Pulled pork sandwiches are the star of many cookouts, family gatherings, and backyard barbecues. Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, they pair perfectly with an array of side dishes that elevate the meal to a whole new level. From classic southern-style staples to fresh and healthy options, the possibilities are endless. In this guide, we’ll explore the best sides to serve with pulled pork sandwiches, offering ideas to suit every palate. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or craving comfort food, these side dishes will leave everyone coming back for more.
1: Classic Sides for Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Coleslaw Variations
No pulled pork sandwich is complete without coleslaw! This tangy, crunchy addition balances the richness of the pork beautifully. Creamy coleslaw, made with a mayo-based dressing, is a timeless favorite that adds a smooth, luscious texture. For those who prefer a lighter twist, vinegar-based coleslaw offers a zesty punch with a delightful crunch, complementing the smoky flavors of pulled pork.
Cornbread Options
Ah, cornbread a true southern gem. Whether you prefer it sweet or savory, it’s a natural partner for pulled pork sandwiches. Sweet cornbread, with a hint of honey or sugar, adds a touch of dessert-like indulgence to your plate. For a bold, spicy kick, jalapeño cornbread delivers the perfect blend of heat and sweetness, making it an irresistible choice for BBQ lovers.
2: Fresh and Healthy Side Options
When serving pulled pork sandwiches, balancing the richness of the pork with fresh and vibrant sides can create a delightful harmony. Here are some fresh and healthy options to round out your meal.
Salads to Complement Pulled Pork
A garden salad with vinaigrette is a light and crisp choice that adds a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors of pulled pork. Mix leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, then drizzle with a tangy vinaigrette for a zesty finish. For something even more summery, consider a cucumber and tomato salad, which blends juicy, ripe vegetables with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a splash of olive oil.
Vegetable Sides
Roasted vegetables are always a hit, and they’re one of the best sides to serve with pulled pork sandwiches. Roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers, seasoned with garlic and thyme, deliver a savory yet healthy option that complements the sandwich beautifully. If you prefer something simpler, try grilled asparagus—lightly charred and topped with a squeeze of lemon for a bright, citrusy twist.
Adding these fresh options to your table keeps the meal balanced and ensures there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s a vibrant salad or a plate of roasted veggies, these sides bring a wholesome touch to your BBQ spread.
3: Hearty Sides for Bigger Appetites
If you’re catering to guests with larger appetites, hearty sides are a must. These filling options are perfect for making your pulled pork meal extra satisfying.
Potato-Based Sides
Potatoes are versatile, making them one of the best sides to serve with pulled pork sandwiches. Baked potato wedges, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, are a great choice, especially when seasoned with paprika and garlic powder. For a creamier option, try loaded mashed potatoes topped with sour cream, shredded cheese, and crispy bacon bits.
Mac and Cheese Variations
Nothing screams comfort food like mac and cheese! A classic mac and cheese, with its gooey, cheesy sauce, is a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with pulled pork. For a BBQ-inspired twist, serve smoked mac and cheese, where the pasta is infused with a smoky flavor to complement the pork’s tenderness.
4: Southern-Style Favorites
When it comes to southern cuisine, there’s no shortage of rich, flavorful sides to complement pulled pork sandwiches. These classic dishes bring a taste of the South to your plate, creating a meal full of comfort and tradition.
Fried Options
Crispy, golden-brown fried green tomatoes are a must-try side dish for pulled pork sandwiches. Their slightly tart flavor, paired with a crunchy coating, makes them an exciting addition to any BBQ spread. Similarly, hush puppies—deep-fried balls of cornmeal batter—offer a savory, slightly sweet bite that’s perfect for dipping in barbecue sauce or ranch dressing.
Beans and Rice Combinations
Southern baked beans, cooked with brown sugar, bacon, and a hint of molasses, add a smoky-sweet complement to the bold flavors of pulled pork. For a heartier option, try red beans and rice, a Louisiana classic that combines creamy beans with perfectly seasoned rice. These dishes not only taste incredible but also pair beautifully with the tender meat of pulled pork sandwiches.
If you’re craving more southern-inspired recipes, check out the article How to Make Texas Trash Recipe for another delicious way to round out your meal.
5: Sweet Endings and Unique Pairings
Sweet Side Dishes
Sweet potato casserole, topped with a crunchy layer of pecans and brown sugar, is one of the best sides to serve with pulled pork sandwiches. It’s a delightful mix of creamy, sweet, and nutty flavors that work perfectly alongside the smoky meat. Another sweet option is honey butter biscuits, which are soft, fluffy, and coated with a sweet glaze, making them impossible to resist.
Creative Pairings
For a tangy and spicy twist, try pickled vegetables like pickled onions or cucumbers. Their acidity cuts through the richness of pulled pork, adding a refreshing contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, spicy jalapeño poppers, stuffed with cream cheese and wrapped in bacon, bring a bold, fiery flavor that BBQ fans will love.
6: International Side Dishes
Pulled pork sandwiches might have their roots in American barbecue, but pairing them with international sides can add a unique, flavorful twist to your meal. These global-inspired dishes are some of the best sides to serve with pulled pork sandwiches, offering a fusion of tastes that will wow your guests.
Asian-Inspired Sides
For a refreshing and crunchy option, sesame noodles are a great choice. Tossed in a savory sauce with sesame oil, soy, and a hint of garlic, these noodles offer a delightful contrast to the smoky, tender pork. Another standout is kimchi slaw, which combines the spicy tang of fermented vegetables with the crunch of fresh cabbage. It’s a bold, vibrant side that pairs beautifully with barbecue.
