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Home » Recipes » Recipe Roundups

Last Updated: Dec 19, 2023 by Angela Latimer · Leave a Comment

BBQ Side Dishes

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These BBQ side dishes are just what you need to round out the meal and will pair perfectly with any of your favorite barbecue main courses! There are classic Southern side dishes and some recipes that may be new to you! Either way, they always come with rave reviews when BBQ is on the menu!

Square split image showing different bbq side dish recipe ideas.
Jump to:
  • 21 Easy Side Dishes For Barbeques
  • 1. Black Eyed Peas with Collard Greens
  • 2. Southern Coleslaw
  • 3. Grilled Corn On The Cob
  • 4. Air Fryer Chili Cheese Nuggets
  • 5. Fried Pickles
  • 6. Paula Deen’s Macaroni & Cheese
  • 7. Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese
  • 8. Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
  • 9. Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
  • 10. Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
  • 11. Broccoli and Cheese
  • 12. Franks and Beans
  • 13. Candied Carrots
  • 14. Chicken Salad with Grapes
  • 15. Creamed Corn
  • 16. Potato Salad
  • 17. Grilled Acorn Squash
  • 18. Boneless Chicken Wings
  • 19. Dill Pickle Dip
  • 20. Baked Beans With Ground Beef And Bacon
  • 21. Macaroni And Tomatoes
  • Tips For Picking The Best Side Dishes For BBQ Dinners
  • 🥩 🔥 BBQ Recipes To Try
  • 📖 Recipe Card
  • Best BBQ Side Dishes: Paula Deen's Macaroni and Cheese (+19 More Great Sides To Make!)
  • 💬 Comments & Reviews

21 Easy Side Dishes For Barbeques

While the meat may be the star at any barbeque, no feast is complete without a few tasty side dishes to go along with it. In fact, sometimes I look forward to all the sides as much as the main course!

Once summer comes along, I can't wait to bust out the grill and the smoker to make some succulent rib recipes or tender flame-kissed steaks. Every year, these side dish recipes come highly requested when my family knows I'll be outside cooking!

1. Black Eyed Peas with Collard Greens

You could make black-eyed peas, or you could make collard greens, but have you ever thought of combining the two? It's hearty and delicious with cubes of tender cooked ham mixed throughout.

Black Eyed Peas with Collard Greens and Ham
Simple black-eyed peas and collard greens and ham is an amazing Southern comfort dinner that is sure to please everyone! It’s rich, full of flavor, and so easy to make. You’ll want to whip up this dish all the time!
Check out this recipe
Black eyed peas with collard greens and ham ready to serve.

2. Southern Coleslaw

A big bowl of creamy coleslaw is a must-have at any backyard BBQ! It's a great way to add a crunch to pulled pork sandwiches.

Southern Coleslaw
Southern coleslaw is a classic quick and easy side dish with crunchy veggies that are tossed with a flavorful, creamy dressing! It's the perfect addition to sandwiches, tacos, fried fish, and so much more. This Southern coleslaw isn’t just for the summertime—it’s great for anytime you want a quick, delicious side!
Check out this recipe
Square image of Southern coleslaw in a white bowl.

3. Grilled Corn On The Cob

If you already plan on firing up the grill, it's the perfect time to toss on some corn cobs! They're ready to eat in 30 minutes, and they're delicious with a little melted butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder!

Grilled Corn On The Cob
This grilled corn on the cob is a sweet and smokey, easy-to-make side dish that is perfect for any cookout. It is smothered in delicious melted garlic butter immediately before serving so that it is extra flavorful. It pairs great with any BBQ foods, so it will become one of your new favorite recipes!
Check out this recipe
Square image of grilled corn on the cob.

4. Air Fryer Chili Cheese Nuggets

Frozen nuggets filled with chili cheese that can be whipped up in minutes with your air fryer! They make a great easy appetizer or snack while everyone waits on the main course.

Air Fryer Chili Cheese Nuggets
These air fryer chili cheese nuggets are the perfect crispy, cheesy, and spicy appetizer for any game day, party, or family gathering! This recipe features frozen chili cheese nuggets that are brushed with olive oil, then air fried to golden perfection. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for a sharable snack that will be loved by everyone!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of air fryer chili cheese nuggets.

5. Fried Pickles

Golden brown and super crispy, these fried pickles are always a hit! Don't forget the homemade ranch dressing for dipping!

Crispy Fried Pickles
These crispy fried pickles are crunchy, savory, salty, and perfect for dipping (everything you could want from an appetizer)! You can use pickle spears, slices, or chips, whatever you prefer! Pair them with some ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce and watch them disappear!
Check out this recipe
Wide image showing fried pickles.

6. Paula Deen’s Macaroni & Cheese

This easy recipe is for Paula Deen's signature baked macaroni and cheese. It's ultra-rich and creamy, and it makes plenty of servings for sharing!

