When it comes to cookouts, the main dish usually gets all the attention, but side dishes can make or break the meal.
I’ve been to plenty of barbecues where perfectly grilled burgers were totally overshadowed by an incredible potato salad or some knockout baked beans.
Here’s our hand-picked selection of the best cookout side dishes that will have your guests coming back for seconds (and thirds).
Taco Ranch Bites
These crispy wonton cups are packed with seasoned ground beef mixed with creamy ranch and sour cream, then topped with melted cheese and fresh tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro.
Smashed Potato Salad with Bacon
This smashed potato salad takes the classic side dish to the next level with crispy-edged potatoes, smoky bacon, and a tangy honey-mustard dressing.
Cold Bacon Ranch Pinwheels
These make-ahead pinwheels combine crispy bacon, tangy ranch, and creamy cheese rolled up in soft tortillas for the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs
Classic deviled eggs get a flavor boost with tangy ranch seasoning, crispy bacon crumbles, and fresh chives.
Sriracha Honey Coleslaw
Spice up your coleslaw game with this sweet and tangy Sriracha Honey Coleslaw recipe!
Bruschetta Pasta Salad
Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella meet pasta in this no-mayo summer salad.
Grilled Zucchini Fries
Turn fresh zucchini into crispy, smoky fries on the grill.
Greek 7-Layer Dip
This Greek 7-Layer Dip is a no-cook Mediterranean appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering.
Street Corn Cowboy Caviar
This addictive dip combines charred corn, black beans, peppers, and creamy avocado with cotija cheese and a zesty lime dressing.
Meatball Sub Pasta Salad
This Meatball Sub Pasta Salad brings all the flavors of your favorite sandwich into an easy, portable dish.
Crockpot Cowboy Beans
Enjoy a hearty, slow-cooked blend of bacon, ground beef, and four types of beans in a sweet and smoky sauce.
Avocado Street Corn Pasta Salad
This Avocado Street Corn Pasta Salad brings together charred corn, creamy avocado, and tangy lime in a vibrant side dish that’s perfect for cookouts and potlucks.
Cucumber Tomato Salad
This fresh and vibrant Cucumber Tomato Salad combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and red onion in a tangy red wine vinaigrette.
Buffalo Deviled Eggs
Spicy, tangy, and ridiculously easy to make, these Buffalo Deviled Eggs bring all the flavor of buffalo wings to your favorite party appetizer.
