When planning a BBQ, the main dish often gets all the attention. However, the sides you serve can transform a good meal into a great one.
From classic potato salads to smoky baked beans, the right combination of side dishes creates a balanced and satisfying spread for your guests.
Choosing complementary BBQ sides enhances your overall dining experience and showcases your culinary skills.
Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard gathering or a holiday cookout, thoughtfully selected sides add variety in flavor, texture, and color to your table.
You’ll find that traditional favorites like coleslaw and cornbread remain popular for good reason, while creative alternatives can add an unexpected twist to your barbecue menu.
1. Potato Salad
Potato salad stands as the ultimate BBQ side dish for good reason. Its creamy texture and versatile flavor profile complement almost any grilled meat.
You can prepare this classic dish ahead of time, making it perfect for busy BBQ days.
Traditional potato salad combines boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, and chopped vegetables like celery and onion.
For a twist, try adding bacon bits, fresh herbs, or swapping regular mayo for a tangy sour cream base.
Cold potato salad offers a refreshing contrast to hot BBQ items on warm summer days.
Make sure to chill your potato salad thoroughly before serving for the best flavor and food safety.
2. Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a classic BBQ side dish that brings creamy comfort to any outdoor feast. The rich, cheesy pasta pairs perfectly with smoky meats like brisket, BBQ ribs, and chicken.
For an exciting twist, try jalapeño popper mac and cheese with cream cheese, cheddar, pepper jack, and bacon. This spicy variation adds a kick that complements the sweetness of BBQ sauce.
You can also add broccoli to your mac and cheese for a pop of color and nutrition. The combination of the cheesy goodness with the slight crunch of vegetables creates a balanced side dish.
3. Baked Beans
Baked beans are a BBQ classic that pairs perfectly with almost any grilled meat. Sweet, savory, and slightly smoky, they complement ribs, pulled pork, and grilled chicken wonderfully.
You can elevate canned beans by adding bacon, spicy mustard, or sausage for extra flavor. These additions transform basic beans into a standout side dish.
Baked beans work great alongside sandwiches too. Try them with sloppy joes, grilled cheese, BLTs, or pulled pork sandwiches. The combination of tangy beans with these handheld favorites creates a satisfying meal.
4. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a classic BBQ side dish that brings a refreshing crunch to your meal. The cool, crisp cabbage provides a perfect contrast to hot, smoky meats.
You can make traditional coleslaw with a mayonnaise-based dressing for a creamy texture. Or try a vinegar-based version if you prefer something lighter and tangier.
Add carrots, red cabbage, or bell peppers for extra color and flavor. Some people enjoy adding a touch of sweetness with apples or a bit of sugar in the dressing.
For the best flavor, make your coleslaw a few hours before serving to let the flavors blend together.
5. Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a classic BBQ side dish that brings sweetness to any outdoor meal. You can prepare it in several ways to suit your taste preferences.
Grilling corn gives it a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with BBQ meats. Simply brush the corn with butter, wrap in foil, and place on the grill for about 15-20 minutes.
You can also boil corn for a quick and easy preparation. Just add the husked corn to boiling water for 3-5 minutes until tender.
For extra flavor, try seasoning your corn with spices like paprika, chili powder, or garlic salt. Or keep it traditional with butter and salt.
6. Watermelon Salad
Watermelon salad is a refreshing side dish perfect for summer BBQs. The juicy sweetness of watermelon pairs surprisingly well with salty cheese like feta.
For a simple version, combine cubed watermelon with crumbled feta and fresh mint leaves. This combination creates a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and fresh flavors.
You can also get creative by adding blueberries for extra color or sesame seeds and peanuts for crunch. Some recipes even include bourbon and soy sauce for a unique twist.
This easy side dish takes less than 20 minutes to prepare. It’s colorful, light, and will impress your guests at your next cookout.
7. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a BBQ side dish that brings color and nutrition to any cookout. They’re easy to prepare and quick to cook while you’re grilling the main dish.
