Burnt ends are a BBQ favorite known for their crispy, caramelized exterior and tender, juicy interior. The right sides for your burnt ends recipe a complete meal.
Be sure to check out our best side dishes for perfect pairings for all of your favorite dinner recipes.
The key to pairing these delicious morsels is to include a mix of sides that will enhance the smoky richness and savory flavors of the burnt ends.
Consider classic coleslaw for a refreshing crunch, baked beans for a sweet and smoky complement, and cornbread for a slightly sweet and crumbly addition to serving with your BBQ Brisket burnt ends.

What to serve with burnt ends?
When serving burnt ends, pair them with classic BBQ sides to create a well-rounded and delicious meal. Here are some great options:
Burnt Ends Side Dish Recipes
The ultimate collection of mouthwatering burnt end side dish recipes. Discover a variety of delicious options that perfectly complement the rich flavors of tender burnt ends.
Baked beans are a traditional BBQ side dish that pairs wonderfully with burnt ends. The sweet and smoky flavor of the beans complements the caramelized meat perfectly.
Creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting, macaroni and cheese is a beloved BBQ side dish. The richness of the cheese sauce pairs perfectly with the smoky, caramelized burnt ends, creating a match made in BBQ heaven. Use a blend of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and a touch of smoked Gouda for a deliciously complex flavor.
Corn on the cob is a summertime favorite that pairs beautifully with burnt ends. The natural sweetness of the corn enhances the savory meat, and grilling it adds a nice smoky flavor. Slather it with butter and sprinkle with a bit of salt and pepper.
Nothing beats the refreshing crunch of coleslaw alongside rich and savory burnt ends. The tangy dressing, usually made with a mix of mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sugar, balances the smoky flavors of the meat. Plus, the crisp cabbage adds a delightful texture contrast. For a twist, try adding a bit of apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard to your coleslaw dressing for an extra zing.
Cornbread's slightly sweet and crumbly texture is perfect for sopping up any extra BBQ sauce. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for an irresistible addition to your meal. Add some chopped jalapeños or a handful of shredded cheddar cheese to your cornbread batter for a flavorful twist.
Potato salad is a BBQ staple that provides a creamy, cool contrast to hot and smoky burnt ends. Whether you prefer a mayonnaise-based dressing or a tangy mustard vinaigrette, potato salad is a crowd-pleaser. Add some chopped dill pickles and a splash of pickle juice to your potato salad for extra tanginess and crunch.
For a lighter side, green beans with bacon offer a great balance of freshness and savory flavor. The crisp-tender beans paired with smoky bacon bits make a delightful accompaniment to burnt ends.
Collard greens are a classic Southern side dish that pairs wonderfully with burnt ends. Their robust flavor and hearty texture make them a perfect balance to the smoky and caramelized meat.
The acidity and crunch of pickles cuts through the rich flavor BBQ bark crust, making them an excellent palate cleanser.