When it comes to the perfect barbecue meal, most people agree that a variety of tasty sides is essential. In fact, a whopping 78% of folks say that their BBQ ribs just aren’t complete without some mouthwatering accompaniments. To help you elevate your outdoor dining experience, I’m excited to share 25 simple yet scrumptious side dish ideas that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Whether you’re in the mood for something crispy and fried, creamy and rich, or savory and herby, we’ve got you covered with a diverse range of options that cater to every palate. So let’s get started and discover some new favorite BBQ side dishes together!
Twice Baked Potatoes
Indulge in the rich flavors of twice-baked potatoes, a match made in heaven with tender ribs. The anticipation builds as you take that first bite into a fluffy, sour cream-infused potato, only to be met with a velvety blanket of melted cheese. But it’s the smoky sweetness of crispy bacon bits sprinkled on top that truly elevates this comforting side dish.
Whether you’re gathering ’round the BBQ pit or enjoying a backyard cookout, these twice-baked potatoes are sure to win over even the most discerning palates, making you feel like part of the family as you savor each delicious bite alongside your favorite ribs.
Fried Green Tomatoes
When it comes to pairing a side dish with tender and flavorful BBQ ribs, few options can rival the delectable combination of fried green tomatoes. The firm, sour nature of these tomatoes provides a delightful contrast to the richness of the ribs, making for an irresistible flavor experience. To bring this Southern-inspired delight to life, simply coat the green tomatoes in cornmeal and fry them to a crispy perfection, giving way to a tangy and melt-in-your-mouth bite.
Whether you’re looking to elevate your next BBQ gathering or simply want to treat yourself to a culinary indulgence, adding these fried green tomatoes to your plate is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Get the recipe to make this mouthwatering combination come alive.
Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto
Indulge in the comforting warmth of creamy garlic parmesan risotto, effortlessly crafted with the Instant Pot’s precision cooking technology. This delectable side dish is elevated by the pungency of garlic and the richness of parmesan, making it an ideal accompaniment to saucy ribs. As the flavors of the risotto harmonize with the tender, fall-off-the-bone meat, you’ll find yourself craving more of this satisfying culinary combination.
1905 Salad Recipe
Indulge in the harmonious union of flavors and textures by crafting a revitalizing side dish – a straightforward green salad accompanied by a zesty, invigorating dressing. This delectable combination proves to be the ideal foil to rich and indulgent ribs, offering a satisfying contrast between their decadent flavors and the light, refreshing qualities of the salad.
A symphony of ingredients, including succulent tomatoes, velvety Swiss cheese, and savory sliced ham, converges to create an alluring ensemble. The dressing’s tangy essence brings the whole composition together, elevating the dish to new heights.
Air Fryer Onion Rings
Transforming onion rings into a healthier yet equally delectable option is now possible with the aid of an air fryer. This innovative cooking method enables you to savor crispy and mouthwatering onion rings while significantly reducing oil consumption and calorie intake, making it an ideal accompaniment to your barbecue ribs. By using sweet onions and coating them with panko breadcrumbs, these golden delights offer a harmonious balance of taste and texture that will leave you wanting more.
Moreover, the air fryer’s ability to minimize the amount of oil used compared to deep-frying allows for guilt-free indulgence without compromising on flavor.
BBQ Baked Beans
As you savor the tender BBQ ribs, the perfectly balanced flavors of the BBQ baked beans come into play, harmonizing in a delightful symphony of sweet and savory notes. The beans themselves are a masterclass in texture, neither too mushy nor too firm, while their subtle sweetness is expertly tempered by a deep smokiness that elevates the dish to new heights.
With ingredients like molasses, brown sugar, mustard powder, and just a hint of cayenne pepper adding depth and complexity, these beans are nothing short of comfort food nirvana.
Fried Pickles
Fried pickles have become a staple at many county fairs and backyard barbecues alike. Their addictive blend of crunchy texture and tangy flavor makes them the perfect complement to rich, meaty ribs. But their appeal extends far beyond this classic pairing – they’re also a fantastic match for a variety of sauces and dips. Enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite condiment, fried pickles bring an extra layer of excitement to any meal.
