Summer is a prime time for outdoor gatherings, and there’s nothing quite like the allure of slow-cooked ribs sizzling on the grill. However, when it comes to crafting a well-rounded meal, we all know that ribs alone won’t cut it. That’s where sides come in – they add texture, flavor, and visual appeal to our plates. From creamy coleslaw to fluffy baked potatoes loaded with cheese and toppings, the possibilities are endless. With 35 easy and mouthwatering side dish options at your fingertips, you’ll be well on your way to elevating your next BBQ from ordinary to extraordinary.
35 Delicious Side Dishes for BBQ Ribs
Grilled Corn on the Cob
To elevate the humble brush corn to new heights, start by generously brushing it with olive oil and sprinkling a pinch of salt over its surface. Next, place the corn on the grill and cook until it’s nicely charred. To add an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle some fresh herbs over the top immediately before serving. Finally, complete the dish with a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of citrusy freshness.
Macaroni and Cheese
To temper the bold flavors of the ribs, create a rich and indulgent macaroni and cheese dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. The creamy sauce, infused with melted cheddar and other cheeses, provides a delightful contrast to the smoky, savory notes of the pork ribs.
Baked Beans
Indulge in the quintessential charm of sweet and smoky baked beans, a beloved BBQ companion that never fails to impress.
Watermelon Salad
Elevate your outdoor gatherings by combining the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of feta cheese, the brightness of fresh mint, and a squeeze of lime juice to create a revitalizing summer side dish that’s sure to please.
Potato Salad
Experience the quintessential comfort of a traditional potato salad by combining boiled potatoes with creamy eggs, tangy mayonnaise, sweet pickles, and fresh celery. The contrasting textures and flavors in this classic recipe create a delightful harmony that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Coleslaw
Combine the crunch of shredded cabbage and carrots with the creaminess of mayonnaise, the brightness of vinegar, and a sprinkle of seasonings to create a refreshing and savory side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Garlic Bread
Infuse your meal with the savory aroma of freshly toasted bread, slathered in a rich garlic butter and fragrant herbs. This simple yet satisfying accompaniment is the perfect way to soak up any remaining BBQ sauce, elevating your dining experience to new heights.
Cornbread
To take your ribs to the next level, consider pairing them with a warm and comforting batch of sweet and savory cornbread. This classic combination is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Grilled Vegetables
To elevate the flavor and texture of your dishes, simply sauté a medley of chopped vegetables such as zucchinis, eggplants, bell peppers, and onions in a drizzle of oil and a sprinkle of seasonings. Once tender and caramelized, these vegetables are ready to be grilled to perfection, adding a smoky depth to any meal.
French Fries
Pair your slow-cooked, fall-off-the-bone ribs with an order of golden, crunchy fries, perfectly seasoned with salt to balance the rich flavors of the meat. This timeless combination is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Onion Rings
Transform your meal into a satisfying culinary experience by whipping up a crispy and mouthwatering beer-battered onion ring accompaniment.
Grilled Fruit
Elevate your fruit platter game by grilling sliced pineapple, peaches, or figs to caramelized perfection. Then, take it to the next level by serving them atop a generous dollop of creamy Greek yogurt or whipped cream.
Caprese Salad
The simplicity of a classic Caprese salad is what makes it truly special. By carefully layering thin slices of ripe tomato, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves, you’re creating a harmonious union of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing. To elevate this humble dish to new heights, finish it off with a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze, allowing the tangy sweetness to tie everything together.
Roasted Vegetables
To add depth and richness to your meals, roast a medley of root vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips alongside pungent garlic and fragrant rosemary. This straightforward yet flavorful approach yields a satisfying and savory side dish that’s sure to please.
Caesar Salad
Indulge in the quintessential flavors of Italy by crafting a timeless Caesar salad. A symphony of textures awaits: crisp, fresh romaine lettuce provides the foundation, while crunchy homemade croutons add satisfying crunch. A sprinkle of nutty Parmesan cheese brings depth, and a drizzle of tangy dressing ties everything together with its rich, velvety essence.
Grilled Asparagus
To bring out the natural sweetness in asparagus, lightly brush it with a neutral-tasting oil and then throw it onto a preheated grill. Cook for several minutes on each side, or until the spears are tender and exhibit a subtle char from the high heat. The slight caramelization that occurs will enhance the overall flavor profile of this delicious vegetable.
Sweet Potato Fries
Consider substituting traditional French fry varieties with the naturally sweet and nutritious alternative, sweet potato fries. This swap not only introduces a burst of flavor but also reduces your calorie intake while increasing your daily dose of vitamins A and C, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a healthier snacking option.
