Did you know that 78% of people say that the perfect barbecue meal is incomplete without some mouthwatering sides?
Well, I’ve got great news for you. In this article, I’ll be sharing 25 easy and delicious sides to serve with your BBQ ribs.
From crispy fried green tomatoes to creamy garlic Parmesan risotto, we’ve got something for everyone.
Let’s dig in!
1. Twice Baked Potatoes
Twice baked potatoes are a tasty and indulgent side dish that pairs perfectly with ribs.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a fluffy baked potato, perfectly seasoned with sour cream and topped with ooey-gooey cheese.
And let’s not forget the crispy bacon bits on top, adding an extra layer of flavor.
These potatoes are a crowd-pleaser, guaranteeing you’ll feel like part of the BBQ family as you enjoy them alongside your mouthwatering ribs.
2. Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are a delectable side dish that pairs perfectly with tender, flavorful ribs. These firm, sour tomatoes are coated in cornmeal and fried to perfection, creating a crispy exterior that gives way to a tangy, melt-in-your-mouth bite.
The contrast between the tartness of the tomatoes and the richness of the ribs is simply irresistible.
So next time you’re enjoying some BBQ ribs, don’t forget to add these Southern-style fried green tomatoes to your plate for an unforgettable flavor combination.
3. Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto
When using the Instant Pot, you can create a creamy garlic parmesan risotto that is both flavorful and comforting. The Instant Pot makes cooking risotto a breeze, eliminating the need for constant stirring and ensuring perfect results every time.
With the addition of garlic and parmesan, this dish becomes rich and indulgent, making it the perfect side dish for saucy ribs.
The flavors of the risotto and ribs meld together in a delicious harmony that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
4. 1905 Salad Recipe
To create a healthy and refreshing side dish, you’ll love the recipe for a simple green salad with a bright, zippy dressing.
This salad is the perfect companion to indulgent ribs, providing a light and crisp contrast to their rich flavors.
Made with juicy tomatoes, creamy Swiss cheese, and savory sliced ham, this mix of ingredients creates an irresistible combination.
The dressing adds a tangy kick that brings everything together.
5. Air Fryer Onion Rings
Using an air fryer creates onion rings that are equally delicious and crispy, while cutting down on oil and calories. These golden beauties are the perfect side dish for your barbecue ribs.
Made with sweet onions and coated in panko breadcrumbs, they offer the best taste and texture.
With just a fraction of the oil used in deep frying, you’ll enjoy guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing flavor.
6. BBQ Baked Beans
The BBQ baked beans, with their perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, complement the smoky and tender BBQ ribs.
These beans are lightly sweet and wonderfully smoky, creating a mouthwatering combination with the ribs.
The texture is just right – not too mushy, not too firm.
Made with molasses, brown sugar, mustard powder, and a hint of cayenne, these beans provide the ultimate comfort food experience.
7. Fried Pickles
Fried pickles, with their zippy and tangy flavor, are a popular county fair favorite. These bite-sized delights are the perfect side for rich ribs.
The combination of the crunchy exterior and irresistible taste makes them a must-have at any barbecue.
Whether you’re dipping them in ranch dressing or enjoying them on their own, fried pickles add an extra layer of deliciousness to your meal.
8. Creamed Corn Pudding Casserole
Now, let’s talk about a mouthwatering side dish that will perfectly complement your BBQ ribs – Creamed Corn Pudding Casserole.
This unique recipe combines the sweetness of corn with a pudding-like texture and crispy edges, thanks to the addition of eggs.
Imagine sinking your teeth into each spoonful of this soft and loaded casserole, filled with the goodness of sweet corn. It’s simply fantastic!
9. Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional french fries, try making zucchini fries in an air fryer. They are crunchy, salty, and perfect for dipping.
The zucchini’s mild flavor complements the taste of ribs perfectly. To make these delicious fries, simply slice the zucchini into long strips, coat them with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, then pop them in the air fryer until they’re golden brown and crispy.
It’s a guilt-free side dish that will have everyone coming back for more.
10. Cornbread
The fluffy, lightly sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with the tangy, robust ribs. It’s a match made in comfort food heaven.
The cornbread is soft and moist, with just the right amount of sweetness to balance out the savory flavors of the ribs. And if you’re looking to take it up a notch, you can add some cheese and bacon for extra flavor.
For those who love a spicy kick, sliced jalapeños and Parmesan cheese make great additions too.
11. Creamy Macaroni Salad
After exploring the deliciousness of cornbread, let’s dive into another mouthwatering side for your barbecue ribs: creamy macaroni salad.
Picture this: tender elbow macaroni coated in a luscious blend of mayo, mustard, and seasonings. The creaminess complements the smoky flavors of the ribs perfectly.
Plus, it’s affordable and filling – just what you need to satisfy your hungry crowd without breaking the bank.
12. Mac & Cheese
Craving a cheesy and creamy side to accompany your barbecue feast? Look no further than mac & cheese – it’s the perfect complement to your smoky and tangy baby back ribs.
Picture this: tender pasta coated in a velvety sauce made with gooey, melted cheese. Each bite is like a warm hug that melts in your mouth.
The creaminess of the mac & cheese balances out the tanginess of the BBQ ribs, creating a harmonious explosion of flavors in every bite.
