Fireworks, laughter, and good food—that’s what the 4th of July is all about! But what’s a celebration without mouthwatering side dishes to complement your grill? If you’re looking to take your Independence Day feast to the next level, we’ve got you covered with a lineup of flavorful, easy-to-make sides that will have your guests raving long after the last sparkler goes out. From cool and creamy to boldly savory, these dishes are sure to make your table the star attraction.

Pineapple Coleslaw

Close-up of a bowl filled with coleslaw featuring shredded cabbage, diced red and green peppers, pineapple chunks, and black pepper—an ideal side dish for any summer cookout.
Pineapple Coleslaw. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Add a touch of tropical sweetness to your holiday spread with pineapple coleslaw. A crunchy, tangy mix of shredded cabbage and carrots pairs beautifully with the juicy pop of pineapple for a refreshing dish your guests will love.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Coleslaw

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Rich, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting, this baked mac and cheese is everything you want in a side dish. Its golden, bubbly crust and creamy texture make it an irresistible addition to any cookout.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Pesto Pasta Salad

A white bowl filled with bow-tie pasta, diced red bell peppers, green beans, sun-dried tomatoes, and green pesto sauce—perfect as one of your vibrant side dishes for a summer cookout or 4th of July celebration.
Pesto Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

This pesto pasta salad is a breeze to whip up but brings bold, herby flavors to your table. Tossed with fresh veggies and a sprinkle of Parmesan, it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels light and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Pasta Salad

Beet Cucumber Salad with Feta and Dill

beet cucumber salad is shown on a pink plate with a wood cutting board and dill.
Beet Cucumber Salad with Feta and Dill. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Bright, earthy beets meet cool cucumbers and creamy feta in this colorful salad. A sprinkle of dill adds a fresh, herbal finish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Beet Cucumber Salad with Feta and Dill

Deviled Eggs

Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Bring some retro charm to your celebration with a platter of deviled eggs. This creamy, tangy classic is easy to make and never fails to delight both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Eggs

Grilled Corn On The Cob

A pan filled with ears of grilled corn.
Grilled Corn On The Cob. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Nothing says summer like grilled corn on the cob! Brushed with buttery goodness and charred to perfection, it’s a nostalgic staple that pairs beautifully with any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn On The Cob

Grilled Vegetables

A variety of grilled vegetables on a platter.
Grilled Vegetables. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Fire up the grill for a medley of vibrant veggies like zucchini, peppers, and asparagus. A drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of seasoning is all they need to shine in their smoky, caramelized glory.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables

Air Fryer Fried Green Beans

Air Fryer Fried Green Beans. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Crispy green beans, seasoned and air-fried to golden perfection, bring a healthy yet indulgent crunch to the table. They’re the kind of finger food everyone will keep going back for.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fried Green Beans

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

A bowl of Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad.
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad. Photo credit: The Honour System.

Inspired by elote, this pasta salad is loaded with roasted corn, creamy dressing, tangy cheese, and a dash of lime. It’s a bold dish that brings a fiesta of flavors to your cookout.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

4th of July Berry Caprese Salad

4th of July Berry Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Add a sweet-tart twist to tradition with this patriotic caprese salad. Juicy berries, fresh mozzarella, and basil meld together for a refreshing bite that looks as good as it tastes.
Get the Recipe: 4th of July Berry Caprese Salad

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

A bowl of macaroni and cheese in front of a slow cooker.
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This mac and cheese is all about hands-off convenience and rich, cheesy goodness. Made in your trusty crock pot, it’s the ultimate combination of creamy comfort and effortless prep.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

Coleslaw with Creamy Dressing

A picture of low-carb coleslaw recipe with creamy dressing in glass bowl.
Coleslaw with Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Give your BBQ a classic touch with this creamy coleslaw. The crisp cabbage and carrots come together in a tangy, velvety dressing for a timeless side dish everyone knows and loves.
Get the Recipe: Coleslaw with Creamy Dressing

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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