If you’re planning a BBQ, having a variety of side dishes to complement the main course is essential. The best BBQ side dishes are easy to prepare, delicious, and can be made in advance. Whether you’re looking for something sweet, savory, or spicy, there are plenty of options.
When it comes to BBQ side dishes, there are a few classics that are always a hit. Potato salad, coleslaw, and baked beans always stay in style. However, plenty of other options exist if you’re looking to mix things up. From grilled vegetables to mac and cheese, the possibilities are endless. Whatever you choose, ensure your side dishes are flavorful and well-balanced.
There is a Table of Contents above, but to help you find specific recipes we include in this article, here are links directly to them:
- Avocado & Chipotle Potato Salad
- Smoked Baked Beans
- Spicy Corn-on-the-Cob
- Smoked Macaroni and Cheese
- Smoked Garlic Roasted Potatoes
- Jalapeño Cornbead
BBQ Side Dishes – a few thoughts
The main dish is the star of the show, but the side dishes are the supporting cast that completes the meal. BBQ side dishes can be just as important as the main course and can make or break the overall dining experience.
BBQ side dishes are usually served cold or at room temperature, which makes them perfect for outdoor gatherings. They are also typically easy to prepare and can be made in advance, which means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the party.
When choosing BBQ side dishes, it’s essential to consider the flavors and textures that will complement the main dish. For example, if you’re serving a smoky brisket, pair it with a light and refreshing coleslaw or a tangy potato salad.
Some popular BBQ side dishes include:
- Coleslaw: A classic BBQ side dish made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing. Coleslaw can be made in advance and is the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats.
- Baked beans: A sweet and savory BBQ side dish with navy beans, bacon, and a tangy sauce. Baked beans can be cooked in a slow cooker or on the stove and are a great addition to any BBQ menu.
- Mac and cheese: A cheesy and comforting side dish, always a crowd-pleaser. Mac and cheese can be made with a variety of cheeses and can be baked or served creamy.
- Cornbread: A Southern staple that is perfect for BBQs. Cornbread is a sweet and savory bread usually served with butter or honey.
- Grilled vegetables: A healthy and flavorful side dish made with vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. Grilled vegetables are easy to prepare and can be seasoned with herbs and spices.
When it comes to BBQ side dishes, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re looking for something sweet, savory, or spicy, there is a side dish that will complement your main course perfectly. So, get creative and experiment with different flavors and textures to create the ultimate BBQ spread.
Popular BBQ Side Dishes
No barbecue is complete without some delicious side dishes complementing the main course. Here are some popular BBQ side dishes to please everyone at your next cookout.
Potato Salad
Potato salad is a classic BBQ side dish that is loved by many. It’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. Some prefer a creamy potato salad, while others like a tangy or mustard-based recipe. Add bacon, hard-boiled eggs, or other ingredients to make it even more flavorful.
Avocado & Chipotle Potato Salad
Creating a potato salad with avocado and chipotle offers a flavorful twist on a classic dish. The avocado brings a creamy texture, while chipotle adds a smoky, spicy kick. Here’s a simple recipe you can try:
Ingredients
For the Potato Salad
- 4 cups diced potatoes (about 4-5 medium-sized potatoes)
- 1 large avocado, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
For the Chipotle Avocado Dressing
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, depending on heat preference
- 1 clove garlic
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes: Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook until the potatoes are tender but not mushy, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, chipotle peppers, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, add the cooled potatoes, cubed avocado, diced red onion, diced celery, and diced red bell pepper.
- Add the Dressing: Pour the chipotle avocado dressing over the ingredients in the bowl.
- Mix: Gently mix the salad to combine, careful not to mash the avocado cubes or potatoes.
- Final Touch: Add the chopped cilantro and give the salad a final stir. You can also adjust the seasoning at this point if needed.
- Chill or Serve: You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish: Before serving, garnish with extra cilantro or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra heat.
