What to Serve with Pulled Pork Sandwiches: 30+ Side Dishes
If you’re looking for sides to serve pulled pork sandwiches, then you’re in the right place.
I’ve tried everything and found some great sides that will make your BBQ feast unforgettable.
These sides range from classic coleslaw to jalapeño poppers for a unique twist.
Let me share my favorite pairings that’ll have your guests asking for seconds!
What is a Pulled Pork Sandwich?
Picture this: tender, juicy pork shoulder slow-cooked until it falls apart, mixed with tangy BBQ sauce, and piled high on a soft bun. That’s the magic of a pulled pork sandwich! The meat gets its amazing flavor from hours of cooking low and slow, making it perfect for feeding hungry crowds.
What to Serve with Pulled Pork Sandwiches?
From classic barbecue sides to fresh salads, crunchy fried goodies, southern comfort dishes, and unique alternatives, these side dishes complement pulled pork sandwiches perfectly.
Classic BBQ Sides for Pulled Pork Sandwiches
These timeless BBQ companions have earned their spot next to pulled pork sandwiches through years of backyard cookouts and family gatherings.
- Classic Coleslaw: Your pulled pork sandwich needs this creamy, crunchy companion! I love how the cool, tangy slaw cuts through the rich meat. The mayo-based dressing adds moisture, while fresh cabbage and carrots bring the perfect crunch.
- Baked Beans: Sweet meets smoky in these crowd-pleasing beans! Brown sugar, bacon, and secret spices make them irresistible. The sauce gets thick and rich while cooking low and slow. These beans taste even better the next day!
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Summer BBQs aren’t complete without corn on the cob! Brush it with butter, sprinkle some spices, and let the grill work its magic. The smoky char adds amazing flavor. For more corn inspiration, check out our quick dinner ideas with corn on the cob.
- Cornbread: Nothing beats warm, buttery cornbread with pulled pork! I make mine with jalapeños and cheddar for an extra kick. The sweet-and-spicy combo is absolutely perfect.
- Potato Salad: Cool, creamy potato salad is BBQ royalty! My version includes crispy bacon bits, fresh herbs, and a secret splash of pickle juice. It’s the perfect make-ahead side that tastes even better the next day.
- Mac and Cheese: This creamy comfort food is a crowd-pleaser! The rich, cheesy pasta perfectly complements pulled pork’s smoky flavor. I add extra sharp cheddar for tang and breadcrumbs for crunch. Find more pairings in our side dishes for mac and cheese guide.
Light and Fresh Sides for Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Fresh, crisp sides balance the rich flavors of pulled pork perfectly. These lighter options add bright colors and refreshing tastes to your plate while keeping the meal from feeling too heavy.
- Tomato Cucumber Salad: Fresh chunks of garden tomatoes and crisp cucumbers shine in this summer delight! A splash of vinegar and herbs makes everything pop. The cool, refreshing crunch provides a perfect contrast to warm pulled pork. Looking for more fresh ideas? Check out our veggie salads without lettuce.
- Cabbage Salad: This tangy slaw alternative skips the mayo but keeps the crunch! Shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers get tossed in citrus dressing. Every bite brings zippy freshness to your sandwich.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, peppers, baby carrots and onions bring smoky sweetness! A brush of olive oil and herbs makes these veggies shine. The caramelized edges add amazing flavor depth.
- Green Salad with Vinaigrette: Simple mixed greens dressed in light vinaigrette refresh your taste buds! Crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices keep things light. The tangy dressing cuts through rich BBQ flavors perfectly.
- Oven Roasted Green Beans: Fresh green beans roasted until perfectly tender-crisp bring the garden fresh flavor! Olive oil and garlic create simple magic. These bright veggies add a healthy balance to pulled pork sandwiches.
- Shirazi Salad: This Persian salad recipe brings exotic flair to BBQ! Diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions dance in lime juice. Fresh herbs and a touch of olive oil make every bite sing.
- Classic Caesar Salad: One of my favorite salads that pairs with sandwiches! Crisp romaine meets creamy dressing in this crowd favorite! Crunchy croutons and parmesan add rich texture. Check out more sides for Caesar salad.
- Fruit Salad: Sweet, juicy fruit brings unexpected freshness! Mix seasonal favorites like watermelon, pineapple, and grapes. The natural sweetness balances smoky BBQ perfectly.
