These 27 Cookout Sides Always Keep My Whole Family Happy

There’s always someone at the cookout who skips the mains and piles their plate with sides like it’s a sport. That person usually finishes their food first and goes back with a new plate like nothing happened. These 27 sides tend to cause that kind of behavior. No arguments, no weird looks, just quiet eating and a lot of chewing from people.

Grilled Pineapple

Sweets don’t always have to come at the end of the meal. Grilled Pineapple offers a burst of fruity flavor made even better by grilling. Its caramelized exterior turns the fruit into something special and blends well with fresh or savory dishes. No one skips out on trying it next to other grilling favorites.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple

Tuna Salad

Some side dishes feel light but still fill you up. Tuna Salad does exactly that and always works great as a refreshing addition to a barbecue spread. The flavors blend together in a way that pairs well with most main dishes without being too heavy. It’s a go-to option that guests come back for every time.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Salad

Conch Fritters

A golden, bite-sized treat instantly catches everyone’s eye at the table. Conch Fritters are crispy on the outside and soft inside, making them hard to resist. This cookout side is perfect for adding variety without feeling out of place. They’re a hit, especially with a crowd that loves sharing finger foods.
Get the Recipe: Conch Fritters

Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

There’s no doubt that a slightly smoky and meaty side dish makes people excited. Smoky Bacon Pig Shots bring a unique shape and bite-sized appeal that kids and adults alike enjoy. It’s the perfect mix of simple yet bold flavors with a chewy, crispy texture. These tend to disappear the minute they hit the table.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Spicy sides that pack a punch always find their place at barbecues. Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels bring just enough heat while staying a perfect size for snacking. These rolls have a fun shape and pack flavor in every bite without being too overwhelming. It’s that side that adds a little kick everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Grilled Chicken Kabobs

Everyone loves food that’s easy to eat at cookouts. Grilled Chicken Kabobs perfectly combine juicy meat and fresh additions for a balanced side. The skewer format makes it fun and less messy while still packing in flavor. It’s hard not to grab one when they’re right there on the grill.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Kabobs

Egg Salad

When summer barbecues call for something creamy and cool, this hits the spot. Egg Salad is often a side that brings comfort along with a little nostalgia. It’s easy to pair with sandwiches or eat on its own during gatherings. That versatility makes it a side everyone appreciates at cookouts.
Get the Recipe: Egg Salad

Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

Snacks everyone can dip into are always a hit at cookouts. Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip brings together all the classic flavors people love in one creamy scoop. Chips, crackers, or veggies all work as perfect partners for this crowd-friendly side. Every bite makes people come back to the table for more.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

Grilled Asparagus

Veggie options shine on the grill when fresh and simple flavors rule. Grilled Asparagus brings out a smoky char that matches grilled meats and other sides too. It’s quick to grab, tasty, and surprisingly satisfying to everyone at the table. Even those who don’t love veggies can’t seem to pass it up.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

Potato Salad

A classic choice at any cookout delivers comfort in every bite. Potato Salad is a crowd-pleaser for a reason, with a creamy texture and hearty feel. You’ll always see it on a cookout table, and for good reason, it pairs with everything. It’s a favorite that everyone seems to come back to.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad

Mexican Rice

Mexican Rice delivers the right blend of texture and spice to round out any cookout spread. It’s the kind of dish that pairs well with other sides or your main meal. You might notice it disappears quickly as soon as it’s served! A flavorful, hearty option is always appreciated when plates are being filled.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice

Guacamole

Something fresh and creamy always fits at a summer gathering. Guacamole is that staple side everyone reaches for and goes perfectly with grilled food. Its simple appeal makes it versatile to eat on its own or added to other dishes. Nobody ever skips over it at the cookout table.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

Potatoes become an instant hit when loaded with flavor during a cookout. BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes bring warmth and smokiness in a simple yet filling side. They’re a compact dish that balances savory tastes and works on its own or alongside other dishes. Guests rarely say no to these at the cookout table.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Adding something creamy and sharable always gets people excited. Spinach Artichoke Dip is that rich, delicious option that gets everyone reaching for chips or bread. It stands out at the table with its gooey texture and bold taste. This is the dish that family members keep talking about afterward.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

