I Rely on These 29 Cookout Sides When I Don’t Know What to Bring

When indecision hits harder than the heat, a stash of 29 reliable cookout options can do all the thinking. It’s the food version of setting an alarm; simple, dependable, and oddly comforting. Nobody asks for gourmet when there’s something familiar and good enough to go with everything else on the plate.

Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Sometimes, you need a dish that’s comforting and easy to share. Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes combine a hearty filling with the natural sweetness of the potato. The flavors blend well for a satisfying bite, making it ideal for casual gatherings. It’s a great twist on a classic that stands out on the table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Dense Bean Salad

Packed with flavor, this one always catches attention at potlucks. Dense Bean Salad offers a hearty mix that feels filling but simple. It’s perfect for adding variety next to grilled mains. It’s the balanced option your cookout spread might be missing.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Need something for people to snack on? Buffalo Chicken Dip is a creamy, spicy option that pairs well with chips or veggies. It’s a crowd-pleaser that disappears fast at gatherings. Easily one of the top choices for any party.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Green Salad

When you want something light and fresh, this is always a reliable pick. Green Salad adds color and crunch to heavier cookout foods. Its simplicity balances meatier dishes on the table. A solid option for anyone looking for a healthier side.
Get the Recipe: Green Salad

Grilled Asparagus

This is a go-to when you want to add some greens to your cookout. Grilled Asparagus has a great smoky flavor that pairs well with barbecue flavors. It’s easy to make and always goes over well with guests. A nice way to keep things balanced and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

Waldorf Salad

For a classic side with a twist of sweetness, this is a reliable choice. Waldorf Salad mixes crunch and fruit for a well-rounded flavor. It’s lighter than some other sides but still feels filling. This is a good one when you want a refreshing contrast.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

For something with bold flavors, this is worth considering. Smoky Bacon Pig Shots offer a fun and unique bite that’s perfect for parties. They’re small but packed full of flavor, making them easy to grab and enjoy. These work especially well as an appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Cowboy Caviar

If you want something light but full of variety, this is a great pick. Cowboy Caviar is a bright mix of flavors and textures that work well as a dip or side. It’s perfect with chips and adds a fun element to the party. Definitely something different from the usual spreads.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Caviar

Mexican Street Corn

A cookout favorite, this is always a hit next to the grill. Mexican Street Corn combines sweet and smoky flavors with a creamy topping. It’s messy in the best kind of way and worth it every time. People are bound to come back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Bring a little kick to your side options with this one. Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad offers crunch and heat that pairs well with grilled meats. It’s a refreshing option that still has bold flavors. A side like this keeps things interesting on the table.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Million Dollar Dip

This one is a guaranteed hit for anyone looking for something creamy and indulgent. Million Dollar Dip is rich, flavorful, and pairs well with crackers or veggies. It’s easy to share and disappears quickly at any cookout. A simple, no-fuss option that works every time.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Dip

Egg Salad

Simple yet popular, this is a great addition to any gathering. Egg Salad is creamy and pairs well with bread, with chips, or as a scoopable side. It’s always a crowd favorite for its uncomplicated flavors. A dependable choice for all kinds of gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Egg Salad

Spinach Artichoke Dip

When it comes to dips, this one is hard to beat. Spinach Artichoke Dip is creamy, cheesy, and pairs perfectly with bread or crackers. It’s a familiar and comforting option that people keep reaching for. A must-have if you’re unsure what to contribute.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

Potato Salad

No cookout spread is complete without this classic side. Potato Salad is creamy and filling, making it a favorite for many. It complements grilled dishes perfectly and serves as a staple. Everyone expects it, and it never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad

Grilled Vegetables

Balance out heavier dishes with something like this. Grilled Vegetables add a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with cookout staples. They’re colorful and versatile, fitting in with almost any menu. A great way to round out your spread.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables

Rotel Dip

Crowd-pleasers don’t get much easier than this one. Rotel Dip is warm, creamy, and loaded with flavor that pairs perfectly with chips. It’s a great snack option to keep everyone happy. One of those dishes you’ll find yourself making regularly.
Get the Recipe: Rotel Dip

Grilled Eggplant

Sometimes, you just need a unique veggie on the grill. Grilled Eggplant has a smoky and tender texture that stands out on any plate. It’s an option for plant-based eaters but popular across the board. Great for anyone looking for something different.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Eggplant

Guacamole

This classic never goes out of style at gatherings. Guacamole is creamy, fresh, and always pairs well with chips or other sides. It’s a quick-to-disappear favorite that balances heavier items. You can’t go wrong bringing this one along.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Quinoa Salad

If you want something a little different, this is a great choice. Quinoa Salad is light but filling, with a mix of interesting textures. It’s a solid option for those seeking something beyond common sides. Perfect for guests who like fresh and lighter fare.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Salad

Spicy Greek Feta Dip

Looking for a bold, shareable option? Spicy Greek Feta Dip brings heat and creaminess to the table in one bite. It’s unique and easy to pair with bread, veggies, or crackers. This one will get people asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Greek Feta Dip

Grilled Peppers

Add some vibrant color to your grill with this choice. Grilled Peppers are sweet and smoky, making them a flavorful addition to any spread. They’re simple but satisfying, perfect as a side or topping. They bring variety without requiring extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peppers

Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

A mix of crunch and creamy dressing always goes over well. Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing blends fresh ingredients with a rich texture. It adds variety and complements both heavy and light dishes. A favorite for both kids and grown-ups.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

You can’t go wrong with something that brings flavor and versatility. Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies is a mix of hearty and fresh, ideal for cookouts. It works as a side or a mains option for guests with lighter appetites. One of those dishes that’s easy to prepare and always popular.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Hawaiian Baked Beans

If you’re looking to add something sweet and rich to your table, this is a great fit. Hawaiian Baked Beans stand out with bold combinations that pair surprisingly well with grilled mains. It’s not your average bean recipe and always invites curiosity. A dish that complements your spread nicely.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Baked Beans

Grilled Corn on the Cobb

A barbecue staple, this one is hard to skip. Grilled Corn on the Cobb blends smoky and sweet with every bite. It’s an easy crowd favorite, especially when paired with other grilled meats. Guests always look forward to this addition.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn on the Cobb

Honeycrisp Salad

Bring something light and refreshing with this option. Honeycrisp Salad balances sweet and crisp flavors, making it stand out among heavier sides. It brings brightness to the table that guests love. Simple but effective for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad

Grilled Zucchini

For a versatile veggie dish, this is worth adding to your lineup. Grilled Zucchini brings a smoky flavor and tender texture that works well with almost anything. It’s a solid plant-based choice for cookouts. Guests will appreciate having a balanced option like this.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Zucchini

Cobb Salad

A great choice when you need a whole meal in a bowl. Cobb Salad is loaded with a mix of fillings that make it hearty enough to stand on its own. It’s a balanced contrast to the other sides at the table. Perfect for guests who prefer something healthier but flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Pinwheel Sandwiches

Fun and shareable, this choice always gets snapped up quickly. Pinwheel Sandwiches are easy to eat and packed with layers of flavor in every bite. They’re ideal for casual gatherings and complement any cookout spread. A snack everyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Pinwheel Sandwiches