Pot roast makes a delicious main dish for any family dinner or special occasion. The tender, juicy meat creates a satisfying centerpiece, but choosing the right side dishes can elevate your meal from good to unforgettable.
The perfect pot roast sides complement the rich flavors of the meat while adding variety in texture and taste to your plate.
From classic options like creamy mashed potatoes and buttery green beans to more creative choices such as butternut squash mac and cheese or shredded Brussels sprouts, the right accompaniments will round out your meal.
With so many delicious options available, you can create a complete pot roast dinner that will impress everyone at your table.
1. Garlic Rosemary Mashed Potatoes
Garlic rosemary mashed potatoes are a perfect match for pot roast. The creamy texture complements the tender meat, while the garlic and rosemary add flavors that enhance the roast’s savory profile.
To make them, boil peeled potatoes until fork-tender. Drain well and mash with warm butter and milk. Add minced garlic and chopped fresh rosemary for that signature aroma.
You can prepare these potatoes ahead of time and reheat them when your pot roast is ready. For extra richness, mix in some sour cream or cream cheese.
This classic side soaks up the delicious gravy from your pot roast, making every bite complete.
2. Butternut Squash Mac ‘N’ Cheese
Butternut squash mac and cheese offers a perfect blend of comfort and nutrition alongside your pot roast. The squash creates a silky, rich sauce without the heaviness of traditional mac and cheese.
Roasting the butternut squash brings out its natural sweetness, complementing the savory flavors of your pot roast. The cheese sauce becomes creamy and flavorful when combined with the pureed squash.
You can add extras like crispy bacon bits or roasted cauliflower for texture and flavor variety. This side dish works particularly well in autumn when squash is in season.
The bright orange color adds visual appeal to your plate, making your pot roast dinner look even more appetizing.
3. Sour Cream Fan Rolls
Sour cream fan rolls are a delightful addition to your pot roast dinner. These soft, buttery rolls have a light texture that comes from the addition of sour cream in the dough.
They feature a unique fan-like shape that makes them both visually appealing and perfect for sopping up pot roast gravy. You can pull apart the layers easily, creating the perfect vehicle for enjoying every last bit of sauce.
The slight tanginess from the sour cream balances the rich flavors of your pot roast. These rolls bake to a beautiful golden brown and are best served warm with a pat of butter.
4. Shredded Gingered Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts add a nutritious green element to your pot roast dinner. When shredded and flavored with ginger, they transform into something special.
To make this dish, cook shredded Brussels sprouts with onion, fresh ginger, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Add a small amount of water and cook until tender, which usually takes just 1-2 minutes.
The ginger adds a warm, zesty kick that cuts through the richness of pot roast. This side dish offers a lighter option that balances your meal with bright flavors and a pleasant texture.
5. Air Fryer Green Beans
Air fryer green beans make a perfect side dish for pot roast. They’re ready in just 10 minutes, offering a quick option when your roast is almost done.
These beans come out with a nice crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with tender pot roast. They retain more nutrients than boiled versions while developing a slight caramelization that enhances their natural flavor.
You can keep them simple with just oil, salt, and pepper. Or dress them up with garlic, lemon, or parmesan for extra flavor.
This healthy, vegan-friendly side adds a pop of color and freshness to your plate. The beans stay vibrant green and maintain a satisfying crunch.
6. Roasted Broccoli
Roasted broccoli makes a perfect side dish for pot roast with its crispy edges and deep flavor.
Simply toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting at 425°F for about 20 minutes.
You can enhance the flavor by adding minced garlic or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. The slight char from roasting brings out the natural sweetness of broccoli.
This healthy side dish provides a nice textural contrast to tender pot roast. It’s also quick to prepare while your roast is resting, ensuring everything is hot and ready at the same time.
7. Melting Potatoes
Melting potatoes are a perfect side dish for pot roast with their contrasting textures. These potatoes develop a crispy exterior while remaining incredibly soft inside.
The recipe is simple to make and mostly hands-off. You’ll need russet potatoes, vegetable oil, butter, chicken broth, and seasonings. Many recipes add garlic and herbs for extra flavor.
