There is perhaps no other type of homestyle cooking as quintessentially American — or uniquely delicious — as barbecue. Barbecue is most satisfying when it's served with a variety of equally tasty side dishes, which enhance the flavor of the meat and provide a perfect counterpoint to the richness of the sauce. Below, a few of these sides are discussed in more detail.

What Are the Best Side Dishes to Serve With Barbecue?

1. Potato Salad

When it first came to the New World in the 16th century, the typical potato salad involved ingredients like vinegar and wine. But over the years, potato salad has become as much a part of the country's fabric as other kinds of homestyle cooking, including apple pie and meatloaf. Instead of the heaviness of those first potato salads, the American version features a mustard or mayonnaise base that pairs well with barbecue. The tanginess and spice of the barbecue sauce are offset by the cool creaminess of the potato salad, making for an excellent balance of both flavor and texture.

2. Slaw

White or red cabbage slaw adds a nice crunch and acidic bite to a barbecue dish. Both vinegar- and mayonnaise-based coleslaws pair nicely with barbecue. While most types of slaw have a natural sweetness because of the cabbage, some recipes take that taste to the next level with the addition of apple, pineapple, or raisins. Whether it falls on the sweeter side or the savory side, cabbage slaw is an outstanding accompaniment to a barbecue dish.

3. Macaroni & Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is a staple of homestyle cooking, with its velvety rich sauce and starchy noodles, making it the perfect addition to a barbecue meal. Plus, everything tastes better with cheese. Traditional options like cheddar and American cheese are dependable options for a delectable side dish, but any kind of cheese matches beautifully with macaroni — and with barbecue.

These are just a few of the side dishes that will take your barbecue experience to the next level. Carter Brothers Barbecue Ribs & Catering is proud to serve delectable homestyle cooking to hungry patrons throughout Guilford County, NC. Since 1997, they’ve been serving up mouthwatering cuisine both at their restaurant and through their catering service. Their menu includes all of the above sides and many more. Call (336) 869-9948 to speak with a member of the team or visit them online to learn about pricing.