Creamed Corn Pudding Casserole
When it comes to perfectly complementing BBQ ribs, a mouthwatering side dish stands out from the crowd – Creamed Corn Pudding Casserole. This innovative recipe harmoniously blends the natural sweetness of corn with a velvety pudding texture and a satisfying crunch from the addition of eggs. The result is an irresistible casserole that’s chock-full of sweet corn goodness, guaranteed to leave you craving more. Simply put, it’s a game-changer!
Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
Upgrade your snack game by trading in traditional french fries for a healthier alternative: zucchini fries cooked to perfection in an air fryer. The result is a crunchy, savory treat that’s just begging to be dipped into your favorite sauce. And the best part? Zucchini’s mild flavor pairs beautifully with ribs, making it a match made in heaven.
To recreate this deliciousness at home, simply slice the zucchini into long strips, toss them with olive oil and your go-to seasonings, then let the air fryer work its magic until they’re golden brown and crispy. The result is a guilt-free side dish that’s sure to have everyone asking for seconds. Try it out today!
Cornbread
The harmonious union of the cornbread’s subtle sweetness and the ribs’ bold flavors is a culinary match made in heaven. This soft and moist cornbread strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, making it the ideal accompaniment to the tangy, robust ribs. To elevate this comfort food combination, consider adding cheese and bacon for an extra depth of flavor or opt for sliced jalapeños and Parmesan cheese for a spicy twist.
Creamy Macaroni Salad
Imagine a match made in culinary heaven: tender elbow macaroni swathed in a rich tapestry of creaminess, expertly balanced by the tangy flavors of mayonnaise, mustard, and a hint of seasoning. This indulgent side dish is the perfect complement to the smoky, savory allure of barbecue ribs, its velvety texture melting seamlessly into every bite.
And as if that weren’t enough, it’s also an incredibly practical choice for feeding your crowd – not only will it fill their plates, but it’ll do so without putting a dent in your budget.
Mac & Cheese
Indulge in a match made in heaven with barbecue and macaroni and cheese. The creamy pasta dish provides a perfect contrast to the smoky, tangy flavor of baby back ribs. Imagine tender noodles smothered in a rich, velvety sauce crafted from melted cheese. Each bite is a comforting treat that melts in your mouth. As the creaminess of the mac and cheese harmonizes with the bold flavors of the BBQ ribs, you’ll experience a delightful symphony of tastes in every bite.
Cucumber Tomato Salad
Looking for a palate cleanser to balance out your barbecue spread? A cucumber and tomato salad is an excellent choice. This light and revitalizing side dish pairs perfectly with rich meats like saucy ribs, cutting through the bold flavors with its refreshing crunch. The combination of cool cucumbers and luscious tomatoes not only tantalizes the taste buds but also delivers a nutritious punch. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and effort.
Cheese Grits
As we indulge in the revitalizing taste of Cucumber Tomato Salad, let’s shift our focus to a comforting and indulgent side dish that harmoniously complements BBQ ribs – Cheese Grits. This baked delight is crafted with a medley of cheddar cheese, milk, eggs, and a hint of hot sauce for an added layer of depth. For an extra burst of texture, consider incorporating corn kernels into this creamy casserole.
Corn Fritters
To create mouthwatering corn fritters, begin by blending fresh corn kernels with a flavorful batter comprising flour, eggs, milk, and spices. This match made in heaven is best enjoyed alongside tender BBQ ribs. The result is a delightful combination of crunchy, golden exteriors and sweet, fluffy interiors that’s simply irresistible. For an added crunch, fry them to perfection or opt for a healthier approach by baking them.
Be prepared to make extra, as they’re sure to vanish quickly at any gathering.
Sweet Potato Fries
The humble corn fritter has its fans, but for me, there’s another side dish that truly elevates the ribs experience: sweet potato fries. There’s something magical about the way the crispy, slightly sweet exterior gives way to a fluffy interior, perfectly complementing the rich, smoky flavor of tender ribs.
The combination is nothing short of divine – just imagine sinking your teeth into a fall-off-the-bone rib, then indulging in a handful of these golden fries tossed with fragrant rosemary and nutty Parmesan.
Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
Elevate the humble green bean by wrapping it in crispy bacon – a match made in culinary heaven. The rich, smoky flavor of the pork pairs sublimely with the snappy sweetness and tender crunch of the green beans, creating a harmonious union that will leave you wanting more. As a side dish, these tantalizing treats perfectly complement the bold flavors of BBQ ribs, striking a balance between earthy veggie goodness and indulgent baconiness.
Once you take a bite, it’s game over – these mouthwatering morsels are impossible to resist!
Broccoli Salad
When it comes to pairing side dishes with BBQ ribs, it’s hard to go wrong with the refreshing and crunchy charm of Broccoli Salad. The bright green florets provide a delightful contrast to the rich, smoky flavor of the ribs. Just imagine sinking your teeth into a medley of crispy broccoli, savory bacon, chewy raisins, and pungent red onion – all brought together by a sweet-savory dressing that will have you craving seconds. And the best part?
This kid-friendly recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Mashed Potatoes
Savor the perfect harmony between creamy mashed potatoes and tender, juicy ribs at your next backyard bash or family gathering. These comforting spuds, made with rich butter, smooth milk, and a pinch of salt, are sure to delight both kids and adults alike. The velvety texture is the ideal complement to the flavorful ribs, making for a mouthwatering combination that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Get Recipe
Creamy Coleslaw
Combine shredded cabbage with creamy dressing and optional sliced fruit for a refreshing twist on the classic side dish. Coleslaw is an excellent accompaniment to BBQ ribs, burgers, or chicken, as its rich texture adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. To add some zest, consider lightening the dressing with a tangy vinaigrette. For added flair, incorporate thinly sliced fruits like apples or pineapple, which can elevate your coleslaw to new heights.
Simply mix all the ingredients together and serve.
Ambrosia Fruit Salad
Transform your meal into a culinary masterpiece by incorporating a revitalizing ambrosia fruit salad. This innovative side dish harmoniously blends the sweetness of juicy orange slices with the whimsical touch of mini marshmallows, providing a delightful contrast to the bold flavors of barbeque ribs. The symphony of tastes is further elevated by a creamy and sweet dressing, crafted from sour cream, Cool Whip, and crushed pineapple, which beautifully complements the tanginess of the orange.
The addition of mini marshmallows then adds a playful textural element to each bite, elevating the overall dining experience.
Texas Roadhouse Rolls
Another delightful accompaniment to BBQ ribs is the classic Texas Roadhouse Roll. These soft and fluffy dinner rolls are a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re using them to create a satisfying rib sandwich or simply sopping up the savory juices from your clean bones. Their comforting presence elevates the overall BBQ experience, making it a must-have addition to any meal.
Shredded Carrot Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
Savor the perfect harmony of flavors in our delectable shredded carrot salad with its signature tangy honey mustard dressing, a match made in culinary heaven. This vibrant slaw is the ultimate sidekick to your summer barbecue, pairing effortlessly with tender and smoky ribs. The sweet, crunchy carrots provide a delightful contrast, while the zesty honey mustard dressing adds a burst of citrusy flair. The result? A flavor fusion that will leave you craving more and feeling thoroughly satisfied.
Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Indulge in the irresistible combination of crunchy texture and cheesy flavor as you savor the Parmesan crusted Brussels sprouts. These delectable side dishes pair perfectly with your BBQ ribs, elevating the overall dining experience. The Brussels sprouts are generously coated in a savory blend of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and spices before being baked to a golden brown perfection, yielding a crispy exterior that complements their natural sweetness.
Corn on the Cob
The aroma of garlic butter and sea salt wafting from the grilled corn on the cob is nothing short of intoxicating. The interplay between the caramelized grill marks and the natural sweetness of the corn is a match made in heaven, resulting in a truly harmonious balance of flavors. Each bite is akin to a flavor bomb going off in your mouth, with each component complementing the others perfectly.
For those seeking an extra layer of indulgence, consider adding the bold flavors of Mexican street corn, complete with creamy mayo, crumbly cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a truly decadent experience.
