When you think of BBQ, the first things that come to mind are usually smoky ribs, tender pulled pork, or juicy chicken cookin’ in the smoker. But like Head Pitmaster Shannon Snell says, sides can take your meal to the next level. That bein’ said, let’s fill up on some of the best BBQ sides.
Why Sides Deserve the Spotlight
BBQ is all about tradition, flavor, and a little bit of Southern hospitality. At Sonny’s, our Pitmasters believe sidekicks should be just as memorable as the main event. Whether you’re a longtime guest or a first-time visitor at our table, our sides are designed to steal the show.
Best BBQ Sides You Can’t Miss
Ready to discover the best BBQ sides? Here’s a Pitmaster’s list of Sonny’s favorites, each with its own flavor story.
1. Homestyle Mac & Cheese: Creamy, Cheesy, Smoky Perfection
This isn’t your average mac. Sonny’s Smoked Mac & Cheese is rich, velvety, and layered with cheesy goodness. It’s comfort food made for BBQ, and it’s perfect alongside brisket or ribs.
- Try it with: Pulled pork or St. Louis ribs for the ultimate comfort combo.
- Learn more: Explore our Sidekicks menu for all smoked side options
2. Original Recipe BBQ Baked Beans: Cooked with Bits of Smoked Meat
Our BBQ Beans are a Sonny’s classic ever since we opened back in 1968. Cooked with bits of smoked meat, the result is beans that are sweet, savory, and packed with depth.
- Try it with: Sliced brisket or BBQ chicken.
- Order for your next gathering: Sonny’s BBQ Catering
3. Corn Bread: Sweet, Buttery, and Southern
No BBQ plate is complete without a helpin’ of Sonny’s corn bread. It’s golden, moist, and just the right amount of sweet. It’s made for soaking up sauce or pairing with your favorite plate of BBQ.
- Try it with: Any BBQ meat, but especially delicious with pulled chicken or pork.
4. Homemade Coleslaw: The Perfect Cool Crunch
Our coleslaw is crisp, creamy, and refreshingly cool, a must-have to balance out smoky flavors. It’s the side that brings everything together, adding crunch and a hint of tang.
- Try it with: Ribs or piled high on the fan favorite Sweet Carolina sandwich.
5. Green Beans & Sweet Potatoes: The Unsung Heroes
Don’t overlook these Southern staples! Sonny’s green beans are made with meat for that smoky flavor while our Sweet Potatoes are baked to perfection. Each spud is also served with a generous helping of cinnamon butter for a little sweet kick.
- Try them with: Chicken, turkey, or as a lighter side with any smoked meat.
6. French Fries & Tater Tots: The Crispy Classics
A little crowd-pleaser goes a long way. Nothing like the crisp of a fresh Fry or a piping hot Tater Tot to fill up that BBQ plate. These are also easy to much on, especially if you’re lookin’ for something easy to eat on the go.
- Try them with: Brisket, pulled pork or any BBQ Sandwich.
How Our Sides Are Made with BBQ Love
At Sonny’s, every side dish is made with a Pitmaster’s technique. Our kitchen team treats sides with the same respect as our meats, because as we know well, BBQ is a full experience, not just a main course.
Pairing Suggestions: Best Side + Meat Combinations
Wondering which sides pair best with your favorite BBQ meats? Here’s a quick chart to help you build the perfect plate:
| BBQ Meat | Best BBQ Sides |
|---|---|
| Pulled Pork | Mac & Cheese, Coleslaw |
| St. Louis Ribs | BBQ Beans, Corn Bread |
| Sliced Brisket | Mac & Cheese, Green Beans |
| BBQ Chicken | Corn Bread, Coleslaw |
| Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage | BBQ Beans, Coleslaw |
Smoked Sides for Catering & Gatherings
Planning a party, family reunion, or holiday spread? Our sides are crowd-pleasers that make catering easy. You can order sides by the pound, customize your spread, and let our team handle the cooking. From trays of smoked mac & cheese to pans of baked beans, we’ve got your event covered.
- Order Sonny’s BBQ catering for your next gathering: Sonny’s Catering Info
How to Order or Customize Your BBQ Spread
Ready to make sides the star of your next meal? Visit your local Sonny’s, explore our full menu, or order online for pickup, delivery, or catering. You can mix and match sides, order by the pound, or build a custom BBQ feast for any occasion.
- See what’s cooking on the full Sonny’s menu: Sonny’s Menu
- Find a Sonny’s near you: Sonny’s Locations
- Explore all Sidekicks and smoked favorites: Sonny’s Sidekicks Menu
Conclusion: The Best BBQ Is a Full Experience—Sides Included
Wrappin’ it all up, we know sides are more than just a plate filler. They’re a celebration of flavor, tradition, and Pitmaster pride. Whether you’re craving creamy mac & cheese, tangy baked beans, or classic corn bread, our sides are made to steal the show. So next time you’re planning a meal, don’t just focus on the meat, make room for the best BBQ sides and taste the Sonny’s Way.
Want more inspiration? Check out these resources:
- 10 Best BBQ Side Dishes – Food Network
- How to Smoke Mac and Cheese – Hey Grill Hey
- Best BBQ Side Dishes for Cookouts – Southern Living
