When summer comes, we all love to grill outside and share food with family and friends. But it’s not just about the meat — the side dishes make the meal even better, don’t you agree?
These BBQ side dishes are tasty, easy to make, and full of fresh flavors. You can find cool salads, sweet fluff salads, cheesy casseroles, classic American sides, and healthy veggie ideas that everyone will love. Make a few of these, and your cookout will be a hit! Make sure to save the recipes as you’ll surely be asked to share your secrets.
Gina’s Rundown:
Why I love it: I love BBQ side dishes because they bring so much flavor to the table without, or with minimal, prep work. A good side dish can be creamy, crunchy, or sweet. It gives everyone something to enjoy. These recipes are easy to make ahead, so you can spend more time relaxing outside.
Creamy Cucumber Salad
Cool and velvety, creamy cucumber salad is made with sliced cucumbers and red onions. All tossed in a dill-infused creamy dressing for a refreshing crunch – it is my go-to for any summer gatherings.
Get the recipe: Creamy Cucumber Salad
Garlic Butter Naan
Soft, chewy Indian-style garlic butter naan is perfect for soaking up extra sauce from ribs or brisket. You only need pantry basics and a hot skillet — no oven drama. A keeper for easy BBQ side dishes.
Get the recipe: Garlic Butter Naan
Hawaiian Coleslaw
This tropical twist on a classic slaw combines crisp cabbage, shredded carrots, and sweet pineapple tidbits for a refreshing crunch. Tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing, it’s an ideal side dish for summer barbecues and gatherings with an island vibe!
Get the recipe: Hawaiian Coleslaw
Air Fryer Carrots
Sweet carrots caramelize and crisp up in the air fryer in under 20 minutes. A splash of honey or seasoning does the trick and smoked cheese just takes these carrots to the next level. A quick, healthy BBQ side idea.
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Carrots
Strawberry Jello Salad
Sweet and creamy, Strawberry Jello Salad has a fun, jiggly texture. Made with strawberry gelatin and whipped topping, it’s a fruity favorite for kids!
Get the recipe: Strawberry Jello Salad
Apple Cucumber Salad
With a crisp crunch in every spoonful, Apple Cucumber Salad combines juicy apples, refreshing cucumbers, and red onion. A splash of lemon-honey dressing ties it all together – yum!
Get the recipe: Apple Cucumber Salad
Easy Grilled Corn
Sweet corn turns smoky and charred right on the grill. Brush on butter, sprinkle with salt, and you’re done. One of those BBQ side dish ideas that never fails. The recipe makes grilled corn 3 ways: in foil, on the cob, and in husk – whichever you prefer!
Get the recipe Easy Grilled Corn
Pesto Orzo Salad
Chewy orzo and juicy cherry tomatoes make this a satisfying pasta salad, nothing like the ordinary pasta salads. It’s tossed with pesto and Parmesan for a herby, nutty finish. It will be a classic side dish for BBQ or summer meals.
Get the recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad
Loaded Green Bean Casserole
Take green bean casserole up a notch with crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and crunchy onions. Hearty enough to stand up to any smoked meat. Everyone asks for this BBQ side dish year after year.
Get the recipe: Loaded Green Bean Casserole
Southwest Chicken Salad
Loaded with corn, black beans, and seasoned chicken, this salad is bold and colorful. Creamy avocado and spicy dressing give it a Tex-Mex kick. Perfect for a light summer lunch and weekly meal prep.
Get the recipe: Southwest Chicken Salad
Texas Toast Garlic Bread
Thick bread brushed with garlicky butter toasts up golden and crunchy. Perfect for sopping up extra BBQ sauce. Comes together fast when you need a no-fuss side
Get the recipe: Texas Toast Garlic Bread
Butter Bean Salad
Tender butter beans are the star in this simple, rustic salad. Red onion and a light vinaigrette add brightness and balance. Bean salad is always amazing for 4th of July and backyard BBQs.
Get the recipe: Butter Bean Salad
Smoked Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese goes next-level with a hint of smoke and a golden topping. Prep it ahead, toss it on the smoker, and let it bubble. BBQ side dishes like this always vanish fast.
Get the recipe: Smoked Mac and Cheese
Peach Caprese Salad
Sweet peach slices, fresh mozzarella, and basil make this a light, elegant salad – a fruity summer twist on an Italian classic. A drizzle of balsamic glaze enhances the contrast of sweet and savory. Oh, so good!
Get the recipe: Peach Caprese Salad
Potatoes Au Gratin
Thin potato slices are baked with cream and cheese until bubbly and golden. This French side dish looks fancy, but it’s easy to prep ahead. Pairs with everything on your BBQ menu.
Get the recipe: Potatoes Au Gratin
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Creamy and soft, this authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad features elbow noodles, scallions, and grated carrots – it is that simple! A tangy-sweet apple cider vinegar and mayo-based dressing gives it island vibes.
Get the recipe: Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Grilled Asparagus
Tender asparagus picks up a smoky char in minutes on the grill. Toss with oil and flaky salt, done. A fresh pick for a lighter BBQ side dish idea.