Enjoy your potato salad with avocado and chipotle! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add other ingredients like cooked bacon or hard-boiled eggs if you’d like.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is another popular BBQ side dish that goes well with grilled meats. It’s a refreshing and crunchy salad made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing. You can make it sweeter or tangier, depending on your preference.
Baked Beans
Baked beans are a staple at any barbecue. They are made with navy beans, bacon, and a sweet and tangy sauce. Adding other ingredients like onions, peppers, or jalapenos gives it extra flavor.
Smoked Baked Beans
Smoked baked beans are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with barbecued meats. The smoky flavor takes traditional baked beans to the next level. Here’s a recipe to help you make delicious smoked baked beans that will surely be a hit at your next BBQ.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (28 oz each) of baked beans (you can use your preferred brand or style)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (choose your favorite)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1-2 jalapeños, finely diced (optional for heat)
- 4-6 slices of bacon, cut into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 cups wood chips for smoking (hickory, applewood, or cherrywood are good options)
Instructions
Prepare the Smoker
- Soak your wood chips in water for about 30 minutes before smoking.
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- Drain the wood chips and add them to the smoker.
Prepare the Beans
- Combine the baked beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, diced onion, green bell pepper, and optional jalapeños in a large bowl.
- Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Cook the Bacon
- Over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces in a skillet until they’re about halfway cooked but not crispy. You want to render some of the fat but keep the bacon somewhat soft as it will continue to cook in the smoker.
- Drain the bacon and add it to the bean mixture. Mix thoroughly.
Assemble and Smoke
- Pour the bean mixture into a smoker-safe aluminum pan or a cast-iron skillet.
- Place the pan in the preheated smoker and close the lid.
- Smoke the beans for 2-3 hours at 225°F (107°C) or until they’re bubbling and have absorbed a smoky flavor.
- If the beans get too dry during the smoking process, add a bit of water or additional barbecue sauce to keep them moist.
- Remove the beans from the smoker and let them sit for a few minutes to thicken up before serving.
Enjoy your smoked, baked beans as a hearty side dish at your next barbecue. The smoky flavor melts beautifully with the barbecue sauce’s sweetness and the jalapeños’ spiciness, creating a complex and delicious dish everyone will love.
Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a classic summer side dish perfect for BBQs. You can grill or boil the corn and serve it with butter and salt. For a Mexican twist, try making street corn by adding mayonnaise, chili powder, and cotija cheese.
Spicy Corn-on-the-cob
Grilling corn on the cob is a summer BBQ staple, but if you want to elevate your corn game, consider making “BBQ Coconut-Lime Sriracha Corn on the Cob.” This recipe features a tropical twist with coconut milk and lime, spiced up by the zestiness of Sriracha. The result is a combination of smoky, sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors that will surprise and delight your guests.
Ingredients
- 6 ears of corn, husks, and silk removed
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- Zest and juice of 2 limes
- 2-3 tablespoons Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Preparing the Marinade:
- Mix the coconut milk, lime zest, lime juice, Sriracha sauce, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Place the cleaned ears of corn in the bowl, ensuring they are fully submerged in the marinade. You can also use a large zip-lock bag for this step.
- Let the corn marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for better flavor absorption.
Grilling the Corn:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- While the grill is heating up, place the shredded coconut on a baking sheet and lightly toast it in the oven (or directly on the grill in a grill-safe pan) until golden brown. Be careful, as it can burn quickly. Set aside for later.
- Remove the corn from the marinade, shaking off the excess liquid.
- Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and have some char marks.
- Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the grill.
Final Touches:
- Brush the grilled corn lightly with the remaining marinade for extra flavor and moisture.
- Roll the corn in the toasted shredded coconut, ensuring it sticks to the kernels.
- Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
This BBQ Coconut-Lime Sriracha Corn on the Cob will be a unique and delicious addition to your summer BBQ menu. Enjoy!
