19 Easy Labor Day Sides

Labor Day is all about good times with good people. For me, it’s not complete without a backyard barbecue and all the fixings. I’m a sucker for a good side dish – something that’s light and refreshing or super comforting. Greek Pasta Salad is always a winner, and BBQ Baked Beans are a classic. These recipes are super easy to make, they taste amazing, and they’ll impress your guests for sure!

Corn Pudding

This Corn Pudding is like a big, warm hug on a plate. It’s so creamy and slightly sweet, with all that yummy corn mixed in. Corn Pudding is the perfect mix of rich and light, and goes with everything – barbecue, burgers, you name it! It’s like a little bit of Southern comfort right there on your Labor Day table. And the best part? It’s super easy to make, so you can spend more time chilling and enjoying the holiday.

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic for Labor Day, and for good reason! They’re creamy, buttery, and so smooth – just how I like them. They go with everything from steak to chicken, and everyone loves them. They’re comforting and familiar, and they just make you feel at home. Whether you smother them in gravy or eat them plain, they’re a must-have.

Creamy Feta Dill Orzo

This Creamy Feta Dill Orzo is my go-to side dish for Labor Day! It’s so light and refreshing, and the flavors are amazing.The orzo is cooked perfectly, and the creamy sauce with feta and dill is just the right amount of tangy. It goes great with grilled meats or seafood, and it’s a nice change from heavy pasta dishes. It’s like a little taste of the Mediterranean on your plate, and it’s definitely a crowd-pleaser.

Mexican Street Corn Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Salad has that smoky, sweet, and tangy taste you get from street corn, but it’s all in a refreshing salad that’s super easy to eat. The corn is juicy, the dressing is creamy, and there’s a little kick of spice to keep things interesting. It’s the perfect side dish for grilled meats, and it’ll add a fun, festive touch to your Labor Day party.

Cheesy Broccoli Rice

Cheesy Broccoli Rice is the real MVP of any Labor Day spread. It’s like a warm hug on a plate – all cozy and comforting with the tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and melty cheese. It’s so hearty, it can hold its own against any grilled meat, and even the kids will gobble it up. No one will even notice the veggies! Trust me, you need this in your life!

Three-Bean Baked Beans

These Three-Bean Baked Beans are a Labor Day staple for me! They’re packed with three different kinds of beans and this amazing, smoky sauce. It’s hearty, flavorful, and goes great with any grilled meats. It’s got that perfect balance of sweet and spice, and I love that I can just let it simmer on the grill or stove while I hang out and enjoy the day. This side dish is super easy and takes the stress out of cooking.

Coleslaw

This coleslaw is a must-have for Labor Day! It’s so refreshing and crunchy, and it goes perfectly with all those juicy burgers and pulled pork. It’s made with fresh veggies and a tangy dressing, and it’s super easy to whip up. You can even make it ahead of time, so you can spend more time relaxing and enjoying the holiday!

Onion Jam

This Onion Jam is a game-changer. It’s like a secret weapon for your Labor Day menu. You take these onions and caramelize them until they’re all sweet and syrupy, and it’s amazing what it can do to your food. I put it on burgers, cheese plates, even sandwiches. It’s so simple to make, but it’ll blow everyone away.

Pickled Watermelon Rind

Pickled watermelon rind? Seriously? Yeah, I know it sounds weird, but trust me, it’s actually really good! It’s sweet, tangy, and has this nice little crunch, perfect for pairing with barbecue or grilled meats.

Loaded Smashed Potatoes

Loaded Smashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, and they’re perfect for Labor Day! They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and they’re loaded with all the good stuff – cheese, bacon, sour cream, and chives. They’re like a fancier baked potato, but so much easier to make. You can pair them with grilled meats or just eat them on their own.

Colorful Tex-Mex Corn and Avocado Salad with Bacon

This Tex-Mex Corn and Avocado Salad has all the good stuff – sweet corn, creamy avocado, crispy bacon, and this tangy dressing that’s out of this world. It’s refreshing and hearty at the same time, and it’s perfect for Labor Day. It adds a little Tex-Mex kick to your barbecue spread, and it’s sure to be a hit with everyone.

Classic Southern Mustard Potato Salad

Classic Southern Mustard Potato Salad is a staple at any Labor Day barbecue. It’s got that creamy, tangy flavor with just the right kick of mustard – it’s the perfect side dish for grilled meats. The potatoes are so tender, and the dressing is packed with flavor. It’s the kind of dish that everyone looks forward to, and it never lets you down.

Gluten and Dairy-Free Buttermilk Biscuits

These Buttermilk Biscuits are perfect for Labor Day. They turn out light and fluffy with that classic buttermilk taste everyone loves. They’re great alongside barbecue or with a bit of jam for a sweet touch. 

Pulled Pork Potato Skins

Pulled Pork Potato Skins are a deliciously indulgent side dish that’s perfect for Labor Day. These crispy potato skins are loaded with tender pulled pork, gooey cheese, and a dollop of sour cream, making them a crowd-pleaser for sure. They’re hearty enough to serve as a main dish if you want, but they’re also great as a side to complement other barbecue staples. Plus, they’re easy to eat with your hands, making them perfect for a casual outdoor gathering.

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Twice-Baked Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food side dish, featuring creamy cheese mashed potatoes loaded with crispy bacon. This rich, savory casserole is perfect for Labor Day, BBQs, and any occasion where you want a hearty, satisfying dish. With its blend of melted cheese and smoky bacon, it’s a crowd-pleaser that adds a delicious twist to classic mashed potatoes.

Creamy Pesto BLT Pasta Salad

Creamy Pesto BLT Pasta Salad is a fantastic choice for Labor Day. The creamy pesto sauce coats the pasta beautifully, and the crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes bring that classic BLT vibe to the dish. It’s a fun and fresh take on pasta salad that’s perfect for a warm day. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or on its own, it’s sure to be a hit at your cookout.

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

These Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are just what you need for a cozy Labor Day side dish. You’ll love how the thin potato slices layer up with a creamy cheese sauce, baked to a perfect golden brown. They’re super rich and make a great match for any grilled meats or veggies you’ve got going on!

Chicken Greek Pasta Salad

This Grilled Chicken Greek Pasta Salad is just what you need for Labor Day. It’s got tender grilled chicken, crisp veggies, and a tangy Greek dressing all mixed with pasta. It’s hearty enough to be a main course but light enough to be a great side dish. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, this salad’s got you covered with its fresh and vibrant taste.

BBQ Baked Beans

BBQ Baked Beans are a total Labor Day staple. They have a smoky, sweet flavor that goes so well with grilled meats. These beans are hearty and comforting, making them a perfect addition to any cookout. They’re simple to prepare in a big batch, so you can easily feed a crowd. No matter what you’re grilling up, these baked beans are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

With these side dishes, your Labor Day spread is gonna be a total hit! I’m talking about that tangy potato salad, the sweet and smoky BBQ beans – something for everyone! These aren’t just sides, they’re like the MVPs of the whole meal. People are gonna be asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds)! Make this Labor Day one to remember with these awesome side dishes.”