We’ve included over 50 easy BBQ side dishes in this roundup, plus ideas for summer desserts and refreshing cocktails (or drinks like Sweet Tea) to enjoy with your outdoor meal.
Related: 40+ Easy Picnic Food Ideas, 15+ Easy No-Bake Desserts, and 40 Fun Cocktails to Make At Home.
These recipes are perfect for a BBQ and any outdoor gathering like a picnic. We’ve included a mix of popular and unique recipes, like:
Simple Macaroni Salad
What’s not to love about macaroni salad? Everyone has their own way of making it, but this macaroni salad recipe is pretty classic with the addition of extra vegetables and chopped hard boiled eggs.
Easy Baked Beans
If you’re looking for an easy, made-from-scratch recipe for baked beans, look no further. This baked beans recipe is saucy, delicious, and super simple. Serve with hot dogs, hamburgers, or BBQ sandwiches.
Favorite Broccoli Slaw
This broccoli slaw recipe is simple, creamy, and crunchy. It’s super easy to put together because you can make it with pre-bagged slaw. It’s delicious on top of hot dogs and BBQ sandwiches.
Best Fruit Salad
Fruit salad is a barbecue staple, and this recipe is truly the best. It’s made with a honey citrus dressing that makes it sweet, slightly tart, and extra delicious. We love adding a variety of fruit to this dish.
Roasted Asparagus
Roast some fresh asparagus in the oven for a bright and flavorful side dish. This recipe makes asparagus that’s crunchy (never mushy) and delicious. Squeeze a generous amount of lemon juice on top before serving.
Homemade Chex Mix
Homemade Chex mix is 100% more delicious than any store-bought snack mix. This Chex mix recipe can be customized to your liking, and you can even add candy to it for a sweet and salty combination.
Corn Dip
This corn dip is a cold, creamy dip made with just five ingredients. This dip recipe is sometimes called “crack corn dip” and it reminds us of Rotel cheese dip because it’s so addictive and delicious!
Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
Baked potatoes are a must-have at any BBQ, and you don’t even have to turn on your oven to make these. Air fryer baked potatoes have a crispy skin and bake evenly—just like the do in the oven.
Creamy Kale, Brussels and Cranberry Salad
Looking for a great salad to serve? This recipe has crunchy kale, Brussels sprouts, sliced almonds, and a bright burst of flavor from fresh cranberries. Make your own salad dressing to go with it for the perfect salad.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
What’s not to love about baked mac and cheese? This is a super easy recipe that’s made without eggs or evaporated milk. An easy, classic recipe! This baked macaroni is a crowd-favorite and a perfect side dish.
Chicken Salad with Grapes
This easy chicken salad recipe made with grapes is creamy, crunchy, and tasty. It’s perfect on its own with a side of crackers or cucumber slices, but it also makes great chicken salad sandwiches for a BBQ.
Strawberry Caprese Salad
There’s nothing better than a fresh caprese salad in the summertime. This recipe includes strawberries, tomatoes, and a homemade pesto sauce. It’s so good. Be sure to add the balsamic—it really ties everything together.
Homemade French Onion Dip
Homemade French onion dip is creamy, decadent, and the perfect blend of savory with a little sweet. Serve this French onion dip alongside fresh cut vegetables, crackers, or chips and dig in!
Bread and Butter Pickles
Bread and butter pickles can be added to burgers and sandwiches or served as an appetizer on a cheese platter. There’s so many ways to enjoy these pickles! To make them, simply put the ingredients in a mason jar and pop it in the refrigerator.
Deviled Eggs (3 Ways)
Deviled eggs are one of the first side dishes we think of for a summer BBQ. This recipe for deviled eggs includes a classic version and two additional ideas using ingredients like feta, dill, turmeric, and ginger.
Crispy Air Fried Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are anything but boring; especially this air fried version. This delicious vegetable side dish is crispy, flavorful, and only has 4 ingredients. Love Brussels sprouts? Try our recipe for roasted Brussels sprouts, too.
Black Bean Hummus
If you like black beans, you will love this hummus recipe. The addition of black beans makes this dip extra hearty, and you can kick up the heat by adding cayenne or red pepper flakes. Serve with sliced veggies or chips.
Green Bean Casserole
This classic green bean casserole recipe is made with pepper jack cheese for added creaminess and spice. This is a wonderful side dish that can be enjoyed alongside beef, pork chops, or chicken.
Cornbread With Bacon Glaze
Mmm.. cornbread. Top it with melted butter or a bacon glaze like we did in this recipe. It’s also perfect for soaking up extra barbecue sauce. Either way, cornbread should be part of your spread!
10-Minute BBQ Sauce
Speaking of BBQ sauce, this recipe is for a thick and finger-licking-delicious sauce that you can whip up in about 10 minutes (or less). It’s so much better than store bought barbecue sauce.
Classic Potato Salad
Potato salad is one of the most popular BBQ sides, and this recipe is comforting and creamy. This classic potato salad is the perfect blend of soft potatoes and hard boiled eggs with crunchy bell peppers and onion.
Buffalo Chicken Dip
If you’re in need of a crowd-pleasing baked dip recipe for your BBQ, look no further than our buffalo chicken dip. It’s made with only 5 ingredients and similar to chicken wings (in the form of dip!).
Pigs in a Blanket
Pigs in a blanket are a great bite-sized side dish for a BBQ. And, they are super easy to prepare with only two ingredients. You can even make some homemade dipping sauces for them if you’re feeling fancy.
Duchess Sweet Potato Casserole
This duchess sweet potato casserole is equally pretty and mouthwatering. It’s rich, creamy, and a little savory with the addition of bacon. This would be an amazing side dish to serve with steak or chicken.