The cooking process creates potatoes that are crisp on the outside yet so tender on the inside they practically melt in your mouth. This makes them an excellent companion to hearty pot roast.
They’re naturally gluten-free and full of nutrients, making them a wholesome addition to your meal.
8. Creamy Spinach Gratin
Creamy spinach gratin makes a perfect side dish for pot roast. This cheesy, indulgent dish combines fresh or frozen spinach with a rich, velvety sauce.
To make it, you’ll start with a butter and flour mixture, then add cream and two types of cheese – often provolone and Parmesan. The combination creates a deliciously creamy texture.
The contrast between the savory spinach and your hearty pot roast creates a balanced meal. You can prepare this dish on the stovetop first, then finish it in the oven for a golden brown top.
This side dish adds a touch of elegance to your pot roast dinner while providing a nutritious vegetable option.
9. Garlic Parmesan Green Beans
Garlic Parmesan green beans make a perfect side dish for pot roast. These oven-roasted beans are bursting with flavor from the punchy garlic, fresh lemon, and melted Parmesan cheese.
To prepare them, toss fresh green beans with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Roast them in the oven until tender-crisp, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and return briefly to the oven.
The combination of savory Parmesan and aromatic garlic complements the rich flavors of pot roast wonderfully. You can customize this versatile side dish by adding red pepper flakes for heat or lemon zest for brightness.
10. Buttery Green Beans Almondine
Green beans almondine is a classic French-inspired side dish that pairs perfectly with pot roast. This elegant yet simple vegetable option combines crisp green beans with toasted almonds for delightful texture.
The beans are typically blanched until tender-crisp, then sautéed with butter, garlic, and shallots. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness that cuts through the richness of your pot roast.
You can prepare this dish in about 15 minutes, making it an efficient choice for your meal. The buttery sauce and nutty almonds elevate ordinary green beans into something special while still complementing your main dish rather than competing with it.
11. Warm Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey glazed carrots are a perfect sweet and savory side for pot roast. They’re incredibly simple to make but add a beautiful pop of color to your plate.
To make them, toss whole or cut carrots with olive oil and roast in a hot oven until tender. Then brush with a honey glaze that can be enhanced with garlic, ginger, or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
The roasting process caramelizes the natural sugars in the carrots, while the honey glaze creates a beautiful shine and additional sweetness. These carrots take about 20 minutes to cook, making them an easy addition to your pot roast dinner.
12. Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower
Turmeric roasted cauliflower brings a bright, golden touch to your pot roast dinner. This simple side dish combines the earthy flavor of turmeric with the mild taste of cauliflower.
The cauliflower florets are tossed with turmeric, cumin, coriander, and paprika before roasting in the oven. These spices create a warm flavor profile that complements your hearty pot roast perfectly.
When roasted, the cauliflower gets slightly crispy on the outside while staying tender inside. You might find it surprisingly addictive, similar to popcorn!
For a finishing touch, you can sprinkle some cilantro on top before serving. This optional garnish adds a fresh note to the dish.
13. Savory Herb Risotto
Savory herb risotto offers a delightful twist as a side for pot roast. The creamy texture of risotto complements the tender meat perfectly.
You can enhance your risotto with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage that echo the flavors in your pot roast. Adding a splash of white wine and good quality broth gives it depth.
For extra richness, stir in a bit of parmesan cheese just before serving. The starchy, creamy consistency of risotto makes it ideal for soaking up the flavorful pot roast gravy.
This combination creates a satisfying meal that balances textures and flavors beautifully.
14. Peas & Carrots Medley
Peas and carrots create a simple yet colorful side dish that pairs perfectly with pot roast. This classic combination brings a touch of sweetness and freshness to balance the rich flavors of your main dish.
You can prepare this medley quickly by steaming or sautéing the vegetables with a bit of butter and seasoning. For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint or parsley.
Frozen peas and carrots work well for convenience, but fresh vegetables provide the best texture and taste. This bright side dish not only complements your pot roast but also adds nutritional value to your meal.
