BBQ side dishes make a cookout complete. They add flavor and variety to grilled meats.

Good sides can turn a simple barbecue into a real feast.

You can choose from over 31 tasty BBQ side dish options to please your guests. Some are classic favorites, while others offer new twists.

From salads to dips to grilled veggies, there’s something for everyone. These sides are easy to make and will complement any main dish from the grill.

1. Grilled Corn Salad

Grilled corn salad is a tasty summer side dish for your BBQ. It’s easy to make and full of flavor.

Start by grilling fresh corn on the cob until it’s tender and lightly charred.

Cut the kernels off the cob and mix them with other fresh ingredients. Try adding diced tomatoes, red onion, and fresh herbs like cilantro or basil.

For dressing, use a mix of lime juice, olive oil, and spices. You can add crumbled cheese like feta or cotija for extra flavor. Some recipes include diced avocado or bell peppers too.

This salad is perfect for hot days. It’s light, refreshing, and goes well with grilled meats.

You can make it ahead of time and chill until ready to serve.

2. Baked Mac and Cheese

Baked mac and cheese is a perfect BBQ side dish. It’s creamy, comforting, and loved by both kids and adults.

To make it, you’ll need pasta, cheese, milk, and butter. Mix cooked pasta with a cheese sauce and bake until golden and bubbly.

You can add extra flavors like bacon, herbs, or breadcrumbs on top. For a smoky taste, cook it on the grill instead of the oven.

Pair baked mac and cheese with ribs, pulled pork, or brisket. It also goes well with coleslaw or a fresh salad to balance the richness.

3. Coleslaw with Apple

Coleslaw with apple adds a sweet and tangy twist to your BBQ spread. This refreshing side dish combines crisp cabbage with tart, crunchy apples.

To make it, shred cabbage and carrots, then mix in diced apples. For the dressing, blend mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey.

Toss everything together and let it chill before serving. The result is a cool, crunchy slaw that balances rich BBQ flavors perfectly.

You can customize this slaw by using different apple varieties. Granny Smith apples offer tartness, while Gala or Fuji provide extra sweetness.

4. Honey Butter Cornbread

Honey butter cornbread is a sweet and savory treat that pairs perfectly with barbecue. You can make it in a skillet or as mini muffins for easy sharing.

To make this tasty side, mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter for a moist texture.

While the cornbread bakes, prepare a honey butter glaze. Simply melt butter and stir in honey and cinnamon. Brush this over the warm cornbread for extra flavor.

Get creative with your cornbread by adding bacon bits or green onions to the batter. You can also serve it with a side of whipped honey butter for dipping.

5. Smoked Baked Beans

Smoked baked beans are a must-have side dish for your BBQ. They pair perfectly with grilled meats and burgers. These beans get an extra flavor boost from slow cooking in smoky heat.

To make them, start with canned beans. Add bacon, brown sugar, and spices. A touch of jalapeno gives a nice kick. Cook them low and slow in your smoker for about 3 hours.

The result is sweet, savory, and smoky beans. They have a rich taste and creamy texture. Your guests will love this classic BBQ side dish with a smoky twist.

You can make smoked baked beans ahead of time. Just reheat before serving. They’re sure to be a hit at your next cookout.

6. Garlic Grilled Shrimp

Garlic grilled shrimp is a tasty and simple BBQ side dish. You can make it quickly on the grill alongside your main course.

To prepare, toss peeled shrimp with minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Thread the shrimp onto skewers for easy grilling.

Cook the shrimp over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque.

Serve your garlic grilled shrimp hot off the grill. They pair well with many other BBQ sides like grilled vegetables or rice dishes.

7. Watermelon Feta Salad

Watermelon feta salad is a refreshing side dish perfect for your BBQ. You’ll love the mix of sweet watermelon and salty feta cheese.

Add some fresh mint leaves for extra flavor. A light vinaigrette dressing ties it all together.

This salad is easy to make and looks great on the table. It’s a hit at summer parties and potlucks.

Serve it alongside grilled meats or other BBQ favorites. The cool, juicy watermelon balances out heavier dishes.

8. BBQ Ranch Potato Salad

BBQ ranch potato salad is a tasty twist on a classic side dish. It combines the smoky flavors of barbecue with the creamy, tangy taste of ranch dressing.

To make it, you’ll need cooked potatoes, bacon, and a dressing made from mayo, ranch seasoning, and BBQ sauce. Mix in some chopped red onions and fresh herbs for extra flavor.