You can grill almost any vegetable – asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms are all excellent choices. For something different, try grilled cabbage, potato fans, or corn wrapped in bacon.
Simply brush your vegetables with olive oil, add seasonings, and place them on the grill. Some vegetables taste great with special sauces like chimichurri or basil vinaigrette.
Consider making vegetable kabobs for easy serving and a beautiful presentation at your next barbecue.
8. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic BBQ side dish that brings creamy, tangy goodness to your outdoor feast. They’re incredibly versatile and pair well with almost any main dish from pulled pork to grilled chicken.
For a traditional approach, mix the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, and a dash of paprika. Want something more exciting? Try adding spicy elements for Mexican-inspired deviled eggs that bring a kick to your spread.
These bite-sized treats can be prepared ahead of time, making them perfect for busy BBQ days. Your guests can easily grab them while mingling, no utensils needed.
9. Mexican Corn (Elotes)
Mexican Corn, or Elotes, brings vibrant flavor to any BBQ. This street food favorite features corn on the cob grilled until slightly charred, creating a smoky base for the toppings.
After grilling, you’ll coat the corn with a mixture of mayonnaise, butter and lime juice. Then sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder, and fresh cilantro.
You can also make a skillet version if grilling isn’t an option. Just cook the corn kernels in a pan until lightly charred.
Elotes make a perfect side dish because they’re easy to prepare and pack bold flavors. The combination of creamy, tangy, spicy and sweet elements creates an unforgettable taste experience.
10. Southern Fried Okra
Southern fried okra is a classic BBQ side dish that brings crunch and flavor to your plate. Fresh okra is sliced, coated in cornmeal batter, and fried until golden brown.
The secret to great fried okra is using fresh, young pods that aren’t tough or stringy. You’ll want to cut them into small pieces before coating them in a seasoned cornmeal mixture.
When fried to perfection, okra develops a crunchy exterior while maintaining a tender inside. This Southern staple pairs wonderfully with smoked meats and other BBQ favorites.
Serve your fried okra hot for the best taste and texture. It’s an addictive side that might disappear faster than your main dish!
11. Shrimp Pasta Salad
Shrimp pasta salad is a refreshing addition to any BBQ spread. This cold dish combines tender shrimp with tri-color rotini pasta for a colorful presentation that guests will love.
The classic recipe includes celery and red bell peppers for crunch, while paprika and dill add wonderful flavor. Many versions feature a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing that brings everything together.
For a modern twist, try adding creamy avocado chunks. This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats and can be prepared ahead of time, making it ideal for summer gatherings.
You can customize this versatile dish with your favorite vegetables or dressing to complement your BBQ menu.
12. Creamy Cucumber Salad
Creamy cucumber salad is a refreshing side dish perfect for summer BBQs. The combination of crisp cucumbers and a tangy sour cream dressing creates a light, cool contrast to hot grilled foods.
This simple dish features thinly sliced cucumbers and sweet onions mixed with fresh dill for brightness. The dressing usually contains sour cream, mayonnaise, and white wine vinegar that adds just the right amount of tartness.
You can make this salad ahead of time, making it ideal for gatherings. It only takes a few steps to prepare, letting you focus on your grilling while still offering a homemade side dish your guests will love.
13. Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic BBQ side dish that perfectly complements smoky meats. This Southern staple brings a touch of sweetness that balances spicy or savory barbecue flavors.
Traditional skillet cornbread offers a crispy exterior and soft, moist interior. You can easily customize it with additions like jalapeños, cheese, or corn kernels for extra flavor and texture.
For the best results, bake your cornbread in a preheated cast iron skillet. This creates that signature crispy crust that BBQ lovers crave. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a simple yet satisfying side dish that rounds out your barbecue spread.
14. Cowboy Pasta Salad
Cowboy Pasta Salad combines bowtie pasta with hearty ingredients for a filling BBQ side dish. This crowd-pleaser features a mix of ground beef, bacon, black beans, and cheese.
