30 Crowd-Favorite BBQ Side Dishes to Try
BBQ side dishes complement grilled favorites with fresh, savory, and slightly sweet flavors.
These sides include everything from tangy slaws and corn salads to hearty baked beans, all designed to enhance the BBQ experience.
Packed with flavors, they pairs beautifully with smoky, grilled mains.
Overall, these sides make backyard BBQs complete.
Macaroni Salad
Macaroni salad brings a comforting warmth that feels like a hug on a plate.
With tender pasta enveloped in creamy dressing, it offers a blend of flavors and textures.
Crunchy vegetables add freshness, while bits of savory ingredients like cheese or bacon elevate every mouthful.
This dish shines at picnics and barbecues, making it an inviting addition to any gathering.
Easy Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries offer a twist on a classic snack.
The vibrant orange color instantly catches the eye, inviting you to dig in.
With just a sprinkle of salt and your favorite spices, these fries become an irresistible treat that’s both crunchy and soft inside.
Baking them instead of frying keeps things light while still delivering that satisfying crunch you crave.
Ideal for munching during movie nights or as a side dish at dinner, they bring warmth and comfort to any meal.
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
Freshness bursts from every corner of a cucumber tomato avocado salad.
Juicy tomatoes mingle with crisp cucumbers, while creamy avocado adds a delightful richness that brings everything together.
A drizzle of zesty lime juice elevates the flavors, making each mouthful refreshing and invigorating.
This salad not only serves as a light meal but also shines as an accompaniment to grilled dishes or picnic spreads.
With its vibrant colors and textures, it invites you to savor the essence of summer in every bite.
Green Bean Almondine
Green bean almondine offers a combination of fresh green beans and crunchy almonds, creating a dish that feels both elegant and comforting.
The bright green color of the beans pops against the golden brown of toasted almonds, making it visually appealing on any plate.
A hint of lemon zest adds a refreshing twist that lifts the flavors beautifully, inviting you to take another bite.
This dish is quick to prepare, allowing you to enjoy quality time with loved ones while serving something special at your table.
With its simple ingredients and vibrant taste, this recipe transforms ordinary meals into memorable occasions.
Creamed Corn
Creamed corn brings a warm, comforting feeling to any meal.
The sweet kernels blend beautifully with rich cream, creating a luscious texture that’s hard to resist.
Each spoonful bursts with flavor, reminding you of cozy family dinners and sunny days spent outdoors.
This dish can easily be paired with grilled meats or served as a delightful side at gatherings.
Rainbow Pasta Salad
Bright colors and fresh flavors come together in rainbow pasta salad, making it a feast for the eyes and the taste buds.
This dish bursts with an array of vibrant vegetables like crisp bell peppers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers.
Tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and a zesty dressing, every forkful brings joy to your palate.
It’s not just about looks; this salad is packed with nutrients that nourish your body while satisfying cravings for something light yet filling.
Whether served at a picnic or enjoyed as a quick lunch at home, rainbow pasta salad adds cheer to any meal experience you create.
Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread
Bacon cheddar jalapeno cornbread offers a twist on a classic favorite.
The savory aroma fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around and enjoy something warm and comforting.
Crispy bits of bacon blend perfectly with sharp cheddar cheese, while jalapenos add just the right amount of kick for those who crave a little heat.
Each piece is golden brown with a moist texture that keeps you coming back for more, making it an excellent companion to soups or chili on chilly days.
Balela Salad
Balela salad bursts with freshness and flavor, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
This Middle Eastern dish combines chickpeas and black beans, providing a hearty base that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Tossed with vibrant tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant parsley, every mouthful offers a refreshing crunch that invigorates the senses.
A zesty dressing of lemon juice and olive oil ties everything together beautifully while adding a tangy kick you won’t forget.
Mexican Street Corn Salad with Avocado
Mexican street corn salad with avocado brings a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.
The sweet, charred corn mingles beautifully with creamy avocado, creating a texture that dances on your palate.
Fresh cilantro adds an aromatic touch, while zesty lime juice brightens every bite.
This dish feels like summer in a bowl and is perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings at home.
Enjoying it can spark conversations about favorite recipes and shared meals around the table.
The Best Potato Salad Recipe
Potato salad brings a comforting vibe to any gathering, and this recipe shines with its creamy texture and vibrant flavors.
Freshly boiled potatoes mix beautifully with crisp celery, tangy pickles, and a hint of onion for that extra crunch.
A blend of mayonnaise, mustard, and just the right spices adds depth that keeps everyone coming back for more.
This dish can be customized to suit your taste; think about adding hard-boiled eggs or fresh herbs for an exciting twist.
Perfect as a side at barbecues or picnics, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen repertoire!
Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
Bacon wrapped brussels sprouts offer a combination of flavors that can elevate any meal.
