Cooking a perfect pot roast is an art, but choosing the right sides can truly elevate the meal to a new level. Whether you’re preparing a special family dinner or a comforting weekend meal, having a variety of complementary sides can enhance the flavors and textures of your dish.
What are the best sides to serve with pot roast? From creamy mashed potatoes to zesty roasted veggies, you’ll find that the right side dish can make all the difference. In this guide, you’ll discover 17 delicious options that are sure to please your guests and turn your pot roast into a memorable feast.
1) Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish for pot roast. They’re made by boiling potatoes until soft, then mashing them with butter, milk, and seasoning.
You can use Yukon gold or russet potatoes for the best results. They have a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the rich gravy from your pot roast.
To add more flavor, consider mixing in garlic, cheese, or sour cream. This will give your mashed potatoes a delicious boost without overshadowing the main dish.
Making mashed potatoes is simple, and they can be prepared ahead of time. Just reheat them before serving to keep them fresh and tasty.
This versatile side dish is loved by many and complements the savory flavors of pot roast.
2) Roasted Carrots
Roasted carrots make a tasty and healthy side for pot roast. Their natural sweetness shines when roasted. This side dish is simple yet delicious.
To prepare roasted carrots, you’ll need fresh carrots, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add some herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and peel the carrots. Cut them into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
Next, place the carrot pieces on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss everything to coat the carrots well.
Roast the carrots in the oven for about 25-30 minutes. Check them occasionally and give them a toss halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.
The carrots are done when they are tender and slightly caramelized. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, making them a perfect match for the savory flavors of pot roast.
Serve them warm, and enjoy their rich, sweet taste alongside your pot roast. These roasted carrots are sure to be a hit at your table.
3) Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a classic side dish that complements pot roast perfectly. This dish is simple yet delicious, featuring green beans mixed with a creamy sauce.
Start by combining cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Add cooked green beans and half of the crispy fried onions to the mixture.
Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake for about 40 minutes. Once baked, stir the casserole and top it with the remaining fried onions. Bake for a few more minutes until the onions turn golden brown and crispy.
Green bean casserole adds a crunchy texture and creamy flavor to your meal. It’s a comforting dish that pairs well with the richness of pot roast.
4) Creamy Polenta
Creamy polenta makes a wonderful side dish for pot roast. It has a smooth texture and rich flavor that pairs well with the tender meat.
To make creamy polenta, start by bringing broth and half-and-half to a boil in a large saucepan. Slowly whisk in cornmeal, reducing the heat to a gentle boil.
Stir the mixture continuously with a wooden spoon until it thickens. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. The polenta should pull away cleanly from the sides of the pan.
Once the polenta has thickened, remove it from the heat. Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese until they melt and blend in.
Serve the polenta immediately. Garnish with more Parmesan, freshly chopped parsley, and black pepper if you like. This creamy side will complement your pot roast perfectly.
5) Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Brussels sprouts with bacon make a tasty side dish for pot roast. They combine the bitterness of sprouts with the savory crunch of bacon. This pairing creates a balance of flavors that’s hard to resist.
To prepare this dish, start by washing and halving the Brussels sprouts. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Scatter pieces of uncooked bacon over the sprouts. Make sure the bacon pieces aren’t clumped together.
Roast in the oven at 400°F for 20-30 minutes. Halfway through, flip the sprouts to ensure even cooking. The bacon should be crispy, and the sprouts should be caramelized and tender.
If you want an extra kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes before roasting. This will add a bit of heat to the dish.
Serve these Brussels sprouts immediately, while they’re still hot and crispy. They are a great addition to any pot roast dinner. The saltiness of the bacon pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the pot roast.
6) Buttered Corn
Adding buttered corn to your pot roast meal is a great idea.
To make buttered corn, start by melting butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in the corn, salt, and pepper. Cook it for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Next, pour in some heavy cream and reduce the heat. Cook for about 5 more minutes until the sauce thickens a bit.
Finally, mix in a little honey for a touch of sweetness and cook for another 2 minutes. This dish is quick to prepare and pairs nicely with pot roast.
7) Garlic Herb Bread
Garlic Herb Bread is a great side for pot roast. It has a crisp crust and tender inside, making it perfect for soaking up juices.
To make it, mix flour, sugar, garlic, thyme, rosemary, olive oil, and salt until combined. Let the dough rise for an hour, punch it down, then let it rise again.
Bake at 425 degrees until golden brown. The result is a fragrant, flavorful bread that pairs well with the rich taste of pot roast.
8) Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is a great side for pot roast. Its fresh, crisp romaine lettuce adds a nice contrast to the rich and hearty flavors of the roast.
You’ll love the crunchy croutons and the creamy dressing. The dressing, made with egg yolk, lemon juice, anchovy, garlic, and Parmesan, brings a tangy and savory touch.
Adding grated Parmesan cheese on top enhances the flavors even more. You can also toss in some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.
A Caesar salad is easy to make, yet it offers a taste that complements pot roast very well. Just make sure to serve it fresh for the best experience.
