15 Lip-Smacking Side Dishes for BBQ Ribs

I’m excited to share one of my favorite recipes and all-time crowd-pleasers: BBQ ribs. 

You know, those finger-licking, mouthwatering, fall-off-the-bone ribs make every gathering memorable, from New Year’s to Christmas! 

Nothing beats grilling BBQ ribs with friends or family in the backyard, creating unforgettable memories.

BBQ ribs are the show’s star, but let’s not forget the side dishes! 

These tasty accompaniments will elevate your BBQ ribs experience, turning your conversations with loved ones even juicier. 

So, let’s dive into my top 15 side dishes for BBQ ribs that’ll make your meals unforgettable, from scrumptious veggie dishes to fruity delights:

1. Classic Coleslaw

You can’t go wrong with a classic coleslaw. It balances the rich, smoky flavors of your BBQ ribs with the crunch of the cabbage and carrots and a tangy, creamy dressing. I love how easy it is to make this recipe, and you can customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices.

2. Cornbread

Cornbread is another BBQ staple with its slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture. This recipe is a breeze to make, and the result is a warm, comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with your ribs. Add some jalapeños or cheese to the mix to boost the flavor.

3. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is a summer favorite. It brings out the natural sweetness of the corn while adding a delicious smoky flavor. This recipe features garlic butter, fresh lime, and cotija cheese for an irresistible combination that will have your guests raving. Plus, grilling the corn along with the ribs saves time. Everything stays hot and ready to serve.

4. Baked Beans

A hearty serving of baked beans is a must at any BBQ. This recipe has a sweet, smoky flavor that perfectly complements the BBQ ribs. The brown sugar, molasses, and bacon add richness and depth. This side dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

5. Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious, macaroni and cheese is a comfort food that goes hand-in-hand with BBQ ribs. A combination of sharp cheddar and gruyere cheeses makes this recipe easy to make and extra special. For a crunchy finish, you can even sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top.

6. Collard Greens

A nutritious and flavorful addition to your BBQ feast, collard greens are a Southern classic. This recipe is a delicious way to enjoy these leafy greens with bacon, onion, and garlic. They are the perfect accompaniment to your tender ribs with their savory flavors and tender texture.

7. Potato Salad

Potato salad is a timeless side dish. It’s the perfect accompaniment to BBQ ribs. This old-fashioned recipe envelops tender potatoes, crunchy celery, and tangy onions in a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a versatile dish that can be made ahead of time and is easy to customize with the ingredients of your choice.

8. Grilled Asparagus

This simple yet delicious grilled asparagus recipe will add a new freshness to your meal. An ideal accompaniment to barbecued ribs, the charred, smoky flavor brings out the natural sweetness of the asparagus. All you need to finish this tasty veggie is a little lemon zest and a drizzle of olive oil.

9. Southern Style Green Beans

A savory and satisfying addition to your BBQ ribs, these slow-cooked green beans are seasoned with bacon and onion. The recipe is easy to prepare, resulting in a tender, flavorful side dish that will have your guests return for seconds.

10. Corn and Tomato Salad

This refreshing corn and tomato salad celebrates the flavors of summer. This recipe combines sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fresh basil for a delightful flavor. Perfect with smoky BBQ ribs, the light vinaigrette dressing enhances the ingredients’ natural flavors.

11. Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salad is another classic side dish perfect for barbecues and cookouts. This recipe features tender pasta, crunchy vegetables, and hard-boiled eggs tossed in a creamy dressing with a hint of heat. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to customize.

12. Jalapeño Cheddar Corn Muffins

Spice up your side dish game with these Jalapeño Cheddar Corn Muffins. A delicious pairing with BBQ ribs, this recipe adds a kick of heat and a burst of cheesy goodness to traditional corn muffins. Serve these hot, and watch them disappear!

13. Creamy Cucumber Salad

This creamy cucumber salad offers a cool, refreshing contrast to the bold flavors of your BBQ ribs. Perfect for hot summer days, the combination of crisp cucumber slices, tangy sour cream dressing, and a hint of dill makes for a light and delicious side dish. Plus, it gives you more time to focus on those tasty ribs because it’s quick and easy to make.

14. Broccoli Salad

This Broccoli Salad will add color, crunch, and flavor to your BBQ rib feast. It’s a nutritious side dish your guests will love, loaded with fresh broccoli, raisins, sunflower seeds, and crispy bacon. Everything is tied together beautifully by the sweet and tangy dressing.

15. Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes are a rich and creamy side dish. They’re perfect for soaking up all that delicious BBQ sauce from your ribs. In this recipe, the bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese come together to create a heavenly combination that will impress. Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives to make it even more indulgent.

So, there you have it, folks! 

My top 15 side dishes to accompany your mouthwatering BBQ ribs. 

Mix and match these delicious options to create the perfect feast year-round.