Brisket is a delicious and hearty meat that deserves equally tasty side dishes. The right sides can take your brisket meal to the next level. From classic potato dishes to fresh salads, there are many options to choose from.
You can find the perfect brisket sides to suit any taste or occasion. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or a holiday dinner, pairing your brisket with complementary sides will create a memorable and satisfying meal for your guests. Let’s explore some of the best side dishes to serve alongside your brisket.
1. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a classic brisket side dish. You can make it with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing. It adds a cool, crunchy contrast to the rich, tender brisket.
For a twist, try a vinegar-based slaw instead of creamy. This lighter version cuts through the fatty meat nicely. You can also add extras like apple or bell peppers for more flavor and crunch.
Make your coleslaw ahead of time. This lets the flavors meld together. It’ll taste even better when you serve it with your brisket.
2. Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a perfect partner for brisket. The creamy, cheesy pasta balances the smoky meat. You can make it extra special by adding chopped brisket right into the dish.
Try a smoked version to match the brisket’s flavor. Mix in different cheeses like cheddar and Gouda for depth. A dash of horseradish adds a nice kick.
For crunch, top your mac with toasted breadcrumbs. This comfort food side will be a hit at your next barbecue. It’s easy to make and always satisfies hungry guests.
3. Potato Salad
Potato salad is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with brisket. You can make it ahead of time, which is great for busy barbecues.
For a basic version, mix boiled potatoes with mayo, mustard, and chopped onions. Add some crunch with diced celery or pickles.
Try adding bacon bits or chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can brighten up the taste.
Serve your potato salad chilled. It’s a cool, creamy contrast to hot, smoky brisket. Your guests will love this crowd-pleasing side dish at your next barbecue.
4. Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with brisket. Its sweet and savory flavors complement the rich, smoky meat. You can make cornbread in a skillet or baking pan.
For extra flavor, try adding cheese, jalapeños, or bacon to your cornbread mix. Some people enjoy their cornbread with a drizzle of honey or a pat of butter on top.
If you’re short on time, you can use a boxed mix. But homemade cornbread is easy to make and tastes even better. Serve it warm alongside your brisket for a satisfying meal.
5. Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a classic side dish that goes well with brisket. You can make it easily with canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions.
Mix the beans and soup in a baking dish. Top with the onions and bake until hot and bubbly. The creamy texture and savory flavors complement the rich taste of brisket.
For extra flavor, try adding some garlic powder or sliced mushrooms to your casserole. You can also use fresh green beans instead of canned for a crispier texture.
This comforting side dish brings a nice veggie element to your brisket meal. It’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults at your table.
6. Texas Toast
Texas toast is a perfect side for brisket. It’s thick-cut bread that’s buttered and grilled until golden and crispy. The generous slices soak up the brisket’s juices wonderfully.
You can make Texas toast at home easily. Just grab some thick white bread, spread butter on both sides, and grill it until toasty. For extra flavor, try adding garlic powder or herbs to the butter.
This hearty side pairs great with brisket’s rich flavors. Its crunchy texture also contrasts nicely with the tender meat. Serve it warm alongside your brisket for a classic Texas BBQ experience.
7. Baked Beans
Baked beans are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with brisket. These sweet and savory beans complement the smoky flavors of the meat.
You can make baked beans from scratch or use canned beans as a shortcut. Add bacon, onions, and molasses for extra flavor.
Slow-cooking the beans allows them to absorb all the delicious seasonings. The result is a rich, thick sauce that coats each bean.
Serve your baked beans hot alongside slices of juicy brisket. The combination of textures and flavors will delight your taste buds.
8. Pickles
Pickles are a classic side dish for brisket. Their tangy crunch cuts through the rich, fatty meat perfectly.
You can choose from many pickle varieties. Dill pickles are a popular choice. Bread and butter pickles offer a sweeter taste. For extra kick, try spicy pickles.
Make your own quick pickles at home. Slice cucumbers and soak them in vinegar, salt, and spices. Let them sit for a few hours before serving.
Pickles add bright flavor and texture to your brisket meal. They’re easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
9. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with brisket. You can easily make them at home with just a few ingredients.
Start by boiling peeled potatoes until tender. Drain and mash them with butter, milk, and minced garlic. Add salt and pepper to taste.
For extra flavor, you can roast whole garlic cloves and mix them into the potatoes. This gives a milder, sweeter garlic taste.
Serve your garlic mashed potatoes hot alongside slices of juicy brisket. The creamy texture and rich garlic flavor complement the meat beautifully.
10. Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
Elote is a tasty Mexican street food that pairs perfectly with brisket. It’s grilled corn on the cob coated in a creamy, spicy sauce and toppings.
To make elote, grill fresh corn until lightly charred. Then spread a mixture of mayo, sour cream, and garlic over the corn.
Sprinkle on chili powder, lime juice, and crumbled cotija cheese. Add chopped cilantro as a finishing touch.
The result is a sweet and savory corn dish with a kick of spice. The creamy coating and zesty flavors complement rich, smoky brisket nicely.
Elote brings a fun, casual vibe to your brisket meal. It’s easy to eat and adds vibrant color to your plate.
11. Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is a tasty side dish for brisket. The crisp romaine lettuce contrasts nicely with the tender meat. Crunchy croutons add texture, while the creamy dressing brings richness.
You can make a classic Caesar or try variations. Add grilled corn for sweetness and extra crunch. Cherry tomatoes bring color and a fresh burst of flavor.
For protein, top the salad with grilled chicken or shrimp. This makes it more filling if you want a lighter meal. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese enhances the savory taste.
12. Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is a quick and tasty side dish for your brisket. It takes less than 15 minutes to cook and needs only a few simple ingredients.
To prepare, drizzle the asparagus spears with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place them directly on the grill grates perpendicular to the bars.
Grill the asparagus over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, turning once. The spears should be tender and lightly charred when done.
For extra flavor, try squeezing some lemon juice over the grilled asparagus before serving. The smoky taste pairs perfectly with your juicy brisket.
13. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a tasty twist on regular fries that pair well with brisket. They offer a sweet and savory combo that complements the rich meat.
You can make them crispy in the oven or air fryer. Cut sweet potatoes into thin strips, toss with oil and spices, then bake until golden.
Try seasoning your fries with salt, pepper, and paprika for extra flavor. Serve them hot alongside your brisket for a delicious contrast.
For dipping, consider a honey mustard sauce or spicy mayo. These sauces add extra zing to your meal and enhance the flavors.
14. Fried Okra
Fried okra makes a tasty side dish for brisket. You can prepare it quickly in about 15 minutes.
To make fried okra, slice fresh okra into rounds. Coat the pieces in cornmeal and spices. Then fry them until golden and crispy.
The crunchy texture of fried okra pairs well with tender brisket. Its mild flavor won’t overpower the meat.
Serve fried okra hot as soon as it comes out of the fryer. Add a sprinkle of salt for extra flavor. You can also dip it in ranch dressing or remoulade sauce if you like.
15. Red Cabbage Slaw
Red cabbage slaw adds a burst of color and crunch to your brisket meal. You can make this tasty side dish while your brisket cooks.
Mix shredded red cabbage with grated carrots for extra flavor and nutrition. Add a simple dressing of olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and honey to bring it all together.
This slaw stays crisp in the fridge, so you can prepare it ahead of time. The tangy flavors complement the rich taste of brisket perfectly.
Serve your red cabbage slaw cold for a refreshing contrast to the warm, smoky meat. It’s a light and healthy option that balances out the heartiness of brisket.
Nutritional Benefits of Complementary Brisket Sides
Brisket sides offer more than just taste. They can boost your meal’s nutritional value and help create a balanced plate.
Vitamin and Mineral Content
Many brisket sides pack a punch of vitamins and minerals. Coleslaw gives you vitamin C and fiber from cabbage. Roasted Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamins K and C. They also provide folate and manganese.
Baked beans offer protein and fiber. They’re also a good source of iron and magnesium. Sweet potatoes in mashed form give you lots of vitamin A. This helps your eye health and immune system.
Green beans add vitamins A and C to your meal. They’re low in calories but high in nutrients. Carrots bring beta-carotene, which your body turns into vitamin A.
Balanced Meal Consideration
Pairing sides with brisket can create a well-rounded meal. Whole grain cornbread adds fiber and B vitamins. This helps balance the protein-heavy brisket.
Quinoa salad offers complete protein and fiber. It’s also gluten-free for those with sensitivities. Potato salad provides carbs for energy. Choose vinegar-based versions for fewer calories.
Grilled vegetables add color and nutrients to your plate. They’re low in calories but high in vitamins. This helps offset the richness of brisket.
Mix and match sides to get a variety of nutrients. Aim for different colors on your plate. This ensures you get a wide range of vitamins and minerals.
Pairing Brisket Sides with Different Brisket Styles
Brisket styles vary by region, each with unique flavors that call for different side dishes. The right pairings can make your meal even more enjoyable.
Texas-Style Brisket
Texas-style brisket is known for its smoky, peppery crust and tender meat. Pair it with sides that complement these bold flavors.
Best sides: • Coleslaw • Potato salad • Pickled vegetables • Jalapeño cornbread
The tangy crunch of coleslaw cuts through the rich, fatty meat. A creamy potato salad adds a cool contrast to the spicy pepper crust. Pickled veggies bring acidity to balance the smoky flavors. Jalapeño cornbread adds a touch of heat and sweetness.
Avoid heavy, sauce-based sides that might overpower the brisket’s natural flavors. Stick to simple, fresh options that let the meat shine.
Kansas City-Style Brisket
Kansas City-style brisket is sweet and tangy, often coated in a thick, tomato-based sauce. Choose sides that can stand up to these strong flavors.
Great pairings: • Baked beans • Mac and cheese • Grilled corn on the cob • Potato skins
Baked beans complement the sweet sauce with their own savory-sweet flavor. Creamy mac and cheese offers a mild contrast to the tangy brisket. Grilled corn adds a smoky sweetness that matches well. Crispy potato skins provide a satisfying crunch.
Try to balance the sweetness of the brisket with savory or slightly spicy sides. This helps create a well-rounded meal that isn’t too heavy on one flavor profile.