25 BBQ Favorites for Your Weekend Cookout

There's just something about a backyard cookout that makes everyone want to linger a little longer. If you're figuring out what to put on the menu, you're in the right place... we've rounded up plenty of smoky mains, classic barbecue sides, and crowd-pleasing favorites that are easy to mix and match. Take a look and find a few new favorites for your next gathering.

Ultimate Six Cheese Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy baked macaroni and cheese in a white dish with a wooden spoon and a blue striped towel nearby. — Ultimate Six Cheese Macaroni and Cheese. Photo credit: State of Dinner.

Cheese lovers will appreciate every creamy bite of Ultimate Six Cheese Macaroni and Cheese. Layers of rich, melty cheese create a comforting dish that's indulgent without being complicated. This classic side belongs on every barbecue table alongside grilled favorites.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Six Cheese Macaroni and Cheese

Classic Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers

A hamburger topped with cheese and caramelized onions. — Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers. Photo credit: State of Dinner.

Few burgers are as iconic as Classic Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers, with caramelized onions pressed right into the beef. The onions develop rich flavor as they cook, creating an irresistible combination of sweetness and savoriness. These burgers are simple to prepare and perfect for serving at backyard gatherings or family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers

Easy Smoked Chicken Thighs

Tongs holding a saucy, cooked chicken wing above a bowl of dipping sauce and more wings. — Smoked Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: State of Dinner.

Fire up the smoker for Easy Smoked Chicken Thighs, where juicy meat and crispy skin come together in every bite. A sweet barbecue glaze adds a delicious finishing touch while the homemade rub creates a flavorful crust. They're a fantastic choice for weekend cookouts, casual family meals, or anytime you want a dependable smoker recipe.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Thighs

Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Plate of buffalo chicken wings with celery, carrot sticks, ranch dip, and hot sauce on the side. — Air Fryer Buffalo Wings. Photo credit: State of Dinner.

When you're craving something bold, Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Wings deliver crunchy texture with juicy, flavorful meat. They're ready in about 30 minutes, making them a convenient option for game day or busy evenings. Serve them at your next cookout and watch them disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Homemade Smoked Kalua Pork

A white dish filled with shredded kalua pork, with serving utensils on both sides. — Smoked Kalua Pork. Photo credit: State of Dinner.

Bring Hawaiian-inspired flavor to your barbecue with Homemade Smoked Kalua Pork. The meat cooks until it's incredibly tender and easy to shred for sandwiches, platters, or tacos. It's an impressive yet approachable recipe that's ideal for feeding a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Kalua Pork

Sticky-Tender Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs

Nothing says barbecue quite like Sticky-Tender Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs. Cooking low and slow creates incredibly tender meat, while a quick trip under the broiler adds a caramelized finish. They're an effortless centerpiece for weekend cookouts or relaxed family meals.
Get the Recipe: Sticky-Tender Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs

Greek Cucumber Salad with Lemon Dressing

Light and refreshing, Greek Cucumber Salad with Lemon Dressing adds bright Mediterranean flavor to any meal. Crisp vegetables, feta, olives, and lemon dressing create a satisfying balance without feeling heavy. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats and rounds out any barbecue spread.
Get the Recipe: Greek Cucumber Salad with Lemon Dressing

Traditional Amish Potato Salad

Generations have loved Traditional Amish Potato Salad for its creamy texture and balanced sweet-tangy dressing. Tender potatoes soak up every bit of flavor, making each bite satisfying. It's a comforting side dish that complements nearly any barbecue menu.
Get the Recipe: Traditional Amish Potato Salad

Sweet and Saucy BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Soft Hawaiian rolls make Sweet and Saucy BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders impossible to resist. Juicy pulled pork, melty cheese, and tangy barbecue sauce come together in every handheld bite. They're a guaranteed hit for parties, game days, and backyard barbecues.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

Grilled Corn in Husk

Summer grilling feels complete with Grilled Corn in Husk on the menu. The husks help keep every ear tender while the coffee-spiced seasoning adds smoky depth. It's a memorable side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn in Husk

Hearty Southern Baked Beans with Ground Beef

Southern Baked Beans with Ground Beef. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

Rich, smoky flavors make Hearty Southern Baked Beans with Ground Beef an essential barbecue side. Slow cooking creates a hearty dish that's packed with savory goodness in every spoonful. They're the perfect companion to ribs, burgers, and grilled chicken.
Get the Recipe: Southern Baked Beans with Ground Beef

Grilled BBQ Pork Tenderloin

A beautifully caramelized finish makes Grilled BBQ Pork Tenderloin stand out on any barbecue menu. Tender, juicy pork and smoky barbecue glaze create a meal that's both simple and satisfying. It's equally suited for weeknight dinners or backyard entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Grilled BBQ Pork Tenderloin

