Franchise Innovation Awards 2025: Celebrating the Most Disruptive Brands

When people talk about [legendary barbecue,](https://finance.yahoo.com/news/dickeys-barbecue-honors-84-years-164600133.html) the first thing they bring up is the brisket, ribs, sausage, or pulled pork. But any true pitmaster will tell you the truth: your sides can make or break the meal. They set the tone, balance the richness, and take a plate from good to unforgettable.


Below are the five must-have barbecue sides, why they work, the variations people crave, and how to serve them like a pro.


## Mac & Cheese: The Creamy Classic

Few things pair with smoked meats as beautifully as a warm, velvety bowl of mac and cheese. It is comfort food at its best and a universal favorite across all ages.


**Why it works**

· The richness of melted cheese cuts through smoky proteins.

· Its soft texture balances brisket bark or sausage snap.

· Familiar, nostalgic, and filling.


**A Homemade Recipe Variation to Try**

To elevate your mac and cheese, try a combination of cheddar, Gouda, and cream cheese for depth. Add smoked paprika for subtle BBQ harmony and finish with a toasted breadcrumb topping for crunch. For a bold twist, fold in roasted jalapeños or crispy bacon.


## Coleslaw: The Fresh, Crunchy Balance


Coleslaw is the unsung hero of barbecue meals. It is refreshing, bright, and exactly what heavy smoked meats need to stay balanced.


**Vinegar vs. Creamy Slaw**


Vinegar slaw offers tanginess and crunch that pairs perfectly with pulled pork or fatty brisket.

Creamy slaw brings richness and sweetness that complements smoked chicken or spicy sausage.


**Perfect Pairings**

· Vinegar slaw with pulled pork sandwiches and brisket plates

· Creamy slaw with smoked turkey and sausage links


**Make Ahead Tips**


Prep vegetables early, but wait to dress the slaw until one to two hours before serving. Keep it chilled until ready to plate to maintain crisp texture.


## Baked Beans: Sweet, Smoky, and Satisfying


A staple across barbecue regions, baked beans add warmth and sweetness that work beautifully with every smoke-kissed protein.


**What Makes Good BBQ Beans**

· A balance of sweet molasses or brown sugar

· Tang from mustard or apple cider vinegar

· Slow simmering until thick, rich, and caramelized


**Flavorful Add Ins**


· Brisket trimmings for extra smoke

· Bacon for salty depth

· Jalapeños for heat

· Onions and garlic for savoriness


These additions turn a simple side into a standout dish.


## Potato Salad: A Reliable Crowd Pleaser

Potato salad is a barbecue classic because it checks every box. It is creamy, hearty, and easy to scale for big gatherings.


**Southern Style vs. Mustard Style**


Southern style is mayonnaise based, mild, and creamy. Mustard style is tangy, brightly flavored, and bold.


**How to Keep Potato Salad Cold at Events**


· Place your serving bowl inside a larger bowl filled with ice.

· Keep it covered when not serving.

· Refresh the ice every 30 to 45 minutes.


Food safety matters, especially with dairy based dishes.


## Texas Toast or Cornbread: Essential for Soaking Up the Good Stuff


A BBQ meal without bread is like a grill without fire. Bread brings balance, texture, and practicality.


**Serving Recommendations**

· Texas toast: thick cut, buttered, and toasted to golden perfection

· Cornbread: slightly sweet and crumbly, excellent with ribs and beans


**Why Bread Matters in BBQ**

· Soaks up sauces and juices

· Adds a neutral, starchy counterpoint to smoky flavors

· Helps round out plates for gatherings or events


**Bonus: How to Build the Perfect BBQ Plate**


Even the best smoked meats need thoughtful pairing.


**Protein and Sides Ratio**


A balanced plate includes:

· One to two proteins

· Two to three sides

· One bread option


This keeps the meal satisfying without overwhelming the palate.


**Tips for Catering Events**


· Include at least one creamy side like mac and cheese or potato salad.

· Include at least one fresh or acidic side like coleslaw or pickles.

· Prepare servings in advance to keep the line moving.

· Label dishes clearly for dietary considerations.


