minimal effort. You’ll need store-bought pie dough, a can of your preferred pie filling, melted chocolate, sprinkles, lollipop sticks, milk, and sugar – though the latter three are more like supporting actors than main attractions. To begin, cut out pairs of pastry discs or shapes that suit your theme, and place a spoonful of filling on one side of each pair.
Secure the sides with a little milk and seal them shut using a fork, slipping in the lollipop sticks as you do. After baking and cooling, dip the pops in chocolate and sprinkle with sprinkles for a fun, portable dessert that’s sure to delight.
6-Ingredient Rice Krispies Treat Chocolate Ice Cream Sandwiches
Let’s take the classic Rice Krispies treat to a whole new level of deliciousness. By adding a layer of honey and peanut butter to bind them together, these sandwiches are elevated to a new height. You can fill them with your favorite ice cream flavors, whether it’s traditional chocolate and peanut butter or something more adventurous like strawberry or mango. I personally prefer a raspberry ripple for its sweet-tart flavor combination.
Either way, once the sandwiches are frozen solid, dip them in rich, velvety chocolate and sprinkle with a pinch of flaky sea salt to balance out the sweetness.
Best Baked Potatoes
Few things can rival the comfort of a perfectly cooked baked potato, especially when it’s infused with a savory brine that elevates its humble status to new heights. This recipe is particularly brilliant in its use of a brine, which not only adds depth but also helps the skin crisp up beautifully after a quick drizzle with olive oil at the end of cooking.
To achieve that fluffy interior, baking at high heat for around 45 to 60 minutes is key; however, it’s essential to cut the potatoes immediately after cooking. This simple step allows the steam to escape, preventing the potato from becoming dense and heavy.
Microwave Corn on the Cob
Keeping multiple cooking methods at your disposal can be a game-changer for busy households. A grill full of meat and buns warming in the oven next to a pie is not only a common occurrence, but it also shows how versatile cooking tools can be. Meanwhile, on the stovetop, you could have pasta and potatoes simmering away, while using the microwave to quickly cook something as simple as corn on the cob – and that’s just for starters.
With all it has to offer, using the microwave is especially convenient because after just a couple of minutes, you will have perfectly cooked fresh corn that slips right out of the husk. All this saved time could be put towards making extra and throwing together a delicious Mexican street corn salad, or even simply sprinkling some crumbled cotija cheese on top for an added burst of flavor.
Favorite Green Salad with Apples, Cranberries, and Pepitas
No one likes food waste, but unfortunately, it’s a common occurrence when making salads at home. Nostalgic memories of tossing out wilted lettuce are all too familiar for many of us. Not anymore! This remarkable salad is the solution to your wilting woes, boasting an unbeatable texture and flavor combination that will keep you satisfied throughout the day.
With its perfect balance of crunchy greens, sweet apples, tart cranberries, creamy goat cheese, and a drizzle of simple mustard vinaigrette, it’s a game-changer for meal prep and special occasions alike.
Pea Salad With Bacon
Often, a simple combination of ingredients can result in a delicious side dish, such as using frozen peas, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and red onion. To prepare this tasty accompaniment, start by creating the dressing, which involves mixing together mayonnaise, yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and salt and pepper to taste.
Once you have the dressing ready, stir it through a mixture of peas, onion, bacon, and celery for a refreshing twist on traditional macaroni or potato salad recipes.
Bojangles Biscuit Copycat Recipe
Rest assured that biscuits are a staple in southern cuisine, but their versatility extends far beyond regional boundaries. They’re an ideal accompaniment to BBQ, offering a comforting contrast to the smoky flavors of grilled meats. Whether you’re pairing them with chicken or fresh fruit, biscuits provide a delightful textural and flavor experience. It’s essential to be mindful of the dough, avoiding over-mixing to maintain their signature tenderness.
Furthermore, don’t skimp on the butter during the baking process – it makes all the difference in achieving that perfect golden crust.
Sausage Rolls
From traditional pubs to family gatherings, British cuisine has a special fondness for these savory delights. The combination of crispy puff pastry and rich pork sausage meat creates a flavor profile that’s nothing short of exceptional. In fact, they’re far superior to the more mundane pigs in blankets often found on festive plates. When it comes to authenticity, sourcing high-quality sausage meat is essential.