Pasta Salad
Pasta salad is a great way to incorporate carbs into your BBQ meal. You can use any pasta and add your favorite ingredients like tomatoes, olives, cheese, or salami. Make a caprese pasta salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
Zucchini and Green Beans
Zucchini and green beans are a great way to add vegetables to your BBQ meal. You can grill or roast them with some olive oil and seasonings. Try making a zucchini and green bean casserole with a cheesy topping for a creamy side dish.
These are just a few popular BBQ side dishes you can serve at your next cookout. Mix and match different recipes to find the perfect combination for your guests.
BBQ Side Dishes with Meat
Regarding BBQ side dishes with meat, you want something that complements the main dish without overpowering it. Here are some side dishes that go well with chicken, bacon, and brisket:
Chicken
For chicken, you want side dishes that are light and refreshing. Here are some ideas:
- Grilled vegetables: Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions perfectly complement grilled chicken. They add color and flavor to the plate and are healthy, too.
- Corn on the cob: Corn on the cob is a classic BBQ side dish that goes well with chicken. It’s sweet and juicy and pairs well with the savory flavor of grilled chicken.
- Potato salad: A creamy potato salad is a great side dish for chicken. It’s filling and satisfying and provides a nice contrast to the lean protein of the chicken.
Bacon
Bacon is a rich and flavorful meat, so you want side dishes with bold flavor. Here are some ideas:
- Baked beans: Baked beans are a classic BBQ side dish that goes well with bacon. They’re sweet, savory, and a little smoky, making them the perfect complement to crispy bacon.
- Mac and cheese: Mac and cheese is a rich and indulgent side dish that goes well with bacon. The creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta perfectly match crispy bacon.
- Green beans: Green beans are a healthy and flavorful side dish that goes well with bacon. The green beans provide a nice crunch, and the bacon adds a smoky flavor.
Brisket
Brisket is a hearty and flavorful meat, so you want side dishes that stand up to its bold flavor. Here are some ideas:
- Cornbread: Cornbread is a classic BBQ side dish that goes well with brisket. The sweet and savory flavors of the cornbread complement the rich flavor of the brisket.
- Cole slaw: Cole slaw is a refreshing side dish that goes well with brisket. The crisp cabbage and carrots provide a nice crunch, and the creamy dressing helps balance out the bold flavor of the brisket.
- Potato chips: Potato chips are a simple and easy side dish that goes well with brisket. They provide a nice crunch, and the saltiness helps balance out the rich flavor of the brisket.
BBQ Side Dishes with Vegetables
When it comes to BBQ side dishes, vegetables are a must-have. Not only do they add color and texture to your plate, but they also provide a healthy balance to all the meaty goodness. Here are some ideas for vegetable side dishes that will complement your BBQ spread.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilling vegetables is a great way to bring out their natural flavors. Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and green beans are perfect for grilling. Brush them with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill until tender. You can add charred corn to the mix for a smoky flavor.
Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad is a light, refreshing side dish that pairs well with BBQ. It’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time. Slice some cucumbers, red onions, and tomatoes, and toss them with a dressing made of olive oil, vinegar, and herbs. Chill in the fridge until ready to serve.
Collard Greens
Collard greens are a Southern staple and a great addition to any BBQ spread. They are traditionally slow-cooked with ham hocks or bacon. Still, you can also make a vegetarian version with vegetable broth and smoked paprika. Serve with some hot sauce on the side for a little kick.
Roasted Beet Salad
Roasted beets are a beautiful and flavorful addition to any BBQ menu. Roast them in the oven with some olive oil and herbs until tender. Then, toss them with goat cheese, walnuts, and a honey mustard dressing for a delicious and nutritious salad.
Fried Okra
Fried okra is a classic Southern side dish that’s sure to please. Dip sliced okra into cornmeal and flour, and fry until golden brown. Serve with some ranch dressing on the side for dipping.
In conclusion, vegetables are an essential part of any BBQ spread. Whether you grill, roast, or fry them, there are plenty of delicious and healthy options to choose from. So, next time you fire up the grill, include some veggies on your plate.
