A BBQ isn’t complete without the perfect side dishes to go with your grilled favorites. While the main grill takes care of the meats, your side burner is a hidden gem for preparing warm, flavorful additions. Whether you’re grilling ribs, burgers, or veggies, these side dish ideas will elevate your outdoor cooking game.
Below are 10 easy and delicious BBQ recipes you can whip up on your side burner.
1. Smoky Baked Beans
A classic BBQ staple, smoky baked beans can simmer perfectly on your side burner. Add chopped bacon, onions, brown sugar, and a dash of BBQ sauce for an irresistible side.
2. Grilled Corn with Garlic Butter
Boil fresh corn on your side burner, then toss it on the grill briefly. Finish with garlic butter and a sprinkle of paprika for one of the most-loved side dish ideas out there.
3. Creamy Mac and Cheese
Use your side burner to make a creamy, cheesy sauce before stirring in cooked pasta. It’s an ideal comfort food that complements all your BBQ recipes.
4. Sautéed Mushrooms and Onions
Perfect as a burger topping or a standalone side, sauté mushrooms and onions with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for an earthy, savory bite.
5. BBQ Baked Potatoes
Wrap potatoes in foil and pre-cook them on the side burner before giving them a crisp on the grill. Load them with cheese, sour cream, or chives for a hearty option.
6. Skillet Green Beans with Almonds
Toss fresh green beans with butter and toasted almonds in a skillet over the side burner for a simple and crunchy veggie dish that adds freshness to any BBQ spread.
7. Sweet & Spicy Cornbread
Prepare cornbread batter in a cast iron pan, and use the side burner to bake it (with the lid down, if your grill allows). The sweet and spicy kick is a great addition to your BBQ recipes.
8. Cheesy Jalapeño Rice
Cook rice on the side burner, then stir in shredded cheese and diced jalapeños. This quick and flavorful dish adds just the right kick to your meal.
9. Tangy BBQ Slaw
Make this quick side on the side burner by warming vinegar, sugar, and seasonings, then tossing with shredded cabbage. It’s crunchy, tangy, and complements grilled meats well.
10. Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp
Yes, shrimp! Quickly sauté peeled shrimp with butter, garlic, and herbs for a side that feels gourmet but takes minutes. Serve it alongside steaks or grilled chicken.
Final Thoughts
Side burners are often underused during BBQs—but with the right recipes, they become a powerful tool for culinary creativity. These side dish ideas are not only easy to make but also perfectly complement your main BBQ recipes, making your next cookout a full-flavored success.
Don’t just grill—maximize your BBQ setup with these tasty, crowd-pleasing dishes!