9) Parmesan Risotto
Parmesan risotto is a creamy and delicious side dish that pairs well with pot roast.
To start, warm some chicken broth in a small saucepan. This helps the broth blend better with the rice.
In a larger saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are soft and the garlic is fragrant.
Next, stir in Arborio rice. Let it cook for a few minutes until it starts to turn golden. This step gives the risotto a nice flavor.
Pour in some dry white wine. Stir the rice constantly until the wine evaporates. This adds depth to the taste.
Begin adding the warm broth to the rice, one ladle at a time. Stir the rice and let it absorb the broth before adding more.
Repeat this process until the rice is creamy and tender. It usually takes about 18-20 minutes.
Once the rice is cooked, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines well with the rice.
Parmesan risotto is now ready to be served. It’s perfect alongside a tender, juicy pot roast. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors together.
10) Buttermilk Biscuits
Buttermilk biscuits are a classic and beloved side dish that pairs perfectly with pot roast. They’re light, fluffy, and have a slightly tangy taste thanks to the buttermilk.
To make these biscuits, start by preheating your oven to 450°F. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
Next, cut cold butter into cubes and mix it with the dry ingredients until it looks like coarse crumbs. Then, create a well in the center and add cold buttermilk. Mix gently until just combined.
Form the dough into a rectangle using your hands. Cut into round shapes using a biscuit cutter. Place the biscuits on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven until they’re golden brown. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes.
Buttermilk biscuits are best served fresh out of the oven, with a pat of butter melting on top. They are an excellent addition to your pot roast meal.
11) Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey glazed carrots bring a sweet and savory touch to your pot roast dinner.
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Peel and slice your carrots, then place them in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl, mix honey, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the carrots and stir until they’re well-coated.
Spread the carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the carrots are tender.
To finish, you can garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary for added flavor and color. These honey glazed carrots are a delightful side that complements the rich taste of your pot roast.
12) Twice Baked Potatoes
Twice baked potatoes are a fantastic side for pot roast. They combine the fluffiness of baked potatoes with the rich, creamy texture of mashed potatoes.
To make twice baked potatoes, you start by baking russet potatoes at 400°F until they are soft enough to easily pierce with a fork.
Once baked, allow them to cool slightly. Cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides. Leave enough potato attached to the skin so they hold their shape.
Mash the scooped-out potato with butter, sour cream, and cheese. Add salt, pepper, and chopped chives to taste. This mixture should be creamy and smooth.
Spoon the mashed mixture back into the potato skins. Arrange them on a baking sheet.
Bake the stuffed potatoes again at 450°F until the tops are golden and slightly crisp. This step gives them the desired twice-baked texture.
Twice baked potatoes add a rich, hearty element to your meal. They pair well with the savory flavors of pot roast, providing a comforting and indulgent side dish.
13) Yorkshire Pudding
Yorkshire pudding is a traditional British side dish that pairs perfectly with pot roast. It originated in Yorkshire, England, and is loved for its light and crispy texture.
To make Yorkshire pudding, you need simple ingredients: eggs, milk, flour, and salt. Start by blending the eggs for 2 minutes to aerate them. Then, mix in milk, flour, and salt until smooth.
The key to a good Yorkshire pudding is hot oil. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Add about a teaspoon of oil or beef drippings to each cup of a muffin pan. Heat the pan in the oven until the oil is very hot.
Pour the batter into the hot, oiled muffin cups. The hot oil helps the batter puff up, giving the pudding its signature airy texture. Bake until golden brown, usually between 20 to 25 minutes.
Serve Yorkshire puddings fresh from the oven with your pot roast. They’re perfect for soaking up gravy and add a delightful crunch to your meal. Yorkshire pudding is easy to make and a great addition to any roast dinner.
14) Balsamic Glazed Vegetables
Balsamic glazed vegetables are a fantastic side dish for pot roast. They bring a tangy, sweet flavor that complements the richness of the meat.
To make this, you’ll need vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and red onions. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, and thyme in a bowl. Coat the vegetables well with this mixture.
Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for about 45 minutes, giving them a stir every 15 minutes for even cooking.
The result is a delicious, healthy side dish that’s sure to impress.
15) Steamed Asparagus
Steamed asparagus is a quick and healthy side that pairs well with pot roast. It’s simple to prepare and retains more nutrients compared to other cooking methods.
To get started, trim the tough ends off the asparagus stalks. You can do this by holding the middle and the end of the stalk and bending until it snaps naturally.
Next, steam the asparagus for about 3-5 minutes until it turns bright green and becomes tender but still crisp. You can use a steamer basket in a pot with a little water at the bottom.
To add extra flavor, melt some butter and mix it with a bit of lemon juice. Drizzle the mixture over the steamed asparagus before serving. Another option is to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top.
A pinch of salt and pepper can enhance the taste further. For a bit of crunch, consider adding some toasted nuts like almonds or pistachios.
