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When planning a comforting and hearty meal, you might wonder what to serve with pot roast. Pot roast is one of those quintessential comfort foods that bring warmth and satisfaction to the table. Its rich, savory flavors are perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering. But what really makes a pot roast meal stand out are the side dishes that accompany it. The right sides can elevate the entire dining experience, providing a balance of textures and flavors that complement the main dish.
1. Mashed Potatoes:
Mashed potatoes are the ultimate classic side dish for pot roast. Their creamy texture and mild, buttery flavor create a perfect foil to the robust, savory notes of the pot roast. The best part about mashed potatoes is their versatility. You can keep them simple with just butter and cream, or you can jazz them up with roasted garlic, cheddar cheese, or even a touch of horseradish for a little kick. For an extra smooth consistency, try using a potato ricer before adding your dairy ingredients. This will ensure that your mashed potatoes are free of lumps and extra fluffy.
2. Roasted Root Vegetables:
Roasted root vegetables are a wonderful addition to any pot roast dinner. Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, when roasted, develop a caramelized sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory meat. Simply toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (rosemary and thyme work particularly well) and roast them in the oven until they’re tender and slightly crispy on the edges. The variety of colors and textures also makes for a visually appealing plate.
3. Green Bean Casserole:
A staple of holiday dinners, green bean casserole also makes a great side for pot roast. The combination of tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions on top provides a delightful mix of textures and flavors. It’s rich enough to hold its own next to the hearty pot roast, yet light enough not to overpower it. For a twist, you can add some chopped bacon or a splash of soy sauce to the mushroom mixture for an added depth of flavor.
4. Caesar Salad:
A crisp Caesar salad is a refreshing counterpoint to the heavy pot roast. The tangy dressing, crunchy croutons, and sharp Parmesan cheese provide a bright, crisp texture that complements the meat. You can whip up a quick homemade Caesar dressing with mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, anchovy paste, and grated Parmesan. Toss it with fresh romaine lettuce and top with croutons and more Parmesan. For added protein, you can even throw in some grilled chicken or shrimp.
5. Yorkshire Pudding:
Yorkshire pudding, a traditional British side, is perfect for soaking up the delicious gravy from your pot roast. These fluffy, airy pastries are made from a simple batter of eggs, flour, and milk, and baked until they puff up and turn golden brown. The outside is crisp, while the inside remains soft and tender. They might seem fancy, but Yorkshire puddings are actually quite easy to make. Just make sure your muffin tin and oil are piping hot before pouring in the batter to ensure a good rise.
6. Macaroni and Cheese:
Who doesn’t love macaroni and cheese? This creamy, cheesy dish is always a crowd-pleaser and pairs exceptionally well with pot roast. The richness of the cheese sauce complements the savory flavors of the roast, making each bite a comforting delight. You can keep it simple with a basic cheddar cheese sauce, or you can mix in other cheeses like Gruyere, Parmesan, or even blue cheese for a more complex flavor. For a crunchy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the top before baking.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts:
Brussels sprouts, when roasted, become sweet and caramelized, providing a delightful contrast to the hearty pot roast. Toss them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. For added flavor, you can sprinkle them with balsamic vinegar or mix in some chopped bacon before roasting. The slightly bitter yet sweet taste of Brussels sprouts is a great match for the rich, savory flavors of the pot roast.
8. Buttermilk Biscuits:
There’s nothing quite like a warm, fluffy biscuit to accompany a pot roast. Buttermilk biscuits are particularly wonderful because they’re tender and have a slight tanginess that pairs well with the savory roast. They’re perfect for soaking up the juices and gravy from the pot roast. Making biscuits from scratch is easier than you might think. The key is to keep your butter cold and not overwork the dough. This ensures that the biscuits turn out flaky and light.
9. Crispy Smashed Potatoes:
Crispy smashed potatoes are a fun and delicious alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Boil small potatoes until they’re tender, then gently smash them with the back of a spoon or a potato masher. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs, and roast them in the oven until they’re golden and crispy. These potatoes have a delightful combination of soft interior and crispy exterior, making them an excellent side for pot roast.
10. Creamed Spinach:
Creamed spinach is a rich and creamy side dish that provides a nice balance to the savory pot roast. The slight bitterness of the spinach is mellowed by the creamy sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. To make creamed spinach, sauté fresh spinach until wilted, then mix with a sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and a bit of grated nutmeg. Some recipes also call for adding cheese, such as Parmesan or Gruyere, for an extra layer of richness.
These ten side dishes offer a variety of flavors and textures that complement the savory, tender nature of pot roast. Whether you’re looking for something traditional like mashed potatoes or something a bit more adventurous like crispy smashed potatoes, these sides will enhance your pot roast dinner and delight your guests. So next time you’re planning a pot roast meal, give one or more of these sides a try and see how they transform your dining experience.