Memorial Day is a time of remembrance, reflection, and gathering with loved ones. The main event for many families is the Memorial Day BBQ feast, which is a time-honored tradition that brings people together to celebrate and honor those who have served over yummy treats and good conversation.
While the star of the show may be the grilled meats, no BBQ spread is complete without a stellar lineup of sides. Join us as we explore four Memorial Day BBQ side dishes that are sure to shine alongside your feast.
- Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
Creamy macaroni and cheese is a quintessential comfort food that has a special place in any BBQ spread. Made with tender pasta and a rich, cheesy sauce, it’s a dish that appeals to kids and adults alike. To prepare this crowd-pleaser, you’ll need elbow macaroni, butter, flour, milk, and a blend of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan.
Start by cooking the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. In a ceramic Dutch oven or large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
Next, stir in the shredded cheeses until they melt and the sauce is creamy and velvety. Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices for extra flavor.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated. Once you’re finished, transfer the creamy macaroni and cheese to a baking dish or serve it straight from the ceramic pot for a comforting and satisfying side dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Tangy Coleslaw
Tangy coleslaw is another quintessential side, offering a refreshing and crisp contrast to the rich and savory flavors of grilled meats. Made with shredded cabbage and carrots dressed in a vinaigrette, coleslaw is a simple and satisfying addition to any Memorial Day spread.
To prepare tangy coleslaw, begin by thinly shredding cabbage and carrots using a sharp knife or a food processor. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
Add the shredded cabbage and carrots to the bowl, tossing until they are evenly coated with the dressing. For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or sliced green onions.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to soften slightly. Serve the coleslaw alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a topping for BBQ pulled pork.
- Smoky Baked Beans
No Memorial Day BBQ feast is complete without a steaming pot of smoky baked beans simmering away on the grill. These hearty beans, cooked low and slow in a rich and flavorful sauce, are the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats and other BBQ favorites.
To make smoky baked beans, soak dried beans overnight or use canned beans for convenience. In a heavy-bottomed pot, cook bacon until crispy, then remove it and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Add diced onions and bell peppers to the pot and cook until they’ve softened, then stir in minced garlic and cook until the dish is fragrant. Add the soaked or canned beans, along with tomato sauce, brown sugar, molasses, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a dash of liquid smoke for that signature smoky flavor.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated grill or oven. Let the beans cook low and slow for several hours, stirring occasionally, until they are thick and tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob With Chili Lime Butter
Grilled corn on the cob with chili lime butter is a flavor-packed twist on a classic BBQ side dish. The smoky char from the grill adds depth to the sweet corn kernels, while the zesty chili lime butter elevates the flavor profile to new heights.
To prepare this delicious side dish, grill ears of corn over medium heat until lightly charred on all sides. Meanwhile, mix softened butter with freshly squeezed lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Once the corn is grilled to perfection, slather it generously with the chili lime butter mixture, allowing the butter to melt and coat the hot corn.
Memorial Day Creations to Remember
Incorporate these flavorful sides into your Memorial Day BBQ spread for an unforgettable feast. From creamy macaroni and cheese to tangy coleslaw and smoky baked beans, each dish adds a delicious dimension to your celebration. Elevate your BBQ with these creations and make this Memorial Day one to remember. Bon appetite!