Paula Deen's Macaroni and Cheese
Paula Deen's macaroni and cheese recipe is made with simple ingredients and always comes out deliciously cheesy and rich. Combine the ingredients in a baking dish and pop it in the oven for 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling. It's the ultimate Southern comfort food!
Check out this recipe
Wide closeup on a serving of Paula Deen's baked mac and cheese in a white pasta bowl.

>>>>See all of my recipes here<<<<

7. Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese

Smoked gouda gives this macaroni a subtly smokey flavor that pairs fabulously with barbecue. I love topping it off with some crispy bacon for a salty crunch!

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese
This smoked gouda mac and cheese takes the classic recipe to new heights by incorporating the rich and smoky flavors of gouda cheese! All you need to do is cook your pasta, prepare your cheese sauce, and stir everything together. Whether you are seeking a cozy weeknight dinner or a side dish for gatherings, this elevated macaroni and cheese version is perfect!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of smoked Gouda mac and cheese in a white bowl.

8. Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

Pasta salad is a great side dish for summer barbecues because it's cool, tangy, and refreshing! Go all out and make your own Italian dressing from scratch, or you can pick up a bottle of your favorite brand from the store.

Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
This pasta salad with Italian dressing is the perfect make-ahead side dish for any meal or gathering you may have! Bring it to BBQs, potlucks, or picnics for a tasty side everyone will rave about! It is easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins so that you know your entire family will love it!
Check out this recipe
Tall image of pasta salad with Italian dressing in a white bowl.

9. Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

You can find bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers at most BBQ joints because the sweet and smoky flavor of barbecue sauce complements them perfectly! The cream cheese filling helps cut the heat, plus they are so delectably snackable!

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers With Cream Cheese
Bacon wrapped jalapeno poppers are a classic appetizer that will make any party or gathering even more enjoyable. They are easy to make and require minimal ingredients – jalapenos, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and some simple seasoning. Once the poppers have been filled with the cream cheese mixture, they are then wrapped in crispy bacon for an extra layer of mouthwatering flavor.
Check out this recipe
Wide image of bacon wrapped jalapeno poppers with cream cheese.

10. Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

There are so many ways to make perfectly fluffy baked potatoes, but I have to say, the air fryer is by far the easiest! You could also try oven-baked potatoes or slow-cooker-baked potatoes. Just don't forget all the tasty baked potato toppings!

Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
These air fryer baked potatoes are an effortless way to get perfectly tender and fluffy baked potatoes for any weeknight meal! They're a classic and versatile side to pair with your favorite protein, or you can load them up to become the main course! Pop them in your air fryer for 40 minutes, add your favorite baked potato toppings, and enjoy!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of air fryer baked potato.

11. Broccoli and Cheese

Broccoli with cheese sauce is an easy 15-minute recipe that makes a great last-minute addition to any BBQ dinner! The sauce is made with a blend of cheddar and Parmesan for the perfect balance of flavors.

Broccoli And Cheese
Broccoli and cheese is a quick and tasty side dish that pairs together two well-loved and amazing flavors! Not only is the cheese sauce easy to make, but it is so good that even the pickiest eaters will want to try it! It is warm, cheesy, and ready in just 15 minutes.
Check out this recipe
Wide image showing broccoli and cheese.

12. Franks and Beans

This recipe is a homemade version of the classic canned franks and beans that kids love! It can even be served as a main course if you have kiddos who aren't a fan of what you're serving.

Franks and Beans
This franks and beans recipe is an easy and quick homemade version of a childhood classic that we all know and love. Beanee weenees, pork and beans, beans and franks, or whatever else you may call them, this dish is both tasty and nostalgic! I guarantee that your family will be asking for seconds.
Check out this recipe
Wide image of a pot of franks and beans.

13. Candied Carrots

These tender carrots are coated in a sweet and sticky brown sugar glaze that is finger-licking good. Not to mention, they're ready to eat in only 30 minutes!

Candied Carrots
These candied carrots are a kid-approved, delectable vegetable side dish that can be enjoyed on any occasion. Tender carrots are coated in a sweet brown sugar glaze that is truly irresistible. They are buttery, delicious, and can easily complement your favorite chicken, pork, fish, or beef recipes!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of a bowl of candied carrots.

14. Chicken Salad with Grapes

The grapes add a refreshing burst of sweetness to every bite of this chicken salad. If you prefer yours without grapes, I have another version made with rotisserie chicken that would be just as tasty!

Chicken Salad with Grapes
This chicken salad with grapes is a quick and tasty meal that is perfect for lunch at home, picnics, or potlucks! Enjoy it by itself, use it to make a sandwich, or eat it as a lettuce wrap! This dish is easy to make, absolutely delicious, and will become your new favorite chicken salad recipe!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of a bowl of chicken salad with grapes.