Quinoa, Kale, and Grapefruit Salad
This summery kale salad combines red quinoa, kale, and fresh grapefruit, and topped with a bright and simple dijon dressing. It’s a filling and healthy salad option made with fresh ingredients.
Egg Salad (4 Ways)
This is our classic egg salad recipe along with 3 variation ideas using ingredients like turmeric, ginger, feta, rosemary, and thyme. Serve any of these egg salad recipes with your favorite bread or enjoy it on its own.
Simple Cucumber Salad
Our cucumber salad is similar to a quick pickled salad since vinegar is one of the main ingredients in the dressing. This recipe is bright, crunchy, and a great salad or side dish idea for a BBQ.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato
Baked sweet potatoes in an air fryer is one of the easiest vegetable side dishes you can make for a BBQ.. You could even make a combination of baked potatoes and sweet potatoes for your spread. Don’t forget all the fixings!
Creamy Pasta Salad
Pasta salad is the warm weather version of mac and cheese—the best comfort food! This recipe is full of vegetables and perfect for summer. And, it’s even better if you make it the night before and refrigerate it.
Rotel Cheese Dip
Rotel cheese dip is a classic and easy hot dip that can be made quickly in a crockpot (with only 2 ingredients!). This is an addictive dip recipe that everyone will love. Serve with veggies and chips.
Thai-Inspired Barley Salad
This Thai barley salad is both filling and delicious, and it has some unexpected flavors (like fresh mango) that you will love. This salad recipe makes a big batch, so it’s perfect for a barbecue.
Baked Sweet Potato Fries
These are the best baked sweet potato fries. The have the right amount of seasoning and crispiness, and they can be thrown in the oven while you’re preparing other things. Love sweet potatoes? Try our recipe for roasted sweet potatoes, too.
Creamy Black Bean Dip
An irresistible creamy black bean dip made with black beans, cream cheese, and salsa. This is one of those dips that you won’t be able to stop eating because it’s so good! Serve chilled with lots of chips.
Tahini Chopped Salad
An amazing chopped salad recipe made with crunchy edamame, peppers, and cashews. The best part is the Tahini dressing—it’s very similar to the peanut sauce that we dip fresh spring rolls in. So good!
Deli-Style Tuna Salad
A simple, but truly delicious deli-style tuna salad recipe that is flavorful with the right amount of crunch. We love this eating this tuna salad as a dip with cucumbers and crackers or by itself on a sandwich.
Taco Dip
A classic recipe for taco dip made with cream cheese, sour cream, and taco seasoning. Top this cold dip with your favorite taco toppings like shredded lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, and olives and serve with chips.
Air Fryer Cauliflower
Similar to air fryer Brussels sprouts, this cauliflower can be easily made in air fryer and it turns out delicious every time. We like to put some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving this dish. Love cauliflower? Try our recipe for roasted cauliflower, too.
Easy Corn Casserole
This savory and cheesy corn casserole is a comforting side dish that’s perfect for any summer gathering. Plus, this casserole couldn’t be easier to make—just put everything in the dish and bake!
3 Easy Pasta Salad Dressings
If pasta salad is going to be part of your BBQ spread, we have 3 homemade salad dressing recipes to choose: balsamic, Italian, and a creamy option. These dressings will elevate any pasta dish.
Spicy Avocado Hummus
We love a good hummus recipe, and this one is perfect for a BBQ. This avocado hummus is made with creamy avocado, red pepper, and jalapeños. Serve it with veggies or pita chips for a tasty side dish.
Easy Jalapeño Popper Dip
This jalapeño popper dip is one of our favorite hot dips for any occasion. Everybody loves it and it’s incredibly easy to make! Serve this savory dip with chips, pretzel bites, or bread and watch it disappear.
Air Fried French Fries
You only need a small amount of oil to get crispy, made-to-perfection french fries in an air fryer. We like to coat and season the fries before they are air fried (so good!), and they only take 15-20 minutes to make.
Classic Pea Salad with Bacon
This delicious, classic pea salad with bacon is a wonderful side dish. It’s a creamy mix of peas, mayo, and cheese, and it goes great with hot dogs and watermelon. A very nostalgic recipe to enjoy at a BBQ.
Creamy Garlic Mac & Cheese
This creamy garlic macaroni and cheese can be made a in a crockpot. That’s right!
Delicious, homemade mac and cheese without all the work. Plus, macaroni and cheese goes with basically everything!
Baked Chili Cheese Chips
These chili cheese chips are a lighter version of Fritos with all ingredients you can pronounce (but still dangerously good). Fill a bowl with this homemade bite-sized snack at your next barbecue.
Easy Broccoli Salad
This broccoli salad only has three ingredients plus a creamy dressing. Don’t let that fool you, though—it’s full of flavor and can be customized with all kinds of ingredients. It’s a great side dish for an outdoor gathering.
Beet-Dyed Deviled Eggs
Everything you love about deviled eggs with a fun and colorful twist. These hardboiled eggs are dyed with beet juice, but it doesn’t affect the taste at all! Surprise your guests with these at your next BBQ.
Easy Desserts For a BBQ:
- Potato Chip Cookies
- Jello Salad or Ambrosia Salad
- 30+ No-Bake Desserts
- Homemade Brownies
- Fruit Pizza
- Cookie Dough Dip
Easy Cocktails for a BBQ:
- Mojitos by the Pitcher
- Homemade Margarita Mix
- Pink Lemonade Jello Shots
- Frozen Sweet and Salty Dog
- Watermelon Margarita
- Pineapple Citrus Punch
Looking for More BBQ Recipes?
]]>The secret to a great pinwheel sandwich is the cream cheese filling! This is the “glue” that keeps this rolled up sandwich looking great and it tastes amazing. I like to make the cream cheese filling with ranch and bacon bits, but there are many different options and variation to try.
