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Everyone talks about what’s on the grill, but let’s be honest. Half the time it’s the sides that people are really there for. The potato salad that’s gone before the burgers even come off the grill. The slaw that somehow goes with everything. The baked beans someone always asks you to bring.
If you’re putting together a summer cookout spread and need to know what to make, you’re in the right place. I’ve pulled together my most trusted, most requested side dishes, the ones that travel well, feed a crowd, and have a way of disappearing faster than anything else on the table.
From creamy salads to classic Southern sides and everything in between, pick a few of your favorites and call it a spread. That’s really all it takes to make the whole cookout feel complete.
Cookout Dips and Appetizers
Set these out while the grill heats up and watch them disappear before the main event even starts. Every one of these is a crowd pleaser.
Loaded with all the good stuff — salami, cheese, olives, and fresh veggies on a stick. Easy to make, easy to eat, and always the first thing gone from the table.
Creamy, perfectly seasoned, and made the way Southern potato salad is supposed to be made. This one disappears fast at every cookout, so make a double batch and don't say I didn't warn you.
A fresh twist on a classic. Bright, herby, and a little lighter than your usual potato salad. Great for when you want something a little different on the table.
Cold, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd. These pasta salads hold up in the heat, travel well, and taste even better after they’ve had a little time to sit.
Light, fresh, and pretty enough to make the table look good. These are the sides that balance out the heavier dishes and always come home with an empty bowl.
A big bowl of fresh summer berries tossed in a light sweet dressing. The easiest thing you can bring to a cookout and always one of the first things gone.
However you’re celebrating summer, the best cookout is the one where the food is good and the people around the table are even better. Pick a couple of these sides, add your favorite thing off the grill, and you’ve got yourself a spread worth coming back for.
Made one of these for your cookout? Drop it in the comments and tell me what landed on your table. I love hearing what’s cooking in your kitchen!
Hi, I’m Nikki Lee. Here at Soulfully Made you will find delicious, home-cooked, easy recipes for all occasions. From speedy dinners to tasty desserts, with easy step-by-step instructions. I am here to help teach you how to make mouthwatering recipes without spending hours in the kitchen.
