Grills are heating up, the yard is buzzing with life, and the smell of something incredible is in the air. These 25 cookout classics are the kind of eats that make you linger outside long after the sun dips below the horizon. You’ll find yourself grabbing another plate, not because you’re still hungry, but because the wait was absolutely worth it.

Glass mason jars filled with iced strawberry lemonade on a table, surrounded by fresh strawberries, a halved lemon, and a blue floral cloth. — Strawberry Lemonade. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Crispy edges paired with tender insides make Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes a standout choice for any gathering. Oven-roasted until golden brown, these potatoes are seasoned with garlic and Parmesan for a bold flavor. A finish of fresh herbs adds a bright touch to the dish without overwhelming the core flavors. They’re a lovely way to enjoy potatoes with a flavorful twist.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Tomato Bruschetta

Perfectly toasted bread forms the base of Tomato Bruschetta, where ripe tomatoes are tossed with olive oil, basil, and a touch of garlic. The vibrant topping creates a contrast of textures and flavors that work seamlessly together. Served as an appetizer, it pairs wonderfully with any main course while standing out on its own. It’s a dish that proves simplicity can be incredibly flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta

31 of Chef Jenn's FAVE Casseroles!

Recipes for Comfort-Filled Family Meals

⭐

I've gathered 31 of my favorite casseroles for you and your family to love! I've created and tested each recipe many times, and you can be sure of no AI. Just dependable, scratch-made dishes to dig into!

You'll get ad-free recipes like:

✅ Spaghetti Casserole
✅ Sloppy Joe Casserole
✅ Sausage-Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
✅ Tuna Noodle Casserole.
✅ and so many more!

$7.99 for a limited time!

This is a digital product. You'll receive an instant download link after purchase.

Shirazi Salad

Featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions, Shirazi Salad balances freshness and crunch. Dressed with a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, it’s light yet packed with texture. This salad provides a refreshing complement to rich or grilled dishes. Served cold, it’s wonderfully straightforward to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Mexican Black Beans

Simmered with spices that provide depth, Mexican Black Beans are versatile and easy to love. Whether served as a side dish or a base for tacos or bowls, they offer rich flavor with minimal effort. A garnish of cilantro or lime enhances the natural earthiness of the beans. It’s a classic that fits into nearly any meal.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Black Beans

Guacamole Snack Board

Arranged with fresh vegetables, chips, and spreads, Guacamole Snack Board makes snacking interactive and fun. Centered around creamy guacamole, it’s a collection of ingredients that suit many tastes. The board is completely customizable, offering options to mix, match, and experiment with flavors. It’s a great choice for keeping guests engaged during meals.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole Snack Board

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

A close-up shot of a fork lifting a portion of macaroni salad, with a bowl of the salad in the blurred background. — Hawaiian Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

A unique twist on pasta salads, Hawaiian Macaroni Salad features macaroni coated in a creamy, slightly sweet dressing. The addition of carrots, possibly pineapple, and a hint of seasoning makes this dish stand out. It’s not overly heavy, despite being rich in texture, making it an easy option for serving alongside typical mains. With its balance of flavors, it appeals to a wide variety of palates.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Lemon-Dill Salmon Foil Packets

Four servings of lemon-dill salmon in foil packets, with lemon slices and dill on top, arranged on a black grill grate with a green grass background. — Lemon-Dill Salmon Foil Packets. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Juicy fillets of salmon make Lemon-Dill Salmon Foil Packets the centerpiece of a nutritious and flavorful dinner. Baked with a combination of fresh dill, lemon slices, and light seasoning, the fish stays tender while absorbing tangy flavors. The foil packet technique ensures easy cleanup and controlled cooking. It’s an elegant yet low-maintenance way to bring salmon to the table.
Get the Recipe: Lemon-Dill Salmon Foil Packets