Serve the steamed asparagus immediately while it’s warm. This side dish is light, nutritious, and complements the rich flavors of pot roast perfectly.
16) Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with pot roast. It offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the roast.
To make coleslaw, you need shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing. The dressing usually includes mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and a bit of salt and pepper.
You can add other ingredients like red cabbage for color or apples for a bit of sweetness. Mix everything well and let it chill in the fridge before serving.
Coleslaw is easy to prepare and adds a crunchy texture to your meal. It’s a great way to add some vegetables to your plate, making your meal healthier and more balanced.
17) Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasted root vegetables are a delicious and easy side dish for pot roast. They are packed with flavor and nutrients.
To start, you’ll need a variety of root vegetables. Carrots, potatoes, beets, parsnips, and onions work great.
First, preheat your oven to 425°F. Cut the vegetables into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
Next, drizzle the vegetables with olive oil. Add salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like, such as Italian seasoning or garlic powder.
Place the vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer. This ensures they roast properly and get crispy on the outside.
Bake for about 20 minutes. Then, give them a good toss and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until they are tender and golden brown.
Roasted root vegetables add a burst of color and great taste to your meal. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of pot roast. They are a simple yet impressive side dish.
Nutritional Benefits of Pot Roast Sides
Pot roast sides can provide essential nutrients, enhance the flavor of your meal, and contribute to a balanced diet. These sides can include a variety of vegetables, proteins, and low-carb options to suit diverse dietary preferences.
Vegetable-Rich Sides
Vegetable-rich sides are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Scalloped potatoes made with Yukon gold potatoes, onions, and garlic provide potassium and vitamin C. Oven-roasted asparagus offers a good source of folate, vitamin K, and antioxidants. Garlic roasted veggies such as broccoli, brussels sprouts, and cauliflower add a variety of nutrients and fiber.
Eating vegetables as sides with pot roast not only enhances the meal’s flavor but also supports a healthy digestive system and boosts your immune function.
Protein-Enhanced Options
Incorporating protein-enhanced sides can help meet your daily protein requirements and support muscle repair and growth. Mashed potato cakes made from mashed potatoes and eggs provide a good protein source along with carbohydrates. Garlic roasted veggies can also be paired with protein-rich additions like cheese or nuts.
These protein-enhanced options can keep you fuller longer and help maintain your energy levels throughout the day.
Low-Carb Alternatives
For those watching their carbohydrate intake, low-carb side dishes are a great option. Steamed broccoli with lemon butter is low in carbs but rich in vitamins C and K. Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts are another low-carb choice and high in fiber, ensuring you still feel full and satisfied.
By choosing low-carb sides, you can enjoy a hearty meal without consuming too many refined carbohydrates, which can be beneficial for blood sugar control and weight management. These options allow you to stick to your dietary goals while still enjoying a flavorful pot roast meal.
Complementary Flavor Profiles
Pot roast is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes, each bringing out different flavors to create a harmonious meal.
Savory and Herbaceous
Herb-infused vegetables like roasted Brussels sprouts or blackened broccoli are excellent choices. These sides bring out the deep, earthy notes of pot roast. Thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves not only add complexity but also enhance the taste of the meat. Roasted root vegetables such as carrots and potatoes, seasoned with these herbs, have a natural sweetness that complements the savory roast perfectly.
Sweet and Tangy
Honey roasted carrots and cranberry Brussels sprouts provide a delightful contrast to the rich, hearty flavors of pot roast. The sweetness from honey-glazed vegetables adds a new layer of flavor, while the tangy cranberry elements introduce a refreshing sharpness. You might also consider a sweet potato casserole, which brings both sweetness and a slight tang from added ingredients like orange zest or mild spices.
Rich and Creamy
Mac and cheese is a fantastic side that brings creamy richness to your pot roast meal. The cheesy layer contrasts nicely with the beef’s texture, making each bite satisfying. Experiment with different cheese varieties like cheddar and gruyère for added depth. Mashed potatoes or a creamy polenta are also great options, as they provide a smooth, buttery base that balances the pot roast’s robustness.
Seasonal and Local Ingredients
Choosing seasonal and local ingredients ensures freshness and supports local farmers. These ingredients can elevate your pot roast sides, making the meal even more special.
Spring and Summer Produce
In the spring and summer, you have access to a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs. Asparagus is a great choice, with its tender stalks and mild flavor. Simply roast with some olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Another option is zucchini. Grill or sauté zucchini slices with garlic and lemon for a light, refreshing side.
Don’t forget about tomatoes. A simple salad of sliced tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar can be a delightful accompaniment to your pot roast.
Fall and Winter Harvest
During the fall and winter, heartier vegetables are in season. Brussels sprouts are perfect for roasting; toss them with olive oil, salt, and a bit of parmesan for added flavor.
Sweet potatoes are another excellent choice. Mash them with some butter and a bit of cinnamon for a comforting side dish.
Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and beets can be roasted together with some thyme and rosemary. They bring a rich, earthy taste that pairs well with the savory flavors of pot roast.