15. Homemade Biscuits
Warm, flaky homemade biscuits make a perfect side for pot roast. They’re ideal for sopping up the flavorful gravy and juices from your roast.
Making biscuits from scratch isn’t complicated. You need just a few basic ingredients: flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and milk or buttermilk.
The key to perfect biscuits is handling the dough gently. Overmixing can make them tough rather than tender.
For extra flavor, try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to your biscuit dough. You can also brush the tops with melted butter right after baking for a beautiful shine and extra buttery taste.
16. Simple Arugula Salad
A fresh arugula salad makes a perfect light side for hearty pot roast. The peppery flavor of arugula creates a nice contrast to the rich meat.
You can dress your arugula salad with a simple 5-ingredient dressing. Mix olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and a touch of honey or Dijon mustard.
Add thinly sliced red onions, shaved Parmesan, or a handful of toasted nuts for extra texture and flavor. The brightness of this salad will cut through the richness of your pot roast beautifully.
This refreshing side takes just minutes to prepare, giving you more time to focus on your main dish.
17. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Cheesy scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort side dish that pairs perfectly with pot roast. These creamy, layered potatoes bake to golden perfection and add a rich complement to your main course.
For the best results, use buttery potatoes thinly sliced and layered with a sauce made from cream, cheese, and seasonings. Many recipes include caramelized onions for extra flavor depth.
You can customize this dish with different cheese combinations. Try cheddar for sharpness or experiment with Parmesan or Jack cheese for variety. Some versions even incorporate ham for a heartier side that could almost stand alone as a meal.
18. Sweet Corn Pudding
Sweet corn pudding is a creamy, custardy side dish that pairs perfectly with pot roast. This comforting classic brings a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors of your main course.
You can make corn pudding easily with just a few ingredients. Many recipes use both whole kernel corn and cream-style corn for the best texture. Some versions include a cornbread mix for structure.
The pudding bakes into a soft, golden casserole that’s especially popular during holiday meals. Its warm, homey quality makes it a favorite comfort food to serve alongside your tender pot roast.
19. Classic Waldorf Salad
A Waldorf salad offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of pot roast. This crisp side combines apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts in a creamy dressing.
The crunchy texture and light, sweet-tangy taste help balance the hearty meat. You can easily prepare this salad while your pot roast cooks.
For the best results, use crisp apple varieties and toast the walnuts before adding them to enhance their flavor. Some versions include other fruits like pears or dried cranberries for variety.
This classic salad works well at any time of year and can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for entertaining.
20. Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Balsamic
Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic reduction offer a perfect balance to a hearty pot roast. These little green gems transform when roasted, becoming crispy on the outside while staying tender inside.
To prepare them, simply toss trimmed Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast them in a hot oven until they develop a golden brown exterior and crispy edges.
After roasting, drizzle with a tangy balsamic reduction for that perfect sweet-tart flavor. Some variations include adding cranberries for sweetness or nuts like pecans for crunch.
This side dish brings a sophisticated touch to your pot roast dinner without being complicated to prepare.
21. Creamy Polenta
Creamy polenta makes a perfect side dish for pot roast. This smooth, cornmeal-based dish creates a wonderful base to soak up the savory pot roast juices.
You can prepare polenta with chicken broth instead of water for extra flavor. Add butter and Parmesan cheese to make it extra creamy and rich.
The mild flavor of polenta balances the hearty taste of pot roast. For a complete meal, simply spoon your pot roast and its gravy over a serving of polenta.
This Italian-inspired side offers a nice alternative to potatoes when you want something different with your pot roast.
Understanding Flavor Pairings
Pot roast has a rich, savory profile that pairs well with specific sides. Creating balance on your plate means considering how different flavors complement each other and enhance the overall meal experience.
Balancing Rich and Light Flavors
Pot roast offers deep, umami flavors from slow cooking. To create a well-rounded meal, pair it with sides that provide contrast.
