No matter what time of day it is, you can enjoy smoked meat as part of any meal. They can fill up your dinner plate with the proper protein you need. They’re also perfect for BBQs and sharing with friends and family.

Pair smoked meat with the perfect sides to stand out at your next cookout or dinner. Try these side dishes to spark inspiration and craft tasty creations.

Why Pairings Matter

Your side dishes are important supporting roles to the dining experience. The sides you choose can either complement or overpower your smoked meat. Find dishes that pair well with your smoky flavors by choosing ones that refresh the meal rather than overwhelm it.

Understanding Flavor Profiles

Have a grasp of what kind of flavor your smoked meat brings to the table to master the art of pairing. Bacon, for example, offers a smoky, salty richness, while sausage provides a robust, seasoned taste. Smoked ham is another great option as well as meat that is subtly sweet with a smoky undertone.

By considering these profiles, you can choose sides that either complement or contrast your dish, creating a well-rounded meal that is wonderful to eat.

The Role of Texture

Texture is another factor to consider when pairing sides with smoked meats. Your meal should have a balance of crunchy and smooth textures to add dimension to your plate.

Crispy, crunchy sides such as pickles or slaw could have a different effect than smoother sides such as mashed potatoes. Consider what kind of dish you’re aiming for and choose the right texture to pair with your meat.

As you’re planning your next event, add smoked meat to your list of ingredients with confidence. Find the best smoked meats for sale and start pairing them with side dishes for any occasion.

Classic Pairings That Never Fail

Certain side dishes work for any occasion, regardless of what kind of meat you choose to serve. When in doubt, consider pairing these smoked meats with the perfect sides for easy meals enjoyed by all.

Baked Beans

Baked beans are a classic side that pairs exceptionally well with smoked meats. The savory, slightly sweet flavor of baked beans contrasts with the meat, making it more delicious to devour. You can also easily prepare them ahead of time for large gatherings.

Cornbread

Cornbread adds the sweet, crumbly texture that your smoked meat matches. As a Southern staple, cornbread makes its appearance for those festive meals or family BBQs. Serve this side dish with any smoked meat to make a wonderful addition to your meal.

Perfect Sides for Smoked Bacon

Smoked bacon is a versatile ingredient that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. Enjoy bacon’s unique smoky flavor, whether you serve it as a breakfast meal or savor it for dinner. Here are some more side dishes that pair perfectly with crispy, smoked bacon.

Coleslaw

Creamy coleslaw adds a crunch to your meal while keeping it refreshing. This side dish complements the smoked bacon as it counteracts the saltiness. Combine shredded cabbage and carrots, and serve with a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and a hint of mustard.

Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts pair well with salty bacon and provide you with the vegetables you need. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until golden brown for a caramelized outside. Serve them with smoky bacon for a balanced dish.

Cheesy Grits

Serve smoky bacon with a side of cheesy grits for a Southern twist. This satisfying side dish’s creamy, cheesy texture complements the crispy bacon. Cook the grits according to the package’s instructions, then stir in sharp cheddar cheese, butter, and a pinch of salt.

Delightful Sides for Smoked Sausage

Smoked sausage provides your meal with robust, hearty flavors. This rich meat pairs well with many other side dishes that bring out its smoky flavor. Try these delicious options when pairing side dishes with smoked sausage.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes give you a creamy texture to counteract the smoky sausage. Savor your sausages with a subtle garlic flavor that smoothly blends. Boil your choice of potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, garlic, and a splash of cream.

Sauerkraut

Tangy sauerkraut is a traditional pairing for smoked sausage. The side dish’s acidity cuts through the richness of the sausage and creates a flavorful combination. Serve the sausage on a bed of sauerkraut for a classic and satisfying meal.

Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables add a touch of freshness and color to your smoked sausage dish while providing you with the nutrients you need. Add bell peppers, zucchini, and onions onto the grill during your next family cookout when you serve sausages. Their perfect match enhances both flavor profiles and crafts a wonderful dish.

Scrumptious Sides for Smoked Ham

Smoked ham is a festive meal that you can also enjoy year-round. Plan to pair side dishes alongside your main course, whether you’re preparing for a large family gathering or thawing a ham for dinner. Incorporate these side dishes into your smoked ham dish.

Honey-Glazed Carrots

Honey-glazed carrots add a touch of sweetness that your ham desires. It’s visually appealing with its glossy glaze and melds to the ham in your mouth. Cook the carrots until tender, then toss with honey, butter, and a pinch of cinnamon.

Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped potatoes are a creamy and indulgent side that pairs wonderfully with smoked ham. They make for a great side dish for large gatherings and are easy to make in bulk.

Slice your potatoes thinly, then layer with a creamy sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and shredded cheese. Doing so will add another wonderful side dish to your assortment of festive foods around the smoked ham.

Green Bean Almondine

Fresh green bean almondine adds a crisp, nutty element for a unique flavor. By incorporating green beans and toasted almonds into your dish, this delightful contrast enhances the flavor of your smoked ham. Try adding this fresh element to your smoked ham for the perfect vegetable complement.

Once you understand how to complement a smoky meat’s rich flavor, you can incorporate your favorite side dishes into your meal plans. Enhance your food plans by accompanying your smoked meat with delicious side dishes. Finding dishes that pair well with your meat will bring life to any social gathering, big or small. Share a meal with your family and friends that you can all enjoy by combining these dishes.