Barbecue ribs are a classic summertime favorite, but the tasty ribs are really just the beginning of a great backyard barbecue meal. Choosing fantastic side dishes to go along with ribs can take your cookout from great to extraordinary. With so many options, it can be tough to settle on the perfect sides to complement your slabs of saucy, tender ribs. Read on for tips on picking sides that will make your bbq ribs shine.

Coleslaw

A tangy, creamy coleslaw is one of the most classic complements to a rack of bbq ribs. The crunch of the cabbage and carrots plays perfectly against the tenderness of the ribs. To make a great coleslaw for ribs:

• Shred or chop green and red cabbage, carrots, onions and other vegetables. Consider adding some kale or broccoli slaw mix for color and extra nutrition.
• Toss the veggies with a dressing of mayo, sour cream, or yogurt tangy vinegar, mustard, salt, pepper and a bit of sugar. Let the slaw chill to let the flavors meld.
• Just before serving, stir in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives or dill. The fresh flavor brightens up the creamy slaw.

Corn on the Cob

What is more summery than fresh, sweet corn on the cob? The simplicity of the corncomplements the saucy ribs.

• Husk the corn and remove the silk just before cooking.
• Boil the corn for 5-7 minutes until tender. Another fun way to cook it is to grill the corn in its husk directly on a medium grill for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.
• Brush on some butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper or barbecue dry rub.

Baked Beans

Sweet, smoky baked beans are another classic partner for bbq ribs. Choose your favorite variety or make your own from scratch. Some great additions to homemade baked beans include crumbled bacon, molasses, mustard, chopped onions, brown sugar, ketchup and barbecue sauce. Smoke the beans or cook them slowly in a pot on your grill to infuse them with that perfect barbecue flavor.

Macaroni and Cheese

A rich, cheesy macaroni and cheese casserole adds comfort and satisfaction alongside saucy ribs. Make it extra decadent by using smoked gouda or cheddar, stirring in crisped bacon bits, or topping with toasted breadcrumbs. Bake the mac and cheese in a pan on your grill while the ribs cook.

Potato Salad

Creamy potato salad is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Most recipes start with diced boiled potatoes and chopped vegetables like celery, onions, pickles and hard-boiled eggs. Toss the veggies with a creamy dressing made with mayo, mustard, vinegar, salt and pepper. Chill the salad before serving alongside your hot ribs. Add some extra interest by using a mixture of red and yellow potatoes or throwing in some chopped bacon.

Collard Greens

Slowly cooked, seasoned greens are a soul food staple and a tasty way to get your veggies. Collards, kale, turnip greens, spinach or a mix all pair well with bbq ribs. Simply cook the greens down with smoked ham hocks or turkey wings until tender, then season with vinegar, hot sauce, garlic and spices. They’re a nutritious side that offsets the richness of the ribs.

Grilled Vegetables

For a lighter option, grill up a medley of seasonal vegetables. Try thick slices of zucchini, yellow squash, bell peppers, eggplant, sweet onions, mushrooms and cherry tomatoes. Toss them in olive oil, salt, pepper and herbs like thyme, rosemary or oregano. Grill the veggies in a basket, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and tender. Their bright flavors and colors liven up a rib plate.

Dinner Rolls

Warm, soft rolls or biscuits round out your barbecue meal. They’re perfect for sopping up extra sauce and provide a tasty carb alongside all those delicious sides. Make them extra special with ingredients like cheese, herbs, garlic or jalapenos baked right in. Or brush melted butter on top just before serving for an extra touch of richness.

Adult Beverages

It’s tough to beat an ice-cold beer as the beverage of choice for barbecue ribs. Cold brews like lagers, pilsners, pale ales and wheat beers all make fantastic pairings. For wines, try zinfandel, syrah, sangiovese or champagne. And don’t forget a pitcher of margaritas, mint juleps, sangria or your favorite summer cocktail to sip along with the ribs!

With so many incredible options, it can be challenging to narrow down your choices to the perfect rib plate pairings. While you really can’t go wrong, focus on creating a balance of flavors, colors and textures. Choose a few tried-and-true classics like baked beans and coleslaw, then round it out with lighter options like corn, a bright salad or fresh grilled veggies. Don’t be afraid to also throw in a wild card like mac and cheese or collard greens to change things up. The right combination of sides will take your bbq ribs from simple to spectacular!

FAQ About Sides for BBQ Ribs

Bbq ribs are always a crowd-pleaser, but the right sides can take them over the top. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about choosing fantastic sides for your next rib cookout:

What are the best classic sides to serve with bbq ribs?

Some can’t-miss classic pairings include:

• Coleslaw – The tanginess cuts through the richness of the ribs.
• Corn on the cob – Grilled or boiled, the sweet corn complements the saucy ribs.
• Baked beans – Sweet, smoky and saucy beans are a perfect match.
• Potato salad – Cool, creamy potatoes offset the hot ribs.
• Dinner rolls – Soft rolls are ideal for sopping up extra sauce.

What are some creative options beyond the classics?

Try these for something new:

• Macaroni and cheese – Cheesy and decadent.
• Collard greens – Savory and nutritious.
• Grilled veggies – Bright flavors and colors.
• Watermelon salad – For a fresh take on slaw.
• Pasta salad – With veggies, cheese and vinaigrette.

What sides pair well with spicy ribs?

Cooling choices help balance the heat:

• Coleslaw or broccoli slaw
• Potato salad
• Pasta salad
• Corn on the cob
• Watermelon slices

What goes well with dry rub or Memphis style ribs?

Sides that complement (not compete with) the ribs:

• Baked beans
• Collard greens
• Mac and cheese
• Mashed potatoes
• Grilled veggies

What are good keto/low carb sides for ribs?

Some keto-friendly options:

• Cauliflower mash instead of potatoes
• Grilled zucchini or squash instead of corn
• Kale or spinach salad
• Veggie kabobs
• Cucumber salad

What are easy sides to make for a crowd?

Quick and easy picks:

• Pasta salad
• Dinner rolls
• Corn on the cob
• Store-bought coleslaw
• Grilled veggies
• Watermelon slices

The possibilities are endless when cooking up sides to complement your slabs of saucy, tender ribs. Try a mix of classic and creative choices and you can’t go wrong!

Conclusion

Great ribs deserve great side dishes. With so many options, from traditional favorites like coleslaw and baked beans to creative choices like mac and cheese and grilled veggies, you’re sure to find the perfect combinations to complement your barbecue ribs. Pay attention to flavors, textures, colors and ease of preparation. And don’t be afraid to try new side dish recipes along with your standbys to liven up your next rib cookout. Well-chosen sides will make your bbq ribs the star of the show, ensuring happy guests and delicious summertime memories.