We all know baked beans rock. They’re sweet, a little savory, and just downright comforting. But what do we serve them with?
We’ve definitely had our fill of beans straight from the can, but let’s face it, we want something more special on the plate.
Maybe it’s cornbread, or perhaps a fresh green salad to balance things out.
The options are endless! Let’s sift through the best sides to pair with baked beans that’ll make our meals pop. We’re talking about anything from classic recipes we’ve loved to quirky combos that just work.
So, grab your fork and let’s see how we can elevate our baked bean experience!
Top 13 Side Dishes for Baked Beans
Here are our top picks for side dishes to pair with baked beans:
1 – Cornbread
Cornbread is the perfect companion to baked beans. It’s sweet and slightly crumbly, bringing a delightful contrast to the rich beans.
We love how the buttery goodness melts in our mouths. Texture-wise, it’s soft yet gives a slight bite, making each forkful satisfying.
Cornbread’s subtle sweetness balances the salty, savory beans beautifully. Pairing them creates a comforting plate that feels like home.
2 – Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple is a sweet and smoky side that elevates our baked beans. The caramelised edges create a rich, charred flavor that balances the beans’ savory notes.
We enjoy snacking on it straight from the grill. The juiciness of the pineapple just bursts with tropical vibes.
3 – Collard Greens
Collard greens are a classic side dish. They bring a hearty texture with a slightly earthy flavour. These greens aren’t just for Southern kitchens; they’re versatile.
We enjoy their rich taste, especially when cooked low and slow. The result is tender leaves that soak up delicious seasonings.
They balance the sweetness of baked beans perfectly. The pleasant bitterness cuts through the richness, creating a harmonious plate.
When we add some ham or bacon, we enhance the savoury punch. This veggie side definitely brings a soul food vibe to dinner.
4 – Avocado Salad
Avocado salad brings a refreshing twist to our meal. It’s creamy and smooth, with a hint of nuttiness.
We love how its freshness balances the richness of baked beans. Toss in some tomatoes and lime for an extra zing.
Flavor-wise, it’s bright and invigorating. The buttery texture of the avocado contrasts perfectly with the beans’ sweetness.
This side dish shines with vibrant colours and makes everything pop on the plate. It’s versatile too; we can serve it with almost anything.
5 – Spicy Sausage Skewers
Spicy sausage skewers are a flavor explosion on a stick. The savory sausage combined with spicy notes creates a bold taste experience.
They complement baked beans by adding a kick and meaty depth. This pairing balances sweetness with spice for a satisfying meal.
6 – Pickled Red Onions
Pickled red onions are a crunchy, tangy side that adds zing to any meal. They bring a bite that brightens up baked beans while cutting through the sweetness.
Their vibrant purple hue makes everything look better on the plate.
This side offers a contrasting flavor profile—sweet beans meet sharp, tangy onions.
Every bite feels refreshing and inviting.
7 – Coleslaw
Coleslaw is the perfect crunchy side for baked beans. It adds a refreshing, cool contrast to the richness of the beans. We love the creamy dressing mingling with crunchy cabbage.
The tangy notes brighten up each bite. Coleslaw balances sweetness with crispness beautifully, making it an easy favorite at any casual gathering.
8 – Cheddar Biscuits
Cheddar biscuits are a buttery treat that we can’t resist. They bring a cheesy goodness that complements baked beans seamlessly. The texture is soft and flaky, making each bite a joy.
The rich, sharp flavour of cheddar adds depth.
These biscuits are comforting with their warm, fluffy nature. They balance the beans’ sweetness perfectly, creating a satisfying mouthful.
A little drizzle of honey can add a surprising twist too.
9 – Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasted root vegetables are an underrated wonder on our plates. They pack a lovely earthy sweetness that complements baked beans perfectly. We love how the caramelization adds a rich, slightly crispy edge, enhancing each bite.
Flavor-wise, they present a delightful medley of tastes. Think sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips all mingling together. This combination creates a satisfying balance between sweet and savory, offering a warm side that feels wholesome. It’s a scrumptious and comforting experience we keep coming back to.
10 – Jalapeño Poppers
Jalapeño poppers are a crunchy treat that pack in the cheese and heat. These little wonders combine spicy jalapeños with creamy fillings, often cheddar and cream cheese. Their crispy exterior adds a satisfying crunch that we love.
The spice kicks in, perfectly offsetting the creamy goodness. Each bite provides a thrilling contrast, blending savory and spicy elements. They’re the ideal partner for our baked beans, adding heat and depth to the dish.
11 – Fresh Fruit Salad
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Fresh fruit salad is our go-to for a burst of zing on the plate. It’s simple and refreshing, cutting through the richness of baked beans.
We toss together whatever’s in season—think juicy melons, berries, and vibrant citrus. Each bite is a mix of sweetness and tang that brightens our meal.
The colours pop, making the dish look as good as it tastes. It’s a light and vibrant companion, bringing a lively crunch to the table whenever we serve it.
12 – Garlic Butter Shrimps
Garlic butter shrimp are a total crowd-pleaser. These little guys offer a juicy, buttery, garlic-infused flavor kick.
They’re packed with savory goodness, making them a bright, zesty contrast to the beans’ sweetness.
We love how the shrimp’s slight firmness adds a nice texture to the meal.
Overall, they’re a fantastic seafood option that rounds out our baked bean platter in a fun, scrumptious way.
13 – Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are an absolute treat. They bring a crispy texture with natural sweetness that we really enjoy.
Unlike regular fries, these have an earthy richness and a slight caramel flavour from roasting.
The soft inside contrasts nicely with the crunchy exterior. They blend well with savoury dishes and provide a tasty alternative to traditional fries.
Pairing them with a spicy dipping sauce adds an extra kick. You’ll love their colour and delicious vibe on any plate.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.