33 Bold and Flavorful BBQ Side Dishes for Backyard Parties
BBQ side dishes complete the grilling experience with exciting, flavorful options. These recipes offer a range of textures and tastes to pair perfectly with smoky mains.
They combine hearty classics with refreshing modern twists for any gathering. Easy preparation and bold flavors make them ideal for summer cookouts or year-round meals.
Their variety ensures something for every palate and preference. Explore this collection of 33 BBQ side dishes:
BBQ Baked Beans
BBQ baked beans are a quick and savory dish that can easily elevate any casual gathering.
With just about 40 minutes needed for preparation, you won’t be tied up in the kitchen while your guests enjoy themselves.
Canned baked beans serve as a convenient base, but it's the combination of smoky bacon, crunchy bell peppers, zesty chipotle chili powder, and tangy apple cider vinegar that truly enhances this recipe’s appeal.
This hearty side brings robust flavors to your BBQ table without requiring hours of cooking time, making it an ideal choice when you're short on prep time yet craving something deliciously satisfying.
Best Loaded Baked Potatoes
Loaded baked potatoes serve as a satisfying and hearty dish, perfect for complementing any BBQ meal. Their unique feature lies in the endless possibilities for toppings; you can enhance them with everything from cheese and sour cream to crispy bacon or fresh herbs.
Baking the potatoes until they reach a fluffy interior is essential, taking around 45 to 60 minutes at the right temperature. To maintain their light texture, cutting into them promptly after baking prevents moisture loss that can lead to density.
Whether served as a side or topped with your favorite smoked meats like pulled pork, these potatoes are sure to please every palate at your table.
Favorite Green Salad with Apples, Cranberries, and Pepitas
A favorite green salad with apples, cranberries, and pepitas stands out as a refreshing dish that perfectly balances sweetness and crunch. This delightful mix features crisp greens complemented by tart cranberries and succulent green apples.
The addition of apple cider vinegar paired with Dijon mustard brings an exciting tang that enhances the overall flavor profile. Cherry tomatoes contribute a pop of color while adding another layer of taste to this vibrant salad.
Ideal for barbecues or casual meals, it adds a satisfying contrast alongside grilled dishes without worrying about wilted ingredients later on.
Sausage Rolls
Sausage rolls are beloved snacks renowned for their flaky pastry and savory filling. These handheld delights feature a rich layer of buttery dough enveloping flavorful pork sausage, creating an irresistible taste sensation.
Ideal as party fare or a quick treat, they far surpass any traditional pigs in blankets you've encountered. Pair them with pasta salad for a delightful meal option that satisfies cravings effortlessly.
For the ultimate experience, don't skip the classic accompaniment of Heinz tomato ketchup; it adds just the right zing to every bite.
Mozzarella and Parmesan Oven Baked Tomatoes
Mozzarella and parmesan oven-baked tomatoes offer a delightful twist on traditional side dishes, turning simple ingredients into an impressive culinary experience. Juicy tomatoes transform into flavor-packed bites with a crispy cheese topping that pairs beautifully with any BBQ spread.
Preparing this dish is quick and effortless; it only takes five minutes to get everything ready for the oven. Using a deep baking dish allows the tomatoes to stand tall, ensuring each one receives its share of gooey mozzarella, rich parmesan, and aromatic basil toppings.
After about ten minutes in the oven, let them rest briefly before serving so you can enjoy their comforting warmth without burning your mouth on hot insides.
Pizza Rolls
Pizza rolls are a playful and satisfying addition to any BBQ gathering, offering an unexpected twist on traditional sides. These delightful bites consist of soft dough enveloping savory fillings that you can personalize with your favorite ingredients.
Preparing them is a breeze; simply grab some store-bought pizza dough, fill it with delicious options like pepperoni and bacon, then bake for just around ten minutes until golden brown. They serve as the perfect snack while waiting for those juicy steaks to finish cooking.
Whether you're entertaining friends or enjoying a casual evening at home, these tasty treats bring excitement to the table without much fuss.
Caprese Skewers
Caprese skewers are a delightful combination of fresh ingredients that embody the essence of Italian flavors in a simple yet appealing presentation. Featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, aromatic basil leaves, and drizzled with rich balsamic vinegar, this dish brings together freshness and elegance without the need for cooking.
Preparation is quick and effortless; you can whip these up in less than ten minutes, ideal for those spontaneous gatherings or picnics. Light grilling adds an extra dimension but isn't necessary to enjoy their refreshing taste.
These skewers pair wonderfully with pasta salads or as a standalone appetizer at your next event.
Jalapeno Popper Grilled Corn Salad
Jalapeno popper grilled corn salad offers a lively twist on traditional BBQ sides, featuring the bold flavors of jalapenos and creamy cheeses. Freshly grilled summer corn shines as the star ingredient, harmonizing beautifully with rich cream cheese, tangy sour cream, crispy bacon bits, and spicy jalapenos.
