If you’re planning your next BBQ and want something special, consider adding smoked sides to the mix. These 23 smoked dishes bring a unique twist to the table, enhancing the experience with their rich, smoky flavors. From veggies to classic sides, there’s a variety to choose from that complements any main dish perfectly.
Smoked Meatloaf
Bringing a twist to traditional barbecue, smoked meatloaf marries the hearty flavors of a family favorite with the subtle smokiness of outdoor grilling. It’s a sure-fire way to surprise and please your guests with something out of the ordinary. Just when you thought meatloaf couldn’t get any more comforting, smoking it adds an unexpected layer that creates a memorable meal.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Meatloaf
Smoked Brussels Sprouts
Forget everything you thought you knew about Brussels sprouts. When smoked, they transform into a crispy, enticing side dish that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist. They’re the perfect companion to any meaty main, adding both color and a touch of smoky flavor to your barbecue spread.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brussels Sprouts
Smoked Meatballs
Smoked meatballs are a game changer, offering a smoky twist on a beloved classic. They’re juicy, packed with flavor, and can easily shift from an appetizer to a hearty side dish. Serving these will undoubtedly draw everyone to the table, eager for a taste.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Meatballs
Smoked Tomatoes
Here’s an option that brings a smoky note to your veggie lineup. Smoked tomatoes burst with a rich, concentrated flavor that’s both fresh and deep. They make an excellent base for salsas or can be a standout side, adding a hint of summer barbecue to every bite.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomatoes
Smoked Peaches with Spiced Rum Whipped Cream
Upgrade your dessert game by introducing smoked peaches. Served with spiced rum whipped cream, they offer a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and indulgent. This creative twist on dessert is as delightful to eat as it is unexpected.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Peaches with Spiced Rum Whipped Cream
Smoked Pork Belly Tacos
Who could resist the allure of smoked pork belly tacos? These tacos represent a fusion of flavors that are both bold and delicate, making every bite a culinary adventure. It’s a dish that promises to steal the show at any barbecue.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork Belly Tacos
Smoked Tomato Salsa
A spoonful of smoked tomato salsa is enough to understand its magic. This isn’t just any salsa; the smoky depth upgrades it, making it a must-try alongside chips or as a complement to your main dish. It’s a simple way to introduce a distinctive flavor that will have friends asking for your secret.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomato Salsa
Smoked Mac & Cheese
Smoked mac & cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a twist. The smoke infusion takes this beloved dish from familiar to fascinating, adding complexity to every cheesy bite. It’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, leaving both kids and adults coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese
Smoked Spaghetti Squash
For those looking to include more veggie options, smoked spaghetti squash is a brilliant choice. It’s surprisingly versatile, working well as a side or a base for a variety of toppings. The smoke adds an intriguing flavor that upgrades the squash beyond its usual pairing.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Spaghetti Squash
Pork Belly Burnt Ends
Offering a mouthwatering mix of sweet, savory, and smoky, pork belly burnt ends are irresistible. These bite-sized pieces are rich with flavor, perfect for those moments when you crave something decadent. They’re the snack that disappears quickly, so you might want to make a double batch.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Burnt Ends
Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites
Smoked chicken tortilla bites are a delightful way to start your barbecue. Each bite packs a punch, blending tender chicken with the crispiness of tortillas. They’re an easy-to-eat option that sets the stage for the smoked dishes to come.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites
Smoked Shotgun Shells
There’s nothing quite like the surprise of smoked shotgun shells at a BBQ. These meaty treats, filled with deliciousness, are an instant conversation starter. Plus, they’re just plain fun to eat, combining smoky flavors with a satisfying texture.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Shotgun Shells
Smoked Tomahawk Steak
For a truly impressive centerpiece, you can’t go wrong with a smoked tomahawk steak. Its grand appearance is matched by the depth of flavor that smoking adds, creating a feast for both the eyes and the palate. It’s a dish that speaks of special occasions and the joy of grilling.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomahawk Steak
Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze
Juicy smoked chicken legs with a red pepper glaze offer a sweet and spicy kick to your barbecue lineup. The smoke complements the glaze beautifully, enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken. They’re bound to become a new favorite, appreciated for their bold taste and eye-catching appearance.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze
Smoked Double Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Amp up your side dish game with smoked double-stuffed baked potatoes. They’re as hearty as they are delicious, loaded with all your favorite fillings, and then kissed with smoke for an unforgettable flavor. This dish promises comfort in every bite, making it the perfect accompaniment to any main.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Double Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Smoked Beef Kabobs
Smoked beef kabobs bring a delightful mix of meat and veggies to your table, offering a smoky twist on a barbecue staple. They’re easy to customize, ensuring there’s something on the skewer for everyone. The smoke upgrades the kabobs, turning them into a must-have dish.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Kabobs
Smoked Jalapenos
Smoked jalapenos are the perfect way to add a spicy kick to your meal. Smoking them brings out a unique flavor that’s unlike anything else on your barbecue spread. They can be a side all their own or a fantastic addition to burgers, tacos, or salads.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Jalapenos
Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup
Even at a barbecue, smoked chicken tortilla soup finds its place as a comforting starter or side. The smoky chicken transforms the soup, adding layers of flavor that traditional recipes miss. It’s a warm, inviting dish that prepares the palate for the main event.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Soup
Smoked Pork Shots
Smoked pork shots are the ultimate bite-sized treat, combining savory flavors in a creative presentation. They’re perfect for snacking as your guests mingle and enjoy the gathering. Plus, they’re a fantastic conversation starter, showcasing the fun side of smoking.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork Shots
Smoked Ribeye Roast
A smoked ribeye roast is a showstopper, ideal for those occasions when you want to impress. The smoking process not only enhances its flavor but also ensures it’s tender and juicy. It’s a centerpiece worthy of any BBQ, destined to garner praise from your guests.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Ribeye Roast
Smoked Lil Smokies
Smoked little smokies are a hit for anyone looking for that classic BBQ flavor in bite-sized form. The smoking process adds a rich layer to these already flavorful sausages. They’re great for both kids and adults, making them a versatile addition to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Lil Smokies
Smoked Jalapeno Poppers
Kick things up a notch with smoked jalapeno poppers, a spicy and smoky treat that’s hard to resist. These poppers are fantastic for those who love a bit of heat. They’re a crowd-pleaser, offering a blend of flavors that excites the palate.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Jalapeno Poppers
Smoked Pork & Pineapple Skewers
Bringing a hint of sweetness to the smoke, smoked pork and pineapple skewers are a refreshing change of pace. The pineapple adds a juicy, tangy contrast to the savory pork, making each bite a delightful experience. They’re perfect for a summer BBQ, capturing the essence of sunny days and good times with friends.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork & Pineapple Skewers