When I Go To Gatherings, I Always Bring These 29 Cookout Sides

ByMandy

Cookouts have a way of turning simple sides into the stars of the whole event. These 29 cookout sides always bring that energy where people hover around the table pretending they’re just “looking.” Before long, the bowls are empty, and someone’s quietly scraping the last bits while acting casual.

Two pieces of fried chicken on a gray plate, garnished with small bits of green herbs.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Lobster Roll

A close-up of a sandwich roll filled with chunks of seasoned lobster meat, garnished with chopped chives.
Lobster Roll. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bringing something seafood-focused always catches attention at gatherings. Lobster Roll combines the freshness of lobster with a buttery bun to form a sandwich that feels upscale yet approachable for any cookout. It’s a simple recipe that gives a special touch to the lineup of sides at the table.
Get the Recipe: Lobster Roll

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream

A bowl of strawberry swirl ice cream topped with a rectangular shortbread biscuit, with a spoon on the side.
Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

A cold treat is always a good move at a warm-weather cookout. Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream offers the right blend of fruity sweetness and creamy goodness. It’s a dessert that feels nostalgic, drawing kids and adults alike to enjoy something lighter after a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream

Grilled Potatoes

A bowl of roasted potato chunks garnished with chopped herbs and black pepper.
Grilled Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Potatoes often show up at gatherings, but doing them on the grill adds an element of rustic appeal. Grilled Potatoes are hearty and pair up with almost anything on the cookout table. Each slice gets that smoky flavor from the grill, making it stand out compared to other potato-based sides.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Potatoes

Big Mac Pinwheels

Close-up of puff pastry rounds topped with ground meat, shredded lettuce, sesame seeds, and a creamy sauce, arranged on parchment paper.
Big Mac Pinwheels. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

These bite-sized roll-ups are always an easy crowd-pleaser. Taking the idea of a burger and turning it into Big Mac Pinwheels makes it simple to serve and enjoy at a party. They’re packed with familiar burger flavors while being way less messy to eat.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Pinwheels

Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Grilled ribs garnished with herbs and served with a side of sauce and onions.
Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ribs always make an impression on the table, even at events dominated by side dishes. Featuring Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe, these are tender and flavorful, perfect for grabbing by the bone. They stand out because you can prepare them ahead and let everyone dig in as they please.
Get the Recipe: Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Grilled Pineapple

Close-up of grilled pineapple rings topped with coarse salt and drizzled with syrup.
Grilled Pineapple. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Adding fruit to the grill might not be the first thought at gatherings, but it’s always a hit once someone tries it. Grilled Pineapple brings a juicy, smoky element that complements the richer sides and mains. Its warm sweetness is refreshing and feels like a treat on its own.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple

Copycat Smash Burger

Close-up of a copycat smash burger with lettuce, tomato, and a thick beef patty on a sesame seed bun.
Copycat Smash Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Burgers are a cookout classic, but making smaller versions just hits differently. Copycat Smash Burger is a fun twist that’s all about crispy-edged patties and bold flavor. They’re perfect for piling high with toppings or enjoying plain and simple.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger

Melted Ice Cream Pops

Waffle ice cream cones dipped in white and dark chocolate, decorated with colorful sprinkles, arranged on a wooden surface.
Melted Ice Cream Pops. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Ice cream that transforms into a grab-and-go dessert feels genius for outdoor events. Melted Ice Cream Pops are both creative and convenient, offering a mix of creaminess in a fun form. They’re a visually appealing dessert that fits right into the casual vibe of a cookout.
Get the Recipe: Melted Ice Cream Pops

Seven Layer Salad

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise.
Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A layered dish adds a bit of flair to the lineup of sides without over-complicating things. Seven Layer Salad mixes textures and a variety of flavors in every scoop. Its appealing presentation becomes a centerpiece on the table, with guests digging through to reach every layer.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

Blackened Chicken Clubs

A grilled chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, bacon, and mayonnaise on toasted bread, served with potato chips on a white plate.
Blackened Chicken Clubs. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Sandwiches always hit the spot when you’re looking for something filling but not overwhelming. Blackened Chicken Clubs bring bold flavor with chicken as the star ingredient, tucked into bread or buns. They work great because they can be served warm or at room temperature, making them extremely cookout-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Chicken Clubs

Mini Tacos

A plate of beef tacos topped with cheese, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, served with avocado sauce and lime wedges. A bowl of cilantro and a jar lid are next to the plate.
Mini Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bringing something small but packed with flavor is always a smart choice for group gatherings. Mini Tacos are loaded with fillings that let people enjoy a classic favorite in a few bites. They pair well with all the usual dips and sides, making them a hit among the crowd.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos

Grilled Pork Chops

A grilled pork chop garnished with chopped parsley is served on a plate.
Grilled Pork Chops. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Pork chops turn into a crowd-favorite when grilled to perfection. Grilled Pork Chops often become the surprise favorite dish, offering juicy bites that are hard to pass up. They fit well alongside other cookout staples without overpowering the overall variety.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chops

Homemade Corn Dogs

Close-up of a bitten corn dog showing its interior with a layer of crispy fried batter and a hot dog inside.
Homemade Corn Dogs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Turning this fun fair food into a cookout side is always a win. Homemade Corn Dogs bring the nostalgia with their crispy outside and fluffy inside. People love the portability and simplicity of a dish they can hold and enjoy while mingling. They’re perfect for keeping the mood light and casual while making everyone feel like a kid.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Corn Dogs

Chicken Salad Sandwich

A shredded chicken salad sandwich with lettuce, raisins, and a creamy dressing served in a brioche bun.
Chicken Salad Sandwich. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Sandwiches fit effortlessly into any cookout spread, but this one shines with its creamy filling. Chicken Salad Sandwich is a timeless choice that pairs well with everything else on the menu. It’s portable, customizable, and loved by people of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad Sandwich