Related: Looking for more easy appetizers? Try 30 Easy Finger Foods for a Party, 50 Easy BBQ Side Dishes or 75 Summer Dinner Ideas.
Basic Ingredients
- Flour tortillas
- Cream cheese
- Ranch dressing – store bought or homemade
- Bacon
- Sliced cheddar cheese – colby is great too
- Deli meat – I like smoked turkey, salami or ham
- Veggies like romaine lettuce, cucumber, avocado or spinach
How to Make Pinwheel Sandwiches
Combine the softened cream cheese with the ranch dressing and bacon (chopped).
Lay out a tortilla shell. Spoon the cream cheese mixture on top and spread into a thin layer, coating the entire tortilla.
Layer on the sliced cheese, deli meat, and spinach. Place it toward the bottom 1/3 of the tortilla (not the center).
Roll up the tortilla and slice into pinwheels. The cream cheese holds these together pretty well, BUT if you have issue with them wanting to unroll, add a toothpick to the pinwheel. Use a sharp knife to cut the rolled tortilla into pinwheels.
Additional Filling Ideas
- For the cream cheese filling, you could omit the ranch dressing and add a packet of ranch seasoning instead. The bacon is also optional.
- If you don’t want to use a cream cheese filling, you could swap it for hummus for a similar effect.
- Any cheese that comes in slices (or that you can slice) will work. You could also try a crumbly cheese like feta.
- Any deli meat you prefer can work for pinwheel sandwiches: turkey, chicken, salami, pepperoni, or even bacon strips.
- You can add more or less vegetables: lettuce, spinach, sliced bell peppers, thinly sliced tomato, or fresh herbs like cilantro or basil.
- Pickled items will work as well: bread and butter pickles, olives, pickled carrots, etc.
More Appetizer Recipes
Other recipes to make for a party:
- The Best Fruit Salad
- Creamy Pasta Salad
- Deviled Eggs
- Ambrosia Salad
- Egg White Bites
- Homemade Chex Mix
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make pinwheel sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, pinwheel sandwiches can be made the day before and refrigerated until ready to serve. The one factor you’ll want to consider are any ingredients (like sliced tomatoes) that could create additional moisture during storage.
How do I store pinwheel sandwiches and how long do they last?
You can store pinwheel sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This could be a ziplock bag or Tupperware-type container.
You could also store them on a serving tray or cutting board wrapped in plastic wrap. They can be stored this way for 2-3 days.
Pinwheel Sandwiches
Ingredients
- 4 tortillas soft
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup ranch dressing
- 3 strips bacon
- 8 slices cheese
- 8 slices deli turkey
- 16 slices salami
- 1 cup spinach leaves
Instructions
- Combine the softened cream cheese with the ranch dressing and bacon (chopped).
- Lay out a tortilla shell. Spoon the cream cheese mixture on top and spread into a thin layer, coating the entire tortilla.
- Layer on the sliced cheese, deli meat, and spinach. Place it toward the bottom 1/3 of the tortilla (not the center).
- Roll up the tortilla and slice into pinwheels.
- The cream cheese holds these together pretty well, BUT if you have issue with them wanting to unroll, add a toothpick to the pinwheel.
Notes
- For the cream cheese filling, you could omit the ranch dressing and add a packet of ranch seasoning instead. The bacon is also optional.
- If you don’t want to use a cream cheese filling, you could swap it for hummus for a similar effect.
- Any cheese that comes in slices (or that you can slice) will work. You could also try a crumbly cheese like feta.
- Any deli meat you prefer can work for pinwheel sandwiches: turkey, chicken, salami, pepperoni or even bacon strips.
- You can add more or less vegetables: lettuce, spinach, sliced bell peppers, thinly sliced tomato, or fresh herbs like cilantro or basil.
- Pickled items will work as well: bread and butter pickles, olives, pickled carrots, etc.
Nutrition
Grape salad is one of those dishes that makes me think of big family meals at holidays or potluck dinner or cookout picnics. Of course the word ‘salad’ is being used pretty liberally here. 
It’s a lot like ambrosia salad or watergate salad. It’s not a green, leafy salad it’s more like a lightly sweet fruit side dish.
Related: Next up try my Great Aunt Ina’s strawberry pretzel salad. We sometimes just call this jello salad at my house.
Ingredients
- Red seedless grapes
- Cream cheese, softened
- Greek yogurt
- Brown sugar
- Spiced Walnuts or Pecans
How to make Grape Salad
Rinse off the grapes and remove them from the stem. Set aside to dry.
Stir together the softened cream cheese, greek yogurt, and brown sugar. If you want the creamy mixture to be perfectly smooth, free from lumps, I recommend using an electric mixer and blending the cream cheese by itself first and then blending in the other ingredients. Personally, I don’t think it makes a big difference if there are a few lumps. Call me lazy but once you add the nutty topping it doesn’t really show / look smooth anymore anyway.
Fold the cream cheese mixture in with the grapes so they all get coated. Chop the nuts and sprinkle over the top.
Chill the salad for 30 minutes or more so everything is nice and cold before serving.
Notes and Substitutions
- I like using all red grapes but you could use a mixture of red and green or all green. But I stick with seedless grapes whatever color you choose.
- If you want to lightened this up use reduced fat cream cheese.
- I prefer using greek yogurt but sour cream works just as well.
- I like using spiced (sweet) nuts for the topping but other options include chopped up Snickers (yes! this is more ‘traditional’ or common where I live) or graham crackers.
- If you make this grape salad ahead of time, like the night before you plan to serve it, save the nut topping and sprinkle it on before just before serving.
