55 Best BBQ Side Dishes: The Ultimate Cookout Guide
Hey guys! Planning a barbecue and wondering what delicious side dishes to serve? You've come to the right place! A barbecue isn't just about the perfectly grilled meats; it's also about the amazing sides that complement those smoky flavors. We've compiled a list of 55 barbecue side dishes that will have everyone raving. From classic salads to unique creations, there's something here for every taste bud. So, fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and let's dive into the world of BBQ side dish perfection!
Classic BBQ Side Dishes
When it comes to barbecue sides, some dishes are timeless classics. These are the sides that everyone expects and loves, and they're the perfect way to round out your BBQ spread. Think creamy salads, tangy slaws, and hearty baked beans. These classics are crowd-pleasers for a reason, bringing that familiar comfort and deliciousness we all crave at a cookout. Let's explore some of these must-have sides that will have your guests coming back for seconds, and even thirds! You know, every great BBQ needs that one side dish that just disappears quickly – that’s the magic of these classics. They're not just side dishes; they're essential elements of the whole BBQ experience. Plus, they often balance out the richness of the grilled meats with their fresh or tangy flavors. So, get ready to roll up your sleeves and whip up these BBQ staples that will surely make your party a hit. And don't forget, the beauty of these classic recipes is that they can be easily customized. Want a little more kick in your coleslaw? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Prefer your potato salad extra creamy? Toss in another dollop of mayonnaise. These recipes are your starting point, but feel free to make them your own. Because in the end, the best BBQ side dish is the one that tastes best to you and your guests. And hey, don't be surprised if these classic sides steal the show, even with all the amazing grilled meats on the table. Sometimes, the simple things are the most satisfying, and that's definitely true when it comes to these tried-and-true BBQ side dishes. So, let’s get cooking and bring these delicious classics to your next barbecue!
1. Coleslaw
No BBQ is complete without a creamy, crunchy coleslaw. This classic side dish is the perfect complement to smoky meats, offering a refreshing contrast with its tangy dressing and crisp vegetables. Whether you prefer a mayonnaise-based coleslaw or a vinegar-based one, this is a staple that everyone will adore. The beauty of coleslaw lies in its simplicity and versatility. It's incredibly easy to make, and you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Want a sweeter coleslaw? Add a touch of honey or sugar to the dressing. Prefer a more savory flavor? Mix in some Dijon mustard or celery seeds. The possibilities are endless! Plus, coleslaw is a great way to incorporate vegetables into your meal. Cabbage, carrots, and onions are the traditional ingredients, but you can also add other veggies like bell peppers, broccoli slaw, or even apples for a touch of sweetness. And let's not forget about the crunch factor – that satisfying crispness that makes coleslaw so irresistible. To achieve the perfect texture, make sure to use fresh, crisp vegetables and don't overdress the slaw. The dressing should coat the vegetables lightly, without making them soggy. Another tip for a fantastic coleslaw is to let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to soften slightly, creating a truly harmonious dish. So, whether you're firing up the grill for a casual backyard barbecue or hosting a big summer cookout, make sure coleslaw is on the menu. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will add a refreshing and flavorful element to your meal. Trust me, your guests will thank you for it!
2. Potato Salad
Potato salad is another quintessential BBQ side dish that's always a hit. There are countless variations of this classic, from creamy and rich to tangy and light. Whether you like yours with mayonnaise, mustard, or a vinegar-based dressing, potato salad is a must-have at any cookout. This dish is so beloved because it’s comforting, versatile, and incredibly satisfying. Just like coleslaw, potato salad offers endless possibilities for customization. You can use different types of potatoes, experiment with various dressings, and add all sorts of flavorful ingredients. For a classic potato salad, you'll want to start with waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds or red potatoes. These potatoes hold their shape well when cooked, preventing the salad from becoming mushy. As for the dressing, mayonnaise is the traditional choice, but you can lighten things up by using Greek yogurt or a combination of mayonnaise and sour cream. And don’t forget the flavor boosters! Mustard, celery, onions, and pickles are all popular additions that add a delicious tang and crunch to your potato salad. If you're looking to get a little creative, try adding some bacon, hard-boiled eggs, or even fresh herbs like dill or parsley. These ingredients will elevate your potato salad to the next level and impress your guests. One of the keys to a great potato salad is to cook the potatoes just right. You want them to be tender but not mushy. To achieve this, boil the potatoes until they're easily pierced with a fork, then drain them immediately and let them cool slightly before cutting them into chunks. This will help prevent them from becoming waterlogged. And remember, potato salad tastes best when it's chilled, so make sure to refrigerate it for at least a few hours before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to develop its full potential. So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make a potato salad that will be the star of your BBQ. Your friends and family will love it, and you'll be the hero of the cookout!