Mexican-Inspired Sides
Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a showstopper. Grilled corn slathered in mayo, cotija cheese, and chili powder delivers a smoky, spicy, and creamy bite that complements pulled pork sandwiches perfectly. If you’re looking for something lighter, black bean salad, made with fresh cilantro, lime juice, and diced vegetables, is a zesty, protein-packed side that everyone will enjoy.
These international dishes will bring exciting new flavors to your table, making your BBQ spread unforgettable.
7: Beverage Pairings to Elevate the Meal
No meal is complete without the right beverages, and pulled pork sandwiches are no exception. Pairing your meal with the perfect drink can enhance the flavors of the best sides to serve with pulled pork sandwiches and take your BBQ to the next level.
Refreshing Drinks
For non-alcoholic options, lemonade and iced tea are classics. Their sweet and tangy notes provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and smoky flavors of pulled pork. If you want something fizzy, sparkling water with lime is a light, palate-cleansing option that pairs well with any side.
Alcoholic Pairings
For those who enjoy adult beverages, craft beer, particularly IPAs or lagers, are excellent companions to barbecue. The carbonation and bitterness of beer cut through the richness of pulled pork and creamy sides. If you prefer cocktails, sweet whiskey sours or fruity mojitos add a bright, fun element to the meal.
8: FAQs About Sides for Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Every great BBQ comes with questions about what to serve. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about the best sides to serve with pulled pork sandwiches to make your planning easier.
What Are the Best Make-Ahead Sides for Pulled Pork Sandwiches?
Make-ahead sides save time and reduce stress on the day of your event. Options like creamy coleslaw, potato salad, and baked beans can be prepared a day or two in advance. These dishes often taste even better after sitting, as the flavors meld together over time.
Can I Serve Cold Sides with Hot Pulled Pork Sandwiches?
Absolutely! In fact, cold sides like vinegar-based coleslaw or cucumber salad provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, smoky pork. This balance of temperatures enhances the meal’s overall enjoyment and keeps your guests coming back for more.
What Is a Good Vegan Side Option for Pulled Pork Sandwiches?
Vegan options ensure everyone at your table feels included. Roasted vegetables, grilled corn on the cob, or a hearty bean salad are excellent plant-based choices that pair wonderfully with pulled pork sandwiches.
These answers should help you confidently choose the right sides for any occasion, ensuring your BBQ spread is a hit!
9: Final Tips for Creating the Perfect BBQ Spread
Crafting an unforgettable BBQ spread involves more than just cooking up juicy pulled pork sandwiches. The sides you serve can elevate the meal, creating a perfect harmony of flavors, textures, and styles. With a thoughtful approach, you can ensure every guest leaves happy and satisfied.
Mix and Match Textures and Flavors
When choosing sides, aim for variety. The contrast between rich and light dishes, or creamy and crunchy textures, keeps the meal interesting. For example, pairing creamy mac and cheese with vinegar-based coleslaw balances indulgence with tangy freshness. Similarly, loaded baked potato wedges provide a hearty, crispy element that complements the smoky softness of pulled pork.
To add a touch of sweetness, include dishes like sweet potato casserole or honey butter biscuits. These options help balance the savory, sometimes spicy, flavors of barbecue. If you want a tangy kick, incorporate pickled vegetables, which not only cleanse the palate but also add visual appeal to your table with their vibrant colors.
Offer Seasonal and Fresh Options
The season can inspire your menu. In summer, grilled vegetables and cucumber salads bring freshness and vitality to the meal, showcasing seasonal produce at its peak. In cooler months, opt for comforting sides like roasted root vegetables or butternut squash soup, which offer warmth and richness.
Additionally, using fresh, high-quality ingredients enhances the flavors of even the simplest sides. A garden salad with fresh herbs and vinaigrette can stand out just as much as more complex dishes, provided it’s made with care.
Include Global Flavors for a Unique Touch
While classic Southern sides are a hit, don’t shy away from exploring international flavors. Global-inspired dishes like elote (Mexican street corn) or sesame noodles can add a fun twist to your BBQ spread. These sides not only introduce bold new tastes but also highlight how versatile pulled pork sandwiches can be when paired with different cuisines.
Another great option is kimchi slaw, which combines the crunch of traditional slaw with the spicy tang of Korean kimchi. This fusion of flavors provides a unique contrast to the smoky sweetness of the pork, making it one of the best sides to serve with pulled pork sandwiches if you’re looking to impress.
Ensure Variety and Inclusivity
An inclusive BBQ spread caters to all dietary preferences. Vegan-friendly sides like grilled asparagus, bean salads, or roasted sweet potatoes are delicious options that ensure everyone feels welcome at the table. Similarly, gluten-free dishes like cornbread made with gluten-free flour or fresh fruit salads can accommodate guests with dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
Offering a mix of cold, room-temperature, and hot sides also adds convenience. Guests can enjoy a plateful of options without worrying about dishes cooling off too quickly. For example, coleslaw, pickled vegetables, and mac and cheese maintain their appeal regardless of serving temperature.
Don’t Overlook the Small Details
Little details can make a big difference. Garnish your sides with fresh herbs, like parsley on mashed potatoes or cilantro on black bean salad, to add a pop of color and flavor. Serving sauces or dips, such as a spicy aioli for potato wedges or a tangy yogurt dressing for cucumber salad, can further elevate your dishes.
Additionally, consider how you’ll present your sides. Rustic serving bowls for hearty dishes and elegant platters for lighter options create a visually appealing table that feels both welcoming and special.
Plan for the Perfect Beverage Pairings
Pairing the right drinks with your sides and sandwiches can tie the whole meal together. Sweet iced tea and tangy lemonade are traditional crowd-pleasers, while craft beers and fruity sangrias add a more festive vibe for adult guests.