More Fruit Forward Recipes
- The BEST Fruit Salad
- Fruit Pizza
- Cream Cheese Fruit Dip
- Tomato Burrata
- Cucumber Salad
- Strawberry Caprese Salad
Grape Salad
Ingredients
- 2 pounds red seedless grapes
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- ½ cup greek yogurt
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup spiced walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Rinse off the grapes and remove them from the stem. Set aside to dry.
- Stir together the softened cream cheese, greek yogurt, and brown sugar.
- Fold the cream cheese mixture in with the grapes so they all get coated.
- Chop the nuts and sprinkle over the top.
- Chill the salad for 30 minutes or more so everything is nice and cold before serving.
Notes
- I like using all red grapes but you could use a mixture of red and green or all green. But I stick with seedless grapes whatever color you choose.
- If you want to lightened this up use reduced fat cream cheese.
- I prefer using greek yogurt but sour cream works just as well.
- I like using spiced (sweet) nuts for the topping but other options include chopped up Snickers (yes! this is more ‘traditional’ or common where I live) or graham crackers.
- If you make this grape salad ahead of time, like the night before you plan to serve it, save the nut topping and sprinkle it on before just before serving.
Nutrition
Pizza cupcakes truly could not be easier to make! You only need 5 ingredients and about 25 minutes. Makes these and tell us what you think.
Related: Next up try our deep dish pizza recipe or Detroit style pizza.
Ingredients
- Pizza dough – roll out refrigerated (like Pillsbury) is best
- Olive oil
- Pizza sauce – store bought or make your own
- Mozzarella cheese
- Mini pepperoni
- Italian seasoning – optional but I really like to add it
How to make Pizza Cupcakes
Roll out the pizza crusts and use a 4 inch round cookie cutter to cut into small circles.
Use a pastry brush to brush the inside of each cupcake cavity with oil. You want to see a little bit of oil pooling in the bottom. Not lots but enough that we will get a few crispy areas during baking.
Add the pizza crusts to the prepared cupcake tin. Then add a little bit of cheese in the bottom, topped with sauce, then topped with more cheese, then pepperonis on top. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning if using.
Bake at 400°F for 13-15 minutes. For my oven 13 minutes in a good amount. The edges should turn very golden brown and the cheese will begin to bubble. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before removing from the pan. Serve warm.
Notes
- If you want to use other cheeses anything that melts can work. Sometimes I will sprinkle on a little Parmesan cheese during the last couple minutes of baking.
- If you want to add other toppings beyond pepperoni feel free.
- The recipe card amounts below will make 12 pizza cupcakes in a standard size muffin pan.
More Great Pizza Recipes
- Pizza Bagels
- English Muffin Pizza
- St. Louis Style Pizza
- Stuffed Crust Pizza
- Cookie Pizza
- Homemade Calzone
Pizza Cupcakes
Ingredients
- 2 cans roll out refrigerated pizza dough each 13 oz.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup pizza sauce
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup mini pepperoni
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Roll out the pizza crusts and use a 4 inch round cookie cutter to cut into small circles.
- Use a pastry brush to brush the inside of each cupcake cavity with oil. You want to see a little bit of oil pooling in the bottom. Not lots but enough that we will get a few crispy areas during baking.
- Add the pizza crusts to the prepared cupcake tin.
- Then add a little bit of cheese in the bottom, topped with sauce, then topped with more cheese, then pepperonis on top.
- Sprinkle with Italian seasoning if using.
- Bake at 400°F for 13-15 minutes. For my oven 13 minutes in a good amount. The edges should turn very golden brown and the cheese will begin to bubble.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before removing from the pan. Serve warm.
Notes
- If you want to use other cheeses anything that melts can work. Sometimes I will sprinkle on a little Parmesan cheese during the last couple minutes of baking.
- If you want to add other toppings beyond pepperoni feel free.
- The recipe card amounts below will make 12 pizza cupcakes in a standard size muffin pan.
Nutrition
I’ve been making this spinach and artichoke dip for years and years now and the recipe hasn’t really changed. It’s a classic for a reason! If you are hosting or need a great baked dip to take to a party try this.
Related: Next up try our Buffalo Chicken Dip, a creamy and spicy baked dip.
Ingredients
- Spinach – frozen spinach is what I always use
- Artichoke hearts
- Cream cheese
- Mayo
- Sour cream- or greek yogurt
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic
- Red chili flakes
- Salt and pepper
How to make Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Thaw and drain the frozen spinach. If it’s not already chopped then finely chop. Drain the artichoke hearts and cut into small pieces. Mince the garlic.
In a large bowl, combine the spinach, artichoke hearts, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, half the parmesan cheese, garlic and crushed chili flakes. Season with salt and pepper.
Mix until the entire mixture is evenly moist. Pour the mixture into an eight inch cast iron skillet, square pan or pie dish. Top with the remaining parmesan cheese.
Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F until bubbly and the top is golden. Allow it to cool for five minutes before serving.
Notes and Substitutions
- For a lighter version use reduced fat cream cheese, Miracle whip and low fat greek yogurt.
- I use all Parmesan cheese for this dip most of the time BUT if you like a more melty, sting-y cheese situation feel free to substitute half the Parmesan for mozzarella.
- If you don’t like spicy food, omit the chili flakes or cut them in half for something less spicy.
- I like to serve this dip with toasted baguette slices or warm pita but crackers or tortilla chips are great as well.
More Delicious Dip Recipes
- Corn Dip
- Rotel Dip
- Shrimp Dip
- Taco Dip
- Jalapeno Popper Dip
- 7 Layer Dip
- French Onion Dip
- Smoked Salmon Dip
- Creamy Chicken Dip
- Hummus
- Whipped Feta Dip
- Cream Cheese Fruit Dip
- Oreo Dip
- Cookie Dough Dip
- Dunkaroo Funfetti Dip
Spinach Artichoke Dip
Ingredients
- 12 ounces frozen spinach
- 14 oucnes artichoke hearts canned
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- ½ cup mayo
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Thaw and drain the frozen spinach. If it’s not already chopped then finely chop.
