15 BBQ Side Dishes That Steal the Show

Barbecue season is here, and nothing complements those smoky, juicy mains quite like the perfect side dishes. Elevate your BBQ game with a delightful array of accompaniments that will impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds.

These BBQ side dishes are not just afterthoughts; they’re the stars that turn a good barbecue into a great one.

Ready to discover some mouthwatering sides that will make your next cookout unforgettable?

1. Coleslaw

Coleslaw is the ultimate refreshing side dish, perfect for adding a crunchy, tangy bite to your meal. Imagine a vibrant mix of shredded cabbage and carrots, all tossed in a creamy, slightly sweet dressing. It’s like a party in your mouth with every bite!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
• 2 large carrots, shredded
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

Serve with: BBQ ribs or fried chicken.
Drink with: Iced tea or a light lager.

2. Baked Beans

Baked beans are a comforting, hearty dish that brings a sweet and savory flavor to any gathering. Picture tender beans simmered in a rich, molasses-infused sauce with a hint of smoky bacon. It’s comfort food at its finest!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 cups navy beans, soaked overnight
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 3/4 cup molasses
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon and set aside.
3. Add onion to the bacon fat and cook until translucent.
4. Stir in the molasses, brown sugar, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and salt.
5. Add the beans and bacon to the pot, then pour in enough water to cover the beans.
6. Bake, covered, for about 2 hours or until the beans are tender and the sauce is thickened.

Serve with: Grilled sausages or hot dogs.
Drink with: Root beer or a crisp cider.

3. Potato Salad

Potato salad is a creamy, tangy, and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any picnic or BBQ. Imagine tender chunks of potatoes mixed with crunchy celery and onions, all enveloped in a luscious, tangy dressing. It’s a classic for a reason!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Paprika for garnish

Instructions:

1. Boil the potatoes in a pot of salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, eggs, celery, and onion.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the potato mixture and gently toss to coat.
5. Garnish with paprika before serving.

Serve with: BBQ chicken or pulled pork.
Drink with: Lemonade or a light beer.

4. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is a summertime staple, bringing a smoky sweetness to your plate. Picture golden ears of corn, charred to perfection and brushed with a flavorful herb butter. It’s simple yet irresistible!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the ears of corn with melted butter and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until charred and tender, about 10-15 minutes.
4. Remove from the grill and brush with additional butter. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Serve with: Grilled chicken or steak.
Drink with: Cold beer or iced tea.

5. Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender pasta with a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Imagine a gooey, cheesy delight that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. It’s a dish that brings a smile with every bite!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens.
5. Stir in the cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
7. Pour the mixture into a baking dish. If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
8. Bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Serve with: BBQ ribs or fried chicken.
Drink with: Cola or a pale ale.

6. Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is a versatile and colorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Picture al dente pasta mixed with a variety of fresh vegetables and tossed in a zesty vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing and satisfying addition to your meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces pasta (rotini or penne)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and black olives.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Sprinkle with feta cheese before serving.

Serve with: Grilled chicken or fish.
Drink with: White wine or sparkling water.

7. Cornbread

Cornbread is a classic Southern favorite, bringing a slightly sweet, buttery flavor to your table. Imagine a warm, golden-brown bread with a tender crumb that’s perfect for soaking up savory sauces. It’s a must-have for any comfort food feast!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Serve with: Chili or BBQ ribs.
Drink with: Sweet tea or beer.

8. Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a delightful appetizer or side dish, featuring creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. Picture perfectly cooked eggs with a rich, mustard-infused filling that’s smooth and satisfying. They’re always a hit at gatherings!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs, hard-boiled
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Paprika for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cut the hard-boiled eggs in half lengthwise and remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mash the yolks with a fork and stir in the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg whites.
4. Sprinkle with paprika before serving.

Serve with: Ham or roasted chicken.
Drink with: Sparkling water or white wine.

9. Cucumber Salad

Cucumber salad is a light and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for hot days. Picture crisp cucumber slices tossed with a tangy vinaigrette and fresh herbs. It’s simple, clean, and oh-so-refreshing!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss to coat.
4. Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve with: Grilled fish or chicken.
Drink with: Lemonade or iced tea.

10. Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a beloved classic, combining tender green beans with a creamy mushroom sauce and crispy fried onions. Picture a bubbly, golden-brown casserole that’s both comforting and delicious. It’s a holiday favorite for a reason!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 cups green beans, trimmed
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup fried onions
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with fried onions.
4. If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Serve with: Roasted turkey or ham.
Drink with: Sparkling cider or white wine.

11. Watermelon Slices

Watermelon slices are the quintessential summer treat, offering a sweet and juicy refreshment. Picture vibrant, ruby-red slices of watermelon that are both hydrating and delicious. It’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot day!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 whole watermelon

Instructions:

1. Cut the watermelon in half.
2. Slice into wedges or cubes.
3. Serve chilled.

Serve with: Grilled burgers or hot dogs.
Drink with: Lemonade or iced tea.

12. Caprese Salad

Caprese salad is a simple yet elegant dish, featuring fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze. Picture a colorful plate that’s both beautiful and bursting with flavor. It’s a taste of summer on a plate!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 large tomatoes, sliced
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on a plate, alternating between the two.
2. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the slices.
3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper.

Serve with: Grilled chicken or fish.
Drink with: White wine or sparkling water.

13. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to any Italian meal, featuring crispy, buttery bread infused with garlic and herbs. Picture warm, golden slices of bread that are both crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s irresistible!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of French bread
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the French bread in half lengthwise.
3. In a bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh parsley, Parmesan cheese, and salt.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the bread halves.
5. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Serve with: Spaghetti or lasagna.
Drink with: Red wine or sparkling water.

14. Fruit Salad

Fruit salad is a refreshing and colorful side dish, perfect for any occasion. Picture a medley of juicy, sweet fruits all mixed together in a vibrant bowl. It’s like a burst of sunshine in every bite!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 cups blueberries
• 2 cups pineapple, diced
• 2 cups grapes, halved
• 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the fruits.
2. Drizzle with honey if desired.
3. Toss gently to combine and serve chilled.

Serve with: Grilled chicken or fish.
Drink with: Sparkling water or fruit juice.

15. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to regular fries, offering a sweet and savory flavor. Picture crispy, golden-brown fries with a tender interior, seasoned to perfection. They’re a crowd-pleaser!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.

Serve with: Burgers or grilled chicken.
Drink with: Lemonade or iced tea.

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