These 33 Best BBQ Sides bring a burst of flavor and texture to your next cookout, all in just 30 minutes. Think creamy coleslaw with a tangy crunch, smoky baked beans with a hint of sweetness, and golden cornbread with a buttery finish. Each dish is designed to complement your main course while standing out on its own. With minimal prep and quick cooking times, you’ll have a spread that’s as effortless as it is impressive. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy backyard meal, these sides are guaranteed to elevate your BBQ game.
From zesty potato salads to charred grilled veggies, every bite offers a harmony of bold, fresh, and comforting flavors. The variety ensures there’s something for everyone, whether you’re craving something light and crisp or rich and hearty. These sides aren’t just accompaniments—they’re the stars of the table. With recipes this quick and delicious, you’ll have more time to relax and savor the smoky aromas of your grill. Gather your ingredients and get ready to create a feast that’s as memorable as it is mouthwatering.
Ingredients for Perfect Grilled Corn
- 4 to 8 ears fresh corn (choose ears with bright green, snug husks for freshness)
- Topping options:
- Butter (salted or unsalted, softened for easy spreading)
- Sea salt (for a finishing touch)
- Lemon or lime wedges (for a zesty kick)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy twist)
- Cilantro Lime Butter (recipe below)
- Vegan Ranch (store-bought or homemade)
Step-by-Step Grilling Instructions
- Husk-on method:
- Pull back the husks of the corn, leaving them attached at the base. Remove as much silk as possible, then close the husks back over the corn cob.
- Soak the corn in a large pot of cold water for 10 minutes to prevent the husks from burning on the grill. Drain and pat dry.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F).
- Place the corn on the grill and cook, turning every 3 to 5 minutes, until all sides are cooked and the kernels are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Remove from the grill, tie back the husks, and use them as a handle. Serve with your desired toppings.
- Husked method:
- Remove the corn husks and silks completely.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F).
- Place the corn directly on the grill and cook, turning every 3 to 5 minutes, until all sides are cooked and light char marks form, about 15 minutes.
- Remove from the grill and serve with your desired toppings.
Creative Topping Ideas to Elevate Your Corn
Take your grilled corn to the next level with these flavorful topping ideas! For a classic touch, slather on butter and sprinkle with sea salt. Add a zesty twist with a squeeze of lemon or lime and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Feeling adventurous? Try our Cilantro Lime Butter (recipe below) or drizzle with Vegan Ranch for a creamy, tangy finish. The possibilities are endless!
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
Grilled corn is a BBQ staple, but it’s even better when paired with the right dishes. Serve it alongside juicy burgers, smoky ribs, or grilled chicken for a complete meal. Add a fresh summer salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. Don’t forget to set out a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their corn to their liking!
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Grillers
Short on time? Skip the husk-on method and go straight for the husked method—it’s quicker and still delivers that delicious charred flavor. If you’re prepping for a crowd, consider grilling the corn ahead of time and reheating it briefly on the grill before serving. You can also prep toppings like Cilantro Lime Butter or Vegan Ranch a day in advance to save time.
Storage and Reheating Made Easy
Leftover grilled corn? No problem! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply wrap the corn in foil and warm it on the grill or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. For a quick fix, microwave it for 1-2 minutes, but be sure to cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
Recipe Variations for Every Taste
Switch things up with these fun variations! For a smoky twist, brush the corn with chipotle mayo before grilling. Love cheese? Sprinkle on cotija cheese and a dash of chili powder for a Mexican-inspired treat. If you’re grilling for vegans, stick to plant-based toppings like Vegan Ranch or a drizzle of olive oil with fresh herbs. Get creative and make it your own!
33 Best BBQ Sides
Ingredients
Corn
- 4 to 8 ears fresh corn
Topping options
- Butter
- sea salt
- lemon or lime wedges
- red pepper flakes
- Cilantro Lime Butter recipe below
- Vegan Ranch
Instructions
- Husk-on method: Pull back the husks of the corn leaving them attached at the base. Remove the silks (as much as you can) and close the husks back over the corn cob. Soak the corn in a large pot of cold water for 10 minutes. This will prevent the husks from burning too much on the grill. Drain and pat dry.
- Heat a grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn on the grill and cook, turning every 3 to 5 minutes, until all sides of the corn are cooked, about 15 minutes. Remove from the grill, tie back the husks and use them as a handle. Serve with desired toppings.
- Husked method: Remove the corn husk and silks and preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn on the grill and cook, turning every 3 to 5 minutes, until all sides of the corn are cooked and light char marks form, about 15 minutes. Remove from the grill and serve with desired toppings.