- Drain the artichoke hearts and cut into small pieces.
- Minced the garlic.
- In a large bowl, combine the spinach, artichoke hearts, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, half the parmesan cheese, garlic and crushed chili flakes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix until the entire mixture is evenly moist. Pour the mixture into an eight inch cast iron skillet, square pan or pie dish. Top with the remaining parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F until bubbly and the top is golden. Allow it to cool for five minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version use reduced fat cream cheese, Miracle whip and low fat greek yogurt.
- I use all Parmesan cheese for this dip most of the time BUT if you like a more melty, sting-y cheese situation feel free to substitute half the Parmesan for mozzarella.
- If you don’t like spicy food, omit the chili flakes or cut them in half for something less spicy.
- I like to serve this dip with toasted baguette slices or warm pita but crackers or tortilla chips are great as well.
Nutrition
We all pigged out on this during work one day and later I used it to top a salad (SO good). Then I added some to a piece of baked salmon (also really good!) If you don’t make this for a party, expect to have some leftovers. xo. Elsie
]]>If you want some game day drinks, try making our Jello Shots, Jager Bomb or the Bushwacker.
Sausage Balls
Cheesy, crispy sausage balls made with just four ingredients.
Buffalo Chicken Dip
This dip is made with just five ingredients (shredded chicken, hot sauce, cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese) and only takes about 20 minutes to make and bake.
The Best Homemade Chex Mix Recipe (in the Oven or Microwave)
This easy homemade Chex Mix is a delicious combo of crunchy and salty flavors.
Detroit Style Pizza
Thick crust, crispy edges and the perfect ratio of sauce to pizza!
Jäger Bomb
Learn to make a Jager Bomb cocktail using a shot of Jägermeister liqueur and Red Bull energy drink. This famous drink is a great way to start a party.
Queso Recipe
Perfectly creamy Queso dip made with real cheese and butter.
Crispy Baked Chicken Wings
Crispy, flavorful chicken wings you can make in about 45 minutes in the oven.
Jello Shots Recipe
Just three ingredients are needed to make these easy vodka jello shots.
Cowboy Caviar
Learn to make Cowboy Caviar using tomatoes, peppers, beans, corn, cilantro, onions and avocado. Serve with tortilla chips!
English Muffin Pizza
Make these delicious English Muffin Pizzas using English muffins, butter, sauce, cheese and toppings. An easy, kid-friendly recipe!
Peanut Butter Balls
Learn to make creamy Peanut Butter Balls using peanut butter, graham cracker, butter, salt, milk, powdered sugar, vanilla and melting chocolate.
Root Beer Float
Learn to make a classic root beer float using creamy vanilla ice cream and root beer soda. It's a classic for a reason!
Green Tea Shot
Learn to make a Classic Green Tea Shot at home.
Bruschetta
Learn to make authentic Italian Bruschetta using ripe tomatoes, basil, parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Stuffed Mushrooms
An easy appetizer or side dish for any get together.
Whipped Feta Dip
This dip is sweet and salty, creamy, and totally unique. Made with feta crumbles, cream cheese, minced garlic, honey, olive oil, almonds, and pita bread.
Rocky Road Caramel Popcorn
I love setting popcorn out for a party, and a bite-size dessert like rocky road caramel popcorn (with marshmallows and chocolate chips) is a fun twist on a caramel corn. And, as always, homemade popcorn is so much better!
Carnitas
Slow cooked pork shoulder then pan fried with brown sugar for some crispy texture.
Easy Creamy Chicken Dip
A delicious recipe homemade chicken dip recipe that combines chicken with cream cheese and the salty tang of soy sauce. Serve on top of cucumber slices or with crackers.
Crispy Air Fryer Chickpeas
These are such an easy and healthy snack you can throw together with very few ingredients like chickpeas, olive oil, seasoning salt, garlic powder, and cayenne.
Corn Dip
How to make crack corn dip-easy and delicious!
Vegas Bomb
Learn to make the popular Vegas Bomb shot at home using Crown Royal, peach schnapps, cranberry juice and energy drink.
Cream Cheese Fruit Dip
It only takes five minutes to make an easy vanilla, strawberry, chocolate, or caramel cream cheese fruit dip—perfect for any party!
Baked Potato Chip Crab Cakes
I used potato chips in these crab cakes, and I love the salty crunch alongside the other ingredients like imitation crab meat, jalapeno, celery, Dijon mustard, seafood seasoning, and eggs.
Puppy Chow
Learn the classic Puppy Chow (Muddy Buddies) recipe.
Deep Dish Pizza Recipe
An easy to make recipe for deep dish pizza using an 8-inch square baking pan.
Cowboy Cookies
These cookies are big, soft-centered cookies with oats, chocolate chips, pecans, and toasted coconut.
Shrimp Dip
A cold, creamy dip everyone will love!
Jello Salad
There are many variations of Jello salad, so here is what you can expect from this recipe. This is a dessert OR sweet side dish in three layers: pretzel crust, cream cheese center, and a strawberry-cranberry Jello top.
Pizza Bagels
Learn to make Pizza Bagels as a quick and easy dinner idea. Use bagels, pizza sauce, cheese and toppings to create this easy meal.
Spicy Pimento Cauliflower Bites
These Spicy Pimento Cauliflower Bites are crunchy, spicy and go oh-so-well with the creamy pimento cheese dip I made alongside them. This is vegetarian comfort food at its best if you ask me. You need cauliflower, milk, diced pimento, hot sauce, cream cheese, mayo, and cheddar.