This dish is perfect for summer cookouts and picnics. You can make it ahead of time and let it chill in the fridge. The flavors will blend together nicely.

Serve your BBQ ranch potato salad alongside burgers, hot dogs, or grilled chicken. It’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults at your next barbecue.

9. Jalapeño Popper Dip

Jalapeño Popper Dip brings the heat to your BBQ spread. This creamy appetizer blends cream cheese, shredded cheese, and diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and crunch. Mix in some BBQ sauce to give it a smoky twist that fits right in with your cookout menu.

Serve this dip hot with chips, bread, or fresh veggies for dipping. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to disappear fast. Your guests will love this tasty twist on classic jalapeño poppers.

Make it ahead of time and pop it in the oven just before serving. You can adjust the spice level by using more or fewer jalapeños to suit your taste.

10. Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers are a delightful twist on the classic Italian salad. You can easily make these by threading grape tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto small skewers.

These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for BBQs. They’re light, refreshing, and add a pop of color to your spread. Your guests can grab them with one hand while mingling.

To elevate the flavors, drizzle the skewers with olive oil and balsamic glaze. You can also sprinkle some salt and pepper for extra taste. Caprese skewers are a crowd-pleaser that bring a touch of elegance to any cookout.

11. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Mexican street corn, or elote, is a tasty BBQ side dish that adds a flavorful kick to your outdoor feast. You grill corn on the cob until it’s slightly charred and juicy.

Then comes the fun part. You slather the corn with a creamy mixture of mayo, lime juice, and chili powder. Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese on top for a salty, tangy finish.

Elote pairs well with many BBQ mains. Try it alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish tacos. You can also serve it with tortilla chips as a unique dip option.

For a twist, cut the corn off the cob and mix it in a bowl. This version, called esquites, is easier to eat at casual gatherings.

12. Creamy Cucumber Salad

Creamy cucumber salad is a refreshing BBQ side dish. It’s easy to make and perfect for hot summer days.

You’ll need cucumbers, onions, and a creamy dressing. Slice the cucumbers and onions thinly. Mix them in a bowl.

For the dressing, combine sour cream or mayo with dill and garlic. Pour it over the veggies and mix well.

Let the salad chill in the fridge before serving. This helps the flavors blend together. You can make it ahead of time for your BBQ.

It’s a cool, crisp addition to any cookout menu. Your guests will love this classic summer salad.

13. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a tasty and healthier alternative to regular fries. They bring a vibrant orange color and subtle sweetness to your BBQ spread.

You can easily make them at home by cutting sweet potatoes into thin strips and baking or air frying them. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika for extra flavor.

These fries pair well with many BBQ main dishes. Try them alongside burgers, grilled chicken, or pulled pork sandwiches. Their natural sweetness complements smoky and savory flavors nicely.

For dipping, serve sweet potato fries with classic ketchup or get creative with BBQ sauce or honey mustard. They’re sure to be a hit at your next cookout.

14. Texas Caviar

Texas Caviar is a zesty side dish perfect for BBQs. You’ll love this mix of black-eyed peas, black beans, and chopped veggies.

The salad is marinated in a tangy dressing that gives it a kick. It’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time.

You can serve Texas Caviar with chips as a dip or as a side salad. It’s a crowd-pleaser that adds a Texan flair to your barbecue spread.

This dish is also known as Cowboy Caviar. It’s a great way to add some protein and fiber to your meal.

15. Chili Lime Grilled Pineapple

Chili lime grilled pineapple is a tasty BBQ side dish that combines sweet and spicy flavors. You can make it easily on your grill in just a few minutes.

Start by cutting a fresh pineapple into spears. Grill the pineapple over medium heat for 2-4 minutes per side until lightly browned.

While still warm, sprinkle the grilled pineapple with chili powder and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. The heat brings out the pineapple’s natural sweetness, while the chili and lime add a zesty kick.

This simple side dish is perfect for summer cookouts. It pairs well with grilled meats and adds a tropical touch to your BBQ spread.

16. Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Loaded baked potato salad brings the flavors of a classic baked potato to your BBQ spread. This creamy side dish combines tender potato chunks with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, and green onions.

You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd and pairs well with grilled meats.

To make it, mix cooked and cooled potatoes with sour cream, mayonnaise, and your favorite toppings. Customize it by adding extras like diced jalapeños or crumbled blue cheese.

