In BBQ, the focus is often on the meat – beef ribs, pulled pork, brisket, or grilled chicken. And oh, seafood. However, the sides you choose can elevate the meal, complementing the smoky flavors and adding variety to the plate. A well-rounded BBQ spread features a mix of textures and flavors, from creamy and tangy to crunchy and fresh. Here’s a guide to the best side dishes to serve with BBQ.

1. Classic Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a quintessential BBQ side dish known for its crunchy texture and tangy flavor. It is made from shredded cabbage and carrots mixed with a creamy or vinegar-based dressing.

Ingredients

• Shredded cabbage
• Shredded carrots
• Mayonnaise (for creamy slaw) or vinegar and sugar (for tangy slaw)
• Celery seed, salt, and pepper to taste

Preparation

Combine shredded cabbage and carrots in a large bowl. Mix your choice of dressing and toss with the vegetables. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Why We Like This Side Dish: The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the tender, smoky meat. Its tangy flavor cuts through the richness of BBQ, balancing the meal.

2. Baked Beans

Baked beans are a hearty, comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ. They are often slow-cooked with a savory-sweet sauce that complements grilled meats.

Ingredients

• Canned or dried beans (like navy or kidney beans)
• Bacon or pancetta
• Onion and garlic
• Brown sugar, molasses, and ketchup
• Mustard and Worcestershire sauce

Preparation

Cook bacon until crisp, then sauté onions and garlic in the bacon fat. Combine with beans, sugar, molasses, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Bake until thick and bubbly.

Why We Like This Side Dish: The rich, smoky flavor of baked beans complements BBQ meats beautifully. The sweetness and depth of flavor make it a satisfying side.

3. Cornbread

Cornbread is a classic Southern side that is slightly sweet and incredibly moist. It is perfect for sopping up BBQ sauces and juices.

Ingredients

• Cornmeal
• Flour
• Baking powder
• Sugar
• Milk or buttermilk
• Eggs
• Butter

Preparation

Mix dry ingredients together, then combine with wet ingredients. Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Why We Like This Side Dish: The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread pairs wonderfully with BBQ, providing a comforting contrast to the smoky flavors.

4. Potato Salad

Potato salad is a versatile side dish that can be made creamy, tangy, or even spicy depending on your preference. It is typically made with boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, and various mix-ins.

Ingredients

• Boiled potatoes (cut into cubes)
• Mayonnaise
• Dijon mustard
• Pickles or relish
• Celery, onions, and eggs (optional)
• Salt and pepper

Preparation

Mix the potatoes with mayonnaise, mustard, and your choice of add-ins. Chill in the refrigerator before serving.

Why We Like This Side Dish: The creamy texture of potato salad contrasts nicely with the smoky BBQ, and its richness complements the meat.

5. Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables add a fresh, smoky flavor to your BBQ spread. They are easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite seasonal vegetables.

Ingredients

• Bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, onions, mushrooms
• Olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and herbs (such as rosemary or thyme)

Preparation

Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs. Grill over medium heat until tender and charred.

Why We Like This Side Dish: Grilled vegetables add a smoky, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with BBQ. They offer a lighter, healthier option among the heavier sides.

6. Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is a creamy, indulgent side dish that’s a hit at any BBQ. The richness of the cheese sauce complements the smoky flavors of grilled meats.

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni
• Cheddar cheese
• Milk or cream
• Butter and flour (for the roux)
• Breadcrumbs (for topping)

Preparation

Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Make a cheese sauce by combining butter, flour, milk, and cheese. Mix with the macaroni, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until bubbly and golden.

Why We Like This Side Dish: The creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese is a comfort food classic that pairs perfectly with BBQ, adding richness and texture.

7. Pickles and Relish

Pickles and relish offer a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of BBQ. They can be served as a simple side or used as condiments.

Ingredients

• Assorted pickles (dill, bread-and-butter, spicy)
• Homemade or store-bought relish

Preparation

Serve pickles and relish straight from the jar or homemade.

Why We Like This Side Dish: The acidity and crunch of pickles and relish provide a refreshing counterpoint to the heavy, smoky flavors of BBQ.

