Next-Level Smoked Sides

Transform your everyday meals and holiday gatherings into extraordinary culinary experiences with the magic of smoked side dishes. While smoked meats often take center stage, the secret to a truly unforgettable spread lies in the accompanying sides. Infusing your favorite comfort foods with a rich, smoky flavor from your pellet grill not only elevates their taste but also offers incredible convenience, especially during busy holidays when oven space is a precious commodity. Imagine serving up a warm, smoky mac and cheese or a savory green bean casserole that didn’t tie up your main oven. Furthermore, during the summer months, cooking these hearty dishes on the smoker keeps your kitchen cool, allowing you to enjoy delicious comfort food without heating up the entire house. Get ready to discover a world of flavorful possibilities that will impress your family and friends alike.

Embracing the art of smoking has become a true passion, and my Pit Boss Pro 1100 has been an invaluable companion on this flavorful journey. This powerful pellet grill makes preparing smoked comfort food a breeze, allowing me to effortlessly add delicious side dishes to any holiday menu or backyard barbecue. I originally acquired my Pit Boss Pro from Lowe’s, but for those exploring other options, reputable retailers like Walmart and Amazon offer a wide selection of Pit Boss models. You can also explore the full range directly on the Pit Boss website. While I did consider a Traeger pellet grill, the Pit Boss ultimately proved to be the ideal choice for my grilling and smoking needs at the time, providing exceptional performance and versatility for everything from slow-smoked meats to perfectly cooked side dishes. The consistent heat and reliable smoke production from a quality pellet grill like the Pit Boss make it perfect for achieving that signature smoky depth in all your culinary creations.

Pit Boss Pellet Grills
Traeger Pellet Grills
Z Grills Pellet Grills

Essential Supplies for Crafting Perfect Smoked Side Dishes

To consistently create mouth-watering smoked side dishes, having the right tools on hand is crucial. These essential supplies will simplify your cooking process, ensure delicious results, and make clean-up a breeze, allowing you to focus on enjoying the rich flavors of your smoked creations.

Aluminum Foil Pans – Disposable aluminum foil pans are a game-changer for many smoked side dish recipes. The bottom of pans can often get quite dirty and encrusted with drippings and food residue from the smoker’s direct heat and smoke. Being able to simply toss the pan after cooking, rather than scrubbing stubborn baked-on grime, saves an incredible amount of time and effort. I find these particularly indispensable for creamy dishes like macaroni and cheese or cheesy queso dips, where thorough cleaning can otherwise be a real chore. They come in various sizes, making them versatile for different quantities.

Large Mixing Bowls – A spacious mixing bowl is a fundamental tool in any kitchen, especially when preparing ingredients for the smoker. It provides ample room to combine various components thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of flavors and seasonings before your dish goes into the cooking pan. For recipes that require a smoother consistency or additional blending, a large mixing bowl also comfortably accommodates a hand mixer, making your prep work much more efficient and less messy.

Food Processor – Many of the most beloved smoked side dishes, especially creamy casseroles and dips, rely heavily on generous amounts of cheese. Whether it’s Parmesan, Cheddar, Feta, Gouda, or Mozzarella, fresh-shredded cheese always melts better and tastes superior to pre-shredded varieties. Investing in a good food processor allows you to save money by purchasing larger blocks of cheese from your local grocery store or warehouse clubs like Costco and shredding them yourself. This not only enhances the texture and flavor of your dishes but also provides greater control over the quality of your ingredients.

Cast Iron Cookware – For unparalleled flavor and heat retention, cast iron skillets and Dutch ovens are ideal for many smoked side dish recipes. While they may require a bit more effort to clean compared to disposable pans, the rich, deep flavor that cast iron imparts to smoked foods is truly exceptional and never disappoints. The even heat distribution and ability to withstand high temperatures make them perfect for achieving crispy edges and perfectly cooked interiors. A well-seasoned cast iron piece will become your favorite companion for smoking everything from baked beans to creamy casseroles.

Irresistible Smoked Side Dish Recipes for Every Occasion

The beauty of smoked side dishes lies in their endless variety and the incredible depth of flavor that only a smoker can provide. There’s no single “perfect” smoked side, and that’s precisely what makes this culinary adventure so exciting! Whether you’re planning a festive holiday dinner, a casual backyard barbecue, or a game day tailgate, these recipes will have your guests reaching for seconds and praising your smoking prowess. Prepare for a cascade of compliments and social media-worthy food photos!

Smoky Dips and Appetizers

Kick off any gathering with a warm, smoky dip straight from the grill. These starters are not only incredibly flavorful but also surprisingly easy to prepare, making them perfect for entertaining.

Smoked Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad – This unique pasta salad puts a delightful spin on two classics. Featuring tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and the unexpected rich flavor of smoked deviled eggs, it offers a creamy texture with an irresistible smoky undertone. It’s a fantastic addition to picnics, potlucks, or any meal where you want a refreshing yet substantial side. Find the full recipe here!

