What To Serve With Pulled Pork: 27 Best Sides - Give It Some Thyme

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Looking for great ideas on what to serve with pulled pork? Here’s a collection of 27 sides that have you covered with BBQ classics like corn on the cob, coleslaw and baked beans, to crunchy refreshing salads, healthy veggies, and our favorite crispy carbs.

Pulled pork tenderloin piled high on a toasted bun and topped with Asian red cabbage slaw.

There’s nothing like a lip-smacking pulled pork recipe with barbecue sauce dripping down your arm to kick off summer. And, even better, this slow cooker pulled pork keeps the kitchen cool no matter the temperature outside and is totally fool proof!

Pulled pork is such a versatile dish you can easily make into sandwiches, tacos, burritos and quesadillas. But you can also turn it into pork nachos by spooning the shredded meat over tortilla chips or make a pork pizza with mozzarella cheese on top. Pulled pork possibilities are endless!

We gathered the best BBQ side dishes no matter how you decide to serve this slow cooked staple. The time it takes to make each recipe is included so you can plan accordingly. I hope you get inspiration for creating an amazing menu centered around pulled pork!

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What to Serve with Pulled Pork
Potato Salad
French Fries
Onion Rings
Sweet Potatoes
Cornbread
Baked Beans
Corn on the Cob
Tortellini Pasta Salad
Macaroni Salad
Corn Fritters
Hush Puppies
Honey Butter Biscuits
Easy Pretzel Buns
Rice Pilaf
Healthy Sides for Pulled Pork
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Red Cabbage Slaw
Green Salad
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Cucumber Tomato Salad
Grilled Watermelon
Cantaloupe Black Bean Salad
Sweet Potato Chips
Fruit Salad
What Veggies go with Pulled Pork?
Green Beans
Roasted Green Vegetables
Spicy Collard Greens
Green Cabbage
Pulled Pork Sides FAQs
Related Posts
💬 Comments

What to Serve with Pulled Pork

Potato Salad

Perfectly charred grilled potato salad with mustard vinaigrette is a classic side dish taken to the next level by grilling. It’s full of sweet corn, zucchini, and bell pepper and can be made with bacon, ham or pork roll for extra flare! A BBQ staple perfect with pulled pork.

Total time: 40 minutes

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French Fries

Photo Credit: www.fifteenspatulas.com

Golden crisp outside and tender inside! These fries are double fried at different temperatures for excellent results every time. Nothing like a pile of golden brown fries next to your pulled pork sandwich.

Total time: 30 minutes

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Onion Rings

Photo Credit: platedcravings.com

Crispy golden onion rings made in an air fryer! This healthy version of onion rings is a great option to balance the heavier dishes at your BBQ. They’re dipped in a buttermilk batter and coated in panko breadcrumbs for extra crispy yet tender results!

Total time: 20 minutes

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Sweet Potatoes

Photo Credit: www.themagicalslowcooker.com

An easy slow cooker recipe to enjoy pulled pork stuffed sweet potatoes! Pork shoulder and a few sweet potatoes cook at the same time and are topped with barbecue sauce and sour cream. You can also add diced red onions and fresh cilantro.

Total time: 8 hours

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Cornbread

Photo Credit: grandbaby-cakes.com

Nothing like moist, golden brown cornbread coming out of the oven! It has a delicious, fluffy texture that’s not too sweet with perfectly crisp edges from baking in a cast iron skillet. A big slice will fit right in at your pulled pork potluck!

Total time: 1 hour

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Baked Beans

Sweet n’ smoky baked beans are the perfect side dish for summer barbecues. This recipe combines different beans with molasses, brown sugar and soda for sweetness that’s balanced with a warm spice blend for smoky, spicy flavor. An easy and delicious set-and-forget crockpot recipe!

Total time: 4 hrs 20 min

Get Recipe 7

Corn on the Cob

Photo Credit: natashaskitchen.com

Sweet corn is making another appearance since it’s a staple at summer barbecues. This recipe takes just minutes in a pot of boiling water.

And you can always grill corn on the cob for 15-20 minutes for a little extra smoky, charred flavor. Then simply season with salt and black pepper or add a dash of hot sauce for some kick!