Corn Pudding
To create a rich and satisfying side dish, combine equal parts of cornmeal and creamed corn with milk and add your preferred seasonings. This harmonious blend will yield a comforting and creamy accompaniment to any meal.
Fried Okra
To prepare crispy and flavorful okra, start by slicing the okra into thin pieces and coating them evenly with a seasoned flour mixture. Next, heat a pan or deep fryer to medium-high heat and carefully add the floured okra slices in batches if necessary. Fry the okra until it reaches a golden brown color and a crispy texture, adjusting the cooking time as needed based on your desired level of crispiness.
Loaded Baked Potato
Indulge your senses with the ultimate comfort food – a sumptuous baked potato loaded with crispy bacon, melted cheese, a sprinkle of fresh chives, and a dollop of tangy sour cream. The combination is nothing short of heavenly, as the smoky sweetness of the bacon pairs perfectly with the richness of the cheese, while the subtle onion flavor of the chives adds depth and the creamy sour cream brings it all together in a delightful harmony.
Grilled Peppers
To elevate the humble sliced bell pepper, try slicing them into rings and then grilling them until slightly charred. Finish by sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt over the top to bring out their natural sweetness and add a touch of savory flavor.
Creamed Spinach
Transform the humble spinach into a rich and indulgent accompaniment by cooking it with aromatic garlic, luxurious cream, and a pinch of thoughtfully selected seasonings. The result is a delightfully savory and creamy side dish that will elevate any meal.
Grilled Squash
Infuse your backyard barbecue with the subtle sweetness and tender crunch of grilled zucchini and yellow squash, the perfect accompaniment to your slow-cooked ribs.
BBQ Sliders
For a delightful twist on traditional barbecue fare, consider serving mini sandwiches featuring tender pulled pork, tangy coleslaw, and crunchy pickles. These bite-sized morsels offer a flavorful and engaging alternative to larger BBQ offerings.
Hush Puppies
The quintessential Southern delight, deep-fried cornmeal balls boast a satisfyingly crunchy exterior that gives way to a tender interior, making them an irresistible accompaniment to any meal.
Collard Greens
Indulge in the rich flavors of the South by slow-cooking collard greens with the unmistakable charm of crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and a pinch of savory seasonings, creating a quintessential side dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Jalapeño Poppers
Indulge in the harmonious fusion of spicy and rich flavors by stuffing jalapeño peppers with cream cheese and wrapping them in crispy bacon. The creamy filling provides a soothing contrast to the bold heat of the peppers, creating a truly mouthwatering experience.
Pasta Salad
Crafting the perfect pasta salad is an art that requires a mix of creativity and simplicity. To get started, gather your favorite ingredients such as plump olives, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of rich Italian dressing. As you combine these components, feel free to experiment with different textures and flavors to create a unique culinary experience that’s all your own.
Avocado and Tomato Salad
Infuse your meal with the essence of summer by combining the creamy richness of ripe avocados with the lusciousness of juicy tomatoes, the pungency of thinly sliced red onion, and a tangy drizzle of vinaigrette for a refreshing side dish that’s as flavorful as it is healthy.
Grilled Romaine Hearts
Transform the humble romaine lettuce into an unforgettable salad by halving its crisp hearts, placing them under the grill until slightly charred, and finishing them off with a rich drizzle of tangy Caesar dressing. This unexpected twist will elevate your greens game and leave you craving more.
Cucumber Tomato Salad
While simplicity can often be appealing, a garden-fresh salad comprised of juicy cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and a delicate drizzle of light vinegar dressing is truly the epitome of effortless elegance. The harmonious union of these ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing.
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Indulge in the comforting flavors of creamy mashed potatoes infused with the deep, nutty essence of roasted garlic, creating a sumptuous and savory side dish that’s sure to delight the senses.
Broccoli Salad
Indulge in the harmonious union of textures and flavors as you savor a refreshing broccoli salad infused with the savory essence of crispy bacon, the creaminess of cheddar cheese, and the sweetness of a carefully crafted dressing – an impeccable accompaniment to succulent BBQ ribs.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
A deliciously simple side dish, roasted Brussels sprouts paired with the pungency of garlic and the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese come together to form a harmonious union of flavors and textures, making for a remarkably healthy option.
Cheesy Grits
BBQ ribs are often paired with creamy and cheesy grits, a Southern classic that complements their rich flavors. When it comes to choosing sides for this beloved dish, the options are endless. In fact, we’ve curated a list of 35 easy and delicious sides that cater to various tastes and preferences. From comforting macaroni and cheese to refreshing coleslaw, there’s something for everyone. So why not fire up the grill, grab a cold drink, and get ready to host a summer gathering that will leave your friends and family begging for more?