Easy Smoked Queso Dip – Elevate your nacho night or tailgate party with this incredibly simple yet flavorful smoked queso dip. Creamy, cheesy, and infused with a gentle smoky essence, it’s perfect for dipping tortilla chips, vegetables, or even spooning over tacos for an extra layer of flavor. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly on your smoker. Find the full recipe here!

Smoked Cream Cheese – A true revelation in simplicity and flavor, smoked cream cheese is a versatile base for countless culinary creations. Take a simple block of cream cheese, season it, and let the smoker work its magic. The result is a smooth, tangy, and subtly smoky spread that can be enjoyed on crackers, bagels, or incorporated into other dishes to infuse them with a delightful smoked flavor. Find the full recipe here!

Easy Smoked Refried Bean Dip – Perfect for Taco Tuesday, game night, or any casual get-together, this smoked refried bean dip is packed with incredible flavor. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite spices for an extra kick. The smoking process adds a depth that canned refried beans simply can’t achieve, making it an irresistible dip for tortilla chips. Find the full recipe here!

Decadent Smoked Macaroni and Cheese Recipes

There are few comfort foods as universally loved as macaroni and cheese, and when you introduce the rich, savory notes of wood smoke, it transcends into an entirely new realm of deliciousness. Smoked mac and cheese is a staple at our family gatherings and a personal favorite for good reason – that creamy, cheesy goodness with an irresistible smoky twist is simply unbeatable!

Smoked BBQ Pulled Pork Mac And Cheese – Transform classic smoked mac and cheese into a hearty entree by adding succulent leftover pulled pork, generously coated in your favorite BBQ sauce. This indulgent dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and will disappear from the serving table in record time, making it perfect for hungry gatherings. Find the full recipe here!

Smoked Ham Mac & Cheese – Elevate your mac and cheese with the savory addition of leftover smoked ham. This incredible dish can serve as a luxurious side or a satisfying meal all on its own. The smoky ham perfectly complements the creamy cheese and pasta, taking this comfort food to an entirely new level of flavor. Find the full recipe here!

Sausage Smoked Macaroni and Cheese – Infuse your smoked mac and cheese with even more robust flavor by incorporating savory smoked sausage. This variation not only adds a delicious textural contrast but also makes the dish substantial enough to be considered a complete meal, especially for the kids! It’s a hearty and satisfying option for any day of the week. Find the full recipe here!

Creamy Smoked Macaroni And Cheese – Sometimes, you just need the pure, unadulterated comfort of a perfectly creamy mac and cheese, enhanced by the deep, resonant flavor of smoke. This recipe focuses on achieving an ultimate velvety texture with a blend of melted cheeses, while a touch of heavy cream ensures an incredibly rich and decadent experience. It’s pure indulgence in every bite. Find the full recipe here!

Smoked Holiday Side Dish Recipes

Free up valuable oven space during your most important feasts by taking your holiday side dishes to the smoker! These pellet smoker recipes transform classic holiday staples into something truly special, infusing them with a delicious smoky flavor that will set your Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Easter dinner apart. Experience traditional comfort with an exciting, smoky twist.

Classic Sweet Potato Casserole Smoked – Imagine your beloved sweet potato casserole, made even more irresistible with the added depth of smoke flavor and crowned with a buttery pecan brown sugar topping. Smoking this dish not only frees up your oven but also imparts a complex, savory-sweet dimension that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes. It’s a holiday essential, reimagined. Find the full recipe here!

Smoked Deviled Eggs – Add a unique and sophisticated twist to your holiday appetizer spread by smoking hard-boiled eggs before preparing your deviled eggs. The subtle smoky infusion elevates this classic party favorite, making it an unexpected delight. They are easy to prepare and present beautifully, ensuring they’re a popular choice on any holiday table. Find the full recipe here!

Classic Smoked Green Bean Casserole – A staple at virtually every holiday dinner, the humble green bean casserole takes on an extraordinary character when prepared on the smoker. Using simple canned green beans, this dish comes together effortlessly, gaining a delicious smoky essence that pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a perfectly grilled T-Bone steak. It’s a comforting classic made even better. Find the full recipe here!

Irresistible Smoked Baked Beans Recipes

Baked beans are a barbecue essential, and smoking them elevates their rich, savory flavor to an entirely new dimension. These recipes are perfect as a robust side dish for any main course or as a hearty contribution to a tailgating party, always cooked to perfection in a trusty cast iron Dutch oven.

Smoked Loaded Baked Beans – This is the quintessential side dish for any barbecue or tailgating event. Allow these beans to slow smoke in a cast iron Dutch oven, absorbing all that wonderful flavor. Loaded with bacon, onions, and often bell peppers, and maybe a hint of extra bacon grease for an even richer taste, they are sweet, savory, and incredibly satisfying. Find the full recipe here!