For the true British experience, serving these treats with Heinz tomato ketchup is a must.
Easy Homemade Pickles
Welcoming the pickle-haters out there: I’m willing to share a secret – I despise pickles! Yes, it’s a bold statement, and I’m prepared for backlash. For those of you who enthusiastically devour pickles in every form, don’t worry; this post is tailored just for you. Some people claim that store-bought pickles can be too mushy or not adequately seasoned. Fortunately, making your own pickles at home solves both issues.
This recipe is a perfect example: it combines red chili flakes, dill, garlic, bay leaves, and maple syrup, but feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences. Once prepared, these homemade pickles will remain fresh for up to 3 weeks.
Ambrosia Fruit Salad
Joining a long list of beloved southern desserts, this sweet treat boasts an intriguing combination of flavors. At its core, it’s a simple fruit salad featuring canned pineapple and mandarins as main attractions. However, what truly sets it apart are the unexpected additions of mini marshmallows, coconut, Cool Whip, and yes, even sour cream – a tangy twist that surprisingly works in harmony with the natural sweetness of the fruits, making it impossible to resist going back for more seconds.
Parmesan Oven-Baked Tomatoes
Vibrant and delicious, these sweet little tomatoes can be prepared in just 5 minutes and yield a soft interior with a great crunchy top when cooked. To ensure that the tomatoes remain upright during topping addition, consider using a deep baking dish. The recipe relies on a mixture of breadcrumbs, parmesan, minced garlic, herbs, and salt and pepper for added flavor. Feel free to substitute panko breadcrumbs or garlic salt if your preference leans towards these options.
After a brief 10-15 minute stint in the oven, the top is perfectly cooked, and they’re ready to be enjoyed.
Easy Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Personally, I have always been slightly disheartened by the softness of homemade sweet potato fries. While there’s nothing wrong with a soft texture per se, my preference is for that perfect balance of crunch and fluffiness you get when they’re deep-fried. To overcome this issue, I’ve found that soaking your cut fries in cold water for around 45 minutes does the trick by helping to pull out any excess starches inside.
Once drained, it’s crucial to pat them dry thoroughly before tossing them in a mixture of cornstarch, black pepper, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. When baking, try not to overcrowd the tray and flip them halfway through baking for the most even results.
Bisquick Cornbread Recipe
Diverging from traditional burger buns, cornbread proves itself as a worthy substitute for regular bread. Due to its rich flavor profile and satisfying texture, it has become an increasingly popular choice among food enthusiasts. Delightfully easy to prepare, this recipe utilizes Bisquick to simplify the mixing process, allowing you to combine all ingredients in one bowl before baking.
For those seeking a thrilling twist, consider incorporating elements of the Jalapeño Bacon Cheddar Cornbread for a unique and mouth-watering experience.
Pizza Rolls
Undoubtedly, the casual atmosphere of a BBQ creates an environment where traditional mealtime rules are often abandoned. Children tend to indulge in snacks like watermelon and chips, while adults engage in grazing, all while attempting to keep the family dog at bay from the food. With these delicious pizza rolls on hand, parents can rest assured that their kids have more substantial sustenance than just s’mores in their systems.
For a quicker approach, utilize store-bought dough as the foundation, then fill it with your preferred pizza toppings.
Caprese Skewers
Crafting these skewers is a breeze, as they are remarkably easy to prepare and require minimal effort. Cooking time is under 10 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy days. A light grilling adds a pleasant touch without overpowering the flavors. However, be mindful of the balsamic glaze’s intensity and apply it with moderation. To ensure the skewers are at their best, let them rest in their juices before serving.
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Hitting the mark for delicious BBQ side dishes are chips and dip, and this buffalo chicken option takes it to a whole new level of flavor – it’s dangerously good.
Strawberry Banana Popsicles
Often, people opt for store-bought popsicles due to convenience or lack of knowledge on how to create their own at home. However, making your own popsicles can be a fun and rewarding experience that yields delicious results without breaking the bank. To start, you’ll need to blend together milk, yogurt, strawberries, bananas, and a touch of honey in a blender until smooth. Once the mixture is well-combined, pour it into popsicle molds and place them in the freezer.
As you get started with making your own popsicles, you may want to experiment with different flavor combinations. For instance, try substituting traditional milk with coconut milk and adding mango puree for a unique twist on this classic treat.