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sliders are easy to grab and even easier to enjoy, which is why they’re a common feature at gathering tables. Ham and Cheese Sliders combine the familiar flavors of comforting simplicity with a size that feels just right. They can be served warm or at room temperature, which makes them practical for busy cookouts.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Caprese Appetizer

Image shows an overhead shot of Caprese Bites on a wooden board.
Caprese Appetizer. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Adding a lighter option to the cookout spread gives everyone something refreshing to enjoy. Caprese Appetizer offers a balance of freshness and indulgence in each bite, served in a way that doesn’t feel heavy. It adds a pop of color to the table, making it visually appealing alongside the grilled and baked dishes.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Three pulled pork sliders with coleslaw on a white plate, topped with a sprig of parsley.
BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

There’s something about small sandwiches that make everyone grab seconds at gatherings. BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw combine tender chicken with tangy slaw in a way that balances flavors perfectly. They’re easy to share and work great for casual cookouts or bigger events.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Black Bean Burger

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it.
Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bringing a meatless option like Black Bean Burger is always a hit for cookouts. It’s packed with flavor and makes a great option for guests looking for something lighter. You won’t miss meat at all thanks to its hearty texture and satisfying bite. It shows how plant-based dishes can shine at the table.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Burger

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus spears served on a plate with two charred lemon halves.
Grilled Asparagus. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Throwing something green on the grill adds balance to any big gathering spread. Grilled Asparagus is simple yet feels special when you serve it straight from the grill. It’s got enough smokiness to stand out without overpowering any other dishes. Everyone appreciates a veggie option that feels just as exciting as everything else.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

Pico de Gallo

A bowl of pico de gallo with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños with a spoon inside, next to a lime and tortilla chips.
Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When a burst of freshness is needed, Pico de Gallo gets the job done. It’s bright, vibrant, and pairs perfectly with chips or even other grilled items. A little bit on the side can completely upgrade any plate. People keep coming back for scoops until it’s almost gone.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Taco Pizza

A close-up of a loaded flatbread pizza topped with avocado slices, diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, seasoned meat, black beans, and a drizzle of creamy sauce.
Taco Pizza. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Mixing two crowd favorites, Taco Pizza is always a conversation starter. It combines everything people enjoy in tacos but presented like a pizza. The flavors come together in a way that makes it hard to grab just one slice. It’s fun, unexpected, and always adds variety to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pizza

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Close-up of cooked beef chunks garnished with chopped herbs on a plate with a spoon nearby.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Finger foods always go fast, and Garlic Butter Steak Bites are no exception. Perfectly portioned and seasoned, they deliver rich meaty goodness in every bite. Their small size makes them easy to snack on while chatting or standing around. Guests tend to clear these out almost as soon as they land on the table.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Mushroom Tacos

Three soft tacos filled with lettuce, mushrooms, shredded cheese, and cherry tomatoes, garnished with a lime wedge.
Mushroom Tacos. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For something meat-free but packed with bold flavors, Mushroom Tacos are the way to go. The filling is hearty and has all the richness you’d expect in a taco without any meat involved. They’re a great option for those looking for variety without sacrificing taste. A few of these in the mix show you care about broadening the menu.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Tacos

Grilled Hot Dogs

Four hot dogs in buns topped with crispy fried onions are arranged on parchment paper in a basket.
Grilled Hot Dogs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

You can’t go wrong with a classic, and Grilled Hot Dogs always fit right in at cookouts. They’re easy to customize with all kinds of toppings, so everyone gets exactly what they want. Having them on the grill keeps things simple but also brings a bit of nostalgia.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Dogs

Tomahawk Steak

Close-up of cooked beef slices on a wooden board, with a fork holding one piece. The meat appears juicy with a seasoned crust.
Tomahawk Steak. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a show-stopping centerpiece, Tomahawk Steak absolutely steals attention. Its presentation alone gets guests talking even before they get a taste. Once it’s sliced and served, its tenderness and flavor always make it a highlight on the table. Bringing it to a gathering instantly adds a sense of something special.
Get the Recipe: Tomahawk Steak

Grilled Shrimp

Grilled shrimp skewers served on a plate, topped with chopped herbs and a drizzle of sauce.
Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you want a seafood option that stands out, Grilled Shrimp brings a perfect mix of smoky and light flavor. They’re great for skewers, making them easy to serve and share at any gathering. The added char from grilling gives them depth while still keeping the dish refreshing.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp

Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

A bread bowl filled with a creamy dip, garnished with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and bacon bits. Celery sticks are placed on the side.
Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Something creamy and rich like Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip is always a crowd-pleaser. This dip mixes bold flavors into every bite and works perfectly with chips, crackers, or veggies. People love how it creates an irresistible balance of chicken, bacon, and ranch.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

Grilled Steak Pinwheels

Close-up of sliced stuffed beef roulade with visible layers of meat, cheese, and spinach on a wooden board. A glass of beer is blurred in the background.
Grilled Steak Pinwheels. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Rolling steak into bite-sized pieces makes Grilled Steak Pinwheels both unique and crowd-friendly. They’re filled with just the right flavors to make them stand out at gatherings. Guests love the fun presentation and the juicy texture in each piece. This side feels fancy without being overcomplicated.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak Pinwheels

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Two pieces of fried chicken on a gray plate, garnished with small bits of green herbs.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Buttermilk Fried Chicken adds something crispy everyone remembers. The richness of the chicken combined with its crunchy coating makes it a hit every time. It’s bold enough to stand on its own but also pairs well with everything else at cookouts. No matter how big the event, this classic side is always welcome.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

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