We Had Opinions Flying but 29 Cookout Recipes Got Agreed On

Family opinions were flying faster than frisbees at a park, but this time, no one walked off in protest. The 29 cookout recipes worked like a charm and kept everyone in line without a single bribe. Not one complaint, not even from the self-declared grill master. If that’s not a small miracle, nothing is.

Close-up of guacamole on a tortilla chip, showing a textured mixture of avocado, herbs, and spices.
Guacamole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Beet Salad

A close-up of a salad featuring chopped beets, cucumber, feta cheese, walnuts, and fresh herbs on a white plate.
Beet Salad. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

You won’t believe how simple it is to put together something so fresh. Beet Salad balances earthy and slightly sweet flavors in a way that stands out. It’s a solid choice for those who want something vibrant on their plate. A quick option that feels homemade yet special.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad

7 Layer Dip

A clear glass bowl with 7 Layer Dip featuring beans, white cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, lettuce, and black olives.
7 Layer Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This is the kind of dish everyone gravitates toward at a party. 7 Layer Dip brings together different textures and bold tastes in every bite. It’s always a hit whether served with chips or on its own. A dependable crowd favorite that disappears quickly.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

Grilled Eggplant

Close-up of grilled eggplant slices garnished with chopped herbs and a glossy glaze.
Grilled Eggplant. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Here’s a dish that might surprise you. Grilled Eggplant turns into something rich and smoky after hitting the grill. It’s a versatile option that feels hearty without being heavy. Great as a main, side, or even topping for other cookout favorites.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Eggplant

Baked Potato

Baked potatoes on a serving dish with sour cream and fresh parsley.
Baked Potato. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Few things are as comforting as this dish. Baked Potato hits all the right notes, offering a hearty base to dress up however you like. It works as a main or a side, depending on the vibe you’re going for. You can never go wrong adding this to your cookout lineup.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato

7 Layer Salad

A salad bowl filled with vegetables and peas.
7 Layer Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This dish is all about layers that pack in different textures. 7 Layer Salad turns basic ingredients into something impressive every single time. It’s the kind of dish you can prep ahead and serve in style. Perfect for get-togethers that need a little color on the table.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad

Corn Fritters

A stack of savory pancakes topped with a dollop of cream and chopped green onions, served on a plate with a bowl of dipping sauce nearby.
Corn Fritters. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You don’t need much convincing once you try this snack. Corn Fritters are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and always a hit. Just the right mix of simple and fun, they’re ideal for pairing with pretty much anything. They hold their own or act as perfect sidekicks.
Get the Recipe: Corn Fritters

Mediterranean Orzo Salad

A bowl of orzo salad with mixed vegetables, including olives, tomatoes, and spinach, garnished with herbs.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Here’s a dish that finds the perfect balance between fresh and filling. Mediterranean Orzo Salad gives you something light yet flavorful for hot days. Easy to toss together and make ahead if you’re short on time. It fits right into those casual group gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad

French Onion Dip

Bowl of creamy dip topped with chopped chives and black pepper, next to pieces of toasted bread.
French Onion Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This classic dip keeps people coming back for more every time. French Onion Dip is rich, creamy, and worth a spot on the table. It pairs with chips, veggies, or anything crunchy you can grab. Works for casual hangouts or more planned gatherings equally well.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Dip

Grilled Vegetables

A platter of grilled vegetables including zucchini, mushrooms, asparagus, bell peppers, and red onions, garnished with chopped herbs.
Grilled Vegetables. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You’re missing out if you don’t have this in the lineup. Grilled Vegetables bring out deep, smoky goodness from ingredients you already love. They hit the sweet spot as a side or main dish without much effort. Perfect for balancing out those heavier cookout plates.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables

Mexican Street Corn Salad

A bowl of Mexican street corn salad garnished with lime wedges and cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re aiming for bold, this dish always delivers. Mexican Street Corn Salad gives you all the taste of traditional street corn in an easy-to-share form. It works great sitting alongside barbecue staples or on its own. A go-to dish that’s ready for a big crowd with little fuss.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Fruit Pizza

A close-up of a vibrant fruit tart topped with slices of kiwi, strawberries, mango, grapes, and blueberries arranged in a decorative pattern.
Fruit Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Everyone loves a sweet little twist to the meal lineup. Fruit Pizza brings a refreshing bite with juicy, fresh ingredients and a soft base. It’s perfect for a warm day with its cool, fruity goodness and light texture. Share it at the next cookout, and it’ll be a highlight people remember.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

A bowl of fresh red cabbage coleslaw garnished with herbs.
Red Cabbage Coleslaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Add something crunchy to perk up the table. Red Cabbage Coleslaw brings vibrant color and a tangy crunch that pairs with just about anything. It’s a refreshing side dish that balances heavier main courses perfectly. Keep this recipe handy for quick, reliable prep when hosting.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Grilled Veggie Kabobs

Close-up of grilled veggie kabobs with zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and onions, garnished with fresh herbs.
Grilled Veggie Kabobs. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Nothing beats skewers for casual meals around the grill. Grilled Veggie Kabobs are packed with bite-sized, smoky charred goodness that feels light yet fulfilling. They’re perfect for balancing savory options with something vibrant and versatile. People love picking and choosing their bites straight off the stick.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggie Kabobs

Mushroom Pizza

Close-up of a pizza topped with arugula, mushrooms, cheese, and herbs on a parchment paper.
Mushroom Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Add something earthy to pizza for a game-changer. Mushroom Pizza feels indulgent yet simple, making it perfect for parties or casual weeknight dinners. The mushrooms pack it with a wholesome, satisfying bite that stands out. Most folks won’t even miss the heavier toppings they’re used to!
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus spears served on a plate with two charred lemon halves.
Grilled Asparagus. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sometimes simple dishes steal the spotlight at cookouts. Grilled Asparagus is that dish for gatherings, bringing a tender bite with a hint of smokiness. Set it next to heavier items, and it cuts right through, adding balance to the table. As grilling goes, it’s so easy to make you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