The savory, crispy bacon pairs beautifully with the earthy, slightly bitter taste of roasted brussels sprouts.
Each morsel brings a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the tender vegetable inside.
This dish is not just about taste; it’s about creating an experience that invites everyone to gather around the table and share in something special.
Whether served as an appetizer or side dish, these bites are sure to spark conversations and smiles among your guests.
Baked Garlic Herb Potato Wedges
Baked garlic herb potato wedges bring a crunch and an explosion of flavor to your table.
These golden-brown treats are seasoned with aromatic herbs that dance on your taste buds, offering a savory experience you won't forget.
Each wedge is perfectly baked to achieve that crispy exterior while remaining soft and fluffy inside, making them irresistible.
Pair these with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick or enjoy them as they are for a comforting snack any time of day.
Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
Hawaiian sweet rolls bring a taste of the islands right to your table.
Soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, these rolls are perfect for any meal or snack.
The delightful hint of pineapple adds a tropical twist that sets them apart from ordinary bread.
Pair them with savory dishes or enjoy them on their own; they complement everything beautifully.
Southern Collard Greens
Southern collard greens bring a taste of tradition to your table, offering warmth and comfort in every serving.
This leafy green is often simmered slowly with smoky flavors, creating a rich and hearty dish that warms the soul.
Cooking them with spices like garlic and onion adds depth, while a splash of vinegar brightens the overall flavor profile.
Enjoying collard greens can feel like stepping into Grandma's kitchen on a Sunday afternoon, where love is infused into every pot.
Whether served alongside cornbread or as part of a larger feast, these greens invite you to savor moments filled with good food and cherished memories.
Bacon Avocado Potato Salad
Bacon avocado potato salad combines creamy textures and savory flavors in a nice way.
Picture tender potatoes mingling with crispy bacon, while rich avocado adds a smooth finish that elevates the dish.
Fresh herbs bring brightness, balancing the richness of the ingredients beautifully.
This salad works well as a side for barbecues or picnics, making it an excellent choice for gatherings with loved ones.
Each forkful invites you to savor its deliciousness while enjoying good company and laughter around the table.
Roasted Mexican Street Corn
Roasted Mexican street corn brings a burst of flavor that can light up any gathering.
The smoky aroma wafts through the air, inviting everyone to take a closer look.
Slathered in creamy mayo and sprinkled with crumbled cheese, this dish is all about indulgence.
A squeeze of lime adds just the right zing, balancing out the richness perfectly.
Baked Mac and Cheese
Baked mac and cheese warms the heart with its creamy, cheesy goodness.
This dish combines perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce that makes every mouthful comforting.
Topped with a golden crust of breadcrumbs or crispy cheese, it offers an inviting crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
A hint of spices or herbs can elevate the flavor profile, making each serving feel like a cozy hug on a chilly day.
Bisquick Biscuits
Bisquick biscuits offer a nice way to enjoy warm, fluffy goodness right from your oven.
With just a few simple ingredients, these treats come together quickly, so you can prepare it for breakfast or as an accompaniment to dinner.
The light texture and buttery flavor melt in your mouth, leaving you craving more with every bite.
You can easily customize them by adding herbs or cheese for an extra burst of flavor that suits your taste buds.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch to any meal, offering a contrast to rich and hearty dishes.
This colorful salad combines shredded cabbage with carrots, often dressed in creamy or tangy sauces that enhance its flavor.
A sprinkle of herbs or spices can elevate the taste , adding layers of complexity you might not expect.
Perfect as a side dish at barbecues or picnics, coleslaw also shines when served alongside sandwiches and fried foods.
Each serving invites you to enjoy the simple pleasures of fresh ingredients coming together in harmony.
Baked Beans
Baked beans warm the heart and fill the belly with their rich, comforting flavors.
A blend of tender beans simmered in a savory sauce creates a dish that feels like home.
Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on toast, they bring a satisfying sweetness that lingers on your palate.
This recipe also invites you to savor its hearty texture and an aroma.
Old Fashioned Green Beans
Old fashioned green beans bring a comforting touch to any meal.
This dish celebrates the simplicity of fresh vegetables, often enhanced with savory bacon or ham for that rich flavor you crave.
Cooking them slowly allows all those delicious juices to meld together, creating a warm and inviting aroma in your kitchen.
A sprinkle of salt and pepper can elevate their taste , making every bite satisfying and wholesome.
Fruit Salad
Fruit salad brings a burst of color and freshness to any table.
Juicy strawberries, crisp apples, and sweet mangoes mingle together in a mix that invites you to take a bite.
Each piece offers its own flavor profile, creating an experience that dances on your taste buds.
This dish is not just about nutrition; it’s about enjoying the simple pleasures of nature's bounty.
