I mean.. no one actually remembers the burgers. It’s the side dishes that make or break your 4th of July cookout. (Sorry, Uncle Bob and your “famous” overcooked hot dogs.)
That’s why I put together this glorious roundup of 15 unforgettable Fourth of July side dishes—because if you’re going to spend the day sweating next to a grill, you deserve more than soggy coleslaw and store-bought potato salad.
I learned this the hard way at a particularly tragic 4th of July party where the “side dish” was a solo cup of chips and sadness. Never again.
From bold pasta salads to grilled veggies that actually taste like summer, these recipes are here to save your backyard BBQ, impress your neighbors, and maybe—just maybe—help you win the unspoken battle for Best Dish at the potluck.
Let’s dive into the best side dishes for your 4th of July party—because your cookout deserves nothing less than legendary.
So there you have it—15 Fourth of July side dishes that are guaranteed to outshine the fireworks (and maybe even your cousin’s over-the-top dessert “creation”). Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout, heading to a 4th of July potluck, or just trying to avoid another dry burger situation, these easy, crowd-pleasing recipes have your back.
Now go forth and be the hero of the party. Or at the very least, the one who brought the pasta salad everyone actually finishes.
Happy 4th—and may your sides be many and your BBQ drama be minimal. 🇺🇸🔥
