When you think of beef, what comes to mind? A juicy steak or a hearty stew?
While beef is often seen as a savory main dish, it can also be paired with the perfect dessert.
From unique twists on baked goods to tangy fruit desserts and light to rich, there are plenty of delicious options out there that will take your meal to the next level.
Read on to learn what dessert goes well with your favorite beef dishes.
13 Sweet and Savory: The Best Dessert Goes well with Beef
1. Fruity Pies and Cobblers
A classic fruit pie or cobbler is the perfect way to balance out a savory beef dish.
From cherry pies to peach cobblers, any type of fruit will work for this pairing.
Try using seasonal fruits for an extra special touch—berries in summer and apples in fall are delicious options.
The sweet-tart flavor complements the richness of the beef perfectly. Plus, this option is easy enough to make it in the afternoon!
2. Chocolate Desserts
Dark chocolate desserts are the way to go. Rich brownies or mousse cake pair perfectly with beef dishes like burgers or steaks.
Dark chocolate has intense flavors that stand up to heavier foods like beef while still providing a sweetness that cuts through the dish’s fat. Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
3. Cheesecakes
Cheesecake is another wonderful choice for pairing with beef dishes because it has just enough sweetness without being overpowering.
The creamy cheesecake and tender beef will leave your taste buds tingling!
Some of our favorite cheesecake recipes include key lime cheesecake bars and strawberry swirl cheesecake bites.
Cheesecakes have just enough sweetness while providing a creamy texture that pairs well with savory dishes like shepherd’s pie or pot roast.
If you want something unique, try making a ricotta sorbet for an Italian twist on traditional ice cream!
4. Apple Crisp
Apple Crisp is a classic dessert that would be the perfect way to end any meal, especially if you served beef as the main course.
Apples are a natural companion to beef because they balance the meat’s savoriness with its sweet flavor.
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle it with salted caramel sauce to make an apple crisp even more special.
5. Chocolate Cake
A rich and indulgent after a beef dish, chocolate cake is always a great option.
The bittersweet flavor of the chocolate pairs perfectly with red meat because it brings out its natural flavors while adding a bit of sweetness.
Top your chocolate cake off with fresh berries or whipped cream for an even more decadent treat.
6. Apple Pie
Nothing pairs better with a beef roast than a warm apple pie. The tartness and sweetness of the apples provide a wonderful contrast to the savory beef flavor.
Plus, it’s a classic dessert that everyone will love! Apple pie also put together with steak.
7. Meringue Pie
Light and airy meringue pie is another tasty option for pairing desserts with beef.
The sweet and fluffy flavor of the meringue perfectly complements the rich flavors of beef dishes like pot roast or steak.
8. Rice Pudding
Rice pudding is a classic dessert that pairs wonderfully with beef dishes.
The rice’s creamy texture and sweet flavor are perfect for balancing out the savory flavors of a steak or roast.
9. Ice Cream Sundae
A simple ice cream sundae can be great when served alongside a hearty plate of beef.
Vanilla ice cream provides sweetness to balance the rich flavors of the beef, while the toppings add a bit of crunch to complete the dish.
10. Fruit Crisp
A homemade fruit crisp is a great way to bring some sweet and tart flavors into your meal.
The bits of fruit in the crisp contrast with the beef’s savory flavor, making it an all-around winning dessert option.
11. Pecan Pie
Pecan pie is another classic dessert that can be enjoyed with beef dishes.
The nutty sweetness of the pecans pairs nicely with the meaty richness of beef for an all-around flavorful combination.
12. Chocolate Mousse
There’s something about chocolate mousse that just screams decadence! This luxurious treat perfectly complements the savory flavors of roasted beef and can make any dinner feel extra special.
13. Carrot Cake
Remember to underestimate the power of carrot cake! This sweet and flavorful dessert is surprisingly versatile for pairing with beef dishes.
The sweetness of the carrots pairs well with the savoriness of meat, making for a fantastic flavor combination.
These are just some of the best desserts you can eat with beef dishes.
Whether you’re having a casual dinner or an elegant affair, these desserts will definitely be a hit!
No matter which one you choose, your culinary skills will certainly impress your guests.
FAQ
What Dessert To Serve With Beef Stew?
It is best to go for not too sweet or heavy as the stew is already quite bold. Otherwise, you can serve
1. Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp with a crunchy topping and a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the top would be a perfect pairing with beef stew.
2. Fruit salad is also a great choice for cleansing the stew, it is light and perfectly contrasts with the rich flavor of the beef stew.
and last
3. Dark Chocolate, a few squares of dark chocolate can be a great way to finish off a meal with beef stew. The bitterness of the dark chocolate will help cut through the richness of the stew.