French Onion Dip
This homemade French onion dip is creamy, decadent and the perfect blend of savory with a little sweet. Made with onions, garlic, chives, cream cheese, sour cream, mayo, and mustard.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
This classic baked macaroni and cheese has no eggs or evaporated milk, but it is made with macaroni noodles, garlic, flour, chicken stock, pepper jack cheese, cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs.
The Best Fruit Salad
This is the most delicious fruit salad I have ever had. The honey citrus dressing makes it sweet and slightly tart at the same time. Use any fruit you would like and to make the dressing you need with orange juice, honey, orange zest, lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla extract.
Jalapeño Popper Dip
This dip would also be great to serve during a ball game (football or otherwise) or really any casual or semi-casual get together. It’s creamy, salty and just the right amount of spicy. You need cream cheese, mayo, pepper jack cheese, jalapeno peppers, green chilies, and parmesan cheese.
Kamikaze Shot
Learn to make this classic shot recipe.
Cilantro and Cotija Queso Dip
This delicious dip is perfect for a football game. Made with flour, white cheese, cotija cheese, milk, and butter.
Bushwacker
Learn to make a Bushwacker cocktail using dark rum, coffee liqueur, creme de cacao, cream of coconut, whole milk and ice.
Crab Cakes
Learn to make Maryland Crab Cakes using real lump crab and very little filler. These crab cakes are easy to make at home.
Coke Float
Learn to make a perfect Coke Float using creamy vanilla ice cream and ice cold Coca-Cola. This classic summer drink is easy to make!
7-Layer Dip
This 7-layer dip recipe includes: refried beans, spiced sour cream and cream cheese, guacamole, salsa, cheddar cheese, olives, and tomatoes as the layers. Bonus points if you throw some cilantro or green onions on top for some additional color.
Pickleback Shot
Learn to make a Pickleback Shot using one shot of Irish whiskey and a second shot of pickle juice (pickle brine).
Taco Dip
Taco dip is made of three basic ingredients (cream cheese, sour cream, taco seasoning), but then gets dressed up with any and all toppings you might put on a taco.
Cookie Dough Dip
This delicious cream cheese-based dip is soft, creamy and perfect for almost any get-together. You need cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, whipped topping, cocoa powder, and chocolate chips.
Crunchy, Cheesy Asparagus Sticks
These asparagus sticks make a fantastic party appetizer that is sure to wow your friends. made with cheese sticks, asparagus, eggs, Panko bread crumbs, and flour.
Spicy Avocado Hummus
I love serving hummus when hosting a party. This homemade hummus is made with creamy avocado, red pepper, and jalapeños. Serve it with veggies or pita chips for a tasty appetizer. This hummus is great on mini toasts, too.
Homemade Pretzel Pizza Bites
This recipe for pretzel pizza bites is as good as it sounds. Soft chewy pretzels combined with gooey melted cheese get dusted in fresh herbs and then dunked in hot marinara sauce.
Pinwheel Sandwiches
The secret to a great pinwheel sandwich is the cream cheese filling! This is the “glue” that keeps this rolled up sandwich looking great and it tastes amazing. You can fill them with bacon, sliced cheese, deli meat, or anything you want.
Pigs in a Blanket
Pigs in a blanket is probably the most adorable appetizer name of all time, right? The idea is simple—hot dogs (or other pork sausage) rolled in bread and baked.
Rotel Dip
This is a quick and easy cheese dip recipe made from Velveeta cheese, Rotel tomatoes, chili powder, cayenne, and cilantro.
Chuck Norris Shot
Learn to make a Chuck Norris Shot using grenadine, vodka, energy drink and a dash of hot sauce. A fun bomb shot recipe!
Air Fryer Chicken Wings
I LOVE air fried wings because they are still super crispy, but more of the fat cooks off without adding oil from frying or even baking. All you need is chicken wings, seasoning, and wing sauce.
This homemade stuffing recipe is one of my favorite side dishes, alongside mashed potatoes. It may be a regional thing but I know some people call this dressing. However, I’ve always called it stuffing as you can also use this recipe to stuff a turkey with. Whatever you call it, this is essentially a savory bread pudding and I am here for it!
Related: Try our Green Bean Casserole, Broccoli Casserole, Corn Casserole, the Best Baked Macaroni and Cheese, or Jello Salad. And if you have leftover herbs from this recipe, try this Thanksgiving Stove Simmer.
Ingredients
- Bread – stale bread is great! Any kind: sourdough bread, Italian, cornbread, white sandwich, etc will work for this recipe. Choose your favorite.
- Butter
- Shallots
- Garlic
- Celery
- Sage
- Parsley
- Rosemary
- Thyme
- Chicken broth or stock
- Eggs
- Salt and black pepper
How to make stuffing casserole
Cube the bread the night before into bread cubes. I like to leave it in a bag, loosely sealed, so it dries out some. It doesn’t have to be completely dry or stale, but fresh soft bread isn’t as good for this recipe.
Chop up the shallots and celery. Mince the garlic. Chop up the fresh herbs.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until melted. Then stir in the shallots, garlic and celery. Cook for 2-3 minutes. Then stir in most of the fresh herbs, reserving around 1/3 of them to top the stuffing with before baking.
Stir together the chicken stock and eggs until well combined.
In a large bowl, or two if needed, add the breadcrumbs, cooked shallot mixture, and the chicken stock mixture. Stir until everything is well coated and combined. Season well with salt and pepper.
Butter a 9×13 baking dish, or coat in nonstick cooking spray. Add the stuffing mixture to the pan. Top with the remaining herbs. Cover in aluminum foil.
Bake in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue to bake for another 25-28 minutes. The total bake time will be 45-48 minutes. The stuffing should look golden brown along the edges when done.
Tips & Substitutions
- You can substitute the shallots for a yellow onion or white onion if needed.
- Another great addition to this classic stuffing recipe is some cooked sausage. YUM!