Ham & Cheese Puffs

A hand holds a partially eaten Ham and Cheese puff, revealing layers of pastry, ham, and cheese. — Ham & Cheese Puffs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Wrapped in flaky pastry, Ham & Cheese Puffs pack a tasty combination of delicious meat and melted cheese. These bite-sized pieces are ideal for finger foods or appetizers. They’re versatile and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Easy to prepare yet visually appealing, they’re a hit for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Cheese Puffs

Classic Red Potato Salad with Pickles

Tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing, Classic Red Potato Salad with Pickles balances familiar flavors with a crunchy twist. The addition of pickles provides a slight kick that contrasts with the smoothness of the potatoes. A smattering of herbs completes this timeless side. It’s a perfect companion to heartier dishes while standing out as a side all its own.
Get the Recipe: Classic Red Potato Salad with Pickles

Strawberry Upside Down Cake

Layered with caramelized strawberries on top, Strawberry Upside Down Cake is as enticing to look at as it is to eat. Underneath the fruity layer lies a soft, moist cake that absorbs the sweet strawberry juices. It’s a wonderful option for dessert while being just light enough to keep things balanced. Every slice feels like a small treat.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Upside Down Cake

Pesto Orzo Salad

Orzo salad resting on a dark plate. — Pesto Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mixed with a bright pesto dressing, Pesto Orzo Salad combines orzo pasta, cherry tomatoes, and possibly cheese for a rounded dish. Served cold or at room temperature, it’s simple yet enjoyable with every bite. The zippy flavor of the pesto keeps things lively while enhancing the other components. It works excellently as a side or standalone dish.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Classic Corn Pudding Casserole

A square slice of corn pudding casserole with eggs, red bell pepper, and chives sits on a white plate with a serving spoon underneath. — Classic Corn Pudding Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Creamed corn is the star of the Classic Corn Pudding Casserole, where a custard-like base holds everything together. Its smooth texture contrasts beautifully with the occasional bite of whole kernels. An understated sweetness ties into the overall richness of the dish, making it a crowd-favorite. It’s comforting without feeling overly dense.
Get the Recipe: Classic Corn Pudding Casserole

Fried Green Tomatoes

A rectangular white plate with fried green tomato slices garnished with herbs, a small cup of dipping sauce, a fork, and a blue napkin on the side. — Fried Green Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Coated in a crunchy breading, Fried Green Tomatoes are pan-fried to perfection, offering a combination of tart and tangy flavors. The unique taste of unripe tomatoes stands out, complemented by a simple seasoning. They’re a great snack or appetizer that pairs well with dipping sauces. Easily one of the most distinctive options for those looking for something slightly out of the ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Fried Green Tomatoes

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

Grilled chicken breast on a white plate with fork and knife, sliced tomatoes, lemon halves, cilantro, and salt and pepper shakers on a checkered cloth. — Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Marinated in a mixture of fresh herbs with scattered lemon slices, Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is juicy and well-flavored. The grilling method gives the chicken a smoky undertone that enhances its already flavorful marinade. It’s versatile enough to pair with various sides or stand alone as the main feature. A great choice for anyone wanting balanced seasoning with tender meat.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

Blueberry Rhubarb Crumble Bars

A black plate holds a square Blueberry-Rhubarb Crumble Bar topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and fresh mint, with a fork on the side. — Blueberry Rhubarb Crumble Bars. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Combining sweet and tart in every layer, Blueberry Rhubarb Crumble Bars feature a buttery crust topped with fruit and a crumbly topping. The mix of rhubarb and blueberries keeps the flavor dynamic and not overly sugary. These bars hold their shape, making them easy to serve as a sweet finger food. They’re delightful whether eaten as a snack or dessert.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Rhubarb Crumble Bars

BLT Pasta Salad – With Bacon!