Crunchy and Fried Sides for Pulled Pork Sandwiches
When you want that satisfying crunch, these crispy sides deliver! From classic fries to unique fried pickles, these options add exciting texture and bold flavors to your pulled pork feast.
- Onion Rings: Golden, crispy rings with sweet onion centers make magic! The crunchy coating adds a fun texture to your plate. I love dipping them in tangy BBQ sauce or ranch.
- French Fries: Hot, crispy fries never disappoint as a BBQ buddy! Seasoned with salt and pepper, they’re perfect for sauce-dipping adventures. The potato-pork combo just works.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These orange beauties bring sweet-and-salty joy! Crispy outside, tender inside, with a natural sweetness that pops. A sprinkle of cinnamon makes them extra special.
- Tater Tots: Crispy potato bites bring fun to any plate! Air-fried or baked, they’re crowd-pleasers every time. The golden-brown exterior hides fluffy potato goodness inside.
- Zucchini Fritters: Fresh zucchini gets a crispy makeover in these gems! Herbs and parmesan add savory depth to each bite. They’re surprisingly light despite being fried.
- Fried Pickles: Tangy pickles in crispy coating create flavor fireworks! The salty-sour crunch perfectly balances rich pulled pork. Dip them in the ranch for an extra wow factor. Find dipping sauce for fried pickles.
- Potato Chips: Simple yet perfect, chips bring the crunch factor! Whether store-bought or homemade, they’re always welcome. The salty crispiness makes every sandwich better.
Southern Comfort Sides for Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Southern sides bring authentic comfort food flair to pulled pork sandwiches. These hearty dishes capture true BBQ tradition with their rich flavors and home-style preparation.
- Collard Greens: Tender greens slow-cooked with smoky ham hocks create pure comfort! The pot liquor adds amazing depth of flavor. These nutritious greens balance rich pulled pork perfectly.
- Hush Puppies: Golden cornmeal fritters bring Southern charm to any plate! Crispy outside, fluffy inside, with sweet oniony goodness. These little bites of joy are totally addictive.
- Creamed Corn: Sweet corn swimming in creamy, buttery sauce hits the spot! Fresh kernels and cream make this dish extra special. The natural corn sweetness shines through beautifully.
- Fried Okra: Crispy cornmeal-coated okra bites bring Southern magic! These crunchy morsels are totally pop-able. The light breading lets okra’s unique flavor shine.
- Corn Pudding: This creamy, custardy corn dish feels like a warm hug! Sweet corn kernels suspended in silky comfort. Every spoonful brings pure Southern satisfaction.
- Succotash: This is the perfect side dish for any meal! It easy veggie packed recipe that goes great with pulled pork. Try it out, you’ll be ready to enjoy a tasty and nutritious side.
Unique Side Dishes for Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Break away from traditional sides with these creative options! These unexpected pairings bring exciting flavors and textures that complement pulled pork in surprising ways.
- Jalapeño Poppers: Spicy jalapeños stuffed with creamy cheese bring the heat! The crispy coating adds a wonderful crunch. These little flavor bombs wake up your taste buds.
- Broccoli Grape Pasta Salad: Sweet grapes meet crisp broccoli in this unique pasta mix! Creamy dressing and crunchy nuts create texture magic.
- Potato Latkes: Crispy potato pancakes bring a golden crunch to pulled pork sandwiches! These hand-held treats feature grated potatoes and onions. When serving pulled pork sandwiches, latkes add delightful texture contrast.
- Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Crispy sprouts and smoky bacon make an unbeatable team! Caramelized edges add sweet notes to every bite. The bacon takes these sprouts to the next level.
- Deviled Eggs: Creamy, tangy filling in perfect egg white boats! These party favorites disappear in minutes. The smooth texture contrasts nicely with pulled pork.
- Purple Potato Salad: Vibrant purple spuds make this side Instagram-worthy! Creamy dressing and fresh herbs pop against the color. The earthy potato flavor stays classic and delicious.
Final Thoughts
Pulled pork sandwich sides can transform a simple sandwich into an unforgettable meal.
From classic coleslaw to unique options like jalapeño poppers, the right combination of sides creates perfect balance.
Mix crispy, creamy, and fresh sides for texture variety. Serve hot sides hot and cold sides chilled.
Consider making some sides ahead for easy entertaining. Remember that simple ingredients often make the best side dishes.
Whether serving a crowd or planning a weeknight dinner, these side dishes guarantee success.