Smoked Brisket Baked Beans – Take your loaded baked beans to the next level by incorporating tender, shredded leftover smoked brisket. Cooked slowly in a cast iron Dutch oven, the brisket imparts an incredible depth of flavor, making this side dish a meal in itself. It’s a fantastic way to utilize leftover brisket and create a truly unforgettable dish. Find the full recipe here!

Shredded Pork Smoked Baked Beans – Another incredible way to repurpose smoked meat is by adding leftover smoked pork, tossed in barbecue sauce, to your loaded baked beans. This smoky twist creates a savory, slightly sweet, and utterly delicious dish that’s perfect for a substantial side or as the star of a casual meal. It’s also an ideal contribution to any potluck or tailgating gathering, guaranteed to impress. Find the full recipe here!

Best Potato Smoked Side Dishes

Potatoes are the ultimate versatile side, and when they meet the smoker, they transform into something truly extraordinary. From creamy casseroles to perfectly cooked baked potatoes, these smoked potato recipes offer comforting flavors with an irresistible smoky edge, making them perfect companions for any grilled or smoked main course.

Smoked Loaded Cheesy Potatoes – This is hands down one of the best side dishes to serve alongside robust red meats like smoked brisket. Just like a classic loaded baked potato, this casserole is packed with cheese, bacon, and a dollop of sour cream, all elevated by that signature smoky flavor. It’s rich, comforting, and utterly delicious, making it an instant favorite at any barbecue. Find the full recipe here!

Easy Smoked Cheesy Potatoes – Simple yet incredibly satisfying, this cheesy potato casserole uses tender red potatoes for a unique texture and flavor. The smoky undertones complement rich main dishes beautifully, especially something as decadent as smoked prime rib. It’s an easy-to-prepare dish that adds a touch of gourmet appeal to your meal. Find the full recipe here!

Smoked Potato Salad – Give your classic potato salad a delectable smoky twist by using smoked baked potatoes as its base. While not entirely cooked in the smoker, the smoky potatoes infuse the entire dish with an amazing flavor that sets it apart. The best part? You can prepare it the night before, making it a convenient and incredibly popular side dish for any gathering. Find the full recipe here!

Perfect Smoked Baked Potatoes – Skip heating up your kitchen and achieve perfectly tender, flavorful baked potatoes by throwing them on the smoker. These are surprisingly quick to make and take on a delightful smoky essence. A light coating of olive oil and a sprinkle of garlic seasoning is all it takes to transform a humble potato into an irresistible side. They pair wonderfully with virtually any smoked meat. Find the full recipe here!

Complementary Smoked Main Dish Recipes

The true beauty of a smoked feast lies in its versatility. No matter your chosen main course, these smoked side dishes will complement it perfectly, creating a cohesive and flavorful meal. The best part is the ability to cook an entire, unforgettable meal on your smoker, maximizing efficiency and infusing every component with that signature smoky goodness. Here are some fantastic main dishes that pair wonderfully with any of the smoked sides mentioned above:

• Smoked Cornish Game Hens: A flavorful and elegant choice that benefits greatly from slow smoking.
• Spicy Smoked Chicken Wings: Crispy, smoky, and with a kick – a perfect appetizer or main.
• Sweet Smoked Coca-Cola Chicken: Tender, juicy chicken with a sweet and savory glaze.
• Smoked Chicken Breasts: Simple, healthy, and incredibly flavorful when smoked.
• Smoked Coca Cola BBQ Wings: A sticky, sweet, and smoky treat ideal for game day.
• Coca-Cola Brined Smoked Cornish Game Hens: A unique brine adds incredible moisture and flavor.
• Smoked Brisket With Brown Sugar Rub: The king of BBQ, rich and tender, always a showstopper.
• Smoked Turkey: A Thanksgiving or holiday centerpiece that’s moist and bursting with smoky flavor.
• Smoked Ham: Ideal for holidays, offering a juicy and flavorful alternative.
• Smoked Prime Rib: A luxurious choice, cooked to perfection with a beautiful smoke ring.
• Smoked Pork Chops: Quick to smoke and incredibly tender, perfect for a weeknight meal.

What’s your go-to favorite smoked side dish recipe? Share your thoughts and culinary adventures!

Explore More Pellet Smoker Recipes

Ready to dive deeper into the world of smoking? Our comprehensive collection of smoker recipes covers everything you need, from expertly smoked main courses like ham and prime rib to various innovative mac and cheese dishes and much more. Expand your repertoire and master your pellet grill with these delicious guides. See our full collection of Smoker Recipes here.

• Dutch Oven In The Smoker Recipes: Discover how to maximize your Dutch oven’s potential on the smoker.
• Special Occasion And Holiday Recipes: Perfect your holiday spreads with these festive smoked dishes.
• Smoked Side Dishes: A dedicated resource for enhancing your meal with flavorful sides.
• Smoked Deli Salads: Unique twists on classic deli salads with a smoky infusion.
• Delicious Smoked Chicken Recipes: A variety of mouth-watering chicken dishes cooked to perfection on the smoker.