Overhead shot of a glass bowl filled with BLT pasta salad. — BLT Pasta Salad – With Bacon!. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

A playful riff on a favorite sandwich, BLT Pasta Salad – With Bacon! includes pasta, crispy bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes, all tossed in a light dressing. The crunchy bacon adds a tasty layer, harmonizing with the fresh veggies and pasta. It’s simple to make and ties together multiple beloved flavors. Perfect for any event, it feels both filling and light at once.
Get the Recipe: BLT Pasta Salad – With Bacon!

Southern Style Pickled Shrimp

Packed with marinated shrimp, Southern Style Pickled Shrimp creates bold flavors through its mix of vinegar, spices, and vegetables. The shrimp soak in the brine, absorbing flavor while maintaining their bold, tender bite. Served cold, this dish is refreshing yet full-bodied. Ideal as an accompaniment or appetizer, it has its own unique charm.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp

Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad

A bowl of smashed cucumber salad with sesame seeds, cilantro, red chili flakes, and a light dressing. — Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Tossed in a garlicky, slightly spicy dressing, Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad provides a refreshing and flavorful crunch. The cucumbers absorb the dressing’s layers of flavor while maintaining their crispness. Typically served cold, it’s an excellent way to bring bold and bright tastes to the table. A simple but impactful choice for fans of lighter fare.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad

Grilled Steak and Veggie Skewers

Grilled skewers with beef, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes on a wooden board, garnished with fresh parsley. A striped cloth and loose cherry tomatoes are nearby. — Grilled Steak and Veggie Skewers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Skewered for convenience, Grilled Steak and Veggie Skewers combine juicy cuts of beef with a colorful assortment of vegetables. The grilling process enhances the natural flavors while adding that smoky, lightly charred edge. Each skewer offers a balanced blend of meat and veggies, making it well-rounded. Great for sharing, it’s an easy yet enjoyable option for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak and Veggie Skewers

Creamed Corn

Smooth yet hearty, Creamed Corn is made from scratch for a taste that’s hard to replicate. The natural sweetness of the corn shines through, complemented by a velvety base. It pairs beautifully with both light and rich dishes, adding versatility to the table. The dish works well as a side but is enjoyable enough to stand on its own.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn

Thai Noodle Salad with Mango and Spicy Peanut Dressing

Combining the creaminess of peanut dressing with the sweetness of mango, Thai Noodle Salad with Mango and Spicy Peanut Dressing offers a dynamic experience. Chilled noodles provide a neutral base that balances the bold flavors of the dressing. It’s an inviting way to explore international tastes while staying approachable. Layered textures make it appealing with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Thai Noodle Salad with Mango and Spicy Peanut Dressing

Classic Hoppin’ John

Black-eyed peas and rice form the heart of Classic Hoppin’ John, a dish deeply rooted in tradition. Seasoned with spices and occasionally bits of pork, the dish delivers warm, comforting flavors. It’s filling enough to serve as a main or can double as an interesting side dish. Each bite feels steady and grounded yet enticing.
Get the Recipe: Classic Hoppin’ John

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Green beans with pork on a black plate. — Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Carefully cooked for hours, Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans are infused with rich spices and flavor from added ingredients like onion or pieces of meat. The long cooking process ensures the beans become tender without turning mushy. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy vegetables while maximizing flavor. Offering simplicity without sacrificing quality, they work as an excellent side item.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Wheat Berry Salad with Tomato & Tuna in a bowl. — Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Packed with whole grains, Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes combines hearty wheat berries with fresh and tangy additions. Tuna adds protein while tomatoes provide bursts of freshness. Dressed lightly, it’s wholesome without being plain. Perfect for a quick meal, it’s flavorful and healthy in equal measure.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Corn Pudding Casserole

Rich yet not overly sweet, Corn Pudding Casserole offers a touch of creaminess in every bite. Whole kernels are mixed in to add bursts of texture, making the dish even more enjoyable. It balances between spicy and lightly sweet, with each ingredient complementing the other. Ideal as a go-to side dish, its appeal is timeless.
Get the Recipe: Corn Pudding Casserole