15. Creamed Corn

If you've never tried homemade creamed corn, you're missing out! It's rich, sweet, and savory (and so much better than the canned version).

Homemade Creamed Corn
This creamed corn is a creamy, quick, and simple vegetable side dish that tastes like it took all day to prepare. It is ready to enjoy in only 15 minutes and is a completely beginner-friendly recipe. Plus, it is so irresistibly delicious that your family will be requesting it for every occasion.
Check out this recipe
Wide image of creamed corn.

16. Potato Salad

No backyard BBQ is complete without a big bowl of potato salad! This cool and creamy potato salad is always satisfying on hot summer days.

Potato Salad
This potato salad is a classic side dish recipe that can easily be customized to suit your preferred tastes! Not only is it amazingly easy to prepare, but it is also incredibly addicting! After just one bite, this will become your new favorite potato salad recipe!
Check out this recipe
Best classic potato salad recipe to make for any occasion, served in wooden bowl on light background.

17. Grilled Acorn Squash

Acorn squash is a nutritious and delicious squash variety that has a subtle sweetness after a little time on the grill. You can lean into that flavor with sweet seasonings or keep your acorn squash savory with a little salt & pepper!

Grilled Acorn Squash
Grilled acorn squash is a nutritious and delicious vegetable side dish that is ready to enjoy in less than 20 minutes! You can choose to make this versatile squash either sweet or savory to suit your preferred taste. Plus, its natural flavors make it pair well with virtually anything!
Check out this recipe
Square image of grilled acorn squash.

18. Boneless Chicken Wings

Whether you're watching the game or enjoying BBQ by the pool, boneless chicken wings are always a great choice. They make a tasty appetizer, and you can customize them with your favorite chicken wing sauces!

Boneless Chicken Wings
These boneless chicken wings are tender and juicy with a crispy outside that makes them a perfect appetizer for any occasion! Chicken breast pieces are double-coated in seasoned flour and fried until golden before being tossed in your favorite kind of sauce! Enjoy them on game day, at a party, or simply just because!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of boneless chicken wings on a plate.

19. Dill Pickle Dip

If you have pickle lovers in your family, they'll be head over heels for this easy dill pickle dip! Serve it with chips or veggies for snacking while you work on the main course.

Dill Pickle Dip
Dill pickle dip is an incredibly easy, quick, and delicious appetizer to make for your next potluck, party, or game day get-together! Loaded with chopped dill pickles, seasoning, cream cheese, and sour cream, this pickle dip has the best zesty, creamy flavor! With only 10 minutes of prep work and 6 ingredients, you'll love how simple it is to whip up in a flash.
Check out this recipe
Wide image showing dill pickle dip with carrots, chips, and celery.

20. Baked Beans With Ground Beef And Bacon

This comforting dish combines the savory goodness of ground beef and smoky bacon with sweet and tangy baked beans, creating a perfect blend of flavors. Ideal for family gatherings, BBQs, or as a satisfying meal on its own, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

Baked Beans with Ground Beef and Bacon
Baked beans with ground beef and bacon are a satisfying side dish for BBQ dinners and cookouts! Baked beans are made sweet with brown sugar. They are made even better with added smoky flavors from hickory-smoked bacon and liquid smoke!!
Check out this recipe
Super easy barbecue baked beans loaded with hearty, beefy flavors and smoky richness with just a touch of delicious sweetness!!

21. Macaroni And Tomatoes

This classic Southern dish brings together tender macaroni pasta and juicy, ripe tomatoes in a harmonious blend, seasoned to perfection.

Macaroni And Tomatoes
Macaroni and tomatoes is an easy, old-fashioned Southern side dish that is as classic as comfort food gets! Canned tomatoes mean there is virtually no prep time, and a little bacon grease gives this dish its signature smoky bacon flavor! If you haven't had macaroni and tomatoes before, give it a try, and you might have a new favorite pasta side dish!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of macaroni and tomatoes in white pasta bowl.

Tips For Picking The Best Side Dishes For BBQ Dinners

When it comes to choosing the best side dishes for your barbecue, there are a few things to keep in mind. When in doubt, offer a variety of options!

  1. Complement the Main Dish: Think about your main course and what flavors would pair well with it. BBQ with bold, spicy flavors does well with mild or creamy side dishes to balance it out. If your entree is pretty simple, you should opt for sides with a punch of flavor.
  2. Consider the Weather: When it's hot outside, nothing beats a refreshing side dish like coleslaw or chilled pasta salad. If it's cooler out, you may want to opt for warm and comforting sides like potatoes or baked beans.
  3. Think About Texture: If you're planning on serving a tender entree like pulled pork or brisket, it's good to have contrast with something crunchy. Salads, coleslaw, or corn on the cob would all be great choices.
  4. Make Ahead: Save yourself some time and trouble by choosing side dishes you can make the night before. That way, you can focus on grilling or cooking the main course. Things like potato salad, egg salad, and coleslaw taste even better when the flavors have had time to meld in the fridge.
  5. Accommodate Dietary Restrictions: If you plan on feeding a crowd, make sure to offer a variety of choices. Consider any dietary restrictions of your guests so everyone has something to enjoy!

