A great BBQ isn’t just about the smoky, tender meats—it’s also about the perfect side dishes that complete the meal! Whether you’re grilling up ribs, brisket, or burgers, these BBQ side dishes will add flavor, crunch, and freshness to your plate.
From classic comfort foods to unexpected flavor-packed creations, here are 12 must-try BBQ side dishes that will wow your guests!
1. Creamy Southern Coleslaw
A BBQ classic, this creamy coleslaw brings a cool, tangy crunch to balance out smoky meats. The perfect mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, mayo, vinegar, and a touch of sugar makes it both refreshing and slightly sweet. Serve it chilled for the best contrast to hot-off-the-grill dishes!
2. Smoky Baked Beans
No BBQ is complete without a pot of thick, smoky baked beans. Slow-cooked with bacon, molasses, brown sugar, and a hint of mustard, these beans are the ultimate combination of sweet, savory, and smoky goodness. The longer they cook, the better they taste!
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Garlic Butter
Nothing screams summer BBQ like charred, juicy corn on the cob! Brush it with butter, garlic, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika, then grill until golden. For an extra twist, try Mexican-style elote with mayo, cotija cheese, and lime juice!
4. Classic Mac and Cheese
Creamy, cheesy, and ultra-indulgent, mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food side. A blend of sharp cheddar, gouda, and a crispy breadcrumb topping makes this dish extra special. Bake it until golden for that irresistible, bubbly texture!
5. Tangy Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
This zingy, refreshing pasta salad is packed with crunchy dill pickles, cheddar cheese, and a creamy ranch dressing. The tangy flavor cuts through the richness of BBQ meats, making it a must-have at your cookout..
6. Sweet and Spicy Cornbread
Soft, buttery, and just a little spicy—this cornbread is next level! A touch of honey for sweetness and a pinch of jalapeño for heat make it the perfect BBQ companion. Serve warm with whipped honey butter for an unforgettable bite.
7. Loaded Baked Potato Salad
Imagine a baked potato in salad form—that’s what this dish delivers! Crispy bacon, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and green onions make every bite rich and flavorful. This creamy side pairs perfectly with ribs, brisket, or smoked chicken.
8. Grilled Veggie Skewer
For a lighter side, these colorful, smoky veggie skewers add the perfect balance to your BBQ spread. Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes are brushed with garlic herb butter and grilled to perfection.
9. Southern-Style Collard Greens
Slow-cooked with bacon, onions, and a splash of apple cider vinegar, these tender, savory collard greens add a deep, rich flavor to your BBQ plate. A true Southern staple that pairs beautifully with smoked meats!
10. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
For a slightly sweet and crunchy side, swap regular fries for crispy sweet potato fries! Seasoned with smoked paprika, sea salt, and a hint of brown sugar, they’re the perfect balance of sweet and salty. Serve with a side of spicy chipotle mayo for dipping!
11. Refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad
This light and refreshing side dish is the perfect contrast to smoky BBQ flavors. Juicy watermelon chunks, tangy feta cheese, and fresh mint come together in a sweet-savory explosion. Drizzle with a touch of balsamic glaze for extra depth!
12. Homemade Buttery Biscuits
Flaky, soft, and buttery to perfection, these biscuits are a BBQ must-have! Freshly baked with a golden crust, they’re great for sopping up BBQ sauce or serving alongside smoked meats. Add a drizzle of honey or a dab of jalapeño butter for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
A well-planned BBQ isn’t just about the main dish—the right side dishes bring everything together! Whether you love comfort food classics like mac and cheese and baked beans, or lighter options like watermelon salad and grilled veggies, these BBQ side dishes will make your cookout unforgettable.
Which side dish is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
