What To Serve With Pulled Pork Sandwiches? 15 BEST Side Dishes

Pulled pork sandwiches are a hit at any gathering, combining smoky and tender pork with a tangy, sweet sauce. But what can elevate this dish even further? Side dishes, of course!

Here are 15 side dishes that not only complement the flavors of pulled pork but also add a little something special to your table.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with pulled pork sandwiches are potato wedges, zucchini fritters, onion rings, green beans with bacon, sweet potato fries, butternut squash, mac and cheese, Shirazi salad, coleslaw, cornbread, roasted Brussels sprouts, Caesar salad, baked beans, jalapeño poppers, and corn on the cob.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Potato Wedges

Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, potato wedges offer the perfect starchy balance to pulled pork sandwich. Season them with garlic powder, paprika, and a bit of cayenne for a kick. Baked or fried, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, giving you a deliciously satisfying crunch with each bite.

2. Zucchini Fritters

Light and full of flavor, zucchini fritters provide a different sort of crunch. Made with grated zucchini, a mix of herbs, and a dash of cheese, they're fried to perfection. They're a wonderful way to sneak in some veggies and offer a lighter but equally tasty option to complement the richness of the pulled pork.

3. Onion Rings

Who can resist the allure of golden, crispy onion rings? Coated in a seasoned batter and deep-fried to perfection, they offer a sweet and crunchy contrast to the meaty, smoky pulled pork. Dip them in barbecue sauce or even place a couple in your sandwich for added texture and flavor.

4. Green Beans with Bacon

An elevated take on a veggie side, these green beans come adorned with crispy bacon bits. The smokiness of the bacon enhances the natural sweetness of the green beans. This side is a well-rounded combination of texture and flavor that perfectly complements a saucy pulled pork sandwich.

5. Sweet Potato Fries

Healthier than regular fries but just as satisfying, sweet potato fries offer a splash of color and a burst of nutrients. The natural sweetness works brilliantly against the smoky, tangy flavor profile of pulled pork. Season them with a touch of salt and maybe some cinnamon for a unique twist.

6. Butternut Squash

Roasting butternut squash brings out its natural sweetness and nuttiness, which pairs exceptionally well with the smoky, spicy notes of pulled pork. Toss it in some olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and you've got a side that's both hearty and healthy.

7. Mac and Cheese

This classic needs little introduction. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting, mac and cheese is a hearty side that holds its own. The rich cheese sauce and tender pasta make for a belly-warming companion to any pulled pork sandwich, balancing the meat's smoky zest.

8. Shirazi Salad

Light, fresh, and tangy, Shirazi salad acts as a palate cleanser in a meal full of rich and hearty flavors. This Persian salad mixes cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions with a refreshing lime dressing, giving you a burst of freshness that's especially welcome when enjoying a saucy, meaty sandwich.

9. Coleslaw

You can never go wrong with a classic coleslaw. Shredded cabbage and carrots mingle in a creamy or vinegar-based dressing. It's the ideal cool and crisp counterpoint to the warm, tender pulled pork. Some folks even like to put it directly on their sandwich for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

10. Cornbread

Soft, crumbly, and slightly sweet, cornbread is the soul-food side that pairs incredibly well with pulled pork. Serve it warm with a pat of butter, and it can easily soak up any extra sauce you may have. The sweet notes of the cornmeal highlight the smokiness of the pork.

11. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Oven-roasted Brussels sprouts, seasoned with a bit of garlic and tossed in olive oil, offer a moreish, almost nutty flavor. They bring a rustic earthiness that can complement the savory and sweet nuances of your pulled pork sandwiches nicely.

12. Caesar Salad

If you're looking for something on the lighter side, a Caesar salad is a great choice. Crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and croutons drizzled with Caesar dressing make for a refreshing, classic side. The creamy tang of the dressing harmonizes well with the smokiness of the pulled pork.

13. Baked Beans

Smoky, sweet, and tangy baked beans are a cookout classic that work especially well with pulled pork sandwiches. Slow-cooked with molasses or brown sugar, these beans offer a rich, deep flavor that can be a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, they're practically a meal on their own!

14. Jalapeño Poppers

If you're into spicy foods, jalapeño poppers could be your go-to side. The cream cheese filling cools down the jalapeño's heat, creating a balance that's pretty irresistible. They're finger food, just like your pulled pork sandwich, making them easy to manage if you're eating casually or outdoors.

15. Corn on the Cob

Grilled or boiled, corn on the cob is another side that's simple but universally loved. You can serve it plain, with just a bit of butter, or get more adventurous by adding a sprinkle of paprika, cayenne, or a coat of parmesan. The natural sweetness of the corn pairs perfectly with the savory, tender pulled pork.

More Recipes

What To Serve With Samosas

What To Serve With Lamb Koftas

What To Serve With Peruvian Chicken