Easy, crowd-pleasing side dishes that disappear fast at every summer BBQ. From classic sides to creamy and fresh dishes. You’ll find something for everyone.
Aimee’s Recipe Notes
Summer BBQs and potlucks have always been about more than just the grill. Sure the burgers, hot dogs, and bratwurst are delicious, but for me? It’s all about the sides.
You know you’ve nailed it when your dish is the first to disappear. The one that everyone sneaks a second scoop or asks you for the recipe.
I know when I’m heading to a potluck I want something easy to make, easy to transport, and guaranteed to be a hit.
From creamy classics to fresh summer favorites, these recipes are made for sharing!
What’s YOUR favorite BBQ potluck side dish?
☀️The Perfect Side Dish
Choose recipes that travel well. Avoid anything that needs to be “served immediately.” Casseroles, salads, and bars are great options.
Keep it simple. The best BBQ side dishes aren’t complicated. They’re familiar, comforting, and easy to serve. You don’t want everyone skipping your dish because it’s unrecognizable.
Bring serving utensils. It sounds simple, but it’s often forgotten. I save cheap plastic serving spoons from catering events and take out just for this occasion.
Think about the temperature. Cold dishes should stay chilled, and hot dishes should be able to stay warm (or be served room temperature). Use cooler with hot pads or ice to achieve the perfect temperature.
Make it ahead of time. I love recipes that can be prepared in advance. And many salads taste even better after sitting for a few hours in the fridge!
🥔Classic BBQ Sides
These are the staples. The dishes you expect to see at every BBQ and the ones people always go back for more. My recipes are simple and loved, and well tested too!
- Classic Potato Salad– this recipe comes straight from my grandma’s kitchen. It’s simple, classic, just don’t skip the REAL mayo and dice it all small.
- Best Coleslaw Recipe– creamy and delicious, this in my opinion is the perfect coleslaw.
- Macaroni Salad– this is my moms recipe, and it gets requests every time I bring it. The pickle brine dressing is unique and flavorful.
- Texas Caviar– delicious with a spoon/fork or served with tortilla chips!
🥗Fresh Summer Sides
When the grill is full and weather is warm, these fresh side dishes really balance the meal. They bring brightness, crunch, and just the right amount of lightness to your BBQ or potluck.
- Strawberry Salad– fresh salad greens loaded with berries, candied pecans, and a sweet lemon poppy seed dressing.
- Chopped Salad– this is a potluck favorite. It’s hearty (with pasta and chicken) but light with veggies and a zesty dressing!
- Watermelon Salad– watermelon, cucumber and feta cheese get a boost of flavor from fresh herbs and lime. Cool and refreshing, this one is unique but approachable.
- Cucumber Tomato Salad– healthy and fresh, this one needs no introduction!
🧀Creamy Comfort Food
These creamy side dishes are indulgent and rich. They’ll be your new favorite comfort food.
- Baked Mac and Cheese– I love having a good mac and cheese recipe in my repertoire. Wrap in foil and keep warm. Kids and adults will thank you for this dish! NOTE: if bringing to a potluck, use a little less pasta than the recipe calls for, this keeps the dish creamier.
- Creamy Fruit Salad– my Grandma always served her fruit salad with whipped cream or Cool Whip.
- Avocado Chicken Salad– creamy, fresh and packed with flavor!
- Broccoli Salad– one of my FAVORITE side dishes. The tangy dressing pairs well with broccoli, cheese, onion, and bacon!
🍓Crowd-Pleasing Favorites
Sometimes the simplest dishes are the most appreciated. These easy additions round out the table and make sure that everyone has a scoop, sandwich, or dip!
- Deviled Eggs– is it even a potluck without them? For sure these are a must make, and my recipe is crazy easy.
- Pistachio Salad– My grandma always made this as a cold side dish with any dinner (holiday or not). It’s also delicious with fruity marshmallows and walnuts too.
- Easy Sliders– Easy to make, crowd-pleasing hand held sliders everyone will love.
- Cream Cheese Fruit Dip– My three ingredient Cream Cheese Fruit Dip recipe takes your favorite fruit and makes it even sweeter!
😋BONUS: Sweet Treats for the Table
No BBQ is complete without a sweet finish. These desserts are easy to serve, share, and the perfect way to end a meal.
- No Bake Cookies– Filled with crunchy oats, creamy peanut butter and satisfying sweetness. You don’t even need to turn on the oven to make these easy homemade cookies.
- Rice Krispie Treats– These are the perfect potluck treat. And check out all the different varieties I have on my website!
- Chocolate Trifle– Scoop and serve. Trifles are a great crowd-pleaser, serve it up in a clear bowl or a big foil pan (and toss it).
- Banana Pudding Recipes– Choose one of my 5 favorite banana pudding recipes to serve. They never disappoint.
At the end of the day, the best BBQ potluck isn’t about having an elaborate spread. It’s about good food, easy recipes, and table full of people enjoying each other’s company.