Opting for fresh corn elevates this dish beyond typical salads by enhancing its texture and taste. The straightforward preparation allows you to whip up this enticing side without fuss while adding that extra zing your guests will love at any gathering.
Expect compliments as everyone comes back for more of this tantalizing salad!
Cannoli Dip
Cannoli dip is a luscious dessert that captures the irresistible flavor of classic cannoli filling in a creamy, dippable form. The blend of sweetened ricotta cheese creates an enticing balance that isn't overly sugary, making it perfect for pairing with various treats.
You can enjoy this delightful creation alongside fresh fruit, cookies, or brownies; its versatility surprises everyone. For an adventurous twist, try adding a spoonful to grilled watermelon or fresh avocado for unexpected yet delicious combinations.
This dish adds charm and sweetness to any gathering without overwhelming your palate.
KFC Coleslaw Recipe
KFC coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the crispy fried chicken that many crave. This creamy side dish shines through with its unique blend of flavors and textures, making it an essential addition to any meal.
Buttermilk stands out as the secret ingredient, providing a rich base that elevates this slaw above typical recipes. The zesty kick from white vinegar and lemon juice adds depth, enhancing its overall appeal while ensuring each bite remains satisfying.
You’ll find it’s not just a side; it's a delightful companion for gatherings or casual dinners alike.
Bisquick Corn Bread Recipe
Bisquick cornbread is a deliciously moist accompaniment that enhances any BBQ meal.
With its easy preparation using just one bowl, you can whip up this comforting bread in no time.
The warm aroma wafting from the oven will have everyone anticipating a slice as it pairs perfectly with your favorite grilled meats or savory dishes.
This straightforward recipe not only saves on clean-up but also delivers consistent results each time you bake it, making it an essential addition to your culinary repertoire when hosting gatherings.
Strawberry Banana Popsicles
Strawberry banana popsicles are a refreshing homemade treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries and bananas with creamy yogurt. These delightful frozen snacks not only save you money but also offer endless customization options to suit your taste preferences.
A simple mix of fresh fruit, Greek yogurt or regular yogurt, milk, and a hint of honey creates a smooth base that's poured into molds for freezing. Once you've mastered this basic recipe, experimenting with various fruits or adding flavors like vanilla will be an exciting way to create unique variations at home.
Enjoying these popsicles provides both satisfaction and nutrition in every bite as they keep you cool on warm days without any guilt.
Mac & Cheese
Mac & cheese is a beloved BBQ side that truly holds its own in the world of grilling delights. Known for its creamy, cheesy texture, this dish perfectly complements smoked meats like spare ribs or chicken.
Those who seek adventure can elevate their experience by adding tangy barbecue sauce for an extra burst of flavor or even layering it atop juicy hamburgers. For those with a taste for spice, incorporating pepper jack cheese and diced jalapenos delivers just the right amount of heat to awaken your palate.
This classic comfort food remains a staple at any backyard gathering, inviting you to indulge in every comforting mouthful without hesitation.
4-Ingredient Rice Krispie Ice Cream Sandwiches
4-ingredient rice krispie ice cream sandwiches are a refreshing twist on the classic treat, combining the crispy texture of rice cereal with creamy ice cream. This simple recipe transforms your favorite snacks into an indulgent dessert that’s ideal for summer barbecues and gatherings.
Crafting these delights involves just a few straightforward steps, making it accessible for everyone in the kitchen. Feel free to experiment with various flavors of ice cream or layer them creatively within the pan, allowing you to enjoy different tastes in each bite while keeping things fun and exciting.
You’ll find this quick-to-make dessert is sure to impress friends at any outdoor event.
Bojangles Biscuit Copycat Recipe
Bojangles biscuits are fluffy, buttery pastries that elevate any meal with their irresistible texture. These treats pair wonderfully with grilled meats, fresh fruits, and roasted vegetables, making them a versatile side dish for all occasions.
The secret to achieving the perfect biscuit lies in handling the dough gently; over-mixing can lead to dense results instead of light and airy bites. Once baked to golden perfection, slathering on extra butter adds an indulgent finish you won’t want to miss out on.
You’ll find these delightful biscuits are a true crowd-pleaser at gatherings or as a comforting addition to your family dinners.
The Best Green Beans
Green beans shine as a wonderfully versatile vegetable that can elevate any meal. Steaming these beans instead of boiling them preserves their vibrant color and crisp texture, ensuring they’re anything but bland.
While the green beans steam, you can focus on other dishes; just be sure to sauté them in garlic butter for that perfect balance of flavor without burning the garlic. Adding cherry tomatoes and feta transforms this side into a delightful salad that pairs beautifully with various entrees.
This approach not only enhances taste but also brings fresh elements to your plate effortlessly.
The Best Potato Salad
Potato salad stands out as a classic side dish that enhances any meal, not just barbecues. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor offer a satisfying contrast to grilled foods while serving as a refreshing option for picnics or potlucks.
Adding ingredients like sweet onion, celery seeds, lime juice, and apple cider vinegar infuses this recipe with unique zestiness that elevates its taste profile beyond the ordinary. You can also explore an interesting twist by incorporating broccoli salad into your potato mixture for added crunch and nutrition.
With these enhancements, you’ll find this version of potato salad perfect for all occasions, whether it’s casual gatherings or holiday feasts.
Got-Dominos-Beat Baguette Garlic Bread
Garlic bread made from a freshly baked baguette is an irresistible accompaniment that enhances any meal. The unique texture of the crusty exterior paired with a soft, buttery interior creates a delightful contrast, making it an ideal side for pasta dishes or salads.
Instead of opting for frozen varieties, crafting this version allows you to personalize the garlic butter mixture according to your taste preferences. Ensuring the garlic flavor stands out before baking guarantees each slice remains packed with robust taste after it's removed from the oven.
This creation transforms simple ingredients into something memorable and satisfying at your dining table.
Pink Lemonade Cupcakes
Pink lemonade cupcakes are a refreshing twist on traditional dessert, featuring a zesty lemon flavor paired with hints of berry. These delightful treats not only brighten up any BBQ gathering but also complement savory dishes like hot dogs and burgers effortlessly.
Incorporating strawberry yogurt into the batter enhances moisture while adding an extra layer of taste that you’ll appreciate in every bite. For those warm outdoor events, opting for a firmer frosting ensures your cupcakes maintain their shape despite the heat from grilled favorites.
Whether you're hosting or simply indulging at home, these cupcakes bring sunshine to your table and are sure to impress anyone who tastes them.
Grannys Best Macaroni Salad
Granny's best macaroni salad is a crowd-pleasing side that transforms any BBQ into a flavorful feast. This dish bursts with an array of tastes from crisp red bell peppers, fresh green onions, hard-boiled eggs, and zesty dill pickle relish.
The combination creates a satisfying contrast that makes it stand out on your picnic table. Alongside grilled meats or as part of a potluck spread, this pasta salad complements every summer gathering effortlessly while appealing to all palates.
It's one recipe you'll want in your collection for those sunny cookouts ahead.
Beer Bread
Beer bread is a straightforward yet satisfying creation that requires just six ingredients and no waiting time for proofing. With this recipe, you can simply mix everything together, pour the batter into a greased loaf pan, and bake it like banana bread.
Opting for light beer will yield a milder taste, while using darker varieties adds depth to each slice. Dipping this hearty bread in barbecue sauce enhances its appeal as a perfect side dish at any gathering or cookout.
Whether served warm or toasted later, it complements your favorite grilled meals seamlessly.
Easy Homemade Pickles
Easy homemade pickles are a refreshing addition to any barbecue spread, known for their crisp texture and tangy flavor. Crafting your own pickles allows you to personalize them with an array of spices and herbs, making each batch unique.
Fresh cucumbers serve as the base, while ingredients like red pepper flakes, dill seeds, and garlic elevate their taste profile beyond what store-bought options can offer. Incorporating these zesty bites into dishes such as pasta salad adds an exciting twist that enhances every forkful.
With minimal effort involved in preparation, you'll find this recipe a delightful way to complement your favorite meals effortlessly.
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo chicken dip is a flavorful and creamy appetizer that elevates any gathering with its spicy kick. Featuring rotisserie chicken, crumbled blue cheese, garlic, hot sauce, and cream cheese, this dish transforms ordinary snack time into an exciting culinary experience.
Mixing in shredded cheddar right before baking creates a bubbling pot of cheesy delight that's hard to resist. Adding fresh chopped tomatoes offers a burst of color and freshness to the mix as well.
Pair it with crispy chips or even grilled veggies for dipping; it's bound to become the highlight of your next get-together!
Best Homemade Lemonade
Homemade lemonade is a quintessential summer beverage that balances sweetness and acidity, making it an exceptional choice for warm days. Crafted from fresh lemons, this drink refreshes the palate while providing a delightful burst of citrus flavor.
Ensuring your lemons are thoroughly washed enhances both safety and taste when combining them with sugar to create that perfect mix you desire. Adjusting the sugar level allows you to personalize each batch according to your preferences since lemon sweetness can vary seasonally.
Serving this revitalizing drink at gatherings elevates any occasion, ensuring everyone enjoys its crisp taste on sunny afternoons.
Easy Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Baked sweet potato fries offer a satisfying alternative to their fried counterparts while providing a healthier twist.
The secret lies in soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for around 45 minutes, which helps remove excess starch and enhances crispiness.
