The All-Time Favorite BBQ Side Dishes For Summer Cookouts

Get ready to fire up the grill and gather your loved ones because summer cookout season is here! Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or joining in on a potluck, no summer gathering is complete without some delicious side dishes to accompany the main course. From classic potato salad to tangy coleslaw, this article highlights the all-time favorite BBQ side dishes that are sure to impress your guests and make your cookout a mouthwatering success. So grab your apron, dust off your tongs, and get ready to whip up some delectable dishes that will have everyone coming back for more.

Classic Potato Salad

If there’s one dish that always makes an appearance at summer cookouts, it’s classic potato salad. This beloved side is a crowd-pleaser and a staple at barbecues across the country. The creamy and tangy flavors of this dish perfectly complement grilled meat and other BBQ favorites.

Ingredients

To make the perfect classic potato salad, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4-5 large potatoes
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• Paprika for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Start by boiling the potatoes until they are tender. It usually takes around 15-20 minutes, but the exact timing may vary depending on the size of your potatoes.
2. Once the potatoes are done, drain them and let them cool down. Then, peel the skin off and chop them into bite-sized cubes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, mustard, chopped onion, and celery. Stir until well combined and creamy.
4. Add the chopped potatoes to the bowl and gently mix everything together, making sure the dressing coats every potato piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Mix in the chopped hard-boiled eggs for added flavor and texture.
6. If desired, sprinkle some paprika on top for a hint of color and smokiness.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together.
8. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Corn on the Cob

Another classic side dish that screams summer is corn on the cob. Whether you’re grilling it or boiling it, corn on the cob is a simple and delicious addition to any BBQ spread.

Ingredients

To make flavorful corn on the cob, gather the following ingredients:

• Fresh corn on the cob (as many as needed)
• Butter
• Salt
• Pepper

Instructions

1. Start by husking the corn and removing any silk strands.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or bring a large pot of water to a boil.
3. Grill Method: Brush each ear of corn with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the corn directly on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and charred in spots.
4. Boiling Method: Add the husked corn to the boiling water and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the kernels are tender.
5. Remove the corn from the grill or pot and brush with additional melted butter if desired.
6. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.

Variations

If you want to switch things up and add some excitement to your corn on the cob, try one of these tasty variations:

• Mexican Street Corn: After grilling, slather corn with mayonnaise, sprinkle with chili powder, crumbled cotija cheese, and squeeze a bit of lime juice.
• Parmesan Herb Corn: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese, dried herbs (such as Italian seasoning or parsley), and a squeeze of lemon juice over grilled or boiled corn.
• Bacon-Wrapped Corn: Wrap each ear of corn with a slice of bacon before grilling or boiling. The bacon adds a smoky and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with sweet corn.

Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables are a healthy and flavorful addition to any BBQ menu. The charred edges and smoky flavors bring out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, making them a hit with both adults and kids. Plus, they add a colorful and vibrant touch to your summer spread.

Ingredients

To make delicious grilled vegetables, gather the following ingredients:

• A variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms, and onions
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh herbs (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Wash and prepare the vegetables by slicing them into uniform pieces. If using onions, slice them into thick rounds or quartered wedges to prevent them from falling apart on the grill.
3. In a large bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure that each piece is coated evenly.
4. Place the vegetables directly on the grill grate or on a grill basket.
5. Grill the vegetables for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are tender and lightly charred.
6. Remove the vegetables from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes.
7. Sprinkle fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, over the grilled vegetables for an extra burst of flavor (optional).
8. Serve as a side dish alongside your main barbecued meats or as a colorful addition to sandwiches and wraps.

Seasoning Options

While grilled vegetables are delicious on their own, you can elevate their flavors with some additional seasonings. Here are a few ideas to try:

• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle grilled vegetables with balsamic glaze for a tangy and sweet twist.
• Garlic and Herb Butter: Before grilling, spread a mixture of minced garlic, melted butter, and chopped fresh herbs over the vegetables.
• Lemon Pepper: Sprinkle grilled vegetables with lemon zest and cracked black pepper for a fresh and zesty flavor.
• Cajun Spice Rub: Toss the vegetables with a Cajun spice blend before grilling for a spicy kick.

Baked Beans

Baked beans are a classic comfort food dish that pairs perfectly with barbecued meats. The rich and smoky flavors of these beans are sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Ingredients

To make a delicious pot of baked beans, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cans (15 ounces each) of baked beans
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a baking dish, combine the baked beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, molasses, and finely chopped onion. Stir well to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top of the bean mixture.
5. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
6. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the beans are hot and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and let the baked beans cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enhancements

To take your baked beans to the next level, consider adding these enhancements:

• Extra Meat: If you want to add more meaty flavor, stir in some diced ham or cooked ground beef or sausage into the bean mixture before baking.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili powder to give your baked beans a spicy twist.
• Sweet and Tangy: Stir in a spoonful of yellow mustard or apple cider vinegar to balance the sweetness and add a tangy punch.

Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that complements the smoky flavors of grilled meats. The combination of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing makes coleslaw a crowd-pleaser at any summer cookout.

Ingredients

To make a classic coleslaw, gather the following ingredients:

• 1/2 small head of cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cabbage and grated carrot. Toss to mix them together.
2. In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture.
4. Toss to ensure that the veggies are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the coleslaw to become chilled.
6. Serve as a side dish with your favorite grilled meats, sandwiches, or burgers.

Variations

While classic coleslaw is always a hit, you can experiment with different variations to suit your taste buds. Here are a few ideas to try:

• Creamy Coleslaw: Add a tablespoon of sour cream to the dressing mixture for a creamier and richer coleslaw.
• Spicy Slaw: Mix in some thinly sliced jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Asian-Inspired Coleslaw: Replace the mayonnaise with soy sauce and sesame oil for an Asian twist. Add some chopped cilantro and toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.

Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food and a must-have at any BBQ gathering. Whether it’s served as a side dish or the main star, this cheesy and creamy pasta dish always satisfies everyone’s taste buds.

Ingredients

To make a classic macaroni and cheese, gather the following ingredients:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Gouda, or a combination)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, until it forms a thick paste (roux).
4. Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
5. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a simmer.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper according to your taste.
8. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until every noodle is coated with the cheesy goodness.
9. Serve immediately while it’s still hot and gooey.

Cheese Options

While cheddar cheese is the traditional choice for macaroni and cheese, you can experiment with different cheese combinations to create unique flavors. Here are a few cheese options to consider:

• Gouda: Adds a smoky and rich flavor to the dish.
• Pepper Jack: Gives a spicy kick with its blend of peppers.
• Emmental: Provides a nutty and slightly sweet taste.
• Blue Cheese: Adds a bold and tangy twist.

Watermelon Salad

Watermelon is the quintessential summer fruit, and turning it into a refreshing salad elevates its natural sweetness. This light and juicy salad is the perfect side dish to balance out the richness of BBQ fare.

Ingredients

To make a delicious watermelon salad, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed watermelon
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, chopped mint leaves, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the salad to add a burst of citrus flavor.
3. Gently toss the ingredients together to ensure everything is well mixed.
4. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
5. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the watermelon to become chilled.
6. Serve as a light and refreshing side dish to balance out the richness of your BBQ meal.

Additional Ingredients

To add even more flavor and texture to your watermelon salad, consider incorporating these additional ingredients:

• Arugula: Toss in a handful of arugula for a peppery and slightly bitter taste.
• Cucumber: Thinly slice a cucumber and add it to the salad for a refreshing crunch.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a bit of tangy balsamic glaze over the salad for an extra layer of flavor.

Hush Puppies

Hush puppies are the perfect side dish for any BBQ feast. These golden balls of fried cornmeal batter are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They’re a Southern staple that adds a delightful crunch to your meal.

Ingredients

To make a batch of tasty hush puppies, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned, drained)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the buttermilk to the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
3. Fold in the corn kernels and finely chopped onion. The mixture should be thick and sticky.
4. In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C).
5. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry until the hush puppies are golden brown on all sides, turning occasionally. It usually takes about 2-3 minutes per batch.
6. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the cooked hush puppies to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Repeat the frying process with the remaining batter until it’s all used up.
8. Serve the hush puppies warm and crispy alongside your favorite BBQ dishes.

Serving Suggestions

Hush puppies are delicious on their own, but they can be even more delightful with these serving suggestions:

• Dipping Sauces: Serve hush puppies with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or spicy ketchup, for an extra burst of flavor.
• Seafood Pairings: Hush puppies are a classic accompaniment to fried seafood dishes. Serve them alongside shrimp, fish, or crab cakes for a coastal-inspired meal.
• Sliders: Split open hush puppies and use them as buns for mini sliders. Fill them with pulled pork, fried chicken, or even barbecue tofu for a unique twist.

Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers are an elegant and refreshing appetizer that adds a touch of sophistication to any BBQ gathering. These vibrant skewers showcase the classic Italian flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella.

Ingredients

To make a plate of beautiful caprese skewers, gather the following ingredients:

• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh mozzarella balls (or mozzarella cut into small cubes)
• Fresh basil leaves
• Olive oil
• Balsamic glaze
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Assemble the skewers by threading one cherry tomato, one small piece of mozzarella, and one basil leaf onto each skewer.
2. Place the assembled skewers on a serving platter.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the skewers, ensuring that each one is lightly coated.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the skewers for a tangy and sweet flavor. If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can mix equal parts balsamic vinegar and honey to create a similar effect.
5. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
6. Let the caprese skewers marinate for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Arrange them on a serving platter and watch your guests marvel at the vibrant colors and delicious flavors.

Presentation Ideas

To take your caprese skewers to the next level, consider these presentation ideas:

• Salad Platter: Arrange the skewers on a bed of mixed greens, creating a caprese salad platter. Drizzle with extra olive oil, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
• Tomato Variation: Use different colored cherry tomatoes, such as yellow or purple, to add a pop of color to the skewers.
• Herb Skewers: Instead of basil leaves, try threading the mozzarella and tomatoes onto skewers with fresh rosemary sprigs. This adds a fragrant and earthy element to the caprese skewers.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic side dish that complements any summer BBQ feast. The warm and fragrant slices of bread, slathered in garlicky butter, are perfect for dipping into sauces and sopping up the flavors of your meal.

Ingredients

To make a mouthwatering garlic bread, gather the following ingredients:

• French baguette or Italian bread
• Butter, softened
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the baguette or Italian bread in half lengthwise, creating two large slices.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley (optional), and a pinch of salt.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on both slices of bread, ensuring that every nook and cranny is covered.
5. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove the garlic bread from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into individual pieces.
7. Serve warm and watch as everyone reaches for seconds and thirds.

Flavorful Twists

While classic garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser, you can jazz it up with these flavorful twists:

• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Sprinkle grated Parmesan, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses on top of the garlic butter before baking. The melted cheese creates a gooey and cheesy delight.
• Herb-Infused Garlic Bread: Add a variety of chopped fresh herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano, to the garlic butter mixture for an extra burst of flavor and fragrance.
• Spicy Garlic Bread: Mix minced garlic with red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a fiery kick. This variation pairs well with spicy BBQ dishes.

With these delicious side dish recipes, your summer cookout will be a memorable and enjoyable event for everyone. From the classic favorites like potato salad and baked beans to the creative twists of watermelon salad and caprese skewers, there’s something for everyone to savor. So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and indulge in the best BBQ side dishes that summer has to offer!