The mere idea of succulent and tender fall-off-the-bone ribs is enough to make one's mouth water. However, what pairs well with BBQ ribs besides napkins, of course? The options are diverse when it comes to serving complementary side dishes.
From golden, crispy fries to savory baked beans, these accompaniments prove to be more versatile than one might initially envision. With that in mind, we proudly present a curated list of 20 popular go-to sides for BBQ ribs, guaranteed to elevate your dining experience.
Caprese Asparagus is a popular go-to summer side dish that effortlessly blends simplicity with flavor. In just 30 minutes, this easy and extra-cheesy creation becomes the ideal last-minute addition to any BBQ or cookout.
With the irresistible combination of fresh mozzarella and asparagus, it's a quick way to add a touch of caprese magic to your summer gatherings. Grab your mozz and let the caprese goodness unfold!
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Grilled Mexican Street Corn, featuring corn on the cob slathered in Cotija cheese and a warm cilantro butter blend. This easy yet essential recipe is a game-changer for your summer cookouts, infusing a burst of savory goodness and vibrant herb-infused notes.
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this must-have dish that captures the essence of street food charm, bringing a delightful twist to the classic corn on the cob experience.
Add a delightful contrast to the smoky richness of BBQ ribs with Creamy Coleslaw, a classic side dish that balances crunch and creaminess. This refreshing blend of shredded cabbage and carrots dressed in a creamy mayonnaise-based sauce brings a cool, tangy element to the hearty barbecue experience.
The crisp texture and subtle sweetness of coleslaw create a perfect harmony alongside the succulent flavors of fall-off-the-bone ribs, enhancing your barbecue feast with every satisfying bite.
Indisputably delicious on their own, French fries make for a delightful side dish in many situations. However, when contemplating the perfect pairing for ribs, the choice has to be sweet and crispy sweet potato fries.
Bake them in the oven and toss them with rosemary and Parmesan before serving for an irresistibly flavorful experience. Simply delish!
Pair your BBQ ribs with the quintessential companion – BBQ baked beans! These beans, with a perfect balance of light sweetness, rich smokiness, and an enticing texture, elevate your barbecue experience.
The infusion of molasses, brown sugar, mustard powder, and a hint of cayenne strikes the ideal sweet-and-savory harmony, ensuring each bite is a flavorful journey that complements the succulence of the ribs. It's a winning combination that brings together the best of both worlds on your plate.
Indulge in the classic comfort of mac and cheese, a cheesy and satisfying pasta dish that pairs seamlessly with various mains, including baby back ribs. The creamy sauce not only adds a rich, velvety texture but also skillfully cuts through the tangy flavors of the BBQ, creating a harmonious balance.
Let's be honest, everything is better with cheese, and the combination of mac and cheese with baby back ribs is a delightful symphony of comfort and flavor that's hard to resist.
Related: 17 Mac and Cheese Recipes From Classic to Creative
Craving a crunchy, cheesy, and healthy delight? Look no further than Parmesan-crusted Brussels sprouts – an irresistible treat that's also guilt-free. These flavorful sprouts are not only impossible to resist but also offer a generous serving of veggies.
A perfect combination of crispy texture and cheesy goodness, these Brussels sprouts make for an easy and delicious side that effortlessly adds a touch of sophistication to your meal. It's a wholesome choice that satisfies both your taste buds and your commitment to a balanced plate.
Expand your culinary horizons with a surprising twist – dessert with barbecue ribs! A delightful concoction of sour cream, cool whip, and crushed pineapple creates a surprisingly harmonious pairing with barbecue flavors.
Drawing inspiration from the beloved combination of candied yams with turkey, this sweet and creamy dressing, adorned with mini marshmallows and orange slices, introduces a playful and palate-pleasing element to your barbecue experience.
For a veggie delight to accompany your burgers, hot dogs, and ribs, consider these delectable broccoli "trees." Tossed in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, honey, Worcestershire, and ketchup, these cruciferous delights deliver a spicy-sweet-umami combo that's sure to please even the most dedicated carnivores.
Elevate your grill game with this irresistible and well-seasoned vegetable option, adding a burst of flavor and nutrition to your barbecue spread.
Transform an abundance of wilting spinach into a delightful side dish with creamed spinach. This simple yet indulgent creation not only rescues fading greens but also captivates your taste buds with its creamy richness.
The luscious texture and savory flavors might even make you momentarily forget that you're indulging in a dish packed with nutritious greens. A clever and delicious way to elevate your meal while minimizing food waste – creamed spinach is a win-win for both taste and sustainability.
Infuse your seafood spread or fried food feast with a hint of Southern comfort through hush puppies – delightful, crispy orbs of savory cornmeal batter. Effortlessly whipped up, these golden bites serve as an ideal last-minute appetizer or anytime snack.
Once you experience the irresistible crunch and flavor of these little delights, it's impossible to keep quiet about the sheer delight they bring to your taste buds.
Embrace a Southern tradition by serving black-eyed peas as a side dish to your BBQ ribs. Beyond their New Year's symbolism of luck and prosperity, these versatile legumes shine in a delightful summer salad that only improves with time.
Whether using dried or canned beans, the easy preparation ensures a flavorful and refreshing accompaniment to your ribs. Enjoy a taste of the South and a touch of history with this simple, yet delicious, addition to your barbecue feast.
Experience a delightful fusion of flavors as ripe peaches and creamy burrata intertwine in this Peach Burrata Salad. Enhanced with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a fragrant hint of fresh basil, this refreshing and elegant side dish brings a perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes.
It complements your smoky barbecue feast with finesse. Elevate your barbecue experience with this luscious and easy-to-prepare Peach Burrata Salad.
Bathed in garlic herb butter, these Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes boast a perfect blend of crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors. They make for a quick and flavorful addition to your barbecue spread, whether prepared from scratch or using leftover baked potatoes.
If the air fryer isn't your preference, consider trying baked Hasselback potatoes. Explore creative ways to enjoy baked potatoes beyond the basics if you're a fan of this classic dish.
These Blistered Shishito Peppers, both easy to make and full of flavor, are the perfect finger food. Lightly seasoned and subtly smoky, the majority of these peppers are mild, offering a pleasantly savory experience.
However, be prepared for a surprise, as approximately one out of every ten might deliver a spicy kick. Whether enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, these blistered shishito peppers add a touch of excitement to any gathering with their simple preparation and delightful taste.
Crispy and flavorful, Air Fryer Zucchini Fries make a delightful BBQ side dish. These fries feature a delightful crunch on the outside and a tender, flavorful interior. Seasoned to perfection and air-fried, they provide a healthier twist to the classic side dish.
The natural freshness of zucchini, combined with the crispy texture, makes it an irresistible treat. Elevate your BBQ gatherings with this guilt-free indulgence, satisfying cravings without compromising on taste or nutrition.
Upgrade your side dish game with Buffalo Smashed Potatoes. Start by boiling and smashing the potatoes, then roast them to golden perfection. The magic happens when you generously coat them in tangy Buffalo sauce, creating a delightful fusion of crispy exteriors and creamy interiors.
This flavorful side dish enhances your meals, providing a bold twist that pairs well with any main course, be it grilled meats or hearty salads. Additionally, consider indulging in potatoes for breakfast by exploring our 16 Amazing Breakfast Potatoes to excite your taste buds.
Doubtful about okra? You haven't experienced its true allure until you've had it fried! Transforming into a crispy, crunchy delight, this vegetable becomes an irresistible treat. The unique texture and flavor of fried okra create a satisfying snack or side dish that may just change your perspective on this often underestimated veggie.
Embrace the crunchy goodness and let fried okra surprise your taste buds with its delicious appeal.
Summer Squash Casserole makes a perfect BBQ side dish. Bursting with vibrant flavors and boasting a comforting texture, this casserole brings a perfect balance to the smoky and savory notes of your barbecue spread.
The combination of summer squash, savory seasonings, and perhaps a cheesy topping forms a delightful dish that perfectly complements grilled delights. It not only enhances your outdoor gathering but also adds a touch of warmth and richness to the overall experience.
Savor the perfection of veggie kabobs, where grilled skewers harmonize an impeccable blend of flavors and textures. Each bite offers a delightful medley that's irresistible, even for the heartiest meat lover.
These skewers, adorned with vibrant vegetables, showcase the essence of summer grilling and are a delicious addition to any barbecue feast, appealing to both vegetarians and carnivores alike. Elevate your outdoor dining experience with these enticing veggie kabobs that promise to please every palate.