8. Southern Collard Greens

Collard greens are a traditional Southern side that adds a savory, slightly bitter flavor to the BBQ plate. They’re often cooked slowly with smoked meats.

Ingredients

• Collard greens
• Bacon or ham hocks
• Onion and garlic
• Chicken broth
• Vinegar and hot sauce

Preparation

Sauté bacon or ham hocks with onions and garlic. Add collard greens and chicken broth, and simmer until tender. Season with vinegar and hot sauce.

Why We Like This Side Dish: The smoky, savory flavor of collard greens complements BBQ meats, and their rich, hearty nature makes them a satisfying addition.

9. Caprese Salad

A Caprese salad is a fresh and vibrant side dish made with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze.

Ingredients

• Fresh tomatoes
• Fresh mozzarella
• Fresh basil leaves
• Olive oil
• Balsamic glaze

Preparation

Slice tomatoes and mozzarella, and arrange them on a plate with basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

Why We Like This Side Dish: The fresh, bright flavors of a Caprese salad provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of BBQ, adding a light and flavorful option to the meal.

10. Hush Puppies

Hush puppies are deep-fried cornmeal balls that are a Southern favorite. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Ingredients

• Cornmeal
• Flour
• Baking powder
• Eggs
• Milk or buttermilk
• Onions (optional)
• Salt and pepper

Preparation

Mix dry ingredients with wet ingredients to form a batter. Drop spoonfuls of batter into hot oil and fry until golden brown.

Why We Like This Side Dish: The crispy, savory nature of hush puppies complements BBQ meats and adds a satisfying crunch to the plate.

11. Fruit Salad

A fruit salad adds a refreshing and sweet element to your BBQ spread. It’s a light and healthy option that balances the heaviness of grilled meats.

Ingredients

• Assorted fresh fruits (e.g., berries, melon, pineapple, grapes)
• Mint leaves (optional)
• Lime juice or honey (optional)

Preparation

Chop fruits into bite-sized pieces and mix in a bowl. Add mint leaves and a splash of lime juice or honey if desired.

Why We Like This Side Dish: The natural sweetness and juiciness of fruit salad provide a refreshing contrast to the savory BBQ dishes, making it a great palate cleanser.

12. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a flavorful and easy-to-make side that complements BBQ by adding a savory, buttery element.

Ingredients

• Baguette or Italian bread
• Butter
• Garlic cloves
• Parsley (optional)

Preparation

Spread butter mixed with minced garlic on slices of bread. Toast in the oven until golden brown.

Why We Like This Side Dish: The rich, buttery flavor of garlic bread pairs well with BBQ, and its crisp texture is great for soaking up any leftover sauces.

13. Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is a simple yet elegant side dish that adds a fresh, earthy flavor to your BBQ spread.
Ingredients
• Fresh asparagus
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Lemon (optional)
Preparation
Toss asparagus spears in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill until tender and slightly charred. Squeeze lemon juice over the top before serving if desired.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The smoky, charred flavor of grilled asparagus pairs beautifully with BBQ, and it’s a healthy, low-carb option that adds color to your plate.

14. Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is a sweet and juicy side dish that pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of BBQ.
Ingredients
• Fresh corn on the cob
• Butter
• Salt
Preparation
Boil or grill the corn until tender. Slather with butter and sprinkle with salt before serving.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The natural sweetness of the corn enhances the flavors of BBQ, and it’s easy to prepare and serve, making it a BBQ classic.

15. Cucumber Salad

Cucumber salad is a cool, crisp side dish that adds a refreshing touch to your BBQ meal.
Ingredients
• Cucumbers
• Red onion
• Vinegar
• Sugar
• Dill
• Salt and pepper
Preparation
Thinly slice cucumbers and red onion. In a separate bowl, whisk together vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Toss the cucumbers and onions in the dressing and sprinkle with fresh dill. Chill before serving.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The light, tangy flavor of cucumber salad provides a refreshing counterbalance to the rich, smoky flavors of BBQ.

16. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a savory, slightly crispy side dish that adds a touch of sophistication to your BBQ.
Ingredients
• Brussels sprouts
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Balsamic glaze (optional)
Preparation
Toss halved Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven until crispy and caramelized. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving if desired.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The caramelized, nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts pairs well with BBQ, offering a flavorful and healthy side option.

17. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a tasty, slightly sweet side dish that’s a healthier alternative to regular fries.
Ingredients
• Sweet potatoes
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Paprika (optional)
Preparation
Cut sweet potatoes into thin strips. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika if desired. Bake in the oven until crispy.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The natural sweetness of sweet potato fries complements the smoky flavors of BBQ, while their crispy texture adds a satisfying crunch

18. Broccoli Salad

Broccoli salad is a crunchy, flavorful side dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients
• Fresh broccoli florets
• Bacon
• Red onion
• Dried cranberries
• Sunflower seeds
• Mayonnaise
• Vinegar
• Sugar
Preparation
Mix fresh broccoli with crumbled bacon, chopped red onion, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar to make the dressing. Toss the salad in the dressing and chill before serving.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The combination of crunchy broccoli, sweet cranberries, and salty bacon makes broccoli salad a well-balanced, tasty side dish for any BBQ.

19. Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a creamy, tangy appetizer that pairs well with the smoky flavors of BBQ.
Ingredients
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Mayonnaise
• Mustard
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
Preparation
Cut hard-boiled eggs in half and scoop out the yolks. Mix yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper, then spoon the mixture back into the egg whites. Sprinkle with paprika before serving.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The creamy, tangy filling of deviled eggs complements the richness of BBQ, and they’re easy to prepare and serve for any gathering.

20. Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini is a light, healthy side dish that adds a smoky flavor to your BBQ spread.
Ingredients
• Zucchini
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder (optional)
Preparation
Slice zucchini lengthwise, then brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Grill until tender and slightly charred.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The mild, slightly sweet flavor of grilled zucchini pairs well with the bold flavors of BBQ, and it’s a simple, nutritious option that’s quick to prepare.

21. Quinoa Salad

Quinoa salad is a light, nutritious side dish that adds a refreshing touch to any BBQ.
Ingredients
• Quinoa
• Cherry tomatoes
• Cucumber
• Red onion
• Fresh herbs (parsley, mint, or cilantro)
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
Preparation
Cook quinoa according to package instructions, then let cool. Mix with chopped vegetables and fresh herbs. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
Why We Like This Side Dish: Quinoa salad is a versatile and healthy side, offering a mix of textures and fresh flavors that complement the richness of BBQ meats.

22. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are a creamy, flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ.
Ingredients
• Potatoes
• Garlic cloves
• Butter
• Milk or cream
• Salt and pepper
Preparation
Boil potatoes and garlic until tender. Mash together with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The rich, buttery flavor of garlic mashed potatoes complements the smoky, savory taste of BBQ, making it a comforting and satisfying side dish.

23. Three-Bean Salad

Three-bean salad is a tangy, protein-packed side dish that’s perfect for a BBQ.
Ingredients
• Green beans
• Kidney beans
• Garbanzo beans (chickpeas)
• Red onion
• Vinegar
• Olive oil
• Sugar
• Salt and pepper
Preparation
Mix the beans and chopped red onion in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Toss the beans in the dressing and chill before serving.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The tangy dressing and mix of textures make the three-bean salad a refreshing and filling side that pairs well with BBQ meats.

24. Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple is a sweet and tangy side dish that adds a tropical twist to your BBQ.
Ingredients
• Fresh pineapple
• Brown sugar (optional)
• Cinnamon (optional)
Preparation
Slice pineapple into rings or spears. Grill until caramelized and slightly charred. Sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon if desired.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The natural sweetness and caramelization of grilled pineapple contrast beautifully with the smoky, savory flavors of BBQ, making it a refreshing and unique side dish.

