Pot roast is a beloved dish for many, and its versatility makes it a staple in many households. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, and the addition of vegetables and meat provides an excellent source of essential nutrients. As the weather cools down during fall evenings, pot roast becomes even more satisfying as a comforting meal. But what really takes this dish to the next level is the variety of sides that can be served alongside it.
Here are 15 different options to consider, each one designed to complement the rich flavors of your pot roast dinner and create a well-rounded, filling meal.
Mashed Potato
When it comes to pairing a classic pot roast with its perfect companion, mashed potatoes are an obvious choice. Not only do they offer a comforting and creamy contrast to the hearty roast, but they also provide a convenient means of sopping up the rich juices and savory gravy.
With the added benefit of being incredibly easy to prepare – whether you opt for the quick microwave method or follow our tried-and-true recipe – mashed potatoes are the ultimate side dish for a satisfying pot roast dinner.
Popovers
Popovers are a simple yet delightful side dish option that pairs perfectly with pot roast. Their airy, crispy texture provides a nice contrast to the tender meat and soft vegetables, making them an excellent accompaniment for sopping up those savory juices. If you’re looking to elevate your pot roast dinner, be sure to check out our recipe for homemade popovers – it’s easy to make and yields delicious results.
Scalloped Potatoes
Potatoes are incredibly versatile, offering a range of possibilities for side dishes. If mashed potatoes don’t tickle your fancy, consider scalloped potatoes instead – a match made in heaven with tender beef, like in a pot roast. The rich creamy sauce and harmonious blend of onions, cheese, and seasonings elevate this dish to new heights.
Brussel Sprouts
When it comes to cooking vegetables alongside pot roast beef, many people opt for a one-pot wonder approach. However, not all veggies can withstand the high heat and long cooking times required for pot roast. A notable exception is Brussels sprouts, which require a separate cooking process to preserve their unique flavor and texture. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to elevate your Brussels sprouts game and achieve the perfect batch that complements your pot roast perfectly.
Roasted Onions
When it comes to elevating the humble pot roast, some may argue that incorporating caramelized onions is the way to go. But what if we told you there’s a better approach? Our recipe takes a different tack by roasting halved onions separately, finishing them off with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of savory seasonings. The result is a game-changing side dish that not only complements your pot roast but also adds a rich depth of flavor to the overall dining experience.
By cooking the onions outside of the main event, you’ll be rewarded with a deliciously filling accompaniment that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Sweet Potato Fries
When it comes to pairing sides with pot roast, there’s no denying that sweet potato fries take the crown. Unlike traditional fries, which can overpower the dish with their rich flavor, sweet potato fries provide a delightful contrast. Their natural sweetness harmonizes with the savory notes of the gravy, creating a beautifully balanced flavor profile. The crispy texture also complements the tender beef perfectly, making for a truly satisfying meal.
And as the seasons transition to fall and winter, sweet potato fries are an excellent choice to brighten up your plate. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or any other special occasion, these fries will surely be a hit!
Asparagus
Roasted asparagus is a versatile and nutritious side dish that complements a wide range of main courses. This simple recipe provides a foolproof guide to cooking perfect roasted asparagus, allowing you to create a well-rounded meal with all the essential nutrients. Whether paired with a hearty pot roast or another favorite dish, this recipe ensures you’re serving up a healthy and satisfying option.
Potato Salad
While many people associate pot roast with colder seasons, there’s no reason why it can’t be enjoyed during the warmer months as well. The key is to pair it with a refreshing summer side dish that complements its rich flavors. Among the many options, potato salad stands out as an ideal choice. Its light and airy texture, bursting with flavor, makes it a perfect match for a summer pot roast.
Not only does it provide a delightful contrast to the hearty roast, but it’s also incredibly filling, making it an excellent addition to your summer menu.
Corn on the Cob
When it comes to side dishes that pair perfectly with pot roast, corn on the cob is a summer staple. This recipe will guide you through the process of making traditional Mexican-style corn on the cob, which offers a sweet and cheesy contrast to the rich flavors of the pot roast. As you savor each bite, the spicy kick from this dish will add depth and variety to your meal, making it a well-rounded and satisfying culinary experience.
Black Bread
When serving a classic pot roast, it’s common to find it accompanied by a generous helping of savory gravy and beef juices. These liquid accompaniments can be overwhelming, making it essential to have a reliable side dish that can effectively mop up the excess. Black bread proves an excellent choice in this regard, its robust flavor and dense texture making it an ideal match for hearty stews and roasts.
While its appearance may not be immediately striking, black bread’s unique qualities render it the perfect partner for pot roast, providing a satisfying contrast to the tender beef and rich gravy.
Lemon Lettuce Salad
When it comes to pot roasts, recipes can vary greatly depending on the region or personal preference. Some places like to take their pot roasts to a whole new level by adding an intense heat from hot peppers. To help tame the flames, we suggest pairing your spicy pot roast with a refreshing lemon lettuce salad. The cool and soothing qualities of this side dish provide a perfect counterbalance to the bold flavors of the pot roast.
Additionally, the citrus notes in the lemon complement the spiciness of the peppers, while the crunchy texture adds a delightful contrast to the tender beef. However, we wouldn’t recommend serving this salad with a traditional pot roast – its sharp and sour flavors are better suited to balance out the heat from hot peppers. Instead, try it with your spicy pot roast and enjoy the perfect harmony of flavors.
Roasted Vegetable Mix
While traditional pot roast recipes typically feature a hearty beef dish served with potatoes, carrots, and onions, there’s no rule that says you can’t add some extra variety to your meal. In fact, a roasted vegetable mix can be a fantastic way to bring in some color and vibrancy to your plate. This particular recipe combines the likes of broccoli, peppers, squash, zucchini, and mushrooms for a truly well-rounded side dish.
It’s a great way to mix things up and provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the pot roast.
Cauliflower Cheese
In the United Kingdom, a classic cauliflower cheese is often paired with roasted meats, particularly pot roast. This comforting side dish consists of tender cauliflower florets smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to elevate your next pot roast dinner. Simply bake the cauliflower in the cheesy sauce alongside potatoes and other vegetables for a well-rounded meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Rice Medley
To create a well-rounded pot roast meal, it’s essential to pair the dish with a carbohydrate-rich side that provides a boost of energy. One effective option is to serve a flavorful rice medley. This combination of wild rice and brown rice not only adds variety to your meal but also offers a satisfying and sustaining complement to the rich flavors of the pot roast. For an elevated rice experience, consider using this classic recipe as inspiration for your next culinary endeavor.
Final Thoughts
While we’ve explored 15 potential side dish options to pair with a mouthwatering pot roast, it’s undeniable that there are countless more alternatives to consider. From vibrant rice dishes bursting with energy to hearty breads ideal for sopping up savory gravy, not to mention refreshing salads that provide a delightful contrast to rich and spicy variations of the classic recipe – the choices truly are endless.
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.