Classic Creamy Southern Coleslaw

Southern Coleslaw. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

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A cool, crisp side is always welcome, and Classic Creamy Southern Coleslaw delivers every time. The creamy dressing balances sweetness and tang while complementing grilled meats beautifully. Make it ahead so it's perfectly chilled when it's time to serve.
Get the Recipe: Southern Coleslaw

Juicy Grilled Ranch Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Ranch Chicken Kabobs. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

Ranch seasoning brings plenty of savory flavor to Juicy Grilled Ranch Chicken Kabobs. The marinade helps keep every bite moist while adding delicious richness. They're a family-friendly favorite for summer grilling and outdoor gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ranch Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Potato Wedges in 20 Minutes

Grilled Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

Skip ordinary fries and serve Grilled Potato Wedges in 20 Minutes instead. Crisp edges, fluffy centers, and smoky grill flavor make them an easy crowd-pleaser. They're a quick side that pairs perfectly with burgers, ribs, or grilled chicken.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Potato Wedges

Easy Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken

Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Busy days become easier with Easy Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken. The Instant Pot produces tender, saucy shredded chicken with sweet, tangy barbecue flavor in less time. It's an excellent make-ahead recipe for cookouts or family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken

Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Basil Pesto

Fresh herbs take center stage in Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Basil Pesto. The vibrant pesto coats the pasta beautifully while crisp vegetables add color and texture. It's a versatile chilled side that's perfect for picnics, barbecues, and summer lunches.
Get the Recipe: Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Basil Pesto

Grilled Chicken Drumsticks with Peach Glaze

Sweet peach glaze gives Grilled Chicken Drumsticks with Peach Glaze an irresistible finishing touch. Cooking over indirect heat keeps the chicken juicy while the dry rub builds layers of smoky flavor. They're a standout addition to any backyard barbecue menu.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Drumsticks with Peach Glaze

Loaded Ranch Potato Salad with Bacon

Inspired by a loaded baked potato, Loaded Ranch Potato Salad with Bacon delivers big flavor in every bite. Crispy bacon, cheese, and creamy ranch dressing coat tender potatoes for a satisfying side. Bring it to your next cookout and expect plenty of requests for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Ranch Potato Salad with Bacon

Easy Mexican Caviar Texas Caviar

Mexican Caviar. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Fresh, colorful, and full of flavor, Easy Mexican Caviar Texas Caviar is always a hit at gatherings. The combination of beans, vegetables, and zesty dressing makes it refreshing and satisfying. Serve it with chips or alongside barbecue favorites.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Caviar

Baked Tequila Lime Chicken Wings

A plate of golden, crispy chicken wings surrounded by lime wedges and cilantro on a light-colored table. — Baked Tequila Lime Chicken Wings. Photo credit: State of Dinner.

Bright citrus and smoky flavor shine in Baked Tequila Lime Chicken Wings. Every bite is juicy inside with a beautifully crisp exterior and caramelized finish. They're an excellent appetizer for summer gatherings, tailgates, or casual entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tequila Lime Chicken Wings

Classic Southern Cornbread Recipe Without Buttermilk

Close up of a pan of cornbread with a slice centered between 2 missing pieces. — Southern Cornbread Without Buttermilk. Photo credit: State of Dinner.

Fresh from a hot cast-iron skillet, Classic Southern Cornbread Recipe Without Buttermilk offers a crisp crust and moist interior. It has the comforting texture and homemade flavor that pairs perfectly with barbecue meals. Serve it warm for an easy side everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Southern Cornbread Without Buttermilk

Tender Sous Vide Pork Shoulder

A fork holds up shredded, seasoned pulled pork on a white plate with more pork in the background. — Tender Sous Vide Pork Shoulder. Photo credit: State of Dinner.

Slow cooking works its magic in Tender Sous Vide Pork Shoulder, creating juicy, pull-apart pork with very little effort. The cooking method locks in moisture for consistently delicious results every time. It's perfect for piling onto buns, serving with barbecue sides, or preparing ahead for entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sous Vide Pork Shoulder

Creamy Southern Macaroni Salad with Cheese

Southern Macaroni Salad with Cheese. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

Chilled and refreshing, Creamy Southern Macaroni Salad with Cheese is a staple at summer gatherings. Tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and creamy dressing create a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. It's a dependable cookout classic that's always welcome on the table.
Get the Recipe: Southern Macaroni Salad with Cheese

Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

Two baked chicken drumsticks with garlic and herbs on a white plate. — Garlic Butter Chicken Wings. Photo credit: State of Dinner.

Rich garlic butter transforms Garlic Butter Chicken Wings into a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Every wing is crisp on the outside while staying tender and flavorful inside. Whether for game day or a backyard barbecue, they're always a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Wings