3 BBQ Side Dishes You Need To Make This Summer

Be the hero of your BBQs with these three side dishes that deserve all the glory. Whether you’re in the mood for finger-licking fun, hearty cheesy goodness or a fiery and crispy delight, these sides have it all. They’re light on ingredients but big on flavour, saving you time from prepping to cooking and making it easier to double or triple the amount depending on the party.

These BBQ side dish recipes are rich, comforting and even have a little kick of heat, making them secret scene-stealers when accompanied by the mains. Whether you’re grilling for friends or feeding a hungry crowd, these dishes will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Related: 5 Make-Ahead Chicken Marinades You Can Freeze Now and BBQ Later

Honey Garlic Corn Ribs

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes 

Servings: 6-8

Ingredient list:

4 cobs of corn 

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

¼ cup honey

4 cloves garlic, minced

Grated Parmesan, to garnish 

Fresh chopped parsley, to garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat your grill to 350˚F. 
2. In a small bowl, add your butter, garlic and honey and stir until combined and thickened. Once ready, set aside. 
3. Slice your cobs of corn into quarters lengthwise and place on a baking tray. 
4. Brush the corn with honey, garlic, and grill the kernels side down until charred, about five minutes. Flip, and repeat on each side until fully charred, brushing occasionally with any remaining honey garlic butter. 
5. Once ready, remove the dish from the grill and place it on a serving plate. Garnish with Parmesan, parsley and serve. 

Cheesy Loaded Potato Casserole

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 35 minutes 

Servings: 8-10

Ingredient list:

4 large baking potatoes (about 3-1/4 pounds)

¾ tsp kosher salt, divided

¼ cup butter, cubed

¼ cup sour cream

⅓ cup heavy cream 

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled, divided

¼ cup green onions, sliced, divided

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven (or barbeque) to 350˚F. 
2. Place your potatoes in a large pot of water, ensuring they are submerged. Sprinkle kosher salt and bring to a boil. 
3. Once the potatoes are tender, drain the water and place them in a casserole dish (or a foil tray if using a barbecue). 
4. Pour your heavy cream, sour cream, and butter into the dish and mash until the potatoes are smooth. 
5. Add your fillings, including half the bacon, half the cheese, and half the green onions, along with salt and pepper to taste, and mix until well combined. 
6. Top with the remaining cheese, bacon, and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese has melted. 
7. When ready, let it cool for 10 minutes, garnish with the remaining green onions, and serve. 

Hot Honey and Arugula Flatbread

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 5 minutes

Servings: 8-10

Ingredient list:

2 large flatbreads

2 Tbsp oil 

½ cup caramelized onions 

1 cup arugula 

¼ cup gem tomatoes, sliced in half 

1 burrata 

4 slices prosciutto 

2 Tbsp hot honey 

Directions:

1. Brush both sides of your flatbread with olive oil and place it on the grill. 
2. Heat your grill to high and place your flatbread on top. Grill until browned, 5-8 minutes. Flip and repeat
3. Once toasted, remove the bread from the grill and begin adding your toppings in the following order: caramelized onions, arugula, gem tomatoes, burrata and prosciutto.  
4. Drizzle with hot honey and serve.