15 Must-Try BBQ Side Dishes That Steal the Show
Great BBQ isn't just about the meat—the sides make the meal complete. Here are 15 crowd-pleasing dishes to round out your next cookout.
Classic Sides
1. Creamy Coleslaw
Ingredients:
- 1 medium cabbage, shredded
- 2 carrots, grated
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Salt and pepper
Tip: Make it a day ahead for best flavor.
2. Baked Beans
Key ingredients:
- Navy beans or canned beans
- Bacon
- Brown sugar
- Molasses
- Mustard
- Onion
Grill method: Bake in a cast iron pan on the grill for smoky flavor.
3. Potato Salad
Variations:
- Classic: Mayo, mustard, celery, eggs
- German: Warm, vinegar-based, bacon
- Loaded: Cheese, bacon, sour cream
4. Corn on the Cob
Grilling options:
- Direct heat (charred): 10-15 min, rotating
- In husk (steamed): 20-25 min
- Foil-wrapped (tender): 15-20 min
Grilled Vegetables
5. Grilled Zucchini
Slice lengthwise, oil, season, grill 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Grilled Asparagus
Toss with olive oil, grill perpendicular to grates, 5-7 minutes.
7. Grilled Bell Peppers
Quarter and remove seeds, grill until charred, peel skin optional.
8. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Marinate, grill cap-side down first, serve as a side or burger.
Bread & Starches
9. Garlic Bread on the Grill
Slice baguette, brush with garlic butter, grill 2-3 minutes per side.
10. Cornbread
Bake in a cast iron skillet on the grill for authentic flavor.
11. Mac and Cheese
Upgrade tips:
- Use smoked cheese
- Add breadcrumb topping
- Finish on the grill
12. Grilled Potato Wedges
Parboil, oil and season, grill until crispy (15-20 minutes).
Fresh & Light
13. Cucumber Salad
- Sliced cucumbers
- Red onion
- Rice vinegar
- Sugar
- Dill
14. Watermelon Feta Salad
- Cubed watermelon
- Crumbled feta
- Fresh mint
- Balsamic glaze
15. Grilled Caesar Salad
Grill romaine halves for 2 minutes, top with Caesar dressing and parmesan.
Side Dish Pairing Guide
| Main Dish | Best Sides |
|---|---|
| Brisket | Coleslaw, beans, potato salad |
| Ribs | Cornbread, mac & cheese, beans |
| Burgers | Coleslaw, potato wedges, corn |
| Chicken | Grilled veggies, corn, cucumber salad |
| Seafood | Light salads, grilled asparagus |
Make-Ahead Tips
Day before:
- Coleslaw (let flavors meld)
- Potato salad
- Baked beans base
- Cucumber salad
Morning of:
- Prep all vegetables
- Make dressings
- Parboil potatoes
On the grill:
- Corn
- Vegetables
- Garlic bread
Get Complete Menu Ideas
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What's your go-to BBQ side dish? Share your recipes in the comments!