What to Eat with Roast Beef: 21 Delicious Side Dish Ideas

Roast beef is a classic main dish that graces many dinner tables, especially for holidays and special occasions. With its rich, savory flavor, roast beef deserves equally delicious side dishes to complement it. But with so many options, it can be tricky to narrow down what to serve alongside roast beef.

Luckily, I’ve compiled this ultimate guide of 21 mouthwatering side dish ideas to pair with roast beef From hearty potatoes and seasonal vegetables to easy salads and flavorful sauces, there’s something for every taste and dietary preference.

Traditional Roast Beef Side Dishes

These classic sides have been served alongside prime rib and other roast beef cuts for generations. Although familiar, they’re essential elements of a flawless roast beef dinner.

1. Yorkshire Pudding

This puffy, hollow bread is a beloved British accompaniment to roast beef. Made from a simple batter of eggs, flour, and milk, Yorkshire pudding gets its lift from the hot drippings in the roasting pan Crispy, golden brown, and perfect for soaking up savory juices, Yorkshire pudding is a must-have

2. Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are another classic pairing for roast beef. For ultimate creaminess, rice the potatoes after boiling and mixing in butter and warm milk. Go the extra mile with cheeses, garlic, or other mix-ins.

3. Creamed Spinach or Creamed Peas

These velvety creamed vegetables exemplify old-school elegance. Made with butter, cream, and seasonings, they’re rich yet balanced. Creamed spinach offers an earthy note, while sweet peas lighten things up.

4. Roasted Root Vegetables

A medley of roasted root veggies like carrots, parsnips, turnips, and potatoes brings out the natural sweetness. Toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs before roasting. They’re a homey, satisfying accompaniment.

5. Au Jus or Gravy

What’s a roast beef dinner without the savory jus (juices)? A basic au jus sauce can be made from the meat drippings, while gravy has a thickened roux. Both enhance the flavor of the roast beef. Pour them over the meat or use for dunking.

6. Horseradish Sauce

Prepared horseradish adds punchy heat and vinegar tang to roast beef. Mix grated horseradish root with mayonnaise, sour cream, or crème fraîche. It cuts through the richness of the beef brilliantly.

Modern and Creative Roast Beef Side Dishes

Beyond the old standbys, there are so many options for unique, relevant sides for today’s roast beef dinners. Get creative with fresh flavors, colors, and textures!

7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Brussels sprouts roast up deliciously caramelized and tender. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, and bacon bits. The smoky, salty bacon pairs perfectly with the sweet sprouts.

8. Honey Glazed Carrots

For next-level roasted carrots, coat them with a quick honey glaze. Melt butter with honey, balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then pour over blanched carrot batons before roasting. Irresistibly sweet and sticky.

9. Green Beans Amandine

Blanched green beans get tossed with toasted sliced almonds and lemon juice for a classic French bistro-style side. Crunchy, bright, and easy to make ahead.

10. Roasted Broccoli with Garlic

Roasting broccoli concentrates its flavor while caramelizing and crisping the florets. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic before roasting for a simple, nutritious side.

11. Roasted Butternut Squash

The sweet, earthy flavor of butternut squash makes it a delicious counterpoint to beef. Peel, dice, toss with oil and seasonings, and roast until caramelized and tender. Toss with fresh herbs before serving.

12. Creamed Kale or Spinach

For a healthier take on creamed veggies, use nutrient-packed kale or spinach. Cook the greens, then puree with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of cream. Vitamin-rich and velvety smooth.

13. Fresh Green Salad with Vinaigrette

A crisp green salad adds welcome brightness and acidity. Make it extra fancy for roast beef dinners with colorful additions like pomegranate seeds, toasted nuts, berries, or shaved vegetables.

14. Celery Root Puree

Blending creamy celery root with butter or olive oil makes an indulgent mashed potato substitute. Season the puree with fresh thyme or sage.Sodium and potassium warrent use of sodium free seasonings, be easy with the butter!

15. Wild Rice Pilaf

Nutty wild rice cooked in broth with mushrooms and herbs becomes a sophisticated side for special meals. Toast the rice first to amplify its smoky flavor.

16. Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini

Cauliflower gets caramelized and sweet when roasted. Drizzle with a tahini-based sauce spiked with garlic, lemon, and parsley for a Mediterranean-inspired side.

17. Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad

This fresh Middle Eastern salad features quinoa instead of bulgur mixed with tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, mint, olive oil, and lemon juice. It adds texture, flavor, and nutrients.

18. Honey Balsamic Glazed Pears

For a showstopping dessert-like side, roast pears coated with a glossy honey balsamic glaze. Serve warm over vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat.

19. Twice Baked Potatoes

Make ahead and reheat these loaded twice baked spuds. Scoop out baked potatoes, mix the flesh with cheese, bacon, and scallions, then stuff back in the skins and bake again until golden.

20. Sauteed Mushrooms with Thyme

Quickly sautéed mushrooms flavored with garlic, thyme, madeira wine (or sherry), and butter are a foolproof accompaniment. Shiitakes, creminis, or a blend work beautifully.

21. Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots with Thyme

To make tender roasted carrots extra special, coat them with a quick glaze of honey, butter, thyme, salt, and pepper before roasting. A touch of lemon brightens the honey glaze.

Putting It All Together

With so many excellent options, how do you choose sides for the ultimate roast beef dinner?

My recommendations are to pick 1-2 hearty starches like potatoes, rice, or bread. Add 1-2 bright vegetables or salads for color and nutrition. Include a sauce for drizzling over the meat. Finally, consider a special dessert-y side to end the meal on a sweet note.

Here’s one example of a well-rounded roast beef menu:

• Yorkshire pudding
• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon
• Horseradish sauce
• Mixed green salad with vinaigrette
• Honey balsamic glazed pears

No matter what sides you choose, the most important tip is to select dishes with diverse flavors and textures to complement the rich roast beef. With this guide, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect accompaniments!