13. Cucumber Tomato Salad
If you’re looking for a light and refreshing option to accompany your barbecue feast, try making a cucumber and tomato salad. It’s the perfect side dish to complement those saucy ribs.
This salad is bursting with flavors and textures, combining the crispness of cucumbers with the juiciness of tomatoes. Not only is it refreshing, but it’s also packed with nutrition.
Plus, it’s super easy to prepare and won’t break the bank.
14. Cheese Grits
After exploring the refreshing flavors of a Cucumber Tomato Salad, let’s turn our attention to a comforting and cheesy side dish that pairs perfectly with BBQ ribs: Cheese Grits.
Made with a combination of cheddar cheese, milk, eggs, and a touch of hot sauce for added kick, these baked grits are a delightful addition to any barbecue spread.
For an extra crunch, you can even add corn kernels to this ooey-gooey casserole.
15. Corn Fritters
To make delicious corn fritters, start by combining fresh corn kernels with a savory batter made from flour, eggs, milk, and spices. These golden bites are the perfect complement to tender BBQ ribs.
With their crisp, brown outside and sweet, fluffy, tender inside, they’re irresistible. You can fry them for an extra crunch or bake them for a healthier option.
Trust me, you’ll want to make extra because they disappear fast at any gathering.
16. Sweet Potato Fries
As much as I love corn fritters, there’s another side dish for ribs that always has me coming back for more: sweet potato fries.
These crispy and slightly sweet fries are the perfect accompaniment to tender, smoky ribs.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a rib, then taking a bite of these golden beauties tossed in rosemary and Parmesan.
17. Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
Don’t underestimate the deliciousness of green beans wrapped in bacon. This exciting twist on a less popular vegetable takes their taste to a whole new level.
The savory, smoky flavor of the bacon perfectly complements the crispiness and freshness of the green beans.
It’s an ideal side dish to serve with BBQ ribs, adding a burst of flavor that balances the veggie goodness with the irresistible taste of bacon.
You won’t be able to resist these mouthwatering bacon-wrapped green beans!
18. Broccoli Salad
Now, let’s talk about another delicious side dish to pair with your BBQ ribs: Broccoli Salad.
This vibrant and crunchy salad is a perfect contrast to the hearty ribs. Imagine biting into crisp broccoli florets tossed with crispy bacon, chewy raisins, and peppery red onion.
The sweet-savory dressing adds a delightful touch that will have you coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s kid-friendly too!
19. Mashed Potatoes
You’ll love how creamy and velvety the mashed potatoes are alongside your tender, juicy ribs. These spuds are a classic side dish that adds comfort to any backyard bash or family gathering.
Made with butter, milk, and a touch of salt, these mashed potatoes are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
The smooth texture pairs perfectly with the flavorful ribs, creating a mouthwatering combination.
20. Creamy Coleslaw
Mix together shredded cabbage, creamy dressing, and optional sliced fruit for a unique twist to complement your meal. Coleslaw is the perfect side dish to pair with BBQ ribs, burgers, or chicken. Its rich and creamy texture adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.
You can lighten the dressing by using a tangy vinaigrette instead. And if you’re feeling adventurous, thinly sliced fruit like apples or pineapple can take your coleslaw to another level.
21. Ambrosia Fruit Salad
To enhance your meal experience, try making a refreshing ambrosia fruit salad. It’s a delightful burst of flavors, combining juicy orange slices and mini marshmallows. This unconventional side dish perfectly complements the rich flavors of barbeque ribs.
The combination of sour cream, Cool Whip, and crushed pineapple creates a sweet and creamy dressing. It pairs beautifully with the tangy orange slices.
And the addition of mini marshmallows adds a fun texture to each bite.
22. Texas Roadhouse Rolls
Now that we’ve explored the refreshing Ambrosia Fruit Salad, let’s talk about another delicious side that pairs perfectly with BBQ ribs: Texas Roadhouse Rolls.
These soft and fluffy dinner rolls are a staple at any meal. Whether you’re using them to make a mouthwatering rib sandwich or simply mopping up the flavorful juices from clean bones, these rolls add an extra touch of satisfaction to your BBQ experience.
23. Shredded Carrot Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
Don’t forget to try the shredded carrot salad with its tangy honey mustard dressing, a must-try side dish that perfectly complements any summer meal.
This vibrant and flavorful carrot slaw is the ideal accompaniment to your barbecue ribs. The sweet and savory carrots add a refreshing crunch, while the tangy honey mustard dressing brings a zing of flavor.
It’s a winning combination that will make your taste buds dance and leave you feeling satisfied.
24. Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Recipe
You’ll love how the Parmesan crusted Brussels sprouts turn out with their crunchy texture and cheesy flavor. These delightful little bites are the perfect side dish to accompany your BBQ ribs.
The Brussels sprouts are coated in a savory mixture of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and spices, then baked until golden brown and crispy.
25. Corn on the Cob
I love how the corn on the cob is prepared with garlic butter and sea salt, giving it a flavorful kick. The combination of the charred grill marks and the sweet juiciness of the corn creates a perfect balance.
It’s like an explosion of flavors in every bite. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try the Mexican street corn variation with mayo, cotija cheese, spices, and fresh herbs for an even more indulgent experience.