- I like to buy the day-old bread that’s on sale at the grocery store for this, if I don’t have leftover bread to use. Also, you can save random bits in a bag in the freezer leading up to making this recipe.
- If you want to make this ahead, simply follow this recipe until the point of baking. Instead, store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.
- You can use this recipe to stuff a Thanksgiving turkey, but keep in mind depending on the size of bird this may make too much stuffing to all fit inside the cavity. You may have enough to cook this stuffing in an 8×8 size pan in addition to stuffing the turkey. But, again, it depends on the size of bird you are preparing.
- Use the leftovers in other recipes like a Thanksgiving sandwich, burger or wrap.
Serving Suggestions
To me, this is a Thanksgiving stuffing recipe and that’s usually when I make this each year. That being said, here are some main course recipes that would be delicious alongside this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make stuffing casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Simply follow this recipe up to the point of baking. Then instead of popping it in the oven, cover in foil and refrigerate for a day or two until you are ready to bake.
Can I freeze stuffing?
Yes, stuffing freezes well. Simply store it in an airtight container and it should keep in the freezer for a month or more. Rewarm in the oven or microwave.
What can I do with leftover Thanksgiving stuffing?
Add to a turkey sandwich or serve warm with a fried egg for breakfast. Thanksgiving leftovers are so good and one of my favorite parts of the holiday!
Best Stuffing Recipe
Equipment
- 1 9×13 casserole dish
Ingredients
- 22 ounces stale bread
- 1 cup butter
- 4 shallots
- 5 cloves garlic
- 1 ½ cups celery
- 2 tablespoons sage
- 2 tablespoons parsley
- 2 tablespoons rosemary
- 2 tablespoons thyme
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 2 eggs
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Cube the bread the night before you make this. I like to leave it in a bag, loosely sealed, so it dries out some. It doesn’t have to be completely dry or stale, but fresh soft bread isn’t as good for this recipe.
- Chop up the shallots and celery. Mince the garlic. Chop up the fresh herbs.
- In a large sauce pan, heat the butter over medium heat until melted. Then stir in the shallots, garlic and celery. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Then stir in most of the fresh herbs, reserving around 1/3 of them to top the stuffing with before baking.
- Stir together the chicken stock and eggs until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, or two if needed, add the breadcrumbs, cooked shallot mixture, and the chicken stock mixture.
- Stir until everything is well coated and combined. Season well with salt and pepper.
- Butter a 9×13 baking dish, or coat in nonstick cooking spray.
- Add the stuffing mixture to the pan. Top with the remaining herbs. Cover in aluminum foil.
- Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue to bake for another 25-28 minutes.
- The total bake time will be 45-48 minutes. The stuffing should look golden brown along the edges when done.
Notes
Nutrition
In this post, not only am I sharing how to make honey butter, including an easy ratio so you can make whatever quantity your next party needs, but we will also be discussing butter boards. Have you seen this trend? As an avid butter lover, I am INTERESTED.
Related: Garlic Butter, Pumpkin Bread, Stuffing Recipe, Pumpkin Pie.
Ingredients for Honey Butter:
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Honey
- Optional additions: cinnamon, nutmeg or other spices like cayenne
How to Make Honey Butter:
In a mixing bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), combine all the ingredients and whip until combined. It’s truly that simple!
Honey Butter Ratio:
Honey butter is made with a 2:1 butter to honey ratio.
For example, you could use 1/2 cup (1 stick) of butter to 1/4 cup honey. Or 1 cup of butter (2 sticks) to 1/2 cup of honey. You can make larger or smaller batches based on this ratio.
You will also want to adjust any other mix-in ingredients you use like cinnamon or nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions:
What is a Butter Board?
A butter board is a cutting board that has softened butter spread over the top with other ingredients either mixed into the butter or sprinkled over the top.
You can use a knife to remove some butter and spread over bread or crackers, or you can dip directly into the board. I like to think of it as the butter version of a cheese plate—it’s a great appetizer or accompaniment to a meal.
There are so many different ways to create a butter board! I decided to take some of the honey butter from this recipe and add a few drops of food dye to create this artist palette-inspired butter board.
Click to shop each item below:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best method for softening butter?
The easiest way to soften butter is to set it out of the refrigerator the night before you plan to use it so it becomes room temperature.
If you need to soften butter in a hurry, you can do so in the microwave in short increments (15 seconds on high, then check it before another 15 seconds) so it doesn’t melt.
How do you make a butter board?
Spread softened butter over the surface of a serving tray or cutting board, then sprinkle with sea salt or other ingredients (like everything bagel seasoning) for a fun party tray.
Does honey butter need to be refrigerated?
No. But if you want to store honey butter for periods longer than a day, I would refrigerate it and then bring to room temperature before serving.
Can honey butter be frozen?
Yes, honey butter can be frozen for at least two months or more. Allow to thaw in the refrigerator and then bring to room temperature before serving.
Instead of mixing all the ingredients together to make this honey butter recipe, you could instead spread the butter and then lightly drizzle it with honey and sea salt for a honey butter board option.
You can serve any kind of toasted bread or crackers with a butter board. Some items I like include: toasted bagels, naan bread, and croissants.
Honey Butter – Recipe & Ratio
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- ½ cup honey about 6 ounces
- ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon
- flaky sea salt for serving
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, honey, and cinnamon.
- With an electric mixer, whip until well combined.
- Spoon into your serving bowl and top with flaky sea salt.
Notes
- You can add other spices for more seasonal or different flavors such as nutmeg or a little bit of cayenne for heat.
- Store unused honey butter in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life, and simply bring to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition
I love homemade garlic toast alongside soup, chili, meatballs in marinara or a pasta dish like lasagna or manicotti.