BBQ Side Dishes with Herbs
When it comes to BBQ side dishes, fresh herbs can add a burst of flavor and elevate the taste of any dish. Here are some delicious BBQ side dishes with herbs that you can try at your next cookout:
Grilled Corn with Herb Butter
Grilled corn is a classic BBQ side dish, but adding herb butter can take it to the next level. Mix softened butter with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and chives to make herb butter. Spread the herb butter on grilled corn for a delicious and flavorful side dish.
Herb Potato Salad
Potato salad is a BBQ staple, but adding fresh herbs can make it even better. Mix boiled potatoes with chopped fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and chives. Add some mayonnaise and mustard for creaminess and tanginess, and you have a delicious herb potato salad.
Herb Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a healthy and tasty BBQ side dish; adding fresh herbs can make them even more delicious. Toss vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Grill the vegetables until tender and slightly charred for a flavorful side dish.
Herb Pasta Salad
Pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser at any BBQ; adding fresh herbs can make it even more delicious. Cook your favorite pasta and toss it with chopped fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and mint. Add some cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
Herb Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a classic BBQ side dish, but adding fresh herbs can make it more interesting. Mix shredded cabbage and carrots with chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and parsley. Add some mayonnaise and vinegar for creaminess and tanginess, and you have a delicious herb coleslaw.
Incorporating fresh herbs into your BBQ side dishes can add a burst of flavor and make them more interesting. Try these herb-infused side dishes at your next cookout, and your guests will be impressed.
BBQ Side Dishes with Cheese
When it comes to BBQ side dishes, cheese is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a fan of sharp cheddar or creamy burrata, there are plenty of cheesy options. Here are some of the best BBQ side dishes with cheese that you can serve at your next cookout:
Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a classic BBQ side dish that everyone loves. This creamy, cheesy dish is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. You can use different types of cheese, such as cheddar, gouda, or even cotija cheese, for a Mexican twist. Add toppings like bacon, breadcrumbs, or jalapeños to add flavor and texture.
Smoked Macaroni and Cheese
Smoking macaroni and cheese imparts a rich, deep flavor you won’t get from the oven or stovetop. This smoked macaroni and cheese recipe is creamy, cheesy, and has a delightful smoky finish that pairs well with BBQ or grilled meats.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 1 lb elbow macaroni (or your choice of pasta)
For the Cheese Sauce
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or another melting cheese like Monterey Jack)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Smoking
- 2-3 cups wood chips (like apple, hickory, or cherry)
Topping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Smoker
- Soak your wood chips in water for about 30 minutes before smoking.
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- Drain the wood chips and add them to the smoker.
Cook the Pasta
- Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, but cook it 1-2 minutes less than the suggested time for al dente; it will continue cooking in the smoker.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk together to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Slowly add the milk while continuing to whisk to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and keep stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Lower the heat and add the shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir until the cheese is fully melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and mix well.
Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter.
Smoke the Mac and Cheese
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased, smoker-safe dish.
- Sprinkle the buttered panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
- Place the dish in the preheated smoker.
- Smoke for 1 to 1.5 hours or until you see the cheese bubbling and the top becoming a golden brown.
Final Touches
- Remove from the smoker and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Enjoy your smoked macaroni and cheese as a stand-alone dish or as a side with your favorite BBQ meats. The smoky flavor adds an extra layer of complexity that makes this comfort food even more satisfying.
Grilled Cheese
Grilled cheese is another classic cheesy dish that is perfect for BBQs. You can make it with different types of bread and cheese, such as sourdough and burrata or ciabatta and mozzarella. Add toppings like tomato, bacon, or avocado to make it even more delicious.
Cheese Stuffed Jalapeños
If you’re looking for a spicy and cheesy BBQ side dish, cheese-stuffed jalapeños are a great option. These peppers are stuffed with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, or cotija cheese and then grilled until they are charred and crispy. They are the perfect appetizer or side dish for any BBQ.
