12 Grilled Side Dishes That Belong at Every Backyard BBQ

When it comes to barbecue season, most people think of burgers, ribs, or chicken sizzling over the coals. But the grill can do more than cook the main course; it can transform side dishes into smoky, flavorful stars of their own. From cheesy breads to creative skewers and even sweet desserts, grilling side dishes elevate the entire backyard spread. These twelve sides are hearty, colorful, and packed with flavor, ensuring they hold their own alongside the main event. Once you try them, you may find they outshine the entrées.

1. Grilled Street Corn (Elote)

Elote, or Mexican-style street corn, is a showstopper at any BBQ. Ears of corn are grilled until charred and smoky, then brushed with mayonnaise or sour cream, rolled in cotija cheese, sprinkled with chili powder, and finished with a squeeze of lime. The combination of creamy, salty, spicy, and tangy flavors makes each bite craveable. Served on a stick or directly on the cob, elote is both fun to eat and impressive on the table. It transforms humble corn into a side dish that people line up for.

2. Grilled Mac and Cheese Foil Packets

Mac and cheese becomes grill-friendly with the foil packet method. Pre-cooked pasta and cheese sauce are placed in foil, topped with breadcrumbs or extra shredded cheese, and grilled until bubbly with smoky undertones. The direct heat crisps the edges while the foil locks in creaminess. This twist on a classic makes it portable and easy to serve in individual packets, perfect for outdoor gatherings. Grilled mac and cheese foil packets are hearty, nostalgic, and a clever way to give a comfort food favorite a backyard BBQ upgrade.

3. Grilled Stuffed Portobello Caps

Portobello mushrooms are hearty enough to serve as a side or even a vegetarian main, but when stuffed and grilled, they shine as a BBQ addition. Large caps can be filled with breadcrumbs, garlic, herbs, and cheese before being set over the flames until tender and smoky. The filling turns golden while the mushroom develops a meaty, savory bite. Some variations use spinach, sausage, or rice for extra heartiness. Grilled stuffed portobellos provide a rich, umami-packed option that stands out from typical veggie sides and satisfies a wide range of guests.

4. Grilled Potato Skewers

Potatoes may be classic, but grilling them on skewers makes them fun and flavorful. Parboil small potatoes until tender, then thread them onto skewers, brush with garlic butter or herb oil, and grill until crisp and golden. The grill adds smokiness while the skewered format makes them easy to serve and eat. Guests can grab a skewer and enjoy potatoes with charred edges and soft centers. This simple preparation turns a familiar staple into a crowd-pleasing side that fits right in at a BBQ.

5. Grilled Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad may not be the first thing that comes to mind for grilling, but a few minutes over the flames can transform it. Romaine hearts are cut in half, brushed with oil, and grilled just long enough to char the edges while keeping the centers crisp. The smoky flavor adds depth, and when topped with classic Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan, it becomes both familiar and surprising. Served warm, grilled Caesar salad is an elegant yet easy side that adds a touch of sophistication to backyard dining.

6. Grilled Stuffed Jalapeños

Stuffed jalapeños bring a little heat and a lot of flavor to any BBQ spread. Fresh jalapeños are halved, filled with cream cheese, cheddar, or even sausage, then wrapped in foil or placed directly on the grill. The peppers soften while the filling melts, creating a spicy, creamy bite with smoky notes. Some variations include wrapping them in bacon before grilling for an extra indulgent twist. Grilled stuffed jalapeños are addictive finger food that adds variety and a little kick to the usual sides.

7. Grilled Garlic Bread

Garlic bread takes on a whole new dimension when grilled. Thick slices of bread are brushed with butter, garlic, and herbs, then grilled until the edges are crisp and smoky while the inside stays soft. The grill intensifies the garlic aroma and adds charred flavor that an oven cannot replicate. Often served alongside steaks or ribs, it is equally satisfying on its own or dipped into sauces. Grilled garlic bread is the kind of side that disappears quickly, proving that even simple comfort food can shine over the flames.

8. Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Vegetable skewers are a staple at any BBQ because they are colorful, customizable, and easy to share. Bell peppers, zucchini, onions, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes caramelize beautifully when brushed with oil and placed over heat. Their natural sweetness intensifies while the grill adds a smoky finish. Skewers can be seasoned with herbs, marinades, or even balsamic glaze for extra punch. Beyond their flavor, they add vibrancy to the table, making them a go-to side dish for vegetarians and meat lovers alike.

9. Grilled Artichokes

Artichokes are an underrated vegetable that transforms on the grill. Halved and parboiled first, they are brushed with oil and seasoned before being grilled until their edges char and leaves become tender. The smoky flavor pairs well with dips like garlic aioli or melted butter. Their unique presentation makes them a conversation starter, while their taste keeps people coming back for more. Grilled artichokes are a side that feels special and sophisticated, proving that the grill can bring out the best in even the most humble vegetables.

10. Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Honey and Cinnamon

Sweet potatoes develop caramelized edges and smoky undertones when grilled, making them a standout side dish. Slice them into rounds or wedges, brush with oil, and grill until tender. A drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon bring out their natural sweetness, while the charred surface balances with savory depth. This combination creates a side that feels hearty yet light, with dessert-like notes that complement savory barbecue mains. Grilled sweet potatoes are versatile enough to serve hot off the grill or prepared in advance.

11. Grilled Halloumi Cheese

Halloumi cheese is uniquely suited to grilling because it holds its shape over high heat without melting. Sliced into thick pieces and placed directly on the grill, it develops a crispy, golden exterior with a warm, chewy center. Its salty, tangy flavor pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, bread, or fruit. Served with a squeeze of lemon, grilled halloumi becomes an addictive side that stands out from the usual offerings. It is a great way to surprise guests with something different that still feels perfectly at home at a BBQ.

12. Grilled Peaches with Brown Sugar

Dessert deserves a place at the BBQ, and grilled peaches are the perfect way to end the meal. Halved peaches brushed with butter and sprinkled with brown sugar caramelize over the flames, becoming soft, juicy, and smoky-sweet. They can be served simply or topped with whipped cream, yogurt, or ice cream for extra indulgence. Grilled peaches balance richness with freshness, making them a refreshing but satisfying finish. They show that the grill is just as good at handling fruit as it is at meats and vegetables.