When it comes to great BBQ, it is not just about the smoked brisket, ribs, or pulled pork—the right side dishes can elevate your meal to a whole new level. Whether you love classic BBQ sides like mac and cheese or coleslaw, or want something more unique, the right pairings bring out the rich, smoky flavors of your meats.
At John Mulls Road Kill Grill, we know that BBQ sides are just as important as the meat, and we take pride in serving up some of the best BBQ sides in Las Vegas. In this guide, we will break down the best side dishes to pair with your smoked meats, whether you are dining in, catering a BBQ event, or cooking at home.
1. Why Sides Matter in a BBQ Meal
A perfectly cooked brisket or rack of ribs is full of smoky, savory flavor, but the right sides add:
Balance – Sweet, creamy, or tangy sides contrast with the rich, smoky meats.
Texture – Crispy, creamy, and crunchy sides add variety.
Completeness – A BBQ meal is not just about the meat; sides turn it into a full experience.
Pro Tip: If you are serving spicy BBQ, go with creamy or sweet sides to balance the heat.
2. Classic BBQ Sides That Pair Perfectly with Smoked Meats
The best BBQ restaurants, including John Mulls Road Kill Grill, serve a variety of classic Southern sides that enhance the flavors of slow-smoked meats.
1. Mac and Cheese – The Ultimate Comfort Food
Creamy, cheesy, and rich, mac and cheese is the perfect balance to smoky BBQ.
Best with brisket, ribs, or pulled pork.
Can be baked for a crispy, golden crust or kept creamy for extra richness.
Pro Tip: Add bacon or jalapenos for an extra kick.
2. Coleslaw – The Perfect Crunchy Contrast
Cool, crisp, and slightly tangy, coleslaw cuts through the richness of BBQ meats.
Works well with pulled pork sandwiches and smoked chicken.
Can be vinegar-based (tangy) or mayo-based (creamy).
Pro Tip: For Carolina-style BBQ, use vinegar slaw to balance the smoky-sweet flavors.
3. Baked Beans – A Smoky, Sweet BBQ Essential
Slow-cooked with brown sugar, molasses, and smoked bacon.
Perfect with brisket, ribs, or pulled pork.
Adds a sweet, smoky, and savory flavor to balance rich meats.
Pro Tip: Smoked brisket burnt ends make the best baked beans even better.
4. Cornbread – A Classic Southern BBQ Side
Slightly sweet, buttery, and crumbly, cornbread pairs well with smoky meats.
Best with ribs, brisket, and smoked sausage.
Can be served plain, honey-drizzled, or with jalapenos for heat.
Pro Tip: Use buttermilk cornbread for a softer, richer texture.
5. Potato Salad – Creamy and Delicious
Rich, creamy, and slightly tangy, potato salad cools down spicy BBQ.
Great with smoked chicken, ribs, or brisket.
Classic versions include mustard-based or mayo-based dressing.
Pro Tip: Add smoked paprika or crispy bacon for extra flavor.
3. Unique BBQ Sides to Try in Las Vegas
Looking for something different from the usual BBQ sides? These unique pairings will elevate your BBQ experience.
6. Smoked Gouda Grits – A Rich and Creamy Southern Favorite
Perfectly creamy with a smoky, cheesy flavor.
Pairs well with brisket, ribs, or smoked turkey.
A great alternative to mac and cheese.
Pro Tip: Add roasted garlic or butter for even more richness.
7. Grilled Street Corn – A Mexican-Inspired BBQ Side
Sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy, with a creamy cheese topping.
Great with smoked pork, brisket, or grilled chicken.
Usually topped with mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime.
Pro Tip: Use smoked paprika instead of chili powder for a deep, smoky taste.
8. Fried Green Tomatoes – A Crispy Southern Twist
Crispy, tangy, and slightly salty, perfect for balancing smoky meats.
Best with pulled pork or smoked chicken.
Served with spicy aioli or ranch dressing.
Pro Tip: Pair with pimento cheese for an extra Southern touch.
9. BBQ Deviled Eggs – A Smoky Spin on a Classic
Traditional deviled eggs with a smoky BBQ twist.
Works well as an appetizer or side dish.
Often topped with crispy bacon or smoked paprika.
Pro Tip: Mix in chopped brisket for an even more BBQ-packed bite.
4. Best Side Dishes for Different Smoked Meats
Not sure which sides go best with your BBQ meat choice? Here is a quick guide:
| Meat | Best Sides |
| Brisket | Mac and cheese, baked beans, cornbread |
| Pulled Pork | Coleslaw, potato salad, grilled corn |
| Ribs | Baked beans, cornbread, smoked gouda grits |
| Smoked Chicken | Potato salad, fried green tomatoes, BBQ deviled eggs |
| Smoked Sausage | Mac and cheese, grilled street corn, coleslaw |
Pro Tip: A balanced BBQ plate should have one creamy side, one crunchy side, and one sweet or smoky side.
Conclusion: Perfecting Your BBQ Meal with the Right Sides
Mac and cheese, coleslaw, and baked beans are must-haves for classic BBQ pairings.
Smoked gouda grits, grilled corn, and fried green tomatoes add a unique twist.
Pick your sides based on your BBQ meat for the perfect balance of flavors.
At John Mulls Road Kill Grill, we serve the best BBQ and homemade sides in Las Vegas. Whether you are looking for classic comfort food or unique flavors, we have got you covered.
Visit us today for the best BBQ sides in Las Vegas!