Get the recipe: Grilled Asparagus
Chickpea Avocado Salad
Creamy yet hearty, Chickpea Avocado Salad features ripe avocado, chickpeas, and juicy tomatoes. A splash of lemon keeps it light and fresh. Healthy and loaded with flavors!
Get the recipe: Chickpea Avocado Salad
Green Beans in Crockpot
Let the slow cooker handle green beans with smoky bacon and onions. No grill juggling required. Great when you want easy, hands-off BBQ side dishes.
Get the recipe: Green Beans in Crockpot
Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad
This salad offers juicy bites of tomato and cucumber paired with crumbled feta. A simple vinaigrette adds a tangy Mediterranean touch – so simple and versatile, it goes well with any grilled meat and is good to make ahead.
Get the recipe: Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad
Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts roast up tender with caramelized edges and a tangy glaze. One sheet pan, big payoff. A veggie side even picky eaters love.
Get the recipe: Balsamic Brussel Sprouts
Kidney Bean Salad
Sturdy kidney beans bring a hearty texture to this salad. With celery, hard-boiled eggs, and red onion in a tangy dressing, it’s simple and filling. Ideal for lunches and meal prep, but works well for BBQ sides, too.
Get the recipe: Kidney Bean Salad Recipe
Air Fryer Cauliflower
Cauliflower bites get crispy in the air fryer with barely any oil. Season however you like for an extra kick. A lighter side for your BBQ spread, and a healthy one, too!
Get the recipe: Air Fryer Cauliflower
Green Pea Salad
Sweet green peas, cheddar cheese, and bacon give this salad a mix of creamy and crisp textures. It’s lightly dressed for a smooth, tangy, and savory taste. You can easily make it with frozen peas, too!
Get the recipe: Green Pea Salad
Baked Beans with Ground Beef
Hearty baked beans simmered with ground beef come out thick and filling. Sweet, smoky, and old-school. A comforting must for a big BBQ in the backyard.
Get the recipe: Baked Beans with Ground Beef
Easy Fruit Salad
Filled with juicy seasonal fruits, this salad is light and naturally sweet. Honey-lime dressing adds a zesty boost. You can use any fruits and berries available. In my recipe, I go with: watermelon, cantaloupe, pineapple, mango, green and red grapes, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, and kiwi. Kids love it!
Get the recipe: Easy Fruit Salad
Loaded French Fries
Pile fries high with melted cheese, bacon, and green onions. Keep an eye on guests and especially kids – they will sneak in a few before they hit the table. Comfort food at its best.
Get the recipe: Loaded French Fries
Easy Chef Salad
Be your own chef with this easy summer salad. Lettuce, turkey, ham, cheese, and hard-boiled eggs come together in this protein-packed Chef Salad. Each bite is crisp, cool, and savory. This recipe is easy to customize with whatever ingredients your family loves the most.
Get the recipe: Easy Chef Salad
Squash Casserole
Tender yellow squash and zucchini baked in creamy sauce with a cheesy topping. A Southern staple that goes with anything smoked or grilled. Tastes like summer.
Get the recipe: Squash Casserole Recipe
Ambrosia Salad
Soft and fluffy, Ambrosia Salad mixes sweet tropical fruits, mini marshmallows, and whipped topping. It’s a creamy treat with bursts of citrus and coconut in every bite. Truly divine sweet salad I can’t get enough of!
Get the recipe: Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Hawaiian Baked Beans
Classic baked beans get a tropical twist with sweet pineapple and crispy bacon. Sweet, smoky, and surprisingly hearty. A fun switch-up for BBQ side dishes, high in protein and flavor!
Get the recipe: Hawaiian Baked Beans
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
This salad is creamy and satisfying with tender rotini pasta and crunchy veggies. Crispy bacon and ranch dressing give it a savory, crowd-pleasing twist. And I just love how comforting and filling it is.
Get the recipe: Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Roasted Green Beans and Potatoes
Toss potatoes and green beans with olive oil and garlic, roast till golden. One pan, 6 ingredients, no mess. Easy BBQ side dish that works with everything.
Get the recipe: Roasted Green Beans and Potatoes
Watermelon Salad with Goat Cheese
This combination is something you have to try this summer, it tastes better than you think! Juicy watermelon cubes are paired with tangy goat cheese and fresh mint. This salad is crisp, refreshing, and full of contrast.
Get the recipe: Watermelon Salad with Goat Cheese
Grape Salad
Juicy grapes, creamy dressing, and a pecan crunch make this sweet side pop. Chill it ahead so it’s extra refreshing. A cool break from heavy BBQ sides.
Get the recipe: Grape Salad Recipe
Broccoli Salad With Dried Cherries
Crisp broccoli, chewy cherries, and crunchy sunflower seeds give this Broccoli Salad a nice (and healthy) bite. Tossed with bacon and a sweet-tangy dressing, it’s both fresh and flavorful. Amazing for summer BBQs, picnics, and potlucks.
Get the recipe: Broccoli Salad Recipe with Dried Cherries
Twice Baked Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes go extra cheesy with crispy bacon toppings baked on. Make them ahead so you’re free to man the grill. Guaranteed to be scraped clean.
Get the recipe: Twice Baked Mashed Potatoes
Grilled Corn Salad
Summer BBQ classic side dish. Smoky and sweet, Grilled Corn Salad uses lightly charred corn, tomatoes, bell peppers, and lime. It’s fresh, colorful, and full of summery flavor.
Get the recipe: Grilled Corn Salad
Sausage, Green Beans, and Potatoes
Smoked sausage, tender green beans, and potatoes all cook together in one pan. Big, savory flavors, no fuss. Hearty enough for a meal or a filling side, and has a perfect rustic look for a backyard cookout.
Get the recipe: Sausage Green Beans and Potatoes
Deviled Egg Potato Salad
Inspired by classic deviled eggs, this potato salad is creamy and slightly tangy. It blends boiled potatoes with egg, mustard, and a smooth dressing. Simple but so irresistible!
Get the recipe: Deviled Egg Potato Salad
Corn Casserole with Jiffy Mix
Fluffy corn casserole bakes up sweet and golden with a box of Jiffy mix. Stir, bake, done. Always a hit on the BBQ menu and simply a staple you have to make at least once this summer.
Get the recipe: Corn Casserole with Jiffy Mix
Avocado Chicken Salad
My favorite salad idea for lunch prep and side dishes spread in summer! Smooth and chunky, Avocado Chicken Salad blends ripe avocado with tender shredded chicken. Red onion and lime juice add a fresh, zesty flavor. You can’t go wrong with this one.
Get the recipe: Avocado Chicken Salad Recipe
Smoked Baked Beans
Let the smoker do its magic for beans loaded with bacon and smoky flavor. Serve straight from the pan. Hard to beat for old-school BBQ side dishes.
Get the recipe: Smoked Baked Beans
Best Southern Potato Salad
A classic side, my version of Southern Potato Salad is smooth and rich with tender potatoes – truly the best I’ve made so far! It’s flavored with mustard, mayo, and dill relish.
Get the recipe: Best Southern Potato Salad
Tuna Salad with Egg
Classic and satisfying, this tuna salad combines flaked tuna with chopped hard-boiled eggs for a rich, creamy texture. It’s full of flavor, easy to make, and perfect for sandwiches or lettuce wraps to make for summer picnics and road trips.
Get the recipe: Tuna Salad with Egg
Cheddar Ranch Cruffins
Flaky cruffins filled with cheddar and ranch seasoning bake up golden and cheesy. They pull apart easily for grabbing. A fun twist if you’re bored of buns.
Get the recipe: Cheddar Ranch Cruffins
Bacon Ranch Potato Salad
Packed with bold flavor, Bacon Ranch Potato Salad features soft potatoes, smoky bacon, and green onions. Rustic and easy to make, tossed with ranch dressing, this salad is tangy and creamy – a perfect side dish for a BBQ cookout.
Get the recipe: Bacon Ranch Potato Salad
Cauliflower Mash
All the buttery comfort of mashed potatoes but lighter. Steam, blend, season — that’s it. Good balance when your plate’s already full.
Get the recipe: Cauliflower Mash
BBQ Ranch Pasta Salad
Hearty and flavorful, BBQ Ranch Pasta Salad brings together grilled chicken, pasta, and vegetables. It’s tossed in a smoky-sweet barbecue ranch sauce. A SUPER yummy lunch to pack for work or make for family.
Get the recipe: BBQ Ranch Pasta Salad
Best Egg Salad Recipe Ever
A twist added to grandma’s award-winning ingredients, this is truly the Best Egg Salad Recipe EVER. Quick, easy, and positively delicious!
Get the recipe: Best Egg Salad Recipe EVER
Orange Fluff Salad
Light and jiggly, Orange Fluff Salad mixes orange Jell-O, whipped topping, marshmallows, and canned fruit. It’s sweet, creamy, and super nostalgic. If you love fluff salads, you have to try this one!
Get the recipe: Orange Fluff Salad
Oven Roasted Mushrooms with Garlic and Thyme
Juicy and so fragrant, these mushrooms make a perfect side dish for grilled and smoked meats. The best part? It barely takes 15 minutes to make a whole batch.
Get the recipe: Oven Roasted Mushrooms with Garlic and Thyme
Chicken Caesar Salad
A crunchy classic, Chicken Caesar Salad combines romaine lettuce, grilled chicken, Parmesan, and croutons. It’s finished with creamy Caesar dressing. Good old Caesar, just like in a restaurant!
Get the recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad
Hawaiian Chicken Salad
Tender chunks of chicken are paired with juicy pineapple and crunchy celery for a mix of sweet and savory textures. This Hawaiian salad is creamy, tropical, and perfect for warm-weather lunches or backyard BBQ! But my favorite way to enjoy it is in a sandwich!
Get the recipe: Hawaiian Chicken Salad
Three Bean Salad
A mix of green, kidney, and garbanzo beans tossed in tangy vinaigrette. Chill it so the flavors soak in. A classic BBQ side you can prep days ahead.
Get the recipe: Three Bean Salad
This fresh summer BBQ side dishes collection is your go-to guide for easy, delicious recipes that celebrate the best of the season.
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