3. Baked Beans
Sweet, smoky baked beans are the perfect accompaniment to ribs, burgers, and all your favorite grilled meats. This hearty side dish is a BBQ staple, offering a comforting and flavorful counterpoint to the richness of the main course. Whether you make them from scratch or doctor up a can of store-bought beans, baked beans are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The magic of baked beans lies in their ability to absorb flavors. Slow-cooking them with bacon, onions, and a sweet and tangy sauce creates a depth of flavor that's simply irresistible. And while you can certainly use canned beans as a base, making them from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and create a truly customized dish. If you're starting from scratch, you'll want to use dried beans like navy beans or Great Northern beans. These beans have a mild flavor that allows them to soak up the flavors of the sauce. Soak the beans overnight to soften them, then cook them slowly with bacon, onions, and your favorite baked bean sauce ingredients. The sauce is where you can really get creative. Brown sugar, molasses, ketchup, and mustard are all common ingredients that add sweetness, tang, and depth of flavor. You can also add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or liquid smoke for an extra layer of smokiness. And don’t forget the spices! Chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder are all great additions that will enhance the flavor of your baked beans. If you're short on time, you can certainly use canned baked beans as a shortcut. Simply sauté some bacon and onions, then add the canned beans and your favorite sauce ingredients. Simmer the beans for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. No matter how you make them, baked beans are a must-have at any BBQ. They're hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make a batch of baked beans that will have everyone asking for seconds. Your guests will love them, and you'll be the star of the cookout!
Fresh and Light BBQ Side Dishes
To balance out the richness of the grilled meats and heavier sides, it's essential to have some fresh and light options on your BBQ menu. These dishes provide a refreshing contrast and add a burst of flavor and color to your spread. Think vibrant salads, crisp vegetables, and zesty dressings. These sides are not only delicious but also healthy, making them a guilt-free addition to your barbecue. Incorporating fresh and light sides into your BBQ is a great way to ensure there's something for everyone, including those who prefer lighter fare. These dishes often feature seasonal produce, which means they're packed with flavor and nutrients. Plus, they can be incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for a casual cookout. Let's delve into some fantastic fresh and light BBQ side dishes that will brighten up your table and delight your guests. Remember, the key to a great fresh side dish is using high-quality ingredients. Fresh, ripe vegetables and flavorful dressings can make all the difference. Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, and vinaigrettes to create your own signature dishes. And keep in mind that presentation matters too! A colorful and beautifully arranged salad or vegetable platter can be just as appealing as the taste. So, let's get creative and bring some freshness to your next BBQ! These light and refreshing sides will not only complement the grilled meats but also stand on their own as delicious and satisfying dishes. Your guests will appreciate the variety and the opportunity to indulge in some healthy and flavorful options. So, let's fire up our culinary creativity and make some amazing fresh and light BBQ side dishes!