The colorful addition of corn, tomatoes, and green onions brings crunch and freshness to balance the rich ingredients. Everything gets tossed in a homemade dressing.
This pasta salad works perfectly for make-ahead preparation. You can assemble it the day before your barbecue to save time. The flavors actually improve as they meld together in the refrigerator.
Set this substantial side next to your grilled meats for a complete meal that will satisfy hungry guests.
15. Mango Salad
Mango salad is a bright and refreshing side dish that brings tropical flavors to your BBQ. The sweet, juicy mango pairs wonderfully with savory grilled meats.
For a simple version, combine diced mangoes with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Dress with lime juice and a touch of olive oil for a light, tangy flavor.
You can add extra texture with walnuts or depth with crispy bacon bits. For a more substantial option, toss in some lettuce like cos or romaine as a base.
This colorful side dish is perfect for summer gatherings and adds a pop of color to your BBQ spread.
16. Roasted Corn
Roasted corn brings sweet, smoky flavor to any barbecue spread. You can prepare it directly on the grill for those beautiful char marks or wrap it in foil for more even cooking.
Leave the husks on for a natural steam effect, or remove them for more direct heat and caramelization. Brush your corn with butter and sprinkle with salt for a classic approach.
For extra flavor, try rubbing with lime and sprinkling with chili powder or cotija cheese after grilling. This creates a simple version of Mexican street corn that pairs perfectly with any barbecued meat.
Leftover roasted corn can be cut off the cob and added to salads for extra texture and sweetness.
17. Onion Patties
Onion patties are a delicious and savory addition to any barbecue. They offer a crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful center that pairs well with grilled meats.
To make onion patties, slice sweet onions thinly and mix them with flour, eggs, and seasonings. Form the mixture into small patties and fry until golden brown.
These tasty morsels can be prepared ahead of time and reheated on the grill. You can customize your onion patties by adding herbs like parsley or spices such as paprika.
Serve your onion patties hot alongside burgers or ribs for a memorable BBQ side dish that will have your guests asking for the recipe.
18. Caramelized Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts become a BBQ star when caramelized properly.
Slice them into thin ribbons and sear them in olive oil with garlic until they start to brown.
Add a sprinkle of brown sugar to create that wonderful caramelization that transforms these tiny cabbages into a sweet-savory delight.
The heat brings out their natural sweetness while taming any bitterness.
For extra crunch and flavor, toss in some toasted pecans before serving.
You can also finish with a splash of balsamic reduction for a tangy complement to the caramelized edges.
These Brussels sprouts pair perfectly with smoky BBQ meats and add a sophisticated touch to your outdoor feast.
19. Tomato Salad
Tomato salad is a refreshing BBQ side dish that showcases the bright flavors of summer.
You can make this simple dish in just minutes with ripe tomatoes and a few basic ingredients.
Try a classic approach with sliced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella for a caprese-style salad. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
For something different, add sliced cucumber and avocado to your tomato salad. A zesty dressing with lemon juice and herbs will bring all the flavors together nicely.
You can also create an elegant version with tomatoes and fennel for a more sophisticated BBQ side dish.
20. Honey Lime Grilled Corn
Honey lime grilled corn brings a sweet and tangy twist to a classic BBQ side dish. This flavor combination takes your corn on the cob to a whole new level.
To make it, you’ll need to prepare a honey-lime butter by combining softened butter with honey, lime zest, and a touch of spice. For a kick, add some chili flakes.
Grill your corn to get those perfect charred marks. Then spread about a tablespoon of your honey-lime butter onto each ear of corn. Cover with foil and let sit for about 5 minutes.
This sweet and zingy corn pairs perfectly with any BBQ main dish and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at your next outdoor gathering.
21. Golden Girl Salad with Sweet Corn Vinaigrette
This vibrant salad brings bright colors and fresh flavors to your BBQ spread. It features shucked corn, finely shredded green cabbage, and colorful carrots as its base ingredients.