Total time: 15 minutes

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Tortellini Pasta Salad

Tortellini Pasta Salad loaded with fresh roasted vegetables and coated in a delicious basil sun-dried tomato pesto. It's a crowd-pleasing, easy side for potlucks and picnics and can be made ahead!

Total time: 40 minutes

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Macaroni Salad

Photo Credit: thesuburbansoapbox.com

For me the best part of barbecues are all the sides! It’s a traditional recipe with elbow macaroni, red onions, bell pepper and hard-boiled eggs. This tangy, creamy macaroni salad is a crowd favorite that won’t disappoint and is perfect with juicy pork.

Total time: 25 minutes

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Corn Fritters

Photo Credit: www.dinneratthezoo.com

These corn fritters are crispy little cakes loaded with corn kernels, cheddar cheese, green onions and seasonings. They cook up in minutes to golden brown perfection. One of our favorite ways to showcase summer corn and enjoy with pork.

Total time: 35 minutes

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Hush Puppies

Photo Credit: www.bakingbeauty.net

Another southern classic that takes corn bread to a new level. Hush puppies are deep-fried to crunchy perfection on the outside and slightly sweet and fluffy inside. They’re a delicious snack and side dish at any barbecue.

Total time: 20 minutes

Get Recipe 12

Honey Butter Biscuits

Photo Credit: www.thespeckledpalate.com

Sweet n’ salty biscuits from scratch! This easy recipe has just six ingredients that are probably already in your pantry. And these tender, fluffy biscuits are ready in less than 30 minutes! You can make pork sandwiches out of them or use to mop up all the pork juices.

Total time: 25 minutes

Get Recipe 13

Easy Pretzel Buns

Photo Credit: www.melskitchencafe.com

I’ll take these perfectly soft, salty and chewy pretzel rolls over regular hamburger buns any day. It’s one of the best buns for pulled pork and a delicious way to enjoy a piled high sammie! You’ll need to plan ahead to give the dough time to rise but it’s definitely worth the wait.

Total time: 3 hours

Get Recipe 14

Rice Pilaf

Photo Credit: www.eazypeazymealz.com

Fluffy and flavorful rice pilaf is an easy side dish to have at potlucks throughout the year. It’s a comforting side that won’t outshine the main dish. And, it’s made with budget-friendly pantry ingredients.

Total time: 35 minutes

Get Recipe 15

Healthy Sides for Pulled Pork

These healthy salads and sides add delicious color and flare to any backyard buffet!

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Photo Credit: feelgoodfoodie.net

Including another air fryer recipe for a lightened up side dish that will keep you full and satisfied. They’re simply seasoned with paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Then air fry the sweet potatoes in a single layer to crispy perfection!

Total time: 15 minutes

Get Recipe 17

Red Cabbage Slaw

This Asian-inspired crunchy slaw is a quick and easy side dish. It’s sesame-ginger dressing makes it one tangy coleslaw. It can be served on the side and is a delicious topping on pork sandwiches or tacos.

Total time: 20 minutes

Get Recipe 18

Green Salad

Another good option when creating a menu around a hearty dish! A fresh salad of crisp greens adds nutrition and crunch and is completely customizable based on what you have in the fridge and pantry.

This citrus themed baby green salad showcases a variety of oranges, avocado and goat cheese coated in an orange honey vinaigrette. The salad’s crunchy, creamy, sweet n’ tangy flavors complement pulled pork perfectly!

Total time: 20 minutes

Get Recipe 19

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Slightly charred corn is tossed with red onion, peppers, grilled lime and cotija cheese. It’s a tasty side dish full of sweet and smoky flavor. A delicious summery side for pork tacos or sandwiches.

Total time: 30 minutes

Get Recipe 20

Cucumber Tomato Salad

Photo Credit: iwashyoudry.com

A light and bright classic side dish bursting with refreshing flavors and texture to balance a heavy main course.

Simply slice cucumbers, tomatoes and onion with fresh dill and parsley, then toss in a red wine vinaigrette for one fresh salad. Add some Dijon to the dressing for a bit of tang and top with feta cheese for creaminess.

