When it comes to grilling, many of us focus on the main event: the burger or steak. But let’s be real – the sides are where the magic happens! A delicious BBQ side dish can elevate your entire meal from good to great. And with so many options out there, why settle for boring old coleslaw when you could have creamy southern potato salad? Or swap out bland baked beans for smoky, sweet, and savory ones?
In this article, we’ll be diving into 20 amazing BBQ side recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. From classic staples like grilled corn with chili lime butter and tangy vinegar-based slaw, to more adventurous options like pineapple teriyaki grilled veggies and roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze, there’s something for every grill master.
Creamy Southern Potato Salad
This classic potato salad gets a rich and creamy twist with the addition of mayonnaise, mustard, and chopped hard-boiled eggs. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon prepared yellow mustard
– 1/2 cup chopped hard-boiled eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and let them cool to room temperature.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, cider vinegar, and prepared yellow mustard until smooth.
4. Add the cooled potatoes, chopped eggs, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Stir until everything is well combined.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Corn with Chili Lime Butter
Add a burst of flavor to your grilled corn with this simple and delicious recipe featuring chili lime butter. Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, lime juice, and chili powder until well combined.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Place corn on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until lightly charred and tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro or parsley if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Classic Coleslaw with Homemade Dressing
A refreshing side dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. This classic coleslaw recipe is a simple and delicious way to add some crunch and flavor to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until the slaw is well coated.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of preparation time.
Smoky Baked Beans with Bacon and Brown Sugar
A sweet and savory twist on classic baked beans, this recipe combines the rich flavors of smoky bacon, brown sugar, and tangy ketchup for a delicious side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound smoked bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon; set aside.
4. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the soaked beans to the pot; cover with a lid or foil.
7. Bake for 8-10 hours, or overnight, until the beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Grilled Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the richness of garlic butter. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, these grilled treats are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), stems removed and caps sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Brush both sides of mushroom caps with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
5. Grill mushrooms for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Cornbread
Add a kick to your classic cornbread with this spicy twist! This recipe combines the warmth of jalapeños with the sweetness of corn, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1-2 diced jalapeños (depending on desired heat level)
– Honey or maple syrup, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in diced jalapeños.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Optional: drizzle with honey or maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
A comforting side dish perfect for any occasion, these creamy scalloped potatoes are smothered in a rich and tangy cheese sauce. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a warm and satisfying dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 3 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and softened butter. Toss until potatoes are evenly coated.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to form a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Arrange potatoes in an even layer.
7. Pour cheese sauce over potatoes, spreading evenly to cover entire surface.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
9. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tangy Vinegar-Based BBQ Slaw
Elevate your BBQ game with this refreshing slaw that combines the perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors. This recipe is a great accompaniment to grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro if desired.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Loaded BBQ Ranch Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this creamy, tangy, and savory recipe that combines the flavors of BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and a variety of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1 cup red bell pepper strips
– 1/2 cup crumbled cooked chicken
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red bell pepper strips, crumbled chicken, chopped cilantro, and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and ranch dressing until well combined.
4. Pour the BBQ-ranch mixture over the pasta mixture; toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges with Aioli
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these crispy grilled sweet potato wedges smothered in a creamy aioli sauce. Perfect for game days, movie nights, or just a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut sweet potatoes into 1-inch wedges and place in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper; toss to coat.
3. Grill sweet potato wedges for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, mix together mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, and paprika in a small bowl.
5. Serve grilled sweet potato wedges with aioli sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Butter Skillet Corn
This recipe is a twist on classic corn on the cob, with a rich and buttery honey glaze that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this sweet and savory skillet corn in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet or oven-safe sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the corn kernels and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re lightly toasted.
4. Stir in the honey until it’s fully incorporated with the corn.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the honey is caramelized and the corn is tender.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles
These flavorful bundles combine the natural sweetness of asparagus with the smoky richness of bacon, perfect for a quick and impressive side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 fresh asparagus spears
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the asparagus into bundles, tying each with kitchen twine.
3. Wrap each bundle with a slice of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. Drizzle the bundles with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pineapple Teriyaki Grilled Veggies
Elevate your grilled veggies with a sweet and savory twist! This recipe combines the classic flavors of teriyaki sauce with the tropical taste of pineapple for a unique and delicious side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, broccoli)
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, and brown sugar until well combined.
3. Add mixed vegetables to the bowl and toss to coat with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Brush olive oil on the grill grates before adding the veggies.
5. Grill the vegetables for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until tender and caramelized.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Elevate your comfort food game with this classic mac and cheese recipe, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb crust. A perfect blend of creamy pasta and satisfying crunch!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Optional: paprika or garlic powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer pasta to a baking dish and top with panko breadcrumbs. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Southern-Style Collard Greens
A classic Southern staple, these collard greens are slow-cooked with a hint of smokiness and a dash of good ol’ fashioned charm. Serve them alongside your favorite comfort foods for a true taste of the South.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the collard greens, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 1-2 hours or until the greens are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Avocado and Tomato Salad with Lime Dressing
This vibrant salad combines the creamy richness of avocados with the juiciness of tomatoes, all tied together with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish to accompany your favorite grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the avocado and tomato.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the avocado-tomato mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan
Elevate your summer cooking with this effortless recipe that brings out the natural sweetness of zucchini, paired with the nutty goodness of Parmesan. This side dish is perfect for barbecues, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. Brush both sides of the zucchini slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the zucchini for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Texas-Style Pinto Beans
Get ready for a hearty and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for your next backyard barbecue or family gathering! This classic Texas recipe is a staple of Lone Star State cuisine, with its rich, smoky flavor and tender texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 ham hock or 2 tablespoons bacon drippings
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine soaked pinto beans, ham hock or bacon drippings, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour in chicken broth until the beans are covered by about an inch of liquid.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the tanginess of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil and salt until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
6. Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buttery Garlic Green Beans with Almonds
Elevate your green bean game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of butter, pungency of garlic, and crunch of almonds. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add green beans to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Sprinkle almonds over the green beans and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until green beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your grill game with these 20 amazing BBQ sides recipes! From classic coleslaw and baked beans to creamy potato salad and tangy slaw, there’s something for every grill master. Try grilled corn with chili lime butter, smoky mushrooms, or spicy jalapeño cornbread for a flavorful twist. Or stick to comforting favorites like cheesy scalloped potatoes, loaded ranch pasta salad, or honey butter skillet corn. Whether you’re a BBQ novice or a seasoned pro, these recipes are sure to impress your friends and family at your next outdoor gathering.