I Didn’t Have a Game Plan—These 17 Cookout Sides Got Me Through It

The grill was doing its best, but things were looking rough until these cookout sides showed up. Suddenly, plates weren’t empty and no one was hovering awkwardly by the chips. With 17 solid options, there was something for the picky eaters, the over-planners, and the ones who just came for the sides. Somehow, everything pulled together like it was meant to happen.

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.

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.

This salad is a perfect go-to when you’re craving something hearty without the hassle of a bun. Copycat Big Mac Salad combines simple ingredients to give you the essence of a Big Mac without the extra steps. It’s the kind of dish that satisfies without feeling too heavy. Great for when you’re in the mood for something familiar but with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac 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.

When you’re caught off guard and need something quick, Rotel Dip is your friend. This dip is perfect for keeping everyone happy without too much effort. It packs enough punch to make it the highlight of your table. Easy to make and hard to stop eating, this is a go-to when you’re in a bind.
Get the Recipe: Rotel Dip

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.

Looking for something filling yet simple? BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes are a great way to take your potatoes to the next level. They’re hearty enough to hold up as a main but still light enough for a side. These potatoes are a great way to turn leftovers into something fresh.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken Stuffed Potatoes

Guacamole

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

When the craving hits, Guacamole is a quick fix that never disappoints. It’s one of those recipes that’s easy to throw together and always gets rave reviews. It’s creamy, it’s fresh, and it’s perfect for dipping. If you need a crowd-pleasing side that won’t take long, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

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.

If you need a side with a little kick, look no further than Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel. These little bites offer just the right amount of heat, and they’re simple to make. They’re the perfect blend of creamy and spicy in one bite-sized package. Ideal for serving when you want something a little different without a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Dense Bean Salad

A spoonful of chickpea salad with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, parsley, and feta cheese being served from a bowl.
Dense Bean Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Dense Bean Salad is a no-fuss, filling option that goes with almost anything. This salad is packed with texture, offering a hearty base for any meal. It’s one of those sides that can sit on the table without stealing the show, but it gets the job done. Perfect when you want something substantial without the effort.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

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.

When you want to mix things up, Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on a classic. These are filling and full of flavor, yet still light enough to keep you satisfied. The sweet potatoes bring a surprising depth to the dish that’s hard to beat. A great way to serve something unique without too much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

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.

If you need a dip with a little more zip, Spicy Greek Feta Dip has got you covered. It’s bold enough to stand out but still easy to throw together. You can count on this dip to bring something a bit different to the table without a ton of work. It’s perfect for when you want a change from the usual dip scene.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Greek Feta Dip

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.

For a light but filling side, Chicken Caesar Salad is always a hit. This salad is a great balance of protein and crunch that pairs well with almost anything. It’s simple but satisfying, and you can’t go wrong with that classic Caesar flavor. When you need a side that’s both filling and easy, this one’s a winner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Close-up of a baked spinach and artichoke dip in a dark dish, showing a golden brown, bubbly cheese topping with a portion scooped out, revealing the creamy interior.
Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Spinach Artichoke Dip is the classic dip everyone loves, and it’s quick to throw together. It’s creamy and indulgent, making it a perfect addition to any meal or gathering. This dip feels comforting without being too heavy. It’s the kind of side that just works every time, no questions asked.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

Waldorf Salad

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

Need a refreshing side that’s simple to make? Waldorf Salad has just the right mix of crunch and creaminess, making it a great balance of textures. It’s one of those dishes that works for any occasion and can be prepped in minutes. Whether it’s a light lunch or a side dish at a gathering, it’s always a reliable choice.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

Grilled Asparagus

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

When you’re looking for something light yet full of character, Grilled Asparagus is a go-to. It’s a quick fix and goes well with just about anything from grilled meats to seafood. You can toss it on the grill while you focus on other things, making it a perfect no-fuss side. This dish adds a fresh, savory kick to the table and can even be dressed up with a squeeze of lemon or sprinkle of cheese.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

Cowboy Caviar

Close-up of a mixed salad with tomatoes, feta cheese, black beans, chickpeas, corn, cucumber, red onion, and parsley, being drizzled with dressing.
Cowboy Caviar. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re in the mood for something with a bit of a bite, Cowboy Caviar is a perfect match. It’s loaded with flavors and textures, offering a refreshing crunch in every bite. Grab some chips, and you’ve got an easy snack that will keep everyone coming back for more. This side is as fun to eat as it is to make, and it’s sure to please every guest.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Caviar

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.

You can’t go wrong with 7 Layer Dip when you need a showstopper. Each layer adds its own touch, creating a visual treat that’s as exciting to eat as it is to look at. This dip layers up easily, and it’s a real crowd favorite, especially when served with tortilla chips. It’s great for any casual get-together and will disappear faster than you can make it.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

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.

Egg Salad is an easy side that can work as a filling dish on its own or alongside other options. It’s creamy and fulfilling, perfect for pairing with just about anything from sandwiches to fresh greens. The prep is quick, so you won’t be spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a reliable choice that’s always a hit, whether it’s for lunch or as part of a larger spread.
Get the Recipe: Egg Salad

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.

When you want something creamy and a bit indulgent, Mexican Street Corn Dip has you covered. This dip is rich and flavorful with just the right amount of kick, offering a comforting, indulgent side. Whether served with chips or as a side, it’s sure to disappear quickly. It’s a simple yet tasty choice for any meal, and a guaranteed hit at your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn 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.

If you’re looking for something fun and easy, Pinwheel Sandwiches fit the bill. These bite-sized wraps are packed with flavor and are perfect for snacking or sharing at parties. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to grab and go, while still offering a fulfilling experience. They’re a hit at any gathering, no matter the occasion, and always seem to vanish in a flash.
Get the Recipe: Pinwheel Sandwiches

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