23 Brisket Side Dishes – Simple, Easy Ideas To Get You Started

Classic Sides for Brisket

For a memorable meal, pairing brisket with the right sides is crucial. Here are some classic side dishes for brisket that you can prepare to satisfy your guests and complement the star of the show.

1 Baked Beans

Baked beans are a staple side dish when it comes to any barbecue feast, especially one that includes brisket. This Southern Baked Beans recipe combines the bold flavors of bacon, molasses, and brown sugar, creating a deliciously smoky and sweet accompaniment to the slow-cooked beef.

2 Mac and Cheese

As a rich and creamy comfort food, mac and cheese is the perfect side to enhance your brisket experience. Try this Stovetop Mac and Cheese recipe from The Kitchn, which uses a combination of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby to create a smooth, velvety texture that pairs perfectly with the main dish.

3 Potato Salad

When serving brisket, a great potato salad can bring balance to your plate. This Old Fashioned Potato Salad from Allrecipes combines the flavors of mustard, celery, onion, and hard-boiled eggs with tender potatoes, providing a delightful contrast to the smoky and savory flavors of brisket.

4 Coleslaw

Coleslaw provides a refreshing and tangy contrast to the rich taste of brisket. Try this Creamy Crunchy Coleslaw recipe from The Kitchn, which gives you 3 separate dressing ideas to suit your tastes. 

5 Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob adds a touch of freshness and sweetness to your meal that complements the hearty flavors of brisket. Check out this Perfectly Grilled Corn on the Cob recipe from ACoupleCooks, which takes advantage of simple grilling techniques and seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the corn.

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Vegetable Sides

Vegetable sides for brisket can be equally impressive, both in terms of flavor and presentation. Options such as fried green tomatoes, charred Brussels sprouts, or colorful mixed vegetable medleys not only add visual appeal to your plate but also enhance the overall dining experience with their distinct tastes and textures. Below are five options that showcase a variety of flavors and textures, sure to satisfy your taste buds.

1 Green Beans

Air Fryer Green Beans are a quick and easy side dish to pair with your brisket. The crispiness of the green beans adds a nice contrast to the tenderness of the meat. Simply toss the green beans with a little oil, salt, and pepper, and cook them in an air fryer until golden and crispy.

2 Foil Grilled Brussels Sprouts

You’ll enjoy the rich, juicy flavors of Grilled Brussels Sprouts. Their natural earthiness pairs well with the savory brisket. To make this dish, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil and seasonings, wrap them in foil and roast until tender.

3 Grilled Asparagus

For a light and refreshing side, try Grilled Asparagus with plain salt and pepper. This simple yet elegant dish brightens up the flavors of your brisket. Toss the spears onto the grill and let them char a little.

4 Glazed Carrots

Maple Glazed Carrots offer a hint of sweetness that complements the smoky flavors of the brisket. The caramelized maple glaze melds beautifully with the natural sweetness of the carrots. Just cook the carrots in a mixture of maple syrup, butter, and seasonings until they are tender and the glaze has thickened.

5 Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Rounding out this list of vegetable sides is Rosemary Roasted Sweet Potatoes. With their subtle sweetness and slight crispiness, these roasted sweet potatoes are a great match for your brisket. Toss the sweet potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, and seasonings, then roast them until they are tender and lightly browned.

Healthy Side Dishes for Brisket

Brisket is a flavorful and tender meat, and pairing it with healthy side dishes can elevate your meal to new heights. In this section, we’ll explore four healthy side dish options that are not only delicious but also provide a nutritious balance to your brisket feast.

1 Arugula Salad

Arugula Salad is a light and refreshing option that complements the richness of brisket. With its peppery flavor, arugula adds a nice contrast, while the addition of your favorite vegetables like cherry tomatoes, red onion, and olives adds more depth to the dish. You can dress this salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette to enhance the flavors. Check out this delicious and easy-to-make Arugula Salad recipe.

2 Tomato Cucumber Salad

Next on the list is Tomato Cucumber Salad, a colorful and hydrating side dish perfect for a summer barbecue. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onion, and fresh herbs like parsley and mint creates a vibrant taste experience. For an extra touch of flavor, mix in a light and tangy dressing. Try this Tomato Cucumber Salad recipe for your brisket meal.

3 Chickpea Salad

Chickpea Salad is a protein-packed side dish that offers a contrasting texture to your tender brisket. With ingredients like chickpeas, bell peppers, onion, and herbs tossed in a zesty lemon dressing, this salad is sure to satisfy. The dish is also versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking by adding other vegetables or even feta cheese. Here’s a tasty Chickpea Salad recipe for you to try.

4 Caesar Salad

Last but not least, a classic Caesar Salad can be a fantastic companion to your brisket. With its mix of crunchy romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, shaved Parmesan cheese, and croutons, you’ll get a satisfying blend of textures and flavors. For a healthier twist, consider using a light Caesar dressing or making one from scratch. Give this Caesar Salad recipe a try and enjoy it alongside your brisket.

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Unique Sides for a Twist

If you’re looking for exciting and unique side dishes to serve with your brisket, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve compiled some unexpected side dishes to elevate your meal and give your dinner guests something new to try.

1 Corn Pudding

Corn pudding is a creamy, slightly sweet dish featuring corn, cream, and eggs. It’s easy to make, and its velvety texture is a delightful contrast to the tender, savory brisket. It’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

2 Brazilian Tomato Slaw

Bring some South American flair to your brisket meal with a fresh and tangy Brazilian tomato slaw. This vibrant dish combines tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and cilantro with a zesty vinegar and oil dressing. It’s an excellent companion for smoky, flavorful brisket.

3 Pickled Red Cabbage

Pack a punch of tanginess with pickled red cabbage. This colorful, crunchy condiment adds brightness and acidity to your plate, pairing wonderfully with the rich taste of brisket. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time.

4 Shirazi Salad

Take your palate on a Middle Eastern journey with a refreshing Shirazi salad. Combining cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and a tangy lime dressing, this crisp salad provides a light counterbalance to the heartiness of the brisket.

5 Blistered Shishito Peppers

For a unique and simple side, try blistered shishito peppers. These mildly spicy peppers are quickly cooked in a hot skillet until tender and slightly charred, bringing a pop of flavor and color to your brisket meal.

Hearty Potato Dishes

Brisket and potatoes go together perfectly, but sometimes you need a bit of inspiration past the classic mashed potatoes. SO here a re 4 ideas to incorporate potatoes as a side dish for a hearty, filling meal. 

1 Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

When you serve brisket, consider pairing it with a delicious side of Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. These creamy potatoes, layered with cheese and soaked in a rich, buttery sauce, complement the robust flavors of the meat, offering a satisfying and indulgent experience for your taste buds.

2 Potato Skins

Another great side dish option is Potato Skins. Stuffed with bacon, cheese, and sour cream, these crispy, savory treats add an appetizing crunch to your brisket meal. Ensure they are golden brown and perfectly cooked by following this top-rated Potato Skins recipe.

3 Potato Wedges

Potato Wedges make a fantastic addition to your brisket dinner. These oven-baked wedges are seasoned with your choice of herbs and spices, providing a flavorful and hearty side dish. Try this simple yet delicious Potato Wedges recipe to impress your guests.

4 Roasted Potatoes

Last but not least, Roasted Potatoes are a classic side dish for brisket. These potatoes can be seasoned with a variety of flavors, such as garlic, rosemary, or just simple salt and pepper. These are always a crowd pleaser.