Total time: 10 minutes

Get Recipe 21

Grilled Watermelon

This Grilled Yellow Watermelon with cucumber cantaloupe salsa is refreshing with sweet n' smoky flavor. It brings a nice contrast to heavier pulled pork sides. Plus, it's vegan, keto-friendly and gluten-free!

Total time: 15 minutes

Get Recipe 22

Cantaloupe Black Bean Salad

This farmer’s market inspired salad is loaded with charred zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes dressed in a lime vinaigrette. Full of flavor, vegan, gluten-free and can be made ahead. A great option to lighten up a hearty menu.

Total time: 30 minutes

Get Recipe 23

Sweet Potato Chips

A healthy alternative to opening a bag of chips is thinly sliced sweet potatoes baked to crispy perfection. They’re sprayed with olive oil and sprinkled with spices for a little kick. Creamy and tangy, yogurt-based whipped avocado dip makes this guiltless side even better.

Total time: 1 hr 15 min

Get Recipe 24

Fruit Salad

Photo Credit: www.wellplated.com

A light and healthy fruit salad is a great choice to balance a hearty meal. This rainbow of fresh ingredients blends berries, pineapple and kiwi with a citrusy, honey poppy seed dressing. These sweet and acidic flavors perfectly complement pulled pork.

Total time: 25 minutes

Get Recipe 25

What Veggies go with Pulled Pork?

Here are some great recipes to add healthy greens to the menu!

Green Beans

Photo Credit: www.wenthere8this.com

An easy recipe of tender braised green beans with a hint of spice balanced with a splash of coconut milk that will complement a spicy pork recipe deliciously. You need just four ingredients and takes just five minutes of your time to prep!

Total time: 30 minutes

Get Recipe 27

Roasted Green Vegetables

This delicious medley of fresh vegetables roasted to perfection and has something for everyone! An easy sheet pan recipe with a balsamic glaze that gives the caramelized veggies extra flavor. A bright and healthy side for your backyard barbecue.

Total time: 35 minutes

Get Recipe 28

Spicy Collard Greens

Photo Credit: cookieandkate.com

These big leafy greens are nutrient-rich and a healthy side to round out your bbq. They’re prepared with a quick sauté and seasoning, and you can finish with a squeeze of lemon juice to add acidity and brightness.

Total time: 15 minutes

Get Recipe 29

Green Cabbage

Photo Credit: downshiftology.com

Sautéed cabbage is a simple, flavorful side dish that’s a lighter option to mix into your pulled pork menu. Sliced cabbage is tossed in ghee, garlic, and onions, then caramelized into a golden brown. And, it’s just four ingredients plus salt and black pepper.

Total time: 20 minutes

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Pulled Pork Sides FAQs

What are the best buns for pulled pork?

For sandwiches, you want buns that are hearty enough to hold the juicy pork without falling apart. Pretzel rolls, brioche buns, ciabatta and kaiser rolls are all excellent choices.

How many sandwiches does a pound of pulled pork make?

On average, one pound of cooked pork will make four large sandwiches. Once you figure out how many pounds cooked pork you need, then double that amount for raw pork you need to buy. This is because the meat loses about half its weight when cooked.

What do you drink with pulled pork?

When it comes to booze and BBQ, you want a drink that pairs well with the meat’s intense flavors. For beer, try a pale ale with citrusy notes that also acts as a palate cleanser.Wine lovers can reach for a rose to complement BBQ’s sweet and tangy flavors. Those looking for a cocktail, whiskey, rum and bourbon will stand up to rich, bold flavors as well.

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Pinterest pin showing four images: tortellini salad, red cabbage slaw, pulled pork sandwich and baked beans.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

My family absolutely loves pulled pork, and these sides all look so delicious! I personally have my eye on that tantalizing red cabbage slaw. YUM!
Reply
- Thanks, Heidi! That slaw is such a fave too. Can't go wrong with any of them!
  Reply
So many beautiful options for everyone's taste! My favourite would definitely be the potato and pasta salads and that colourful red cabbage slaw.
Reply
- Thanks, Ben! The idea is definitely to have something for everyone!😊
  Reply

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Welcome! I'm Kim - author, recipe developer, and food photographer behind Give it Some Thyme. Here you'll find wholesome, classic and contemporary recipes that make memorable meals every home chef can prepare. Pull up a chair!

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