[Barbecue](dickeys.com) may start with great meat, but it is the sides that turn a plate into an experience. The right combination brings balance, contrast, and comfort, honoring regional traditions while allowing room for creativity. Whether you are hosting a backyard cookout or planning a large gathering, pairing smoky proteins with thoughtful, well-prepared sides ensures every bite feels complete. A memorable BBQ is never just about the star of the show. It is about the harmony of every flavor on the plate.

The 5 Side Dishes That Make or Break a BBQ

CEO Magazine: Secret Sauce: Laura Rea Dickey & Roland Dickey Jr

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Recognized by Chefs as a Top BBQ Spot

*Beloved barbecue restaurant dishes out berry sweet deal for fans on Friday, Feb. 27* 


Friday just got a whole lot sweeter! [Dickey’s Barbecue Pit](https://www.dickeys.com/) is bringing fans a deal as sweet as the fruit itself **on Friday, Feb. 27 by offering a FREE scoop of [Miss Ollie’s Secret Strawberry Ice Cream](https://www.dickeys.com/menu/everyday/new-arrivals/miss-ollies-secret-strawberry-ice-cream)** cup with **the purchase of any Classic Sandwich or new Smoke & Cheddar sandwich** in celebration of [National Strawberry Day](https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-day/national-strawberry-day-february-27).
 

Available at participating Dickey’s restaurants across the U.S., this berry barbecue bargain is redeemable for Big Yellow Cup rewards members using the Dickey’s app from the [Apple App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dickeys-barbecue-pit/id1288151925?mt=8) or [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.olodickeysapp). To score the free sweet treat, simply add both items to your cart and redeem at checkout to enjoy a refreshing strawberry dessert with the purchase of any classic sandwich including Brisket, Pulled Pork, Smoked Chicken Breast, Polish Kielbasa Sausage, Jalapeño Cheddar Kielbasa Sausage, or Crispy Chicken, all served on a warm garlic butter-toasted Brioche bun or with the purchase of a new [Smoke & Cheddar](https://www.dickeys.com/menu/everyday/new-arrivals/smoked-ham-cheddar-sandwich) sandwich featuring smoked ham and cheddar cheese sauce. 



“Ice Cream is a part of our menu heritage here at Dickey’s. We’re thrilled to bring back Miss Ollie’s Strawberry ice cream for our 85th anniversary year. We’re excited for folks to enjoy a free scoop with their sandwich on National Strawberry Day,” said [Laura Rea Dickey](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPIr7mbV6DY), CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. “It’s serendipitous that such a sweet holiday is falling on such a sweet day of the week and we’re excited to bring our fans one more reason to smile heading into the weekend.”
 

 

Guests looking to take advantage of the one-day-only offer can join Big Yellow Cup Rewards through the Dickey’s app while also unlocking exclusive perks year-round, including members-only promotions, surprise birthday treats and points earned on every purchase that can be redeemed for future savings. Signing up is free and gives fans access to special offers like this one just in time to make National Strawberry Day even sweeter. 

 

Limit one (1) redemption per transaction. Offer not valid in combination with any other discounts, promotions or offers. To learn more, follow Dickey’s on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/dickeysbarbecuepit/), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/dickeysbarbecuepit/). Download the[ Dickey’s Barbecue Pit app](https://www.dickeys.com/promos/check-the-app) from the [Apple App Store](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dickeys-barbecue-pit/id1288151925?mt=8) or [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.olodickeysapp). 


## About Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. 

Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., the world’s largest barbecue concept, was founded in 1941 by World War I Veteran, Travis Dickey. For the past 85 years, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit has served millions of guests *Legit. Texas. Barbecue™* alongside their iconic Big Yellow Cup. The Dallas-based, family-founded barbecue franchise serves slow-smoked meats and home-style sides with 'No B.S. (Bad Stuff)' included for dine-in, drive-thru (select locations) and pick-up ‘Cue the catering experts at Dickey’s by dialing the Catering Hotline at [+1-866-227-2328](tel:+18662272328) or visiting Dickey’s website to order or get a quote. For more information, visit [www.dickeys.com](http://www.dickeys.com/).

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Recognized by Chefs as a Top BBQ Spot

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