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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 for Massive BBQ Samplers

*Texas-style barbecue restaurant offers BOGO deal Feb 14-15 on new Smoked Ham & Cheddar Sandwich* 

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, the world’s largest barbecue concept is celebrating the season of love by unveiling a brand-new [Smoked Ham & Cheddar](https://www.dickeys.com/menu/everyday/new-arrivals/smoked-ham-cheddar-sandwich) Sandwich just in time for Valentine’s Day. 

Guests can bring their barbecue sweetheart or Galentine to Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Feb. 14-15 and receive a free Smoked Ham & Cheddar sandwich with the purchase of one Smoked Ham & Cheddar sandwich. 

The new [Smoked Ham & Cheddar](https://www.dickeys.com/menu/everyday/new-arrivals/smoked-ham-cheddar-sandwich) sandwich pays homage to the brand's rich heritage. When Dickey's first opened its doors in Dallas, Texas, 85 years ago, a smoked ham sandwich was among the original menu items. This modern interpretation features tender, slow-smoked ham piled high and topped with smoked cheddar cheese sauce, honoring the traditions that have made Dickey's the barbecue destination for generations. 

"For 85 years, we’ve been bringing folks together over great barbecue, and we know that the best meals are the ones shared," said [Laura Rea Dickey](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n7gaDKwS_zg), CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. "With our '**Cheddar Together' BOGO offer**, we’re tipping our hat to our original 1941 menu while giving our guests a perfect excuse to grab a partner and celebrate 'For the Love of 'Cue'." 

To redeem the offer in-store, guests can mention the promotion at checkout. Online orders can use **promo code LOVECUE** at dickeys.com on **February 14 and 15, 2026**. 

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 Travis Dickey. For the past 85 years, [Dickey’s](https://www.dallasnews.com/food/restaurant-news/2025/06/08/dickeys-barbecue-pit-locations-franchise/) Barbecue Pit has served millions of guests with Legit. Texas. Barbecue™, slow-smoked meats, savory sides, and the iconic Big Yellow Cup. The Dallas-based family-run barbecue franchise offers several slow-smoked meats and home-style sides with 'No B.S. (Bad Stuff)' included. 
For more information, visit [www.dickeys.com](http://www.dickeys.com/).

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