Planning a BBQ for a crowd? You’ll need more than just burgers and hot dogs. In this article, we’ve curated easy and irresistible BBQ sides that’ll have everyone coming back for more.
Today, let’s talk BBQ. You’ve got the grill fired up, the drinks on ice, and a crowd of hungry people ready to eat.
But here’s the thing—BBQ isn’t just about the meat. The sides? That’s where the real magic happens.
Think about it: have you ever been to a cookout where the main dish was amazing, but the sides were…meh?
Kinda disappointing, right? A killer BBQ spread needs sides that can hold their own.
Creamy mac and cheese, smoky baked beans, crunchy slaw, and let’s not forget the good ol’ potato salad (because what’s a BBQ without it?).
I remember this one summer BBQ where someone brought a jalapeño cornbread that changed my life.
Like, I still think about it. That’s the kind of side dish energy we need.
So whether you’re hosting or just bringing a dish to impress, these 30 BBQ party sides will make sure your spread is unforgettable.
1. Caprese Salad
Fresh, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil—honestly, what’s not to love? It’s light, refreshing, and brings a little Italian flair to your BBQ spread.
Drizzle on some balsamic glaze, and suddenly, it’s not just a salad—it’s an experience.
➡️ Get the Caprese Salad recipe at Delish
2. Antipasto Potato Salad
This isn’t your basic potato salad—it’s loaded with all the good stuff like salami, olives, and cheese, making every bite an explosion of flavor.
It’s like an Italian antipasto platter met a creamy potato salad, and they became best friends. Perfect for when you want to impress without too much effort!
➡️ Get the Antipasto Potato Salad recipe at Delish
3. Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Mac and cheese at a BBQ? Always a good idea. This baked version is extra creamy, extra cheesy, and has that irresistible golden crust on top. Trust me, this will disappear before you even get a second helping!
➡️ Get the Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe at The Modern Proper
4. Whipped Feta Roasted Potatoes
5. Fruit Skewers
6. Homemade Coleslaw
A BBQ without coleslaw? I could never. That crisp crunch, creamy dressing, and slightly tangy kick balance out all the smoky, rich meats on your plate.
It’s a classic for a reason, and homemade is always better!
➡️ Get the Homemade Coleslaw recipe at Delish
7. Homemade Salsa
Fresh, zesty, and way better than store-bought—this homemade salsa brings the perfect bright contrast to all the grilled goodness.
Grab some chips, pile it on your tacos, or spoon it over grilled chicken. Either way, it’s a winner.
8. Strawberry Spinach Salad
This salad is basically summer in a bowl. Juicy strawberries, fresh spinach, and a pop of crunch from nuts make it the perfect mix of sweet and savory.
Bonus points if you add a little crumbled feta on top! ➡️ Get the Strawberry Spinach Salad recipe at Delish
9. Caramelized Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts, but make them absolutely irresistible. Caramelized to perfection with a slightly crispy edge, they bring a rich, deep flavor that pairs perfectly with BBQ meats.
Even the “I don’t like Brussels sprouts” people will be going back for seconds.
➡️ Get the Caramelized Brussels Sprouts recipe at Delish
10. Tomato Salad
Sometimes, simple is best. Fresh tomatoes, a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt—it’s fresh, juicy, and the perfect way to cut through all the smoky BBQ flavors. Plus, it’s basically effortless!
➡️ Get the Tomato Salad recipe at Delish
11. Sweet Potato Salad
Forget boring potato salad—this version brings a whole new level of flavor with roasted sweet potatoes, a little crunch, and a tangy dressing.
It’s got that perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a total BBQ win. Plus, it’s just a little unexpected, which keeps things interesting!
➡️ Get the Sweet Potato Salad recipe at Delish
12. Loaded Green Bean Casserole
This isn’t your grandma’s green bean casserole—it’s loaded with crispy bacon, melty cheese, and a creamy, savory sauce.
It’s rich, indulgent, and the kind of side dish that people will fight over for seconds. Serve this up, and watch it disappear!
➡️ Get the Loaded Green Bean Casserole recipe at Delish
13. Melting Sweet Potatoes
These sweet potatoes are next-level soft on the inside, caramelized on the outside, and packed with buttery, herby goodness.
They literally melt in your mouth, hence the name. If you want a side dish that feels fancy but is actually super easy, this is it!
➡️ Get the Melting Sweet Potatoes recipe at Delish
14. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Juicy, smoky, and just the right amount of char—grilled corn is a summer BBQ essential.
Slather on some butter, sprinkle with seasoning, or even go wild with cheese and lime. However you top it, this one’s always a hit!
➡️ Get the Grilled Corn on the Cob recipe at Delish
15. Cowboy Beans
If baked beans had a cool, spiced-up cousin, this would be it. Cowboy beans are loaded with smoky bacon, ground beef, and just the right amount of sweetness.
They’re hearty, bold, and basically scream, “Let’s eat!”