4. Watermelon Salad
A refreshing watermelon salad is the perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day. This vibrant salad combines sweet watermelon with salty feta cheese, mint, and a tangy vinaigrette. It's a light and flavorful side dish that's sure to be a hit at any BBQ. Watermelon is the quintessential summer fruit, and its sweetness pairs perfectly with the salty feta and the fresh mint. The vinaigrette adds a touch of acidity that balances out the sweetness and ties all the flavors together. This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Simply cube the watermelon and feta cheese, chop the mint, and whisk together the vinaigrette. Then, toss everything together and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The key to a great watermelon salad is to use a ripe, juicy watermelon. Look for a watermelon that feels heavy for its size and has a deep, hollow sound when you tap it. As for the feta cheese, you can use either crumbled feta or a block of feta that you cube yourself. Just make sure to use a good quality feta that has a salty, tangy flavor. The mint adds a touch of freshness and brightness to the salad, so don't skip it! If you're feeling adventurous, you can also add other ingredients like red onion, cucumber, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze. These additions will add even more flavor and complexity to the salad. Watermelon salad is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish, an appetizer, or even a light dessert. It's perfect for any occasion, from casual backyard barbecues to elegant summer parties. So, next time you're looking for a refreshing and flavorful side dish, give watermelon salad a try. Your guests will love it, and you'll be the star of the party!
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a classic BBQ side dish that's simple, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. The smoky flavor of the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the corn, creating a side dish that's both satisfying and flavorful. Whether you grill it in the husk or shuck it first, corn on the cob is a must-have at any summer cookout. Grilling corn on the cob is incredibly easy, but there are a few tips that will help you achieve perfect results. If you're grilling the corn in the husk, soak the ears in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will help prevent the husks from burning and keep the corn moist. If you prefer to shuck the corn first, you can grill it directly on the grates or wrap it in foil. Grilling the corn directly on the grates will give it a smoky flavor, while wrapping it in foil will help it steam and stay tender. No matter which method you choose, make sure to turn the corn occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly. The corn is done when the kernels are tender and slightly charred. Once the corn is grilled, you can dress it up with your favorite toppings. Butter and salt are the classic choice, but you can also add other flavor enhancers like chili powder, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. For a Mexican-inspired twist, try brushing the corn with mayonnaise and sprinkling it with chili powder, cotija cheese, and lime juice. Grilled corn on the cob is a versatile side dish that pairs well with just about any grilled meat. It's also a great option for vegetarians and vegans. So, next time you're firing up the grill, don't forget to throw on some corn on the cob. It's a simple and delicious side dish that everyone will love!
6. Caprese Salad
A Caprese salad is a simple yet elegant side dish that's perfect for a BBQ. This classic Italian salad features fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze. It's a light and flavorful option that adds a touch of sophistication to your cookout. The beauty of a Caprese salad lies in its simplicity. It requires just a few high-quality ingredients, and the flavors speak for themselves. Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil are a match made in heaven, and the balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that ties everything together. To make a Caprese salad, simply slice the mozzarella and tomatoes into rounds, and arrange them on a platter with the basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and a little bit of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. For the best results, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Look for mozzarella that's soft and creamy, tomatoes that are ripe and juicy, and basil that's fragrant and vibrant green. Balsamic glaze is a reduction of balsamic vinegar that has a sweet and tangy flavor. You can find it at most grocery stores, or you can make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar over low heat until it thickens. Caprese salad is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish, an appetizer, or even a light meal. It's perfect for any occasion, from casual backyard barbecues to elegant dinner parties. So, next time you're looking for a simple yet sophisticated side dish, give Caprese salad a try. Your guests will be impressed, and you'll be the star of the party!
Unique and Creative BBQ Side Dishes
Looking to spice things up and impress your guests with something a little different? These unique and creative BBQ side dishes are sure to do the trick. Forget the usual suspects – we're talking about bold flavors, unexpected ingredients, and dishes that will have everyone asking for the recipe. These sides are perfect for adding a touch of flair to your barbecue and showcasing your culinary creativity. Don't be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to BBQ side dishes. There are so many delicious and interesting options out there, from grilled vegetables with a twist to flavorful salads with unexpected ingredients. The key is to find dishes that complement the flavors of your grilled meats and add a bit of excitement to your meal. When planning your menu, consider the overall theme of your BBQ. Are you going for a casual backyard vibe or a more upscale affair? The side dishes you choose should reflect the overall atmosphere of your event. And don't forget about dietary restrictions! Make sure to have some vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available for your guests. Let's explore some truly unique and creative BBQ side dishes that will elevate your cookout to the next level. These dishes are not only delicious but also visually appealing, adding a pop of color and interest to your table. So, get ready to impress your friends and family with these innovative and flavorful sides that are sure to be the talk of the town! Because in the world of BBQ, there's always room for a little culinary adventure. And these unique side dishes are the perfect way to embark on that adventure and create a truly memorable meal.
