Your Cookout Needs These 29 Side Dishes Like Yesterday

ByMandy

A cookout can survive without many things, but skipping the right sides is risky business. This set of 29 has something for every plate hog and picky eater in the yard. They disappear before anyone admits to seconds. Plan on making extra if you want leftovers, because they won’t stand a chance.

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.

Grilled Pineapple

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

You didn’t realize how much you needed Grilled Pineapple until now. This smoky goodness highlights a simple yet bold recipe that’s easy to fall for. It’s sweet and slightly caramelized, balancing every bite. Toss it next to whatever you’re cooking up and let it steal the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple

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.

No cookout is complete until Southwest Sweet Potatoes hit the table. They’re hearty, have a bit of spice, and pair well with anything off the grill. Soft and rich with bold notes, this dish is a classic all-around winner. Perfect for keeping your guests coming back to load up their plates.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Conch Fritters

A plate of golden-brown fritters garnished with chopped herbs, served with a dipping sauce and a wedge of lemon.
Conch Fritters. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

You’ll be glad you tried Conch Fritters at your next cookout. They’re crispy with chewy bites and bring something fresh to your spread. These little spheres pack a unique seafood kick that changes up the pace. Think of them as snackable crowd-pleasers everyone will dig into between burgers.
Get the Recipe: Conch Fritters

Mexican Rice

A close-up of cooked Mexican rice with a wooden spoon, garnished with chopped parsley.
Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cookouts always need something like Mexican Rice to round out the table. It’s packed with simple spices that stand out but don’t overpower the rest of your meal. This vibrant dish adds color and pairs easily with grilled dishes. Toss it in, and it feels like your menu just upgraded.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice

Beet Salad

A close-up of a salad featuring chopped beets, cucumber, feta cheese, walnuts, and fresh herbs on a white plate.
Beet Salad. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

People tend to sleep on Beet Salad, but don’t let them. It’s a fresh, earthy, and colorful dish that complements the boldness of grilled meat. The texture and taste combo makes this salad unforgettable and refreshing. Bring it to your cookout rotation, and watch people ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad

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.

Don’t miss how good BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes can be. They’re big, bold, and loaded up with bite after bite of tender meat. Potatoes never fail, but with that chicken punch, they hit hard every time. Toss this dish in your lineup, and heads will turn immediately.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

Taco Pasta Salad

A bowl of fusilli pasta mixed with ground beef, black beans, chopped tomatoes, and herbs, garnished with lime wedges.
Taco Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Your table really needs Taco Pasta Salad on it. It’s easy to love, packs all your favorite bold flavors, and mixes textures just right. This chilled dish makes everything else better when served side-by-side. People will be asking for the recipe before they leave.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Close-up of three spiral pastry rolls on a black plate, filled with herbs and cheese. Green garnish and a jalapeño pepper are in the background.
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Little bites like Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels are perfect for cookouts. They spice up the snack game without overdoing it and add variety to the table. These are buttery, tangy, and just enough to get people fired up for the main dish. Give these a spin, and everyone’s happy.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Asian Slaw

A bowl of colorful coleslaw with shredded purple and green cabbage, carrots, chopped peanuts, and greens, mixed with dressing.
Asian Slaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Don’t overlook how much Asian Slaw levels up the lineup. It’s crunchy, light, and balances out the heavier dishes you’re serving. The simple, clean taste lets this one stand tall at the table. Bonus: Everyone loves something extra easy to scoop onto their plate.
Get the Recipe: Asian Slaw

Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Three baked sweet potatoes topped with minced meat, melted cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions on a white plate.
Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Switch things up with Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes during your cookout. They’re filling, crowd-friendly, and bring a new spin to the table that’s worth trying. Don’t let their casual name fool you—they’re here to make a mark. Expect hands reaching for seconds before your plate’s even served.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Baked Zucchini

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

Side dishes like Baked Zucchini work for every cookout occasion. It’s warm, soft, and just the dish you need when you’re keeping things balanced. This is a side you’ll want to grab before it disappears. Plus, it’s a no-fuss option that’s easy to like.
Get the Recipe: Baked Zucchini

Chicken Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad topped with grilled chicken pieces, croutons, and grated cheese on a bed of romaine lettuce. Dressing is served on the side.
Chicken Caesar Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

You can’t go wrong with Chicken Caesar Salad on the table. Packed with crisp bites and extra protein, it’s the ultimate side when you need something fresh. It’s simple, easy, and keeps plates from feeling too heavy. Add it once and it’ll stick around every time you grill.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad

Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Close-up of bacon-wrapped scallops secured with toothpicks, seasoned with spices, and cooked until golden and crispy.
Smoky Bacon Pig Shots. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you don’t already know Smoky Bacon Pig Shots, you need to fix that. They’re an ultra-snackable mix of salty and rich bites perfect for sharing. Bacon makes everything better, but in this case, it takes the lead. Take one bite and you’ll see why it’s a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

7 Layer Dip

A clear glass bowl with 7 Layer Dip featuring beans, white cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, lettuce, and black olives.
7 Layer Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

No spread is complete without 7 Layer Dip in the mix. It’s stacked, bold, and portioned for those who love scooping every last bite. Serve it with tortilla chips to dish out a little extra crunch. One bowl will get emptied in minutes, you might wanna double up.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

Grilled Asparagus

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

You don’t realize how much you’ve missed Grilled Asparagus until it’s there. It’s tender, easy-going, and a game-changer way to add greens to your plate. The slightly smoky edge gives it just enough interest at a packed table. Bonus, it’s simple enough for anyone to enjoy without hesitation.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