25. Fried Okra

Fried okra is a crispy, flavorful side dish that’s a Southern classic for BBQs.
Ingredients
• Fresh okra
• Cornmeal
• Flour
• Egg
• Salt and pepper
• Oil for frying
Preparation
Slice okra and toss in a mixture of cornmeal, flour, salt, and pepper. Dip in beaten egg, then coat in the cornmeal mixture again. Fry until golden brown.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The crispy, crunchy texture of fried okra adds a delightful contrast to the tenderness of BBQ meats, and it’s a Southern favorite that’s sure to be a hit.

26. Pickled Vegetables

Pickled vegetables are a tangy, crunchy side dish that adds a zesty contrast to BBQ.
Ingredients
• Mixed vegetables (cucumbers, carrots, radishes, etc.)
• Vinegar
• Water
• Sugar
• Salt
• Spices (mustard seeds, dill, garlic, etc.)
Preparation
Slice vegetables and place them in a jar. In a saucepan, heat vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and spices until dissolved. Pour over the vegetables and let them pickle for several hours or overnight.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The tangy, crisp flavors of pickled vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, smoky BBQ, making them a perfect palate cleanser between bites.

27. Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf is a flavorful, fluffy side dish that’s versatile enough to pair with any BBQ.
Ingredients
• Rice
• Chicken broth
• Onion
• Garlic
• Butter
• Fresh herbs (optional)
Preparation
Sauté onions and garlic in butter until soft. Add rice and toast it lightly before adding chicken broth. Cover and simmer until the rice is tender and fluffy. Stir in fresh herbs before serving if desired.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The buttery, aromatic flavors of rice pilaf complement the smoky richness of BBQ meats, offering a comforting and satisfying side dish.

28. Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are a savory, bite-sized side dish that adds a touch of elegance to your BBQ.
Ingredients
• Mushrooms
• Cream cheese
• Garlic
• Parmesan cheese
• Bread crumbs
• Fresh herbs
Preparation
Remove the stems from the mushrooms and chop them finely. Sauté the stems with garlic, then mix with cream cheese, Parmesan, bread crumbs, and herbs. Stuff the mushroom caps with the mixture and bake until golden.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The rich, savory filling of stuffed mushrooms pairs well with BBQ, offering a gourmet twist on a classic side dish that’s sure to impress your guests.

29. Elote (Mexican Street Corn)

Elote is a flavorful, tangy, and slightly spicy side dish that adds a festive touch to any BBQ.
Ingredients
• Corn on the cob
• Mayonnaise
• Cotija cheese
• Lime juice
• Chili powder
• Cilantro (optional)
Preparation
Grill corn until slightly charred. Slather with mayonnaise, sprinkle with crumbled Cotija cheese, chili powder, and fresh lime juice. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors of Elote complement the smoky BBQ, adding a vibrant and exciting side dish to your spread.

Here’s a more detailed recipe for Mexican Grilled Street Corn (Elote) (Roasted corn with delicious level 100 unlocked!)

30. Tabbouleh

Tabbouleh is a light, fresh side dish made with bulgur wheat and a mix of fresh herbs and vegetables.
Ingredients
• Bulgur wheat
• Parsley
• Mint
• Tomatoes
• Cucumbers
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
Preparation
Cook bulgur wheat according to package instructions. Mix with chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Dress with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The fresh, herbaceous flavors of tabbouleh provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, smoky flavors of BBQ, making it a perfect palate cleanser.

31. Buttered Green Beans

Buttered green beans are a simple, classic side dish that adds a touch of freshness to your BBQ.
Ingredients
• Fresh green beans
• Butter
• Salt and pepper
• Lemon zest (optional)
Preparation
Blanch green beans until tender, then toss them in melted butter. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of lemon zest if desired.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The buttery, tender green beans offer a fresh and light side that balances the robust flavors of BBQ, making them a versatile addition to your meal.

32. Watermelon Salad

Watermelon salad is a sweet and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for a summer BBQ.
Ingredients
• Watermelon
• Feta cheese
• Fresh mint
• Red onion
• Olive oil
• Balsamic glaze (optional)
Preparation
Cube watermelon and toss with crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, and fresh mint leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze if desired.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The juicy sweetness of watermelon paired with the salty feta and refreshing mint creates a delightful contrast that complements the smoky flavors of BBQ.

33. Carrot and Raisin Salad

Carrot and raisin salad is a sweet and crunchy side dish that adds a touch of nostalgia to your BBQ.
Ingredients
• Shredded carrots
• Raisins
• Mayonnaise
• Sugar
• Lemon juice
Preparation
Mix shredded carrots and raisins in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, and lemon juice to make the dressing. Toss the salad in the dressing and chill before serving.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The sweet and tangy flavors of carrot and raisin salad provide a nice contrast to the smoky BBQ, and its bright color adds visual appeal to your plate.

34. Grilled Peaches

Grilled peaches are a sweet, caramelized side dish that adds a touch of summer to your BBQ.
Ingredients
• Fresh peaches
• Olive oil or butter
• Honey (optional)
• Cinnamon (optional)
Preparation
Halve the peaches and remove the pits. Brush with olive oil or butter and grill until soft and caramelized. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The natural sweetness and caramelization of grilled peaches create a perfect balance with the smoky BBQ flavors, offering a delightful dessert-like side dish.

35. Spinach and Strawberry Salad

Spinach and strawberry salad is a fresh, fruity side dish that adds a burst of color and flavor to your BBQ.
Ingredients
• Fresh spinach
• Strawberries
• Red onion
• Feta cheese
• Balsamic vinaigrette
• Almonds (optional)
Preparation
Mix fresh spinach with sliced strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss with balsamic vinaigrette and sprinkle with almonds if desired.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The combination of sweet strawberries, tangy feta, and fresh spinach offers a refreshing and flavorful contrast to the smoky, savory BBQ dishes.

36. Roasted Beet Salad

Roasted beet salad is an earthy, vibrant side dish that adds a pop of color to your BBQ spread.
Ingredients
• Beets
• Goat cheese
• Arugula
• Walnuts
• Olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar
Preparation
Roast beets until tender, then slice and toss with arugula, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted walnuts. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The earthy sweetness of roasted beets, paired with creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts, creates a sophisticated and flavorful side that complements BBQ meats.

37. Couscous Salad

Couscous salad is a light, fluffy side dish that’s perfect for adding a touch of Mediterranean flair to your BBQ.
Ingredients
• Couscous
• Cherry tomatoes
• Cucumber
• Red onion
• Fresh herbs (parsley, mint)
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
Preparation
Cook couscous according to package instructions. Mix with chopped vegetables and fresh herbs. Dress with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The light and fluffy texture of couscous, combined with fresh vegetables and herbs, offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, smoky BBQ dishes.

38. Greek Salad

Greek salad is a vibrant, flavorful side dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your BBQ.
Ingredients
• Tomatoes
• Cucumbers
• Red onion
• Kalamata olives
• Feta cheese
• Olive oil
• Oregano
• Lemon juice
Preparation
Chop the vegetables and toss with Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, oregano, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The bold flavors of Greek salad, with its tangy feta and briny olives, provide a refreshing and zesty complement to the smoky BBQ meats.

39. Garlic Butter Mushrooms

Garlic butter mushrooms are a savory, umami-rich side dish that’s a perfect complement to BBQ.
Ingredients
• Button mushrooms
• Butter
• Garlic
• Fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper
Preparation
Sauté mushrooms in butter until golden brown. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley before serving.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The rich, garlicky flavor of the mushrooms pairs beautifully with BBQ, adding a savory depth that enhances the overall meal.

40. Loaded Baked Potato

Loaded baked potatoes are a hearty, satisfying side dish that can stand up to the bold flavors of BBQ.
Ingredients
• Russet potatoes
• Cheddar cheese
• Bacon
• Sour cream
• Chives
• Butter
Preparation
Bake potatoes until tender. Split open and load with butter, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, sour cream, and chopped chives.
Why We Like This Side Dish: The combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory toppings on a fluffy baked potato offers a filling and indulgent side that pairs perfectly with BBQ meats.

I will be updating this list periodically to add more side dishes you can try out with your BBQ.

Which side dish do you like with your BBQ?