Southwest Sweet Potatoes

A smoky and slightly sweet side dish changes everything at a family gathering. Southwest Sweet Potatoes bring just the right texture to your plate, pairing perfectly with anything off the grill. That little pop of flavor has everyone looking for seconds. It’s a side dish your family will ask for every time.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Pico de Gallo

Fresh options go a long way, especially when served with chips or as a topping. Pico de Gallo offers a refreshing and vibrant mix that complements nearly everything else on the plate. It’s a must-have for those looking to brighten up a plate or snack. You’ll see hands reaching for this all night.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Grilled Eggplant

Smoky and tender options straight from the grill bring something extra to the mix. Grilled Eggplant is a veggie-forward side that offers a meaty and filling bite without overwhelming the plate. It’s perfect for guests who love veggies or just want a lighter option. There’s something special about its charred edges and soft texture.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Eggplant

Mexican Street Corn

Corn on the cob gets a whole new twist during cookouts. Mexican Street Corn brings bold flavor and irresistible fun to every gathering. This side dish is messy in a good way, and no one can resist going back for more. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s always a conversation starter at the table.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

There’s something about a crisp, fresh side dish that always stands out at our cookouts. Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad brings just the right amount of bold heat and crunch everyone enjoys. The balance of flavors makes it a refreshing addition to the table. No matter who grabs a spoonful, it’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Hawaiian Baked Beans

A cookout isn’t complete without some hearty, warm sides to balance the grill. Hawaiian Baked Beans always steal the spotlight with a depth of flavor that surprises everyone. They’re slightly sweet and add richness to the mix of dishes on the table. It’s a comfort side everyone seems to love.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Baked Beans

Grilled Corn on the Cobb

Easy-to-eat, handheld sides always make everyone’s plate feel complete. Grilled Corn on the Cobb combines smoky flavors with just the right amount of natural sweetness. No cookout feels right without these golden ears sitting on the table. You’ll see everyone grab one and enjoy diving in.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn on the Cobb

Green Goddess Salad

A light and herby salad provides the perfect break from heavier sides. Green Goddess Salad brings a fresh spin to the table with its creamy, herbed base. It’s a great option to balance out grilled meats or richer sides. Everyone appreciates how different it is from the usual salad options.
Get the Recipe: Green Goddess Salad

7 Layer Dip

Everyone loves a dish you can scoop up with a chip. 7 Layer Dip stacks up beautifully with layers of flavor that work together in the best way. It’s always the first thing to disappear from the table because it’s so easy to keep dipping. This classic side keeps the crowd happy every time.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

Strawberry Cookies

Desserts at a cookout brighten the whole event every time. Strawberry Cookies bring a fruity, sweet flavor that feels just right after a heavy meal. Their soft texture and unique berry twist make them such a memorable option. Everyone appreciates having a homemade dessert to enjoy together.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cookies

Waldorf Salad

Cool and crisp sides are perfect for summer gathering tables. Waldorf Salad adds a little crunch and freshness that contrasts warm dishes deliciously. Every bite offers a mix of flavors and textures that work great next to grilled meats. It’s the kind of side that tastes lighter but still stands out.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

Pinwheel Sandwiches

Sandwiches become more fun to eat when served in smaller bites. Pinwheel Sandwiches bring variety to the table and are a good choice for adults and kids alike. These little rolls can fit any kind of filling, which makes them easy to love. They’re a quick-grab side that disappears fast at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Pinwheel Sandwiches

Rotel Dip

Creamy, warm dips are almost mandatory at family barbecues. Rotel Dip combines flavors that work perfectly with chips, crackers, or veggies for dipping. It’s the kind of side that makes everyone circle back to the snack table. With its bold texture and crowd-pleasing appeal, it never lasts long at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Rotel Dip