Million Dollar Dip

Close-up of a creamy dish topped with shredded cheese, chopped nuts, bacon bits, and sliced green onions.
Million Dollar Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Some dips just have a way of stealing the show at a cookout. Million Dollar Dip is one of those, you can’t go wrong with a rich, creamy blend that gets everyone asking for the recipe. It’s perfect for sharing and great for scooping with crackers or veggies. This one is definitely worth adding to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Dip

Pinwheel Sandwiches

Close-up of several tortilla pinwheel wraps filled with various ingredients including spinach, cream cheese, tomatoes, and other vegetables, arranged neatly on a white surface.
Pinwheel Sandwiches. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Finger foods that are easy to grab and eat are key at parties. Pinwheel Sandwiches deliver in the convenience department while still being filling and flavorful. They’re simple to pick up, no utensils required, so they please both adults and kids alike. Make a big plate of these because they tend to go fast.
Get the Recipe: Pinwheel Sandwiches

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.

Sometimes simplicity hits the spot, and Egg Salad proves it. It’s quick to make, versatile, and works well in sandwiches or a standalone dish. Despite its humble look, it always feels comforting and gets people coming back for seconds. You can’t go wrong with adding this staple to your cookout table.
Get the Recipe: Egg Salad

Grilled Chicken Kabobs

Grilled chicken skewers with red bell peppers, green bell peppers, and onions are served on a white plate, garnished with chopped herbs.
Grilled Chicken Kabobs. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Skewered dishes are a no-fuss way to please a crowd. Grilled Chicken Kabobs bring great protein and are easy to eat right off the stick. They pair well with almost any other side dish, which makes them super versatile. Whip some up and watch everyone gather around the grill.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Kabobs

Mexican Street Corn Dip

Close-up of a blue corn chip dipped in a creamy cheese and vegetable mixture, garnished with cilantro and sliced jalapeños.
Mexican Street Corn Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dips are always a hit at gatherings, and Mexican Street Corn Dip turns a popular street food into a sharable dish. It’s creamy, a touch smoky, and loaded with rich textures that keep people dipping. Perfect with chips, it’ll be hard to resist once someone tries a bite. Make sure the bowl doesn’t run out too quickly.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Dip

Mediterranean Orzo Salad

A bowl of orzo salad with mixed vegetables, including olives, tomatoes, and spinach, garnished with herbs.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Light yet filling, Mediterranean Orzo Salad is awesome for balancing out heavier dishes at a cookout. It’s bright, refreshing, and packed with ingredients that offer a mix of textures with every bite. This one is ideal for adding variety to your table without being overwhelming. Your guests will appreciate the extra option.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad

Grilled Peppers

Grilled red and yellow bell peppers with char marks, topped with crumbled feta cheese and garnished with herbs.
Grilled Peppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Grilled sides are always crowd-pleasers, and Grilled Peppers fit that bill perfectly. They offer a naturally sweet, smoky edge that pairs nicely with nearly everything else. Whether served on their own or piled on other dishes, they add something extra to your lineup. Keep a plate handy, and they’ll disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peppers

Guacamole

Close-up of guacamole on a tortilla chip, showing a textured mixture of avocado, herbs, and spices.
Guacamole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

You can’t forget the dips when hosting, and Guacamole is a must-have. It’s creamy, hearty, and works well as a snack or side dish that can handle various pairings. Scoop it onto chips, spread it on sandwiches, or toss a dollop onto other dishes to enhance them even more. It’s one of those no-brainers at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Strawberry Cookies

Stacks of strawberry 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.

Sweet options aren’t just for dessert time. Strawberry Cookies are a treat that works well for anyone with a hint of a sweet tooth. Soft and just the right amount of sweetness, they feel indulgent without going overboard. Toss them on a plate, and they’ll add a little balance to your cookout’s savory dishes.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cookies

Caesar Salad

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

No gathering feels complete without a good Caesar Salad on the table. It’s crispy, fresh, and doesn’t take away attention from anything else you’re serving. A reliable choice that suits almost any main dish, it’s a safe crowd-pleaser. Guests always seem to appreciate it being there.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad

BBQ Sauce

Homemade BBQ sauce in a jar with two spoons by the side.
BBQ Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Having some dipping options is key at a cookout, and BBQ Sauce is usually expected. Whether for chicken, ribs, or burgers, it’s a versatile addition that doesn’t disappoint. Go bold or keep it mild, it’s your call, but either way, it fits in perfectly. Just make sure there’s enough because people always come back for more.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Sauce

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.

For something fresh yet hearty, Tuna Salad brings protein with a refreshing twist to the mix. It’s a great option for sandwiches while still working as a side dish if served solo. This is one of those dishes that fits in for just about any crowd. Keep it chilled for the best effect.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Salad

Spicy Greek Feta Dip

Spicy Greek feta dip in a bowl with pita bread by the side.
Spicy Greek Feta Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crank up the spice a bit with Spicy Greek Feta Dip, a creamy standout perfect for crackers or veggies. It’s got enough heat to keep things interesting without being overpowering. This dish offers boldness that adds variety to your spread effortlessly. Throw it in the mix, and there’ll always be someone grabbing more.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Greek Feta Dip

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.

Sometimes you want a salad that offers something different. Copycat Big Mac Salad hits that craving for something hearty and familiar but tweaked to fit a cookout vibe. It’s packed enough to stand alone but complements other dishes without stealing the spotlight. Make this once, and it’s likely going on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

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