Serve this hearty salad chilled for a refreshing contrast to hot BBQ dishes. Your guests will love this tasty twist on traditional potato salad.

17. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a tasty side dish for your BBQ. It’s easy to make and looks fancy. You can grill it while your meat rests.

To prepare, wrap bacon around asparagus spears. Secure with toothpicks if needed. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, turning once.

The bacon adds a smoky flavor and crispy texture. The asparagus stays tender inside. It’s a great mix of flavors and textures.

This side goes well with grilled meats like steak or chicken. Add some sliced fresh tomatoes to complete the meal.

Your guests will love this simple but delicious BBQ side dish. It’s sure to be a hit at your next cookout.

18. Pesto Pasta Salad

Pesto pasta salad is a tasty and easy side dish for your BBQ. You can make it in under 30 minutes using bowtie pasta, fresh basil pesto, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese.

This cold pasta salad is light yet filling. It offers a mix of savory flavors that go well with grilled meats.

The bowtie shape helps the pesto stick to the pasta. You can add cherry tomatoes and mozzarella to make it more like a Caprese salad. This adds freshness and creaminess to the dish.

Pesto pasta salad is simple to prepare ahead of time. It travels well, making it great for potlucks or picnics. Serve it chilled or at room temperature alongside your BBQ favorites.

19. Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes

Garlic herb roasted potatoes are a tasty BBQ side dish. You can make them easily with simple ingredients.

Cut potatoes into cubes. Toss them with olive oil, minced garlic, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Spread the seasoned potatoes on a baking sheet.

Roast the potatoes in a hot oven until they’re crispy outside and soft inside. The garlic and herbs give them great flavor.

These potatoes go well with grilled meats and other BBQ favorites. They’re a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults enjoy.

20. Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a classic BBQ side dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. You start by hard-boiling eggs, then cutting them in half and removing the yolks.

Mix the yolks with mayo, mustard, and seasonings to create a creamy filling. Pipe or spoon this mixture back into the egg whites for a pretty presentation.

For a BBQ twist, try adding crumbled bacon or a dash of hot sauce to your deviled eggs. You can also garnish them with paprika or fresh herbs for extra flavor and color.

Deviled eggs are great for make-ahead prep. You can prepare them the night before and store them in the fridge until your BBQ starts.

21. Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini makes a tasty and healthy BBQ side dish.

Cut zucchini into long, thick slices for easy grilling. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Grill the zucchini slices for 3-4 minutes per side until tender with nice grill marks. You can add garlic, herbs, or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.

For a fun twist, try making zucchini boats. Cut zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the center. Fill with cheese, tomatoes, or other toppings before grilling.

Grilled zucchini pairs well with many main dishes. It’s a versatile veggie that soaks up smoky grill flavor.

22. Three-Bean Salad

Three-bean salad is a tasty BBQ side dish. It’s easy to make and full of flavor. You can use different types of beans like green beans, kidney beans, and garbanzo beans.

Mix the beans with chopped onions and bell peppers. Add a tangy dressing made from vinegar, oil, and sugar. This gives the salad a nice zip.

Three-bean salad goes well with many BBQ main dishes. Try it with grilled chicken, burgers, or ribs. It’s also great for potlucks and picnics.

You can make this salad ahead of time. The flavors get better as it sits in the fridge. Serve it cold or at room temperature.

23. Brussels Sprout Slaw

Brussels sprout slaw is a fresh twist on traditional coleslaw. You can make it by shredding raw Brussels sprouts and mixing them with carrots and a creamy dressing.

To prepare, thinly slice about 5 cups of Brussels sprouts. Add 1 cup of shredded carrots for color and crunch. Mix in a dressing made from mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar.

For extra flavor, try adding chopped dates, almonds, or grated Parmesan cheese. This slaw is perfect for BBQs and pairs well with grilled meats. It’s a tasty way to enjoy Brussels sprouts raw and might even win over picky eaters.

24. Minty Pea Salad

Minty pea salad is a refreshing side dish perfect for your next BBQ. You can make it with frozen peas, fresh mint, and a light dressing. It’s quick and easy to prepare.

To make this salad, thaw frozen peas and mix them with chopped mint leaves. Add some diced red onion for extra flavor and crunch. Toss everything with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

This bright green salad looks great on the table and tastes even better. The mint adds a cool, fresh taste that goes well with grilled meats. You can make it ahead of time and keep it in the fridge until serving.

25. Cheddar Chive Biscuits

Cheddar chive biscuits are a tasty addition to your BBQ spread. These savory treats combine the sharpness of cheddar cheese with the mild onion flavor of chives.

To make them, you’ll mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Cut cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives.

Pour in cold milk or buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together. Pat the dough into a rectangle and cut it into biscuit shapes.

Bake the biscuits until they’re golden brown and fluffy. Serve them warm alongside your main BBQ dishes for a delicious complement to your meal.

26. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad is a tasty and healthy side dish for your BBQ. You can make it with cooked quinoa, fresh vegetables, and herbs.

Add cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese to your quinoa. Mix in some olives and artichokes for extra flavor.

Dress the salad with lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs like oregano and mint. This light dressing enhances the Mediterranean flavors.

You can serve this salad cold or at room temperature. It’s perfect for outdoor gatherings and goes well with grilled meats or fish.

This dish is also great for meal prep. Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week as a quick lunch or side.

27. Spicy Grilled Peaches

Grilled peaches with a spicy kick make a tasty BBQ side dish. Slice ripe peaches in half and remove the pits. Brush them with olive oil and sprinkle with chili powder, cayenne, and a pinch of salt.

Grill the peaches cut-side down for 3-4 minutes until grill marks appear. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes. The heat caramelizes the sugars and brings out the peaches’ sweetness.

Serve these spicy-sweet peaches alongside grilled meats or on their own as a unique dessert. The contrast of flavors will wow your guests at your next cookout.

28. Lemon Herb Ricotta Flatbreads

Lemon herb ricotta flatbreads are a tasty side dish for your BBQ. They’re quick to make and full of fresh flavors.

Start with store-bought or homemade flatbread. Spread a mix of ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and chopped herbs on top. Good herb choices include basil, thyme, or rosemary.

Add some sliced lemons and sun-dried tomatoes for extra zest. Drizzle with honey and olive oil before baking until golden brown.

These flatbreads are great for sharing. You can cut them into smaller pieces as appetizers. They pair well with grilled meats or vegetables from your BBQ.

29. Melon and Prosciutto Skewers

Melon and prosciutto skewers are a tasty and simple BBQ side dish. You can make them with cantaloupe, honeydew, or watermelon balls.

Cut thin slices of prosciutto and fold them onto the skewers. Add fresh mozzarella balls and basil leaves for extra flavor.

Drizzle the skewers with balsamic glaze before serving. This adds a nice tangy sweetness.

These skewers are quick to put together. You can prep them ahead of time and keep chilled until ready to serve.

Your guests will love the mix of sweet melon, salty prosciutto, and creamy cheese. It’s a refreshing side dish for hot summer cookouts.

30. Rainbow Vegetable Kabobs

Rainbow vegetable kabobs are a colorful and tasty BBQ side dish. You can use a variety of vegetables to create a vibrant skewer. Popular choices include bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and mushrooms.

To make these kabobs, cut your veggies into bite-sized pieces. Thread them onto skewers in a rainbow pattern. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Grill the kabobs for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally. They’re done when the vegetables are tender and lightly charred. These kabobs pair well with any grilled main dish and add a pop of color to your plate.

31. Avocado Corn Salad

Avocado corn salad is a tasty BBQ side dish that’s easy to make. It combines sweet corn with creamy avocado for a perfect flavor mix.

To make it, grill some fresh corn on the cob. Cut the kernels off and mix them with diced avocado and cherry tomatoes.

Add a simple dressing of lime juice, olive oil, and salt. This brings out the flavors and adds a zesty kick.

You can customize it by adding extras like feta cheese or red bell peppers. It’s best served fresh, so add the avocado right before eating.

This salad is light, refreshing, and full of summer flavors. It’s sure to be a hit at your next cookout.

Seasonal Considerations

In summer, focus on light, refreshing sides.

Think fruit salads, chilled pasta dishes, or grilled veggie skewers. These cool options complement hot-off-the-grill meats.

For fall BBQs, opt for heartier choices.

Roasted root vegetables, warm potato dishes, or squash-based sides match the cooler weather. They pair well with richer, slow-cooked meats too.

Winter calls for comforting sides.

Try cheesy casseroles, baked sweet potatoes, or warm dinner rolls. These filling options round out hearty winter BBQ fare.

Spring BBQs shine with fresh, green sides.

Asparagus, pea salads, or mixed greens celebrate the season. They’re perfect with lighter grilled options like chicken or fish.