Grilled Halloumi
Grilled halloumi is a Mediterranean cheese that is perfect for BBQs. This cheese has a high melting point, meaning it can be grilled without melting. It has a salty, tangy flavor and a chewy texture that pairs well with grilled vegetables and meats. You can also serve it with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Overall, there are plenty of delicious BBQ side dishes with cheese that you can serve at your next cookout. Whether you prefer macaroni and cheese or grilled halloumi, there is a cheesy option for everyone. Just make sure to choose high-quality cheese and pair it with the right ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying dish.
BBQ Side Dishes with Fruits
If you’re looking for a way to add some sweetness and freshness to your BBQ spread, incorporating fruits into your side dishes is a great way to do it. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Fruit Salad
A classic fruit salad is always a crowd-pleaser, and it’s easy to customize with your favorite fruits. Try a combination of sliced strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, and diced mango for a colorful and flavorful mix. You can also add some crunch with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of granola.
Grilled Fruit Skewers
Grilling fruit brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with savory BBQ dishes. Try skewering chunks of pineapple, peaches, and mango and grill them until they’re slightly caramelized. Add some cherry tomatoes to the skewers for a pop of color and acidity.
Orange Salad
An orange salad is a refreshing and unexpected addition to a BBQ spread. Slice some oranges and arrange them on a platter, and top with sliced red onion chopped fresh mint, and a drizzle of olive oil. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is sure to impress.
No matter what fruit you incorporate into your BBQ side dishes, choose ripe and flavorful options for the best results. And don’t be afraid to get creative with your combinations and presentation!
BBQ Side Dishes for Potluck
When it comes to potluck BBQs, you want to bring a dish that is easy to transport, can be made ahead of time, and will be enjoyed by all. Here are some BBQ side dishes that are perfect for potlucks:
Pasta Salad
Pasta salad is a classic potluck dish that is always a crowd-pleaser. You can make it ahead of time, and it’s easy to transport. Plus, there are so many variations to choose from. Try a classic pasta salad with Italian dressing, or mix it up with a pesto or Greek-style pasta salad.
Baked Beans
Baked beans are a staple at any BBQ, and they’re perfect for potlucks because they can be made ahead of time and reheated when you get to the party. You can make them from scratch or doctor up a can of baked beans with some bacon, onion, and brown sugar.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is another classic BBQ side dish that is perfect for potlucks. It’s easy to transport and can be made ahead of time. Plus, it’s a great way to get some veggies into your meal. Try a classic coleslaw with mayo and vinegar, or mix it up with a spicy or Asian-style coleslaw.
Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a great potluck dish because they’re easy to make and transport. Plus, they’re always a hit with guests. You can make them ahead of time and plate them when you get to the party. Try a classic deviled egg recipe, or mix it up with some bacon or jalapenos.
Fruit Salad
Fruit salad is a refreshing and healthy potluck dish perfect for picnics and BBQs. You can use any combination of fruits or try a classic fruit salad with watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew. Just make sure to keep it chilled until it’s time to serve.
These BBQ side dishes are sure to be a hit when it comes to potluck BBQs. They’re easy to transport, can be made ahead of time, and will be enjoyed by all. Just pick your favorites and get cooking!
BBQ Side Dishes Preparation Methods
When it comes to preparing BBQ side dishes, there are various methods you can use depending on the dish you want to make. Here are some common preparation methods to help you get started:
Grill
Grilling is a popular method for preparing BBQ side dishes, especially vegetables. You can grill corn on the cob, zucchini, bell peppers, and even fruits like pineapple. To grill vegetables, brush them with oil and season with salt and pepper before placing them on the grill. Cook until they are charred and tender, turning occasionally.
Stovetop
If you don’t have access to a grill, you can still prepare delicious BBQ side dishes on your stovetop. For example, you can make a creamy mac and cheese or a flavorful baked beans recipe. To make mac and cheese, cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then mix in a cheese sauce made with butter, milk, and shredded cheese. For baked beans, sauté onions and garlic in a pan, then add canned beans, ketchup, brown sugar, and spices. Simmer until the sauce is thick and the beans are tender.
