Backyard Sides That Everyone Fights Over First
Main dishes get the glory, but sides are what make a backyard party feel like a real event. These dishes bring crunch, creaminess, spice, or sweetness in just the right balance. They’re the first to get scooped up and the ones people ask about later.
Every recipe is easy enough for relaxed summer cooking and bold enough to stand out. Serve one or two and watch the table go quiet, at least until someone asks for seconds.
Smoked Mac and Cheese
This unique take on traditional mac and cheese features a delicious, cheesy combination of creamy and smoky flavors. With simple ingredients and a golden crust, this meal is ready to eat right out of the smoker.
Get the recipe: Smoked Mac and Cheese.
Southwestern Salad
The Southwestern Salad, featuring garbanzos and a zesty chipotle, lime, and roasted garlic dressing, brings a touch of heat from the chipotle. Toss in plenty of fresh veggies, and you have a colorful, tasty salad perfect for summer!
Get the recipe: Southwestern Salad.
Smoked Corn on the Cob
Smoked corn on the cob is sweet, smokey, and a little peppery. It’s an easy way to add a lot of excitement to your meal or BBQ. This is perfect for sweet corn lovers.
Get the recipe: Smoked Corn on the Cob.
Smoked Shotgun Shells
Smoked Shotgun Shells are the ultimate party starter. They pack a punch with spicy, meat-filled bites covered in crispy bacon. Fire up your grill and prepare for these little bursts of joy that’ll steal the show at any event.
Get the recipe: Smoked Shotgun Shells.
Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus comes off the flames tender and slightly charred, with a hint of smokiness that makes this veggie stand out. It’s a fresh side that pairs beautifully and adds crunch to any main dish.
Get the recipe: Grilled Asparagus.
Smoked Baked Potato
Smoked baked potatoes come out of the smoker with soft, fluffy centers and crispy, golden skins, all enhanced by a deep, smoky flavor. These simple potatoes transform an everyday side into a special treat, promising a lovely meal with every forkful.
Get the recipe: Smoked Baked Potato.
Broccoli Salad with Raisins
If you love veggies, try this easy broccoli salad. It combines crisp broccoli with sweet raisins and a creamy dressing for an amazing side dish. It’s quick to toss together and sure to be a hit!
Get the recipe: Broccoli Salad with Raisins.
Fresh Fruit Salad
What’s the key to creating the perfect fresh fruit salad? Using fresh fruit, naturally. Discover all our tips for ensuring you have deliciously ripe fruit salad any time of the year. This will be the kid’s favorite part of the picnic.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Fruit Salad.
Bacon Egg Potato Salad
This potato salad with bacon and eggs is incredibly easy. It’s one of my most requested salads for potlucks. Several “secret” ingredients, including fresh herbs, make this recipe a must.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad.
Classic Mac & Cheese
Classic mac & cheese delivers creamy, cheesy bliss in every spoonful, topped with a golden, crispy crust that adds the perfect textural contrast. This dish epitomizes simple, comforting pleasure, making it a must-have for any cheese lover. It’s an irresistible treat that satisfies cravings with its rich, gooey goodness.
Get the recipe: Classic Mac & Cheese.
Smoked Potatoes
Smoked potatoes come off the grill crispy on the outside and soft inside, with a smoky flavor that turns a simple potato into a real treat. They’re perfect for any meal and sure to impress!
Get the recipe: Smoked Potatoes.
Foil Packet Grilled Potatoes
Foil-packet grilled potatoes pack a punch of crispy edges and tender middles, all wrapped up with herbs and spices that steal the show. Throw them on the grill for an easy, no-mess side dish everyone will love.
Get the recipe: Foil Packet Grilled Potatoes.
Smoked Sweet Potato
Dig into the smoky charm of a perfectly baked potato, fresh off the grill and wrapped in a crispy, golden-brown skin that hides a steamy, soft interior. This perfect side will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Get the recipe: Smoked Sweet Potato.
Smoked Baked Beans
Today, we’re elevating the classic flavors of baked beans with a smoky twist. Smoked baked beans will elevate these flavors to new heights. Smoking these delicious four-bean baked beans adds a whole new dimension of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Baked Beans.
How to Smoke Pineapple
This Smoked Pineapple with brown sugar rub is excellent for sweet desserts and as a side for your favorite smoked proteins. Serve it alongside chicken or seafood, or make a dessert with a simple pound cake and ice cream.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pineapple.
Pineapple Coleslaw
Whether you need a dish to pass for a potluck or you are enjoying some delicious seafood tacos, this Pineapple slaw is just what you need. It’s delicious with ham, seafood, and pork. It’s effortless and will be a hit every time.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Coleslaw.
The Best Instant Pot Cabbage Recipes for Quick Comfort Food
Instant Pot cabbage recipes are the perfect way to turn a simple veggie into something extraordinary. Packed with flavor and super easy to make, these dishes will have you enjoying cabbage like never before. Looking for a quick side dish or a hearty main? These recipes are sure to become your new go-to for delicious, fuss-free meals. Cabbage has never tasted this good!
Get The Recipe: The Best Instant Pot Cabbage Recipes for Quick Comfort Food.
These Appetizers Are Built for Backyard Parties
Backyard parties are all about easy fun, great company, and food that disappears fast. These crowd-pleasing appetizers check every box—easy to prep, simple to serve, and impossible to stop eating. Whether you’re setting up a snack table or passing plates on the patio, these bites bring the flavor without the fuss.
Get The Recipe: These Appetizers Are Built for Backyard Parties.
These 18 Recipes Prove You Can Eat Well on a Budget
Food prices are wild right now, but dinner doesn’t have to be. These meals are easy on your wallet and don’t require a ton of ingredients or kitchen skills. Some stretch leftovers, some start with pantry staples, and all of them deliver without draining your budget.
Get The Recipe: These 18 Recipes Prove You Can Eat Well on a Budget.
13 Superfood Recipes That Don’t Taste Like You Tried to Be Healthy
Discover a collection of vibrant recipes that celebrate the power of superfoods! Each dish is designed to elevate your meals with nutrient-rich ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick side or a full meal, these flavorful creations will inspire you to explore the delicious world of plant-based cooking.
Get The Recipe: 13 Superfood Recipes That Don’t Taste Like You Tried to Be Healthy.
