Brisket and ribs generally command center stage on the plate, but all that fatty, smoky meat needs the tartness of coleslaw or a slightly sweet serving of pinto beans to round out the experience. Here are our top 10 barbecue sides, from classic to modern takes.
1. Mac ’n Cheese
Pecan Lodge
A creamy cheese blend is mixed with macaroni and topped with bacon.
2. Pea Salad
The Slow Bone
This cold salad combines peas, onions, and cubes of cheddar cheese.
3. Cheesy Squash Casserole
Peggy Sue BBQ
Yellow squash and sweet corn are baked in this traditional Southern side.
4. Texas Twinkie
Hutchins BBQ
A jalapeño is stuffed with cream cheese and fatty brisket, wrapped in thick-cut bacon, and slathered with a sweet glaze.
5. Hominy
Lockhart Smokehouse (Dallas location)
Whole hominy kernels are livened up with house-smoked brisket and blue cheese.
6. Coleslaw
Pecan Lodge
Red and green cabbage get a kick from spicy mayonnaise.
7. Spicy 3-Meat Charro Beans
Off the Bone Barbeque
Firm beans come in a rich broth seasoned with fresh cilantro and meat trimmings.
8. Greens
Top 5 BBQ
Collard greens are cooked until wilted with onion and vinegar, and then topped with a secret seasoning.
9. Brussels Sprouts and Cauliflower Gratin
The Slow Bone
Vegetable chunks are baked in cream and topped with seasoned bread crumbs.
10. Ranch Potato Salad
Lakewood Smokehouse
Rooster potatoes are tossed with mayonnaise, green onions, bacon, and a special spice mix.