Cannoli Dip
Easy Fruit Sorbet
People often underestimate the simplicity of a good fruit sorbet, but that’s exactly what makes it so great. With just pureed fruit and a simple syrup made from water and sugar, these sweet treats are surprisingly delicious. The possibilities are endless when it comes to flavors – try using raspberries, mangoes, pineapples, peaches, or any other fruits you like. Simply start by blending frozen chopped fruits with the simple syrup, and that’s all there is to it.
Once you’re done, freeze the mixture until you’re ready to indulge, and enjoy the refreshing taste of your homemade fruit sorbet.
Pineapple Pretzel Fluff
Preparing for a crowd? The ‘crust’ of this delectable faux-cheesecake is crafted using crushed pretzels instead of traditional graham crackers and gets carefully folded through the filling after baking. This unique twist not only adds texture but also provides a savory element to balance out the sweetness of the dessert. A sumptuous filling made with crushed pineapples, Cool Whip, and cream cheese will undoubtedly leave you craving for more – don’t be surprised if you’re scraping the bowl clean!
This versatile dessert can be served alongside the cannoli dip with cookies and fruit to enjoy as a delightful treat, or portioned into individual servings in little dishes as a faux-cheesecake dessert. Regardless of how you choose to serve it, rest assured that making double is highly recommended!
Best Homemade Lemonade
Visually, a big pitcher full of homemade lemonade epitomizes the essence of summer in the southern states. The combination of tangy and sweet flavors, accompanied by the invigorating chill, makes it an ultimate refreshment for hot days. Before mashing the lemons with sugar, it’s essential to give them a good cleaning with soapy water to avoid any unwanted flavor influences.
Moreover, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preferences, as the natural sweetness of lemons can vary depending on the time of year and their ripeness.
Better-Than-Dominos Garlic Bread
Taking a break from traditional coleslaw, there’s no hard and fast rule when it comes to choosing a side dish for your BBQ. However, garlic bread is a clear winner at any meal, providing a delicious complement to the main course. Unlike store-bought frozen options, this homemade version boasts an impressive depth of flavor and tender texture when baked to perfection.
To ensure the best results, be sure to taste the garlic butter before baking and adjust the seasoning accordingly – you want it to pack a punch while still mellowing slightly as it cooks. For added richness, consider incorporating blue cheese into the mix for a unique twist on this classic side dish.
Beer Bread
Zestfully simple is this bread recipe, requiring only five ingredients and skipping the need for proofing or resting entirely. Once mixed, pour the batter directly into a greased loaf pan and bake it like banana bread – straightforward as that. If you opt for a light beer, the flavor will be less pronounced; alternatively, try something with more kick to elevate the taste to your liking.
Ina Garten Pasta Salad
Not only does a delicious pasta salad make any BBQ complete, but the Barefoot Contessa’s recipe is undoubtedly one of the best options. With its light and refreshing flavor profile, achieved through the combination of juicy tomatoes, crumbly feta cheese, and briny olives, it’s sure to be a hit with your guests. Whether you’re attending a summer cookout or hosting a casual gathering in your backyard, this side dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Caprese Salad
Relaxing at a barbecue with friends or family can be a delightful experience, but the abundance of rich foods like meat and heavy carbs can sometimes make us feel overwhelmed. Fortunately, a Caprese salad is an excellent way to strike a balance between indulgence and nutrition.
35 Best BBQ Sides For Your Next Cookout
Here at home, the secret to a truly exceptional BBQ lies not just in the main course, but also in its carefully curated side dishes. Whether you’re serving up classic favorites like coleslaw and baked beans or venturing into new territory with unique creations like grilled pineapple skewers or spicy corn on the cob, your guests are sure to be impressed by the attention to detail and thoughtfulness that goes into each and every dish.
From comforting staples like potato salad and deviled eggs to decadent desserts like watermelon sorbet and peach cobbler, these BBQ side dishes will take your cookout to new heights.
Instructions
Naturally, starting with the right approach will make all the difference in whipping up a delicious BBQ side dish. To get started, choose a recipe that you’re excited about and that fits your culinary style. Once you’ve selected your favorite recipe, it’s time to gather all the necessary ingredients. Make sure to double-check the list to ensure everything is accounted for before moving on to the next step.
