19 Keto BBQ Sides for Your Next Cookout

Summer cookouts are a staple during the warmer months. Unfortunately, traditional BBQ menus often feature high-carb sides and sauces such as pasta salad, corn on the cob, and sugary baked beans.

To help you stay on track with your low-carb lifestyle, here’s a list of 19 mouthwatering keto BBQ sides that won't kick you out of ketosis. 

Can you have a keto-friendly barbecue? 

Yes, you can still enjoy all the classic BBQ dishes on a keto diet, such as burgers and grilled meats, by incorporating low-carb alternatives and creative twists.

Instead of serving your burger in a traditional bun, use low-carb alternatives such as lettuce wraps or buns made with coconut flour.

Research published in Molecules found that compared to wheat flour, coconut flour has a significantly lower carbohydrate content while offering higher levels of protein, fat, and insoluble dietary fiber.

"Dietary fiber helps slow down digestion and keeps you feeling full for longer periods," explains Dr. Berg. ”This helps prevent overeating and keeps you fuller for longer, which supports weight maintenance and metabolic health.” 

Instead of classic pasta salad, you can make delicious keto BBQ side dishes such as zucchini noodles or cauliflower "potato" salad.

Sugary condiments such as ketchup and BBQ sauce can be replaced with sugar-free options or homemade versions using natural sweeteners, such as stevia or erythritol.

19 tasty keto BBQ sides

When planning a low-carb cookout, you don't have to sacrifice flavor. With the right ingredients and recipes, you can create a delicious and satisfying BBQ menu that everyone will enjoy.

Here are 19 delicious and nutritious keto side dish recipes.

1. Keto Mac and Cheese

A BBQ isn't complete without mac and cheese, and this low-carb version will have everyone wanting more.

This Keto Mac and Cheese recipe substitutes pasta with cauliflower, making it a nutritious low-carb option that won’t kick you out of ketosis. Add jalapenos for a spicy kick, or top it with crushed pork rinds for a crispy texture.

2. Keto Cornbread

It's hard to resist a slice of fresh cornbread at a BBQ, and now you don't have to! 

This Keto Cornbread recipe uses almond flour and sour cream to create a moist and flavorful side dish. Serve with grass-fed butter or a drizzle of sugar-free maple syrup for an extra special treat.

3. Keto Cheese & Broccoli Salad

If you're looking for a savory and crunchy side dish, this Keto Cheese & Broccoli Salad is the perfect choice.

Broccoli florets, shredded cheese, crispy bacon, and toasted sunflower seeds are tossed together in a sugarless dressing for a delectable and satiating salad.

4. Keto “Potato” Salad

You don't have to limit yourself to just meat and vegetables at your next BBQ gathering. 

This Keto "Potato" Salad is made with cauliflower instead of potatoes, resulting in a low-carb dish that maintains the creamy and tangy flavor of traditional potato salad.

To enhance this dish, add diced avocado or chopped hard-boiled eggs for a boost of protein and healthy fats.

5. Keto Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Bacon and asparagus are a match made in heaven, especially on the grill.

These Keto Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus spears are seasoned with garlic powder and black pepper before being wrapped in bacon, making them a delectable appetizer or side dish. 

6. Keto Broccoli Cheddar Balls

These Keto Broccoli Cheddar Balls are a decadent, bite-sized side dish ideal for any summer cookout.

Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich broccoli, they're a nutritious addition to your low-carb BBQ menu.

7. Keto Cajun Waffle Fries

Fried food is a BBQ favorite, and these Keto Cajun Waffle Fries are a nutritious alternative to French fries. 

Made with shredded cauliflower and topped with homemade Cajun seasoning, this recipe will satisfy cravings without derailing your low-carb diet. 

Dip these waffles in a keto-approved ranch dressing, and you won't even miss the traditional version.

8. Ketogenic Deviled Eggs

Take your deviled eggs to the next level with this Ketogenic Deviled Eggs recipe.

This dish is bursting with flavor, thanks to the tangy mustard, creamy mayonnaise, and smoked paprika.

Additionally, the organic pasture-raised eggs used in this recipe provide a great source of protein and healthy omega-3 fats, making them a must-have on any cookout menu.

9. Keto Jalapeño Poppers

These Keto Jalapeño Poppers are the perfect combination of creamy, spicy, and savory.

Halved jalapeños are stuffed with cream cheese and cheddar before being baked or grilled to a smoky finish. Serve them as an appetizer or a side dish, and watch them disappear in no time.