Related: Next up try our Pizza Cupcakes. And aother great way to use stale bread is to make French Toast.
Ingredients
- French bread
- Butter
- Parmesan cheese
- Parsley
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
How to make Garlic Toast
In a small bowl mix together the softened butter, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley and garlic powder. If your butter isn’t soft melt it in the microwave for 30 seconds or less. The goal being very soft butter but not melted into a liquid.
Cut the french loaf in half lengthwise, as if you were going to make a giant sandwich. I then like to cut off the ends and cut into individual pieces as I like more crispy edges on my garlic toast. But this isn’t necessary, you could leave the loaf in two large pieces.
Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the bread. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the top. Bake at 425°F for 8-10 minutes.
Tips and Substitutions
- I like french bread for this recipe but any kind of bread can work! You could use sourdough, focaccia or even sandwich bread. If you use something thinner than french bread you may need to adjust (lessen) the baking time.
- I use unsalted butter most of the time. If you use salted butter omit adding salt until after baking to taste and see if it’s already salty enough.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley you could use Italian seasoning instead.
Soup & Stew Recipes
- Tomato Soup
- Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Lasagna Soup
- Vegetable Soup
- Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Vegetarian Chili
Garlic Toast
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl mix together the softened butter, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley and garlic powder. If your butter isn’t soft melt it in the microwave for 30 seconds or less.
- Cut the french loaf in half lengthwise, as if you were going to make a giant sandwich. I then like to cut off the ends and cut into individual pieces as I like more crispy edges on my garlic toast.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the bread.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper over the top.
- Bake at 425°F for 8-10 minutes.
Notes
- I like french bread for this recipe but any kind of bread can work! You could use sourdough, focaccia or even sandwich bread. If you use something thinner than french bread you may need to adjust (lessen) the baking time.
- I use unsalted butter most of the time. If you use salted butter omit adding salt until after baking to taste and see if it’s already salty enough.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley you could use Italian seasoning instead.
Nutrition
Related: Butterbeer Recipe, Oreo Dip, Cookie Dough Dip, Wendy’s Frosty, Orange Julius Recipe.
What is Candy Salad?
Candy Salad is a fun way to served a mixed assortment of different types of candies. Our recipe is for gummy candy salad, combining all our favorite gummy candies into a large serving (salad) bowl. We store our candy salad with a scoop for easy serving. The airtight container keeps the candy fresh and we serve scoops in small bowls for family movie nights.
This recipe became viral on TikTok. Candy Salad videos have been sweeping the internet, creating a fun and very sweet candy salad trend. When I saw it, I knew it was an immediate yes for my family because we love gummy candy and I knew my children would enjoy the activity of creating this candy mix together. Try making this for your summer get-togethers.
Candy Salad Ingredients
- Gummy Bears – Choose your favorite flavors.
- Gummy Worms – Choose sour or sweet.
- Sour Punch Bites
- Watermelon Gummies
- Starmix – Or any variety pack gummies.
- Nerds Gummy Clusters
- Peach Rings – Or peach gummies.
- Gummy Sharks
- Happy Cola Gummies
- SweetTarts Chewy Fusions
- Sour Brite Crawlers
- Mini Starbursts
Important note: Substitute any favorite gummy candies of your own. Eyeballing the ingredients is sufficient and anything goes.
We mixed some bags of store-bought gummies such as Haribo with a big bag of mixed candy we purchased from a bulk candy store. We used a salad bowl with a wood lid as well as a metal scoop for serving the candy mix.
Instructions
In a large salad bowl, decant a variety of gummy candies. Mix together with a large wooden spoon.
If you have any long candies such as sour straws or nerds rope, cut them into smaller pieces before adding to the mixture.
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Use a scoop to serve portions.
Tips for Making
- When stored in an airtight container, this candy salad will stay fresh for several months.
- This is a great recipe to bring for a road trip or a family vacation.
- Feel free to substitute your favorite candies. This is the key to making the perfect candy salad.
- Choose flavors that blend well together.
Variations
- Chocolate Candy Salad – Combine miniature candy bars, M&Ms and chocolate candies.
- Reeses Candy Salad – Mix various types of Reese’s candies along with peanuts and chocolate candies to create a peanut butter cup-themed candy salad.
- Sour Candy Salad – Use sour candies such as Sour Patch Kids and Warheads to create a mouth puckering sour candy mixture.
- Fruit Candy Salad – Use fruit flavored candies and Skittles, Starburst and Twizzlers or any fruity candy.
- Halloween Candy Salad – Choose candies in a yellow, lavender, black and white color scheme. Find themed candies such as gummy eyeballs or gummy fingers for a creepy vibe.
- Christmas Candy Salad – Choose candies in a color scheme of red, green and white. Incorporate stars, candy cane stripes and gumdrops into your mix.
- 4th of July Candy Salad – Choose candy in a color scheme of red, white and blue.
- Easter Candy Salad – Mix jelly beans, candy eggs and pastel gummy candies for a fun Easter-themed mix.
More Movie Night Recipes
Candy Salad
Equipment
- 1 salad bowl with airtight lid
- 1 scoop
Ingredients
- 1 cup gummy bears
- 1 cup gummy worms
- 1 cup nerds gummy clusters
- 1 cup peach rings
- 1 cup gummy sharks
- 1 cup mini starbursts
Instructions
- In a large salad bowl, decant a variety of gummy candies.
- Mix together with a large wooden spoon.
- If you have any long candies such as sour straws or nerds rope, cut them into smaller pieces before adding to the mixture.
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Use a scoop to serve portions.
Notes
- When stored in an airtight container, this candy salad will stay fresh for several months.
- This is a great recipe to bring for a road trip or a family vacation.
- Feel free to substitute your favorite candies. This is the key to making the perfect candy salad.
- Choose flavors that blend well together.