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    Home » Recipes » Recipe Roundups

    Angela @ BakeItWithLove.com · Leave a Comment

    BBQ Side Dishes

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    Pin split image with text showing different bbq side dish recipe ideas.

    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!

    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!

    Square split image showing different bbq side dish recipe ideas.
    Jump to:
    • 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
    • Tips For Picking The Best Side Dishes For BBQ Dinners
    • 🥩 🔥 BBQ Recipes To Try
    • 📋 Recipe
    • Best BBQ Side Dishes: Paula Deen's Macaroni and Cheese (+19 More Great Sides To Make!)
    • Ingredients US CustomaryMetric
    • Instructions
    • Equipment You May Need
    • Notes
    • 💬 Comments
    * indicates required

    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, classic black-eyed peas and collard greens are 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
    Southern black eyed peas with collard greens and ham in serving bowl.

    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 a 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 staple recipes!
    Check out this recipe
    Square image of grilled corn on the cob stacked with wooden skewers.

    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 just a few simple ingredients and comes out deliciously cheesy and rich every time! Just 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 image showing Paula Deen's macaroni and cheese casserole.

    >>>>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're seeking a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish for gatherings, this elevated version of macaroni and cheese is perfect for you!
    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! It is easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins so that you know your entire family will love it! Bring it to BBQs, potlucks, or picnics for a tasty side everyone will discuss!
    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 that 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! Beanie weenies, 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).

    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
    Best creamed corn recipe that cna be made with fresh, frozen, or canned corn served in beige bowl on wooden background.

    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.

    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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    4.86 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
    Servings: 8 servings
    Calories: 427kcal
    Prep 10 minutes minutes
    Cooking 30 minutes minutes
    Pin Recipe Share on Facebook

    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
    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.
      8 oz elbow macaroni, 3 cups cheddar cheese
    • 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.
      3 large eggs, 1 cup evaporated milk, ½ cup sour cream, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ cup unsalted butter
    • 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.

    Equipment You May Need

    Measuring Spoons
    Grater Set
    Mixing Bowl
    Silicone Whisk
    8x8 Baking Dish

    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!
    bbq side dishes, Paula Deen's Macaroni and Cheese
    Course Copycat Recipes, Pasta, Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    author profile photo
    Angela @ BakeItWithLove.com

    Angela is an at home chef that developed a passion for all things cooking and baking at a young age in her Grandma's kitchen. After many years in the food service industry, she now enjoys sharing all of her family favorite recipes and creating tasty dinner and amazing dessert recipes here at Bake It With Love!

    bakeitwithlove.com/about/
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    Hi there, I'm Angela! I'm an avid vintage cookbook collector, recipe creator, animal lover, and total foodie. I love sharing new, fun, and creative recipes as well as great classic recipes, just like my Grandma used to make! Every recipe on BIWL is tested to make sure that cooks of any experience level can be successful. Enjoy!

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