The Perfect BBQ Sides: Elevating Your Grill Game
5 Creative BBQ Sides to Take Your Grill Game to the Next Level
- Grilled Corn on the Cob – Nothing says summer like grilled corn on the cob. Add flavor by mixing garlic powder, chili powder, and cumin into softened butter before slathering it over freshly grilled corn. Sprinkle with Cotija cheese or chopped cilantro for a Mexican street corn twist.
- Grilled Potato Salad – Upgrade this classic by grilling cubed potatoes tossed in olive oil and seasoning until golden brown. Combine with traditional potato salad ingredients for a smoky twist. Add bacon, green onions, or Dijon mustard for extra depth.
- Grilled Fruit Skewers – Skewer pineapple, peaches, and apples, then grill until lightly charred. Serve with whipped cream or honey for a light and refreshing side. Add a pinch of cinnamon or drizzle with balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch.
- Grilled Veggie Kabobs – Marinate zucchini, peppers, mushrooms, and onions in olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Skewer and grill for a healthy, colorful addition to any BBQ. These pair perfectly with steak, ribs, or chicken.
- Grilled Caesar Salad – Brush romaine hearts with olive oil, season, and grill briefly. Top with Caesar dressing, croutons, and shaved Parmesan for a bold, smoky take on a salad staple. Add grilled shrimp or chicken for an elevated variation.
How to Make the Perfect BBQ Sides for Your Summer Cookouts
Summer cookouts are all about good food and great company, and your side dishes should shine just as brightly as your main course. Here are some helpful tips for making unforgettable BBQ sides.
- Start with a Salad: Offer a fresh green salad with tomatoes and cucumbers, or go bold with fruit or pasta salads. Add herbs like basil or parsley for flavor depth. Toss with a zesty vinaigrette or creamy homemade dressing for a custom finish.
- Classic Crowd-Pleasers: Include BBQ staples like coleslaw, macaroni and cheese, and baked beans. For lighter fare, add roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad. Mix textures and flavors to keep guests excited.
- Add Some Flavor: Spice up your sides with smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder. Toss grilled veggies with garlic butter or finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Don’t be afraid to experiment with seasoning blends.
- Make It Easy: Easy sides like grilled corn, baked beans, or sliced watermelon can save time and deliver on flavor. Opt for foil packet recipes for less cleanup and consistent cooking.
- Don’t Forget the Bread: Offer cornbread, garlic bread, or freshly baked rolls to complement your BBQ spread. For extra flair, serve jalapeño cheddar cornbread or honey butter rolls.
Explore our catering menu for full-service BBQ sides
10 Delicious BBQ Sides to Make Your Grill Game Unbeatable
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Slather with butter, salt, and pepper.
- Grilled Potato Salad: Adds a smoky depth to a picnic favorite.
- Grilled Asparagus: Brush with olive oil, grill, and sprinkle with Parmesan.
- Grilled Zucchini: Slice thick, grill, and finish with cheese.
- Grilled Sweet Potatoes: Serve with cinnamon and sugar for a sweet-savory combo.
- Grilled Peaches: Serve with ice cream or honey drizzle.
- Grilled Broccoli: Toss with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
- Grilled Green Beans: Crisp and flavorful with a sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Grilled Mushrooms: Savory and satisfying, especially when skewered.
- Grilled Cornbread: Toasted to perfection, topped with honey butter.
Need ideas for pairing these sides with meat? Visit our meat market or check out our signature grill recipes.
Regional Inspiration: Southern and Southwestern BBQ Sides
If you’re looking to incorporate some regional flair into your cookout, consider adding southern and southwestern-inspired sides. Classic Southern sides like buttermilk biscuits, fried green tomatoes, collard greens, and black-eyed pea salad bring deep-rooted flavors to your BBQ. For a Southwestern twist, think chipotle-lime corn salad, spicy black bean salsa, or avocado and tomato salad with cilantro vinaigrette.
Bring It All Together
The secret to a showstopping BBQ isn’t just the meat—it’s the sides that elevate every plate. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or a catered event, mix classic flavors with creative twists to keep guests coming back for more.
With a combination of grilled veggies, smoky salads, and seasonal produce, your sides can steal the show. Don’t forget to tailor your offerings to the occasion—whether it’s a relaxed picnic or a full-service catered celebration.
Need help planning your next cookout? Contact John Mull’s BBQ Catering and wow your guests with a complete, flavor-packed spread.