Deviled Eggs Macaroni Salad
Deviled eggs macaroni salad brings a twist to a classic dish.
Creamy and tangy, this salad combines the comforting texture of macaroni with the rich flavors of deviled eggs.
You can almost taste the nostalgia in every forkful, reminiscent of family gatherings and summer picnics.
A sprinkle of paprika adds a pop of color while enhancing that signature deviled egg flavor you love.
This dish invites everyone to dig in, making it an irresistible addition to any table setting or casual get-together.
Bacon Pea Creamy Pasta Salad
Bacon pea creamy pasta salad brings together the comforting richness of creamy dressing with the crunch of crispy bacon.
Fresh peas add a pop of color and sweetness, balancing out the savory elements beautifully.
Each forkful is a mix of textures that keeps every bite interesting, making it hard to resist going back for more.
This dish shines at gatherings, where its vibrant appearance draws everyone in and sparks conversations around the table.
Perfect as a side or even as a light meal on its own, this salad offers satisfaction in every scoop you take.
Classic Dinner Rolls
Classic dinner rolls bring warmth and comfort to any meal.
Soft, fluffy, and golden-brown on the outside, they invite you to take a bite with their irresistible aroma.
These rolls are perfect for mopping up gravy or enjoying with a pat of butter that melts into every crevice.
Baking them fills your kitchen with a cozy scent that makes everyone feel at home.
Whether it’s a holiday feast or an everyday dinner, these little treasures add joy to the table in ways that only fresh bread can do.
Grilled Peach Salad
Grilled peach salad brings a burst of summer right to your plate.
Juicy peaches, kissed by the grill, offer a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with fresh greens.
Crumbled feta adds a creamy tang, while crunchy nuts provide satisfying texture in every forkful.
A drizzle of balsamic glaze ties everything together with its rich and zesty notes.
This dish invites you to savor the season’s best flavors and enjoy moments filled with sunshine and good company.
Loaded BBQ Baked Potatoes
Loaded BBQ baked potatoes bring a comforting twist to your meal.
Picture a fluffy potato, perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.
Topped generously with smoky barbecue sauce, tender pulled pork or chicken adds heartiness that warms the soul.
Freshly chopped green onions and creamy cheese melt together, creating an irresistible combination that makes every bite satisfying.
This dish invites you to gather around the table, sharing laughter and stories while enjoying something truly delicious together.
Caprese Pasta Salad
Caprese pasta salad brings a refreshing twist to traditional flavors.
Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil mingle with perfectly cooked pasta, creating a harmony.
The vibrant colors of this dish catch the eye and invite you to dig in.
A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds just the right amount of tanginess.
Roasted Corn on the Cob
Roasted corn on the cob brings a crunch and warmth to any gathering.
The smoky aroma fills the air, inviting everyone to indulge in its sweet, buttery goodness.
Imagine sinking your teeth into those tender kernels, bursting with flavor that dances on your palate.
This simple treat can be enjoyed at summer barbecues or cozy bonfire nights, adding a rustic charm that feels just right.
Topped with spices or slathered in butter, roasted corn becomes more than just food; it transforms moments into cherished memories shared with loved ones.
Grilled Pineapple and Mango Salad
Grilled pineapple and mango salad brings a refreshing twist to your plate.
Juicy pieces of pineapple and ripe mango dance together, their natural sweetness enhanced by the smoky flavor from grilling.
Tossed with crisp greens, this salad bursts with color and life, inviting you to take a bite.
A sprinkle of lime juice adds just the right zing, making every mouthful bright and lively.
Perfect for warm days or as a side at gatherings, this dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it.
Linda Dean
Expertise
Culinary Arts, Food Journalism, Global Cuisine, Exploration, Recipe Development, Cultural Food Studies, Culinary Travel and Storytelling
Education
Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY
Program: Associate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Developed a comprehensive understanding of global cuisines and essential cooking techniques. Engaged in intensive hands-on practice in both kitchens and real-world settings, guided by expert chefs. This program emphasized the application of culinary skills in professional environments, preparing students for a variety of roles in the culinary industry.
City, University of London, London, UK
Program: BA Journalism
Focus: Gained expertise in media studies with a strong foundation in reporting, editing, and communicating. While the program focuses broadly on journalism, the skills acquired apply to food journalism, including the ability to analyze and report on food culture and culinary trends effectively.
Linda Dean is an experienced chef and food writer who loves exploring flavors from around the world. Trained at the Culinary Institute of America, Linda has spent over ten years mastering the art of making dishes that truly represent different cultures. She also studied journalism at City, University of London, which helps her write engaging stories about these foods.
On heythattastesgood.com, Linda shares recipes that bring the world’s kitchens to her readers. She focuses on authentic tastes and the stories behind them, making it easy for anyone to try international cuisine at home.