10. Onion Rings

Indulge in an all-time BBQ favorite with these Keto Onion Rings that are crispy and extremely tasty despite being low in carbs.

Coated with a mixture of coconut flour and ground pork rinds, these onion rings are fried to perfection and offer the ultimate crunchy side dish.

11. Keto Asparagus with Cheese and Garlic

Can't get enough of asparagus? Then you'll love this Keto Asparagus with Cheese and Garlic recipe.

Simply toss asparagus spears in olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper before grilling them for a few minutes. Top the asparagus with shredded mozzarella cheese and return to the grill until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

12. Keto Broccoli Cheddar “Tots”

If you're a fan of tater tots, then these Keto Broccoli Cheddar "Tots" are a must-try.

Made with riced broccoli, cheddar cheese, and almond flour, they're crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside. Serve them with sugar-free ketchup or low-carb ranch dressing for a tasty, guilt-free treat that's perfect for any BBQ.

13. Keto Bread Rolls

No keto-friendly BBQ is complete without some bread to soak up all the delicious sauces and flavors.

These Keto Bread Rolls, crafted from almond flour, white wine vinegar, and egg whites, offer a fluffy alternative to traditional dinner rolls. Serve them warm with butter, or use them as buns for your burgers and sandwiches.

14. Keto Feta and Golden Beet Salad

This Keto Feta and Golden Beet Salad is a refreshing and colorful addition to your low-carb BBQ spread.

Steamed golden beets, crumbled feta cheese, arugula, parsley, and green onions are tossed together in a simple olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing. The result is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that will please everyone.

15. Keto Tahini Cauliflower Salad

Impress your guests with this deliciously earthy Keto Tahini Cauliflower Salad.

Cauliflower florets are roasted to perfection before being tossed in a creamy tahini dressing. Top it with chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds for added texture and healthy fats.

16. Keto Oven Roasted Vegetable

This Keto Oven Roasted Vegetable is a simple and versatile side dish that offers nutrition and pairs well with any BBQ main course.

Mix your favorite low-carb vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, in olive oil and seasonings before roasting them in the oven or on the grill wrapped in foil.

17. Keto Zucchini Fries

Replace classic potato fries with these crunchy Keto Zucchini Fries.

Zucchini sticks are coated in almond flour and parmesan cheese before being baked or air-fried to perfection. Serve them with your favorite low-carb dipping sauce for a guilt-free indulgence.

18. Pulled Pork Fried Egg Slaw

For a scrumptious and protein-packed side dish, try this Pulled Pork Fried Egg Slaw.

Shredded cabbage and carrots are sautéed with pulled pork and topped with a fried egg for an indulgent twist on the traditional coleslaw. 

It's also the perfect way to use up any leftover pulled pork from your BBQ feast.

19. Keto Cobb Salad with Ranch Dressing

If you're tired of the same old boring salads, this Keto Cobb Salad with Ranch Dressing will rejuvenate your taste buds with its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures.

It's a hearty and satiating side dish loaded with blue cheese, bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and grilled chicken, perfect for your next summer BBQ. Top with homemade ranch dressing crafted with sour cream, mayonnaise, and lemon juice.

Key takeaways

These keto BBQ sides substitute high-carb ingredients with low-carb alternatives, such as almond flour, coconut flour, and cauliflower.

From timeless classics such as cornbread and deviled eggs to creative spins on cookout favorites, including Onion Rings and Keto Jalapeño Poppers, these side dishes for BBQ gatherings offer diverse options to make your cookout truly special.

FAQ

1. What are the best keto BBQ sides?

The best keto side dishes for a low-carb BBQ include Keto Broccoli Cheddar Balls, Keto Cajun Waffle Fries, and keto pasta salad made with cauliflower. 

You can also prepare nutritious salads with leafy greens and flavorful dressings, such as Keto Cheese and Broccoli Salad and Keto Tahini Cauliflower Salad.

2. What is a good side dish for keto ribs?

Some of the best side dishes for keto ribs include Cauliflower Mac and Cheese, grilled Brussels sprouts, and Keto Corn Bread. These dishes provide balanced flavors and textures that complement the meaty taste of the ribs.

3. What is a good side dish without a lot of carbs?

There are many tasty side dish options with low carb counts, including Keto Bread Rolls, Keto Bacon Wrapped Asparagus, and Keto Jalapeño Poppers. 

These recipes use alternative ingredients, including almond flour and pork rinds, to replace high-carb components while still maintaining a satisfying taste and texture. 

Source

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8347958/