Slow Cooker
Another convenient method for preparing BBQ side dishes is using a slow cooker. You can make dishes like pulled pork, BBQ chicken, and even cornbread in a slow cooker. Season a pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and BBQ rub to make pulled pork, then place it in the slow cooker with BBQ sauce and onions. Cook on low for 8 hours, shred the pork, and serve on buns with coleslaw. For cornbread, mix together cornmeal, flour, sugar, and baking powder, then add eggs, milk, and melted butter. Pour the batter into a greased slow cooker and cook on high for 2-3 hours.
Using these preparation methods, you can create various delicious BBQ side dishes to impress your guests. Whether you’re grilling, cooking on the stovetop, or using a slow cooker, there are plenty of options.
BBQ Side Dishes with Special Flavors
When it comes to BBQ side dishes, there are plenty of options, but sometimes you want something with a little extra kick or unique flavor. Here are some BBQ side dishes with special flavors that will impress your guests.
Garlic Roasted Potatoes
Roasted potatoes are a classic BBQ side dish, but adding garlic takes them to the next level. Toss chopped potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until crispy and golden brown. The garlic adds a savory flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled meats.
Smoked Garlic Roasted Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs baby potatoes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the baby potatoes to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the olive oil mixture.
- Place the potatoes in a single layer on a sheet of aluminum foil.
- Fold the edges of the foil up to create a packet and place the packet on the smoker.
- Smoke the potatoes for 1.5-2 hours or until tender and lightly browned.
- Remove the potatoes from the smoker and transfer them to a serving dish.
- Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top of the potatoes and serve immediately.
Enjoy your delicious smoked garlic roasted potatoes at your family BBQ as a perfect side dish!
Cider Vinegar Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a staple BBQ side dish, but adding cider vinegar gives it a tangy twist. Mix shredded cabbage and carrots with a dressing made from cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise. The result is a refreshing and flavorful coleslaw that complements any BBQ meal.
Tex-Mex Corn Salad
If you’re looking for a side dish with some spice, try a Tex-Mex corn salad. Mix corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and chili powder for a flavorful and colorful salad. It’s the perfect side dish for grilled chicken or steak.
Southern Potato Salad
Potato salad is a classic BBQ side dish, but the Southern version has a unique flavor. Boil potatoes until tender, then mix with hard-boiled eggs, celery, onion, mayonnaise, mustard, and a little sugar. The result is a creamy and slightly sweet potato salad that’s a hit at any BBQ.
Jalapeño Cornbread
Cornbread is a staple Southern side dish, but adding jalapeño gives it a little kick. Mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, buttermilk, and diced jalapeño, then bake in a cast-iron skillet until golden brown. It’s the perfect accompaniment to BBQ ribs or brisket.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1/2 cup canned corn kernels, drained
- 1/4 cup pickled jalapeño peppers, drained and chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9-inch square baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in the corn kernels, chopped jalapeño peppers, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cornbread cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your delicious jalapeño cornbread as a perfect side dish at your family BBQ!
Field Peas with Bacon
Field peas are a Southern favorite, and adding bacon takes them to the next level. Cook field peas with bacon, onion, garlic, and chicken broth until tender and flavorful. It’s a hearty and savory side dish perfect for any BBQ feast.
These BBQ side dishes with unique flavors will impress your guests and add some variety to your next BBQ meal.
Conclusion
You now have a list of the best BBQ side dishes for your next cookout. Whether you prefer classic potato salad or a more unique dish like grilled watermelon, there is something for everyone. Consider your guests’ dietary restrictions and preferences when selecting your sides.
When planning your menu, remember that many of these dishes can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the party more and spend less time in the kitchen. Mix and match different sides to create a well-rounded meal that complements your main dish.
Remember to provide plenty of napkins and utensils, as many of these dishes can be messy to eat. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different flavor combinations or adding your twist to these classic recipes.
With these delicious BBQ side dishes, your next cookout will be a hit. So fire up the grill, invite your friends and family, and get ready to enjoy some mouth-watering food and great company.