Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply have a hankering for a warm, delicious dish, barbecue is the perfect dinner choice. Of course, you’ll need to complete your meal with the ideal side items. With so many different options, selecting just one or two can be a challenge. Here are some of the best sides to top off your meal.

5 Best Sides for Barbecue

1. Cornbread

What better way to complement barbecue than with fluffy, delicate cornbread? Some diners like to let their cornbread soak up a good amount of barbecue sauce, while others prefer to coat it in butter. No matter how you eat it, this side is the designated bread of barbecue, and for good reason.

2. Potato Salad

It’s not a barbecue without a special recipe potato salad, so make sure to order up. Made with a variety of sauces, spices, vegetables, and of course, potatoes, this is a classic side item that brings back the taste of home.

3. Mac & Cheese

Although mac & cheese is often associated with kids, adults should never shy away from this side. The smooth, creamy cheese balances out the savory spice of barbecue, making them the ideal pairing. It’s a dish the whole family can enjoy.

4. Barbecue Beans

Another backyard BBQ classic, baked beans deserve a spot on your plate. Forget the plain and tasteless image beans are often given. Despite the relatively simple recipe, barbecue beans pack a lot of flavor and blend well with slow-smoked meat.

5. Fried Okra

Fried okra isn’t quite as common to the barbecue scene, but it’s a tasty addition nonetheless. These crisp veggies are lightly breaded and seasoned, then fried to perfection. A favorite in the South, fried okra has rolled its way north to take its rightful place by your barbecue.

Craving authentic Texas-style barbecue to pair with these sides? Head over to Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Clermont County, OH. Mix and match your meal with eight mouthwatering signature meats and over 15 side items. Hosting a party or event soon? They offer made-to-order catering, where your food is delivered hot and ready. Check out their menu online or call (513) 802-2700 to speak with a friendly staff member.