Light, acidic sides like vinegar-based slaws or salads cut through the richness of pot roast. This prevents flavor fatigue as you eat.
Think bright Brussels sprouts with a hint of acid or a simple green salad with vinaigrette.
Starchy sides like mashed potatoes absorb the flavorful gravy and provide textural contrast. Consider these pairings:
- Rich pot roast + light green beans = balanced plate
- Hearty beef + acidic sauerkraut = complementary flavors
- Savory gravy + neutral bread rolls = perfect combination
Herbs and Spices to Enhance Taste
The right herbs and spices elevate both your pot roast and sides. Traditional pot roast seasonings include bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary.
When planning sides, use complementary herbs that won’t compete. Garlic works well in both the roast and sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Fresh parsley adds brightness as a finishing touch.
Consider these seasoning combinations:
- Thyme and rosemary for roasted root vegetables
- Dill for buttered potatoes or carrots
- Paprika for a subtle warmth in creamy sides
Avoid overwhelming your palate with too many competing strong flavors. Instead, create a theme with your seasonings that ties the meal together.
Nutritional Considerations
When planning sides for your pot roast dinner, it’s important to consider nutrition alongside taste. Balancing your meal with nutrient-dense sides helps create a well-rounded dining experience.
Health Benefits of Vegetables
Vegetables make excellent pot roast companions while boosting the nutritional value of your meal. Fiber-rich options like green salads and steamed vegetables help balance the heartier aspects of pot roast.
Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts add important antioxidants and vitamins to your plate. These vegetables are low in calories but high in nutrients, making them perfect complements to the richness of pot roast.
Colorful bell peppers provide vitamin C, while leafy greens like spinach or kale add iron and calcium. Try roasting vegetables with just a light coating of olive oil to enhance their natural flavors without adding excessive calories.
For a balanced meal, aim to fill about half your plate with vegetables. This approach helps control portion sizes of the more calorie-dense pot roast.
Incorporating Whole Grains
Whole grain sides can add important complex carbohydrates and additional fiber to your pot roast meal. Unlike refined grains, whole grains maintain their nutritional integrity, including B vitamins and minerals.
Consider serving brown rice, quinoa, or barley as alternatives to traditional white potatoes. These options have a lower glycemic index, meaning they won’t cause blood sugar spikes.
Whole grain dinner rolls or a slice of hearty multigrain bread can be perfect for soaking up the flavorful pot roast juices while providing more nutrients than white bread alternatives.
For a creative twist, try serving whole grain pasta tossed with herbs and a small amount of olive oil. This provides a satisfying side that complements the savory flavors of pot roast without overwhelming the meal.
Presentation and Serving Tips
A beautifully presented pot roast with thoughtfully arranged sides elevates your dining experience. The visual appeal of your plate matters just as much as the flavors, while serving everything at the right temperature ensures the best taste.
Creating a Visually Appealing Plate
Start with a large, warm dinner plate to give your food arrangement room to shine. Position your pot roast as the centerpiece, then arrange sides around it in small groupings rather than piling everything together.
Use color contrast to make your plate visually exciting. Bright vegetables like roasted carrots or green beans create a beautiful contrast against the rich brown of pot roast.
Consider using herbs as garnish. Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary adds color and a professional touch.
For family-style serving, use attractive serving dishes of different heights. Place taller dishes toward the back of the table and shorter ones in front.
Try the “clock method” for individual plating: meat at 6 o’clock, starch at 10, and vegetables at 2 o’clock.
Serving Temperature Guidelines
Serve your pot roast hot, but allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting. This helps the juices redistribute and makes the meat easier to slice.
Keep mashed potatoes, rice, and other hot sides in warm, covered serving dishes. Use bowls with lids or cover plates with foil to maintain temperature.
Cold sides like salads should be refrigerated until the last minute. Remove them just before serving to keep them crisp and fresh.
Warm your dinner plates before serving. Simply place them in a 170°F oven for 5 minutes or run them under hot water and dry quickly.
If serving bread or rolls, wrap them in a cloth napkin inside a basket to keep them warm longer.