Any combination of these easy BBQ side dishes can be served to make the perfect meal! Be sure to come back and tell me how everything turns out in the comments below!

🥩 🔥 BBQ Recipes To Try

  • Grilled BBQ Chicken Breasts - Juicy chicken breasts coated in sweet and smoky BBQ sauce!
  • Honey BBQ Sauce - This sweet and tangy homemade honey BBQ sauce is perfect for all of your favorite BBQ recipes!
  • BBQ Baked Pork Spare Ribs - These pork spare ribs are covered in pork dry rub and BBQ sauce, so there's no shortage of flavor!
  • BBQ Baked Sausage - This easy 4-ingredient baked sausage would be delicious with any of the sides on this list!
  • BBQ Meatloaf - A fun and tasty twist on traditional meatloaf featuring a tangy BBQ glaze!
  • Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks - These juicy chicken drumsticks are perfect for backyard BBQs!

Do you love a recipe you tried? Please leave a 5-star 🌟rating in the recipe card below and/or a review in the comments section further down the page.
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5 from 7 reviews

Best BBQ Side Dishes: Paula Deen's Macaroni and Cheese (+19 More Great Sides To Make!)

These BBQ side dishes are just what you need to round out the meal and will pair perfectly with any of your favorite barbecue main courses! There are classic Southern side dishes as well as some recipes that may be new to you! Either way, they always come with rave reviews when BBQ is on the menu!
Author | Angela Latimer
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 427kcal
Prep 10 minutes minutes
Cooking 30 minutes minutes
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Ingredients
 

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni (cooked, drained, and rinsed in cool water)
  • 3 cups cheddar cheese (shredded, divided into 2 cups and 1 cup portions)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter cubed

(Note: 2x or 3x only changes the ingredient list)

Help Us Out!If you love a recipe, be sure to come back and share your ratings. This helps future users, and allows me to continue sharing free recipes! Angela

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
  • Prepare 8 oz elbow macaroni if you haven't already, then add the cooked and drained pasta to a large mixing bowl with 2 of the 3 cups cheddar cheese and mix until thoroughly combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 1 cup evaporated milk, ½ cup sour cream, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Fold the egg mixture and ¼ cup unsalted butter in with the pasta and cheese until evenly distributed. Then, pour everything into your prepared baking dish.
  • Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar over the top, then pop it back in the oven for 5 minutes or until the cheese has melted. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • 8 ounces of elbow macaroni is about 2 cups of uncooked pasta.
  • Always use freshly shredded cheese when making macaroni and cheese. The pre-shredded bags of cheese at the grocery store are coated with cellulose to prevent the cheese from sticking or melting.
  • This is Paula Deen's signature recipe, but you can still try out some different cheeses if you prefer a variety. I recommend using at least 1 ½ cups of cheddar, but the other 1 ½ cups could be Gruyere, gouda, brie, or whatever melting cheese you like! See my post on the best cheeses for mac and cheese for more suggestions.
  • To store: Once your macaroni has cooled completely, you can cover it with foil or transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. Enjoy within 3-4 days.
  • To reheat: Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave. Otherwise, you can pop the mac and cheese (in the baking dish) in your oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through and bubbling.

Nutrition

Calories: 427kcal (21%) | Carbohydrates: 26g (9%) | Protein: 19g (38%) | Fat: 28g (43%) | Saturated Fat: 15g (94%) | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 145mg (48%) | Sodium: 490mg (21%) | Potassium: 238mg (7%) | Fiber: 1g (4%) | Sugar: 5g (6%) | Vitamin A: 869IU (17%) | Vitamin C: 1mg (1%) | Calcium: 416mg (42%) | Iron: 1mg (6%)
Did you try this recipe? Rate it below!I can’t wait to see your results! Mention @bake_it_with_love or tag #bake_it_with_love!
Course Copycat Recipes, Pasta, Side Dish
Cuisine American
« Father's Day Desserts
Chipotle Seasoning »

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Hi there, I'm Angela

I am an avid vintage cookbook collector, cook, baker, and total foodie. I love sharing new, fun, creative recipes and great classic recipes, just like my Grandma used to make! Every recipe on BIWL is tested to ensure that cooks of any experience level can succeed.

Welcome to Bake It With Love. Enjoy!

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