I Keep These 19 Cookout Sides in Rotation All Summer for the Kids

ByMandy

Feeding kids during summer can turn into a full-time job if you’re not careful. These 19 cookout sides stayed in rotation for a reason: they worked, and no one complained. They were easy enough to repeat, didn’t take a ton of effort, and always got eaten. And if it keeps the group happy while saving time, that’s even better.

Baked sweet potato topped with black beans, corn, avocado, sliced jalapeños, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and cilantro, with lime slices on the side.
Southwest Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Copycat Big Mac Salad

Close-up of a salad featuring ground beef, sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and diced onions, topped with a creamy dressing.
Copycat Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Big Mac lovers will enjoy this option when they’re craving a cookout classic but want something a little lighter. Copycat Big Mac Salad delivers all the familiar flavors in a fun salad format. The kids will enjoy recognizing the elements they love from the burger.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

Strawberry Cookies

Stacks of red sugar cookies, one with a bite taken out, are arranged next to a glass of milk and whole strawberries.
Strawberry Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re looking for a sweet side for the kids, Strawberry Cookies can bring something fun to the table. These cookies stand out with their fruity twist, offering a nice change from traditional chocolate-based options. Kids love grabbing a cookie during cookouts, and this recipe keeps them coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cookies

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

A baked potato topped with shredded barbecue chicken, sour cream, and chopped herbs on a white plate.
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes combine hearty and flavorful elements, perfect for balancing out lighter summer sides. This dish works as a cookout staple when you want something fulfilling yet easy to assemble ahead of time. Kids are sure to enjoy scooping out the goodness inside each potato.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Slices of cucumber tossed in spicy Korean dressing.
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bringing variety to summer sides can be fun, and that’s where Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad shines. The refreshing cucumbers paired with a flavorful kick make this salad stand out at any cookout. It’s a good way to introduce kids to something different without feeling overwhelmed.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Grilled Asparagus

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

Grilled Asparagus makes veggies exciting at cookouts. The smoky flavor achieved from grilling makes it more appealing and gives something extra to this simple vegetable. Kids might start reaching for asparagus without hesitation when you make it this way.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

Tuna Salad

A bowl of tuna salad mixed with chopped herbs, likely parsley or chives, with a spoon resting inside the bowl.
Tuna Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Cool and refreshing sides are always useful for summer gatherings, and Tuna Salad checks that box perfectly. Being packed with flavor and easy to serve, it’s a family-friendly option for kids and adults alike. Its creamy texture and balanced taste pair well with almost anything from the grill.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Salad

Mexican Street Corn

Close-up of Mexican Street Corn on the cob topped with creamy sauce, crumbled cheese, chili powder, and chopped cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When it comes to fun sides, kids can eat with their hands, and Mexican Street Corn is a great crowd-pleaser. The bold flavors make this dish memorable, and it’s always a hit for casual summer cookouts. You’ll enjoy seeing little hands munching away on food that’s also an enjoyable twist on grilled corn.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn

Egg Salad

A bowl of creamy egg salad topped with chopped parsley and paprika, set on a light-colored surface.
Egg Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Easy sides like Egg Salad are always a handy option when organizing meals for kids during cookouts. Its creamy and smooth texture appeals to picky eaters while fitting in with any outdoor dining spread. This recipe works well as a standalone dish or tucked into sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Egg Salad

Baked Zucchini

Roasted zucchini halves garnished with chopped parsley on a white plate.
Baked Zucchini. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you need a side dish that’s as simple as it is satisfying, Baked Zucchini is a strong choice. It’s easy to prepare and makes eating vegetables fun for kids who might be hesitant otherwise. The baked texture gives it warmth and character, making it perfect to accompany grilled favorites.
Get the Recipe: Baked Zucchini

Mango Shrimp Salad

A bowl of shrimp ceviche with diced mango, avocado, red onion, red pepper, and cilantro, with a spoon inside.
Mango Shrimp Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Keeping cookout meals fresh and vibrant is simple with Mango Shrimp Salad on the menu. The flavors in this side bring a refreshing and enjoyable element to the table. Kids can enjoy the sweet aspect paired with shrimp without feeling overwhelmed by complex combinations.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

Grilled Corn on the Cobb

Four grilled corn cobs topped with crumbled cheese, chopped herbs, and spices are arranged on a white plate.
Grilled Corn on the Cobb. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Everyone loves grabbing Grilled Corn On The Cobb directly from the grill for their plate. It’s a cookout essential that’s easy to prep and always draws attention with its charred and smoky look. Kids enjoy eating this classic side as much as adults. You’ll find it hard to host an outdoor grilling session without making room for this recipe.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn on the Cobb

Waldorf Salad

Waldorf salad on a bed of lettuce, with salad servers resting on top.
Waldorf Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Waldorf Salad is a light and refreshing addition to summer cookouts, making it a handy go-to recipe. With crisp textures and balanced flavors, kids will find this option fun and easy to enjoy. The simplicity of this dish means it pairs well with grilled mains and heavier sides.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

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.

Adding an exciting dip to your cookout spread is always a good idea, and Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip doesn’t disappoint. Its creamy and flavorful combination makes it perfect for pairing with chips, veggies, or crackers. Kids love dipping snacks and will find this one irresistible from the first scoop.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

Potato Salad

Close-up of creamy potato salad with chopped celery and black pepper seasoning.
Potato Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A cookout isn’t complete without classics like Potato Salad served alongside grilled favorites. The comforting texture and rich flavor make it a recipe that everyone, including kids, can appreciate. Preparing it ahead saves time and lets you focus on other dishes during the event.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad

Rotel Dip

A skillet filled with creamy cheese dip topped with chopped tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, and sliced jalapeños, surrounded by triangular tortilla chips.
Rotel Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Creamy and packed with flavor, Rotel Dip is a fun addition to any summer gathering. It’s easy to make and pairs perfectly with tortilla chips, so kids can snack and enjoy without hassle. The bold flavors in the dip make it memorable and add variety to a cookout table.
Get the Recipe: Rotel Dip

Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, grated cheese, and dressing.
Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Starting a cookout menu with Caesar Salad is a reliable way to keep things simple yet delicious for everyone. The hearty greens combined with a familiar dressing make it a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s easy to prepare ahead, so getting it onto plates is hassle-free during busy summer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad

Tzatziki

A bowl of creamy tzatziki sauce garnished with chopped dill and a swirl of olive oil. Fresh dill and garlic are nearby.
Tzatziki. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those who love versatile dipping options, Tzatziki brings a cool and refreshing touch to every cookout spread. Its creamy texture works well with grilled meats, veggies, and bread, making it a favorite for kids to explore. Keeping a bowl handy ensures everyone has something to enjoy between bites of heavier mains.
Get the Recipe: Tzatziki

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.

Featuring fresh and bold ingredients, Pico de Gallo is always a summer hit for grill-side snacking. Kids enjoy topping dishes or scooping chips into this flavorful salsa option. It pairs well with just about anything you can cook on the grill, adding lightness to the meal.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Baked sweet potato topped with black beans, corn, avocado, sliced jalapeños, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and cilantro, with lime slices on the side.
Southwest Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Adding some flair to cookout sides is easy with Southwest Sweet Potatoes. The hearty flavors and satisfying texture make it appealing for kids while complementing grilled mains just right. This recipe stands out for how effortlessly it blends into a summer cookout menu.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *