BBQ ribs are a mouthwatering main dish, but they’re even better with tasty sides.
The right accompaniments can take your rib feast to the next level. From classic comfort foods to lighter veggie options, there are many choices to round out your meal.
You can mix and match sides to create the perfect plate for your tastes.
Some popular options include coleslaw, baked beans, corn on the cob, and potato salad. But don’t be afraid to get creative with unique salads or grilled vegetables.
The key is picking sides that complement the rich, smoky flavor of the ribs without overpowering them.
1. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a perfect side dish for BBQ ribs. It adds a cool, crisp contrast to the rich, smoky meat.
You can make it with shredded cabbage and carrots mixed in a creamy dressing.
The dressing often has mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sugar. Some recipes add a bit of mustard for extra tang.
You can customize your coleslaw by adding other veggies like bell peppers or onions.
For a lighter version, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayo. Coleslaw not only tastes great with ribs but also adds a pop of color to your plate.
2. Baked Beans
Baked beans are a classic side dish for BBQ ribs. They offer a rich, smoky flavor that pairs well with the savory meat.
You can easily make baked beans in a slow cooker or on the stove.
Mix cooked beans with BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and bacon for a sweet and tangy taste.
Let the beans simmer for a while to develop their flavors. You can add onions, ketchup, or other spices to customize the taste to your liking.
Baked beans provide a nice contrast to the texture of ribs. Their softness complements the tender meat, creating a satisfying combination on your plate.
3. Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ ribs. Its slightly sweet flavor balances the smoky, tangy taste of the ribs.
You can make cornbread easily at home using cornmeal, flour, and a few other simple ingredients. Bake it in a cast-iron skillet for a crispy crust.
Serve your cornbread warm, cut into squares or wedges. You can spread butter on top for extra richness. Some people like to drizzle honey over their cornbread for added sweetness.
Cornbread soaks up BBQ sauce well, making it great for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
4. Potato Salad
Potato salad is a classic side dish that goes great with BBQ ribs. You can make it with either warm or cold potatoes. Mix in some mayonnaise, mustard, and chopped vegetables for extra flavor.
Try adding diced onions, celery, and pickles to your potato salad. Hard-boiled eggs are another tasty addition. For a tangy kick, sprinkle in some vinegar or lemon juice.
You can prepare potato salad ahead of time and chill it in the fridge. This makes it perfect for busy BBQ days.
The cool, creamy texture of potato salad balances out the rich, smoky flavor of ribs nicely.
5. Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ ribs. This creamy, cheesy pasta offers a comforting contrast to the smoky meat.
To make it, cook elbow macaroni until it’s al dente. Then create a rich cheese sauce using butter, flour, milk, and lots of cheddar cheese.
For extra flavor, try adding some smoked paprika or a touch of garlic powder to your cheese sauce. You can also top it with breadcrumbs and bake it for a crispy crust.
Serve your mac and cheese hot alongside your ribs for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a perfect side for BBQ ribs. Its sweet and smoky flavor balances the savory ribs nicely.
To grill corn, leave the husks on and soak them in water for 30 minutes. This helps steam the kernels while grilling.
Place the corn on a hot grill and cook for about 15 minutes, turning every few minutes. The husks will char, but the kernels inside will stay juicy.
For extra flavor, peel back the husks and brush the corn with butter, salt, and pepper before serving. You can also try garlic butter or chili lime seasoning for variety.
7. Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes make a tasty side dish for BBQ ribs. These crispy treats offer a tangy contrast to the rich, meaty ribs.
To make them, slice unripe green tomatoes and coat them in cornmeal. Then fry them until golden brown. The result is a crunchy exterior with a soft, tart center.
You can serve fried green tomatoes plain or with a dipping sauce. Ranch dressing or a spicy remoulade work well. Some people like to sprinkle them with salt or herbs for extra flavor.
This Southern classic pairs nicely with ribs and adds variety to your BBQ spread. Try them at your next cookout for a unique side dish.
8. Collard Greens
Collard greens make a great side dish for BBQ ribs. They add a fresh, leafy contrast to the rich meat. You can cook them with bacon or ham for extra flavor.
Try sautéing collard greens with garlic and olive oil. This simple method brings out their natural taste. You can also add vinegar or lemon juice for a tangy kick.
For a Southern twist, simmer the greens with onions and spices. This slow-cooking method makes them tender and flavorful. Serve your collard greens hot alongside your ribs for a tasty meal.
9. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a tasty twist on classic french fries. They pair perfectly with BBQ ribs, offering a sweet and savory combo.
You can bake or fry them for a crispy exterior and soft inside.
These fries are packed with nutrients like vitamin A and fiber. They’re easy to make at home with just a few ingredients. Cut sweet potatoes into strips, toss with oil and spices, then cook until golden.
Try seasoning your fries with salt, pepper, and paprika for extra flavor. Serve them hot alongside your ribs for a delicious meal.
10. Pickled Vegetables
Pickled vegetables make a tasty side for BBQ ribs. They add a tangy crunch that balances the rich, smoky meat.
Try pickled cucumbers, onions, or carrots. You can also mix different veggies for variety. The acidity helps cut through the fatty ribs.
Pickled okra or green beans are good Southern options. For a spicy kick, choose pickled jalapeños or pepperoncini.
You can buy jarred pickles or make your own. Homemade pickles let you control the flavors and spices.
11. Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad is a refreshing side dish for BBQ ribs. It’s cool and crisp, balancing out the rich, smoky meat.
To make it, slice cucumbers thinly and mix with sliced red onions. Add a simple dressing of vinegar, sugar, and dill.
Let the salad chill for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to blend together.
You can customize your cucumber salad by adding tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and crunch. It’s an easy, light side that complements your ribs perfectly.
12. Jalapeño Cheddar Biscuits
Jalapeño cheddar biscuits add a spicy kick to your BBQ rib meal. These savory bites combine the sharpness of cheddar cheese with the heat of jalapeños.
You’ll love how the flaky texture contrasts with the tender ribs. The cheese melts into the biscuit, creating pockets of gooey goodness.
For extra flavor, brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle on some sea salt before baking. Serve these biscuits warm to complement your smoky, saucy ribs perfectly.
13. Corn Pudding
Corn pudding is a tasty side dish that goes well with BBQ ribs. It’s creamy, sweet, and savory all at once. You can make it with fresh or canned corn.
The pudding has a soft, custard-like texture that contrasts nicely with the meat. Its sweetness balances out the smoky flavor of the ribs.
You can add extras like cheese, jalapeños, or bacon to change up the flavor. Corn pudding is easy to make ahead of time and reheat. It’s a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will enjoy.
14. Watermelon Slices
Watermelon slices are a perfect side for BBQ ribs. They offer a cool, sweet contrast to the smoky, savory meat. The juicy fruit helps cleanse your palate between bites of ribs.
You can serve watermelon slices chilled for maximum refreshment. Cut them into easy-to-hold wedges or triangles. For added flavor, sprinkle a little salt on top. This enhances the sweetness and creates a tasty balance.
Watermelon is also hydrating, which is great for hot summer days when you’re enjoying ribs outdoors. It’s a healthy choice that adds color to your plate too.
15. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs make a tasty side dish for BBQ ribs. You can whip them up quickly with just a few simple ingredients.
Start by hard-boiling some eggs. Once cooled, slice them in half and scoop out the yolks. Mix the yolks with mayo, mustard, and a dash of vinegar.
Spoon or pipe the creamy filling back into the egg whites. Sprinkle some paprika on top for extra flavor and a pop of color.
The smooth, creamy texture of deviled eggs pairs well with the smoky, meaty ribs. Their cool temperature also balances out the hot ribs nicely.
16. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a tasty side dish that goes well with BBQ ribs. It’s crispy outside and soft inside, adding a nice contrast to your meal.
To make garlic bread, start with a crusty loaf. Mix butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Spread this mixture on each slice of bread.
Bake the slices until they’re golden brown. The result is a warm, fragrant bread that’s perfect for soaking up rib sauce.
Garlic bread’s rich, buttery flavor complements the sweetness of BBQ ribs. Its crunchy texture also offers a satisfying contrast to tender meat.
17. Caprese Salad
Caprese salad is a tasty side dish that goes well with BBQ ribs. It’s made with juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves.
You can drizzle some balsamic glaze or olive oil on top for extra flavor. This Italian-inspired salad is light and refreshing, which balances out the rich taste of the ribs.
It’s quick to make and doesn’t need cooking, perfect for hot summer days. The bright colors and fresh ingredients make your plate look nice too.
Balancing Flavors and Textures
Good sides for BBQ ribs mix different tastes and textures. Pick foods that go well with the rich, smoky meat. This creates a balanced meal you’ll enjoy.
Complementary Vegetables
Crisp veggies add crunch to your plate. Try a fresh coleslaw with carrots and cabbage. The cool, tangy dressing cuts through the fatty ribs.
Grilled corn on the cob brings sweetness. Brush it with butter and sprinkle with salt for an easy side.
Roasted Brussels sprouts offer a nutty flavor. Their crispy edges contrast the tender rib meat. Toss them with olive oil and garlic before cooking.
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette refreshes your palate. Add cucumbers and tomatoes for extra crunch and juiciness.
Pairing with Grains
Creamy mac and cheese is a classic rib partner. Its smooth texture balances the meat’s chewiness. Use sharp cheddar for a bold taste.
Cornbread brings a touch of sweetness. Its crumbly texture soaks up BBQ sauce nicely. Try adding jalapenos for a spicy kick.
Potato salad offers a cool, creamy side. Mix in celery and onions for crunch. A mustard-based dressing pairs well with tangy BBQ flavors.
Rice pilaf with herbs gives a light, fluffy option. The mild taste doesn’t compete with the ribs. Add nuts or dried fruit for extra texture.
Enhancing the Dining Experience
Great BBQ ribs deserve great sides. The right choices can make your meal more exciting and tasty.
Let’s look at some ways to make your BBQ rib dinner even better.
Creating Colorful Plates
A colorful plate looks good and tastes better. Add red tomatoes, green lettuce, and yellow corn to your plate.
These bright colors will make your food look more appealing.
Try a rainbow slaw with purple cabbage, orange carrots, and green apples. It’s crunchy and fresh next to your ribs.
You can also add a cucumber salad with red onions for more color.
Grilled veggies are another great option. Try red bell peppers, yellow squash, and green zucchini.
They add color and a smoky flavor that goes well with ribs.
Utilizing Seasonal Ingredients
Using what’s in season makes your sides taste better and cost less.
In summer, serve fresh corn on the cob or a tomato salad with your ribs. These light sides balance the rich meat.
Fall is perfect for roasted root veggies. Try sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips.
They’re hearty and match the warmth of BBQ ribs. You can also make a pumpkin or squash soup as a side.
In spring, serve asparagus or peas. They’re light and go well with ribs.
For winter, try roasted Brussels sprouts or a kale salad. These greens add nutrients to your meal.
Remember to pick fruits that are in season too. A fresh fruit salad can be a refreshing end to your BBQ rib dinner.