Best Side Dishes for Illinois Summer BBQs

There is nothing better than a summer BBQ in Illinois. Change my mind.

The second you hear the sizzle of a grill and the smell of smokey goodness in the air, you know it's about to be a feast in someone's backyard.

For me? Cookouts are always about the vibes—and the food, obviously. I'd be lying if I said I went to BBQs to socialize. I get an invite, pull out my stretchy pants, and am out the door before the party even starts. I don't mess around when it comes to a cookout.

Sure, the burgers and brats usually get all the attention, but let's be real—it's all about the side dishes when you're stacking your plate.

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If you don't show up with a side dish, or two, I'm judging you. It better be good, so don't show up with a bowl of chips that you've had sitting in your cabinet for months. That won't cut it, bro.

Let me help you out before you show up with the wrong side dishes, or empty-handed.

Midwest-Approved: Best Side Dishes for Illinois Summer BBQs

Corn on the cob
Baked beans
Mac n cheese
Mini sliders
Potato salad
Macaroni salad
Deviled eggs
Fruit salad
Pasta salad
Coleslaw
Variety of dips
Fruit kabobs

If you are going to do chips, at least make a chips charcuterie board with a variety of dips and spreads to enjoy them with! Jazz it up, don't be lazy.

When it comes to cookouts in the Midwest, we take our BBQs and side dishes very seriously.

You've been warned!