➡️ Get the Cowboy Beans recipe at Delish
16. Simple Creamy Greek Yogurt Coleslaw
This coleslaw ditches the heavy mayo for creamy Greek yogurt, making it lighter but just as delicious.
It’s crisp, refreshing, and the perfect way to cut through all those rich BBQ flavors. Bonus: It’s actually kind of healthy!
➡️ Get the Creamy Yogurt Coleslaw recipe at Simply Sissom
17. Grilled Pineapple Slices
Sweet, caramelized, and slightly smoky, grilled pineapple is the ultimate summer treat. It works as a side, a dessert, or even a burger topping if you’re feeling adventurous.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been grilling fruit all along!
➡️ Get the Grilled Pineapple recipe at The Cookie Rookie
18. Smashed Brussels Sprouts
Take Brussels sprouts, smash ‘em, roast ‘em, and suddenly they’re crispy little bites of heaven. They’re crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Even Brussels sprouts skeptics will be reaching for more!
➡️ Get the Smashed Brussels Sprouts recipe at Delish
19. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Meaty, juicy, and full of smoky flavor, grilled portobellos are the perfect BBQ side—or even a main for plant-based eaters.
They soak up marinades like a dream and have that hearty bite that makes you forget you’re eating a vegetable.
➡️ Get the Grilled Portobello Mushrooms recipe at The Recipe Critic
20. Fresh Watermelon Slices
Sometimes, the simplest things are the best. Cold, juicy watermelon is the ultimate BBQ refresher, balancing out all the smoky, savory flavors with a burst of natural sweetness. Bonus: No cooking required!
➡️ Get the Fresh Watermelon Slices guide at Jessica Gavin
21. Macaroni Salad
A BBQ isn’t complete without a classic, creamy macaroni salad. It’s got that perfect mix of tangy dressing, crunchy veggies, and tender pasta that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, it pairs with literally everything on the grill!
➡️ Get the Macaroni Salad recipe at Jessica Gavin
22. Grilled Asparagus
Light, smoky, and just the right amount of crisp, grilled asparagus is the ultimate fresh side for a BBQ.
It’s ridiculously easy to make and adds a little green to balance out all the heavier dishes. A squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of parmesan? Game-changer.
➡️ Get the Grilled Asparagus recipe at Slender Kitchen
23. BBQ Baked Potato Recipe with Pulled Pork
Imagine a fluffy baked potato piled high with smoky, tender pulled pork, melty cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce.
It’s hearty, satisfying, and honestly, it could double as a meal on its own. This one’s always a hit at cookouts!
➡️ Get the BBQ Baked Potato recipe at The Life Jolie
24. Caprese Salad
Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil—this salad is simple but so good.
Drizzle on some balsamic glaze, and you’ve got the perfect refreshing side to balance out all those smoky BBQ flavors. It’s light, fresh, and just screams summer!
➡️ Get the Caprese Salad recipe at Downshiftology
25. Grilled Peaches
If you’ve never grilled peaches before, you’re seriously missing out. The heat caramelizes their natural sugars, making them extra sweet and juicy.
Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and boom—best BBQ dessert ever!
➡️ Get the Grilled Peaches recipe at Kleinworth & Co.
26. Jalapeño Cheese Cornbread
This cornbread is next-level—cheesy, buttery, and with just the right kick from fresh jalapeños.
It’s the perfect side for BBQ meats, soaking up all that saucy goodness. Let’s be real: no one’s stopping at just one piece.
➡️ Get the Cornbread recipe at Simply Delicious Food
27. Grilled Zucchini Boats
Zucchini halves stuffed with flavorful fillings, then grilled to perfection? Yes, please!
These are light, smoky, and packed with goodness, making them a great balance to all the meaty mains.
Even veggie skeptics will be into these. ➡️ Get the Grilled Zucchini Boats recipe at Walder Wellness
28. Fresh Pasta Salad
Cool, tangy, and packed with colorful veggies, this pasta salad is a summer BBQ must-have.
It’s refreshing enough to balance out smoky grilled meats but flavorful enough to hold its own. Plus, it’s even better when made ahead—so zero stress on the day of!
➡️ Get the Fresh Pasta Salad recipe at All Things Mamma
29. Grilled Garlic Bread
Crispy on the edges, buttery and garlicky all over—grilled garlic bread is a BBQ game-changer.
It’s quick to throw on the grill and tastes amazing alongside everything from steak to ribs. Warning: it disappears fast!
➡️ Get the Grilled Garlic Bread recipe at Ambitious Kitchen
30. Grilled Avocado with Toppings
Grilling avocado gives it a smoky depth that takes it to a whole new level. Load it up with salsa, cheese, or even a drizzle of spicy honey for a fun, flavorful twist. It’s simple, unique, and totally worth trying!
➡️ Get the Grilled Avocado Halves recipe at Good in the Simple
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