After draining, drying them thoroughly is essential before tossing with cornstarch and your favorite seasonings; using a ziplock bag can make this step easier and mess-free.
For an exciting variation, consider adding toppings like grated cheddar cheese, jalapeños, bacon bits, sour cream or fresh green onions, these options elevate your homemade fries into something truly special that you’ll look forward to enjoying again and again.
Microwave Corn on the Cob
Microwave corn on the cob offers a quick and convenient way to enjoy this classic side dish without needing outdoor cooking space. The unique approach of steaming in the microwave results in tender kernels that retain their natural sweetness, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
Starting with husked corn allows for even cooking and enhances flavor absorption when you add your preferred seasonings afterward. This method not only saves time but also minimizes cleanup, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings at home.
You’ll find yourself opting for this efficient technique whenever fresh corn is within reach.
Pea Salad With Bacon
Pea salad with bacon transforms ordinary frozen peas into a standout BBQ side that surprises the palate. The addition of crispy bacon and sharp cheddar elevates this dish, while a hint of paprika introduces an unexpected warmth.
You can also enhance it further by incorporating crunchy sliced cucumbers and creamy feta for added texture and flavor. This vibrant mix not only pleases your taste buds but also adds a colorful touch to your summer gatherings.
It's an exciting way to put those forgotten peas to delicious use without any fuss in the kitchen.
Pineapple Pretzel Fluff
Pineapple pretzel fluff offers a delightful and unique dessert experience that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the salty crunch of crushed pretzels. This recipe transforms traditional cheesecake flavors into a fun, no-bake treat by utilizing whipped cream, cream cheese, and crushed pineapples for an irresistible filling.
After preparing this easy mixture, folding in the crunchy crust adds an exciting texture contrast that's hard to resist. Serving it alongside cannoli dip or in mini dishes makes it a versatile addition to any gathering.
With its refreshing taste and innovative ingredients, it's sure to be a hit at your next BBQ or picnic event.
Easy 3-Ingredient Fruit Sorbet
Fruit sorbet is a wonderfully refreshing frozen dessert that highlights the natural flavors of fruit with minimal effort. Made from just pureed fruit and a simple syrup of sugar and water, this treat delivers an explosion of taste without any fuss.
Using frozen fruits like pineapple, strawberry, blueberry, peach, or raspberry allows you to easily experiment with different flavor profiles while keeping it incredibly straightforward. You simply blend your chosen frozen fruit with the syrup mixture before placing it in the freezer to set, a method that saves both time and cleanup.
This delightful sorbet not only cools you down but also brings a burst of fruity goodness that's hard to resist on warm days or during gatherings.
Quick Collard Greens
Quick collard greens are a speedy version of the classic side dish that highlights the robust flavors of fresh greens without lengthy preparation. This method allows you to enjoy tender, flavorful collards in just minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
Stirring every 30 seconds ensures even cooking and helps the leaves absorb salt and garlic, enhancing their taste. The result is a satisfying side that pairs wonderfully with various main dishes while adding essential nutrients to your meal.
Incorporating these quick collard greens into your menu means enjoying delicious home-cooked flavors efficiently.
Cherry Pie Pops
Cherry pie pops are delightful handheld treats that capture the classic flavors of cherry pie in a fun, portable form. With just a can of cherry filling and pre-made pie dough, you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly these sweets come together.
They not only look charming but also allow for creativity; consider dipping them in melted chocolate or drizzling caramel on top to elevate their appeal. Customizing with sprinkles or various toppings adds an exciting twist to each pop, making every batch uniquely yours.
These little delights make dessert enjoyable anywhere without the fuss of traditional serving methods.
Easy Pan-Fried Zucchini
Pan-fried zucchini offers a delightful way to enjoy this vegetable with a crispy, golden exterior. These bites stand out as a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks, making them an appealing choice for BBQ gatherings or casual meals.
The preparation is straightforward; you’ll only need flour and eggs for the crust while customizing the seasoning to suit your taste preferences enhances their appeal further. Pairing these tasty morsels with grilled fish or chicken adds another layer of flavor that complements any outdoor feast beautifully.
Ideal for those seeking lighter options without sacrificing taste, they can quickly become a favorite on your menu.
Ambrosia Fruit Salad
Ambrosia fruit salad is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors that brings a refreshing twist to any gathering. This creamy concoction features juicy mandarins, succulent pineapple, and fluffy mini marshmallows all blended together with coconut, sour cream, and whipped cream for an unexpected yet delicious taste experience.
The unique addition of sour cream enhances the overall flavor profile, making each spoonful surprisingly satisfying. It’s no wonder this dish tends to vanish quickly at parties; its enticing mix captures attention effortlessly.
For those who appreciate fruity desserts with character, ambrosia fruit salad stands out as a must-try treat that complements summer barbecues beautifully.