Yellow bell peppers and tomatoes add more color and flavor to the mix. The magic happens with the sweet corn vinaigrette that uses some of the corn in the dressing itself.
To make this salad, simply toss cabbage, carrots, corn, tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions in a large bowl. Blend some leftover corn for the vinaigrette and pour it over your vegetables.
This refreshing side dish perfectly complements grilled meats and adds a healthy option to your BBQ menu.
Regional BBQ Flavors
BBQ traditions vary across the United States, with each region developing distinctive flavors and side dishes. The sides that complement your barbecue often reflect local ingredients and cultural influences that have evolved over generations.
Southern BBQ Traditions
Southern BBQ side dishes showcase the region’s agricultural bounty and cultural heritage.
In the Carolinas, you’ll find tangy coleslaw that often tops pulled pork sandwiches or sits alongside them. This isn’t just any coleslaw—it’s typically vinegar-based rather than creamy in the eastern regions.
Georgia and Alabama BBQ plates often include Brunswick stew, a tomato-based dish with corn, lima beans, and meat scraps. Cornbread or hush puppies are essential Southern accompaniments, soaking up flavorful sauces.
Mississippi and Louisiana influence shows in sides like collard greens seasoned with ham hocks and mac and cheese with a crispy top. Southern potato salad typically includes mustard, pickles, and eggs for a distinctive flavor profile that complements smoky meats.
Midwestern BBQ Influences
Kansas City BBQ features distinctive sides that balance its sweet, thick sauces.
Baked beans are a cornerstone—often sweetened with molasses and studded with burnt ends (the flavorful, caramelized edges of brisket). These beans have become signature dishes throughout the Midwest.
You’ll find creamy potato salads and mayonnaise-based coleslaw that contrast with tangy, smoky meats. Corn on the cob—either grilled or boiled—appears frequently on Midwestern BBQ plates.
St. Louis and Kansas City BBQ joints often serve cheesy corn bakes alongside their ribs and brisket. Macaroni and cheese is elevated to an art form in this region, often featuring multiple cheeses and a golden breadcrumb topping.
Midwestern BBQ also embraces seasonal vegetables like grilled zucchini and yellow squash during summer cookouts.
Pairing Your BBQ with Sides
Creating a memorable BBQ experience depends on how well your sides complement your main dish. The right combinations enhance flavors while providing textural contrast and seasonal freshness.
Balancing Flavors and Textures
When pairing sides with BBQ, think about creating a balanced meal.
Rich, fatty meats like brisket or ribs pair wonderfully with tangy coleslaw or acidic sides that cut through the richness.
For spicy BBQ dishes, consider cooling sides like creamy potato salad or mac and cheese to temper the heat. Sweet BBQ sauce works well with savory sides that have a bit of salt or vinegar.
Texture is equally important. Combine something crunchy (like crisp coleslaw) with something creamy (like baked beans) and something chewy (like cornbread).
Complementary Flavor Combinations:
- Pulled pork → tangy coleslaw
- Beef brisket → potato salad
- Chicken → corn on the cob
- Ribs → baked beans
Choosing Seasonal Ingredients
Seasonal produce makes your BBQ sides fresher and more flavorful.
In summer, take advantage of corn, tomatoes, and zucchini for bright, colorful sides.
Fresh corn can become elote (Mexican street corn), salads, or simple grilled cobs.
Tomatoes work beautifully in summer salads or salsas alongside your grilled meats.
Fall BBQs benefit from roasted root vegetables, Brussels sprouts, or squash dishes.
Winter gatherings might feature hearty sides like smoked mac and cheese or collard greens.
Seasonal Side Suggestions:
- Spring: asparagus, new potatoes, spring greens
- Summer: corn, tomatoes, watermelon
- Fall: sweet potatoes, apples, squash
- Winter: collard greens, root vegetables, hearty beans