7. Grilled Pineapple Salsa
A sweet and spicy grilled pineapple salsa is a unique and flavorful side dish that's perfect for a BBQ. The smoky grilled pineapple adds a depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the fruit and the heat of the peppers. Serve it with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled chicken or fish. This salsa is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a condiment. The combination of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors makes it a perfect complement to a variety of dishes. To make grilled pineapple salsa, start by grilling pineapple slices until they're slightly charred and caramelized. This will bring out the natural sweetness of the pineapple and add a smoky flavor that's irresistible. Once the pineapple is grilled, chop it into small pieces and combine it with diced red onion, jalapeño peppers, cilantro, and lime juice. The red onion adds a bit of sharpness, the jalapeño peppers add some heat, the cilantro adds a fresh herbaceous note, and the lime juice adds a touch of acidity. If you're not a fan of jalapeño peppers, you can substitute them with other peppers like serrano peppers or even bell peppers. And if you want to add a bit of sweetness, you can add a touch of honey or agave nectar. Grilled pineapple salsa is best served fresh, but you can also make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. The flavors will meld together as it sits, making it even more delicious. So, next time you're looking for a unique and flavorful side dish for your BBQ, give grilled pineapple salsa a try. Your guests will love it, and you'll be the star of the party!
8. Mexican Street Corn Salad
Mexican Street Corn Salad, also known as Elote Salad, is a flavorful and vibrant side dish that's perfect for a BBQ. This salad takes all the flavors of classic Mexican street corn – grilled corn, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice – and combines them in a delicious and easy-to-eat salad. This salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of sweet corn, creamy mayonnaise, salty cheese, and spicy chili powder is simply irresistible. And the lime juice adds a touch of acidity that balances out the richness of the other ingredients. To make Mexican Street Corn Salad, start by grilling corn on the cob until it's slightly charred and tender. You can grill it in the husk or shuck it first, whichever you prefer. Once the corn is grilled, cut the kernels off the cob and combine them in a bowl with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, lime juice, and cilantro. The cotija cheese adds a salty and crumbly texture to the salad, while the chili powder adds some heat and the lime juice adds a touch of acidity. If you can't find cotija cheese, you can substitute it with Parmesan cheese or feta cheese. For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some diced red onion or jalapeño peppers to the salad. These additions will add a bit of sharpness and heat that will complement the other flavors. Mexican Street Corn Salad is best served chilled, so make sure to refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to develop its full potential. So, next time you're looking for a flavorful and vibrant side dish for your BBQ, give Mexican Street Corn Salad a try. Your guests will love it, and you'll be the star of the party!
9. Quinoa Salad with Black Beans and Avocado
For a healthy and flavorful side dish, try a quinoa salad with black beans and avocado. This salad is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and satisfying option for your BBQ. The combination of quinoa, black beans, avocado, and a zesty lime dressing creates a delicious and well-balanced side dish. This salad is perfect for those who are looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, and it's also gluten-free. The quinoa provides a hearty base for the salad, while the black beans add protein and fiber. The avocado adds healthy fats and a creamy texture, and the lime dressing adds a touch of acidity and brightness. To make quinoa salad with black beans and avocado, start by cooking the quinoa according to package directions. Once the quinoa is cooked, let it cool slightly before combining it in a bowl with black beans, diced avocado, chopped red onion, cilantro, and a lime dressing. The lime dressing can be made by whisking together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, and salt. If you want to add a bit of sweetness to the salad, you can add some corn kernels or diced bell peppers. For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant. Quinoa salad with black beans and avocado is best served chilled, so make sure to refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to develop its full potential. So, next time you're looking for a healthy and flavorful side dish for your BBQ, give quinoa salad with black beans and avocado a try. Your guests will love it, and you'll be the star of the party!
These are just a few ideas to get you started, guys! With these 55 barbecue side dishes, you're sure to find the perfect accompaniments for your next cookout. Happy grilling!