Veggie Sliders

Close-up of a Veggie Burger Slider with a fried patty, sliced cucumber, shredded purple cabbage, greens, and mayonnaise in a bun. In the background, a blurred portion of another slider and a dish are visible.
Veggie Sliders. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bite-sized classics are always a winner when feeding a crowd. Veggie Sliders make an ideal meat-free option that even the meat lovers can’t resist. They’re packed with handheld flavor and just enough to feel fulfilling without overloading plates. Make extras, though, because they always disappear faster than expected!
Get the Recipe: Veggie Sliders

Easy Caprese Salad

Caprese salad in a serving bowl, with tomatoes, oil and balsamic glaze nearby.
Easy Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Quick to assemble but full of balance, this dish never lets you down. Easy Caprese Salad mixes bright, fresh ingredients in a way that feels fancy but effortless. It’s perfect for cookouts or even a light weeknight dinner side. Everyone loves this combination, and it’s as delicious as it is simple to put together.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad

Grilled Peppers

Grilled red and yellow bell peppers with char marks, topped with crumbled feta cheese and garnished with herbs.
Grilled Peppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Colorful food and smoky char are always a crowd draw at cookouts. Grilled Peppers are bold, fresh, and fit in with so many other dishes on the grill. Pair them with steaks, burgers, or veggie options to build complete meals with ease. They’re delicious on their own or as an add-in to tacos, salads, or pasta.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peppers

Mushroom Tacos

Three soft tacos filled with lettuce, mushrooms, shredded cheese, and cherry tomatoes, garnished with a lime wedge.
Mushroom Tacos. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Switching up taco night with veggies is always a fun choice. Mushroom Tacos are hearty without being heavy, making them the star of any meat-free lineup. The mushrooms soak up spices so well that each bite is packed. They’re easy to keep handheld and perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Tacos

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable stir fry with sesame seeds.
Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You get all the vibrant colors and bold flavors packed into Vegetable Stir Fry. It’s quick to serve and works well for making sure there are veggie options on the table. Nobody minds when you add something this good to the lineup. It’s a reliable option that pleases a mix of tastes.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Italian Pasta Salad

Bowtie pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze in a green bowl.
Italian Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pasta salads at a party are a guaranteed hit for their ease and versatility. Italian Pasta Salad mixes fresh ingredients with a flavorful twist that pairs beautifully with main dishes. Its vibrant ingredients make it a top pick for adding variety to any table. Even better, it’s easy to whip up in advance, leaving you more time to relax.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta Salad

Neapolitan Pizza

A quick and easy pizza recipe on a white plate.
Neapolitan Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes it’s the simple recipes that get the most love. Neapolitan Pizza is all about a thin crust, a hint of something rich, and minimal toppings done right. It’s perfect for sharing or enjoying solo when you want something uncomplicated yet delicious. Anyone who loves classic, straightforward pizza will rave about this one.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Pico de Gallo

A bowl of pico de gallo with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños with a spoon inside, next to a lime and tortilla chips.
Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You can’t skip fresh and simple sides when planning a meal spread. Pico de Gallo is bright, bold, and incredibly versatile for just about any dish you want to enhance. Scoop it onto tacos, pair it with a bowl of chips, or layer it on grilled foods for an extra kick. It’s a quick recipe to make, but its fresh ingredients make it unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Pinwheel Sandwiches

Close-up of several tortilla pinwheel wraps filled with various ingredients including spinach, cream cheese, tomatoes, and other vegetables, arranged neatly on a white surface.
Pinwheel Sandwiches. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These are a super simple way to please a crowd. Pinwheel Sandwiches layer perfectly and pack tons of flavor into each bite. They’re easy to grab and eat, making them ideal for cookouts. Plus, the presentation always looks neat and fun on a platter.
Get the Recipe: Pinwheel Sandwiches

Pizza Salad

Homemade pizza salad in a serving bowl with wooden salad servers resting on top.
Pizza Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You can get the best of both worlds with Pizza Salad, fresh ingredients mixed with pizza-inspired toppings. This is a lighter option but still has that comforting twist. It’s perfect for balancing out heavier dishes. Everyone gets a little bit of crunch and bold flavor in every forkful.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Sweet Potato Tacos

Two tacos on a plate with a sauce.
Sweet Potato Tacos. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re looking for a dish that’s fun and filling, Sweet Potato Tacos are the way to go. They hit that perfect mix of hearty and fresh. People love their unique twist on a taco. You won’t need to worry about leftovers because these get picked clean.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Tacos

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Slices of cucumber tossed in spicy Korean dressing.
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For something with a little kick but still refreshing, Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad nails it. The balance of heat and crisp texture makes it stand out. It’s a side dish that gets talked about and finished fast. You’d be surprised how quickly this adds variety to the spread.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Veggie Pizza

Someone taking a slice of veggie pizza.
Veggie Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Whether served as a main or a side, Veggie Pizza is always a hit. It’s got those topping combinations that offer something for everyone. You won’t see anyone skipping over this at a cookout. Plus, it’s just fun to eat slice after slice.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pizza

Guacamole

Close-up of guacamole on a tortilla chip, showing a textured mixture of avocado, herbs, and spices.
Guacamole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

You can’t go wrong with Guacamole for dipping or topping. It’s creamy, fresh, and pairs with nearly everything on the table. Chips disappear around this dish faster than you’d expect. All you need is a decent-sized bowl, and you’re set.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

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