What to Bring to a BBQ: 20 Crowd-Pleasing Ideas

Barbecues are the perfect way to spend a day enjoying the beautiful weather with family and friends. While the person hosting the BBQ typically will provide the main meal, it’s customary to bring along something to share. 

If you’re wondering what to bring to a BBQ, you’re in the right place! Choose one of these popular side dishes, drinks, or desserts, and your host is sure to be pleased. 

Tasty BBQ side dishes 

From classic sides to unique dishes, there are plenty of recipes that are perfect for bringing to a BBQ. Here are a few that are always a hit. 

1. American potato salad

 Nothing says BBQ quite like a classic potato salad. The beauty of this dish is that you can start with a basic recipe, then add your own secret ingredients to give it a special touch. 

2. Baked beans with bacon 

The combination of molasses and bacon gives these baked beans an incredible sweet and savory flavor. Since they’re made in the slow cooker, there’s very little prep time. Start them in the morning and they’ll be ready for you to bring to the BBQ by early afternoon. 

3. Avocado and shrimp salad

This crisp and refreshing salad features avocado, shrimp, bacon, and a delicious homemade sauce. It works perfectly as either a starter or a side. 

4. 3-bean salad 

A 3-bean salad is a classic cookout dish. This recipe has a bit of a twist, thanks to the zesty lime dressing. Just make sure you plan ahead if you want to bring this dish. It tastes best if the flavors can meld for 24 hours before it’s served. 

5. Three cheese baked mac 

Mac and cheese is always a great addition to a BBQ. Cook this in a disposable aluminum pan so you won’t have to worry about it after the cookout is done. 

6. Sweet potato salad

This recipe is an exciting twist on traditional potato salad. It features sweet potatoes, peppery arugula, and a tangy dressing. You can also add some bacon and chives for extra flavor. 

Quick and easy BBQ sides  

An impromptu cookout is always fun, but it might leave you wondering what to bring to a BBQ at the last minute. Don’t worry! These ideas are quick, easy, and sure to be a hit. 

1. Chips and salsa 

It doesn’t get much easier than grabbing a bag of chips and some fresh salsa from the deli section of the grocery store. 

2. Apple and fennel salad with blue cheese

This dish is so delicious, no one will suspect that you whipped it together in just 15 minutes! The sweet apples and distinct blue cheese and fennel flavors mix perfectly with the tangy apple cider vinegar dressing. 

 3. Easy antipasto plate

To make this easy side, just find a grocery store with an olive bar and choose a variety of items. Then add some cheese, salami, and pickles. Arrange them all on a platter for an attractive appetizer that takes almost no time at all. 

4. Watermelon, cucumber, and feta salad

If you’re looking for a light and refreshing dish to bring to your next BBQ, look no further than this watermelon-based salad. The feta gives it a creamy, tangy edge and the addition of mint makes it the perfect summertime dish. 

5. Marinated cheese 

Grab a container of mini mozzarella balls or cut up a block of feta cheese. Then, drizzle them with a good amount of olive oil and sprinkle them with herbs, salt, pepper, a splash of vinegar, and some lemon zest. 

6. Tropical fruit in spiced syrup 

This mix of tropical fruits, spices, and mint is the perfect side dish to go with barbecued chicken or shrimp. You can also layer it with yogurt to make a parfait. 

7. Syracuse salt potatoes 

Salt potatoes are a delicacy in the Northeast, and they make a great addition to any BBQ. Best of all, you can whip these up in just 5 minutes! 

Delicious drinks to serve at a BBQ

If cooking isn’t your thing, you may wonder what to bring to a BBQ as a guest. Since most other people won’t think of it, your host will be thrilled if you show up with some delicious drinks to share! Check out these ideas. 

1. Brazillian lemonade

One of the biggest surprises about this “lemonade” is that it’s actually made with limes! It also features sweetened condensed milk and a bit of sugar, creating a delicious drink that both adults and kids are sure to love. 

2. Citrus and mint champagne punch 

Showing up with a large pitcher or cooler of this refreshing champagne punch is sure to make you the star of the party. Mix together everything but the champagne, then add the bubbly after you arrive. 

3. Hard seltzer variety pack 

In a hurry and need some drinks to share? Try picking up a variety pack of hard seltzers. They’re light, refreshing, and the mix of flavors should appeal to many of the guests. 

4. Selection of craft beers

If you think the crowd is more likely to enjoy beer than hard seltzers, look for a variety pack of craft beer. This definitely won’t go to waste, and other party-goers will enjoy the opportunity to try out some new flavors. 

Decadent desserts for a BBQ

Every BBQ needs a sweet treat! When you’re not sure what to bring to a cookout, a dessert is always a great idea. Try one of these backyard-friendly dessert ideas. 

1. Pie a la mode

Short on time? Buy a pie and bring it to the BBQ along with a gallon of vanilla ice cream.  

2. Bacon brownies 

If you want to bring a dessert everyone will be raving about for weeks to come, bacon brownies are it! There’s nothing quite like the sweet taste of chocolate mixed with salty bacon. 

3. Blueberry crumb bars 

Blueberries are the perfect summertime fruit, making this tasty (and easy!) dessert ideal for enjoying at a backyard barbecue. 

Wow the crowd at your next BBQ

Deciding what to bring to a BBQ shouldn’t be a hassle. With this list of ideas and grocery delivery from Instacart, you’ll be ready to head over to your next cookout in no time. 

Grab it now on Instacart:

Grandpa's Signature Salads Potato Salad (15 oz)

Haks Organic Avocado Lime Salad Dressing (8 fl oz)

Sam's Fresh Salsa Medium Salsa (16 oz)

BelGioioso Fresh Mozzarella Cheese, Pearls, Cup (8 oz)

ShopRite Sweetened Condensed Milk (14 oz)

Have a barbecue coming up soon? Head over to Instacart.com and start creating your shopping list today! 

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