Complementing a juicy beef brisket with the ideal side dishes can elevate a simple dinner into a truly special occasion. With so many options to choose from, selecting the perfect accompaniment can be overwhelming. To simplify the decision-making process, this article presents 41 mouth-watering brisket side dishes that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences.
Potato Latkes
While matzo meal serves as the foundation for this simple recipe, you can substitute it with other ingredients that provide a similar binding effect. Breadcrumbs and all-purpose flour are excellent alternatives. The key is to find something that can ‘fill’ the mixture and hold its shape. When experimenting with seasonings and spices, remember that omitting the egg is not an option. Without it, your latkes may crumble and lose their texture.
Green Beans & Potatoes
Transforming your brisket meat into an unforgettable dish is as simple as pairing it with a classic combination of potatoes and green beans, elevated by the rich flavor of crispy bacon. This delectable side dish delivers a satisfying crunch, perfectly complementing the savory notes of your main course or even Polish sausages.
Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potatoes into an indulgent treat that perfectly complements the rich flavors of your brisket or pork chops. Simply add some pungent garlic and melted mozzarella cheese to create a dish that’s sure to impress.
Instant Pot Potato Salad
This one-pot wonder stands out due to its ability to simultaneously cook eggs and potatoes to perfection. The ease of preparation is further enhanced by the fact that the dish can be pressure cooked in a single pot, streamlining the cooking process and minimizing cleanup. Upon completion, the ingredients combine seamlessly with mayonnaise, onions, and spices, resulting in a delicious and satisfying side dish that pairs well with ribs.
Twice Baked Potatoes
Indulge in crispy potato boats overflowing with a velvety mash, then take it to the next level by adding an extra layer of crunch. The harmonious blend of shredded cheese, diced onions, and crumbled bacon on top elevates this humble ingredient to a sophisticated side dish worthy of any table. For more mouthwatering ideas, consider these complementary side dishes that pair perfectly with meatloaf.
Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
The recipe includes a decadent cinnamon-infused butter dip that’s equally delightful paired with baked potatoes and brisket. This sweet and silky mix adds a rich, velvety quality to the dish, making it perfect for serving alongside a variety of flavors. You can also experiment by pairing it with your favorite leftover brisket recipes or using it as a topping for other roasted meats.
Crispy Salt & Vinegar Potatoes
Indulge in the delightfully crispy exterior and fluffy interior of these bite-sized potato nuggets, which tantalize taste buds regardless of the accompaniment. A fresh spin on traditional baked potatoes, this recipe yields a satisfying contrast of textures. Moreover, it makes for an exceptional side dish to serve with chicken wings, elevating the overall dining experience.
Garlic Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
While it’s easy to assume that even the most mundane dishes can fall flat, these mashed potatoes are a delightful exception. The harmonious union of caramelized onions, roasted garlic, and parmesan cheese creates a richly satisfying flavor profile that’s nothing short of exceptional. If you’re comfortable with dairy, I highly recommend incorporating buttermilk instead of milk to elevate the dish even further.
Roasted Potatoes & Veggies
For those who crave roasted flavors, baked potatoes with peppers and onions offer a harmonious pairing experience, especially when matched with tender brisket. The visual appeal of these vibrant vegetables, complemented by the pungent aroma from herbs and garlic, creates a comforting side dish that’s sure to satisfy. Moreover, this same combination also works beautifully alongside a juicy steak, making it an excellent choice for a well-rounded meal.
Roasted Sweet Potato Salad
Savor the harmonious union of roasted sweet potato cubes with the freshness of celery, green onions, and the satisfying crunch of crispy bacon. The dish is elevated by a creamy and tangy mayo and Dijon dressing. To achieve the perfect texture, cook the bacon until it reaches a satisfying crispness – avoid overcooking which can lead to an unpleasant crumbliness. For a vegetarian alternative, substitute the bacon with tempeh, providing a similar depth of flavor without the meat.
Pasta Side Dishes
For those who crave the rich flavors of Italian cuisine, there’s no better accompaniment to a hearty meat dish like brisket than a velvety, indulgent pasta dish. When it comes to rounding out this satisfying meal, a carefully chosen side dish can elevate the entire experience.
Broccoli Cheddar Instant Pot Mac & Cheese
This rich and indulgent dish not only pairs perfectly with slow-cooked brisket but also has the potential to stand alone as a satisfying meal. The best part? It’s remarkably easy to prepare using an Instant Pot. Simply start by cooking the pasta and broccoli, then finish it off with a medley of creamy and cheesy ingredients.
Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese
The humble mac and cheese just got a gourmand twist with the addition of cheesy butternut squash – a match made in heaven, perfect for October’s cozy gatherings. Don’t be afraid to get creative by adding herbs that complement this dish. For me, thyme is the unsung hero that brings out the natural sweetness of the squash.
Macaroni Salad
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this scrumptious macaroni salad, perfect for accompanying your favorite dishes. A medley of flavors comes together through the combination of hard-boiled eggs, crunchy gherkins, fresh celery, peppery zip, sweet onions, and a rich mayo-based dressing that adds a tangy twist. The elbow macaroni provides a practical and convenient base for this satisfying side dish.
Creamy Pasta Salad
This indulgent salad is a sensory delight, boasting a rich flavor profile that’s anything but ordinary. The absence of eggs is more than made up for by the bold presence of cheddar and pepperoni, which harmonize beautifully with the natural sweetness of the veggies. Meanwhile, a velvety smoothness courtesy of the mayo adds an air of sophistication, subtly accented by the fresh herbal notes that waft through each bite. It’s a culinary experience that will leave you craving more.
Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
This indulgent creation defies the notion that simplicity is a hindrance to culinary excellence, as its harmonious union of mayo, pickles, and dill elevates the humble ingredients to extraordinary heights. For those seeking an added layer of richness, a dash of ham or bacon will suffice; however, this salad’s inherent charm lies in its ability to delight without requiring any additional embellishments.
Healthy Sides for Brisket
For those who prioritize a nutritious and flavorful approach to cooking, these delectable yet guilt-free brisket side dishes are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Quinoa & Chickpea Salad
When it comes to creating a satisfying and wholesome salad, quinoa, spicy chickpeas, and an assortment of fresh vegetables prove to be a winning combination. Not only do they provide a sense of fullness, but the sweet and tangy dressing adds a layer of depth that complements both the spices and veggies perfectly. This salad is particularly well-suited as a accompaniment to BBQ brisket or grilled meats, where its comforting and nourishing qualities can be fully appreciated.
Roasted Carrots
Indulge in the natural sweetness of carrots with this effortless and healthy recipe, perfect as a main course or delectable side dish for pasta. The simplicity of the dish lies in its few ingredients – salt, pepper, and dill – but feel free to add your personal touch if you prefer a little extra flavor.
Spinach Tomato Salad with Feta
This salad is a true showstopper, boasting an impressive combination of flavors and textures. The generous helping of spinach provides a nutritious base, while the tomatoes, onions, and star of the show – feta cheese – add a burst of sweetness and tanginess. But it’s not just about the ingredients themselves; the way they come together is truly special. The crunchy pumpkin seeds provide a satisfying crunch, further elevating this salad to meal status. And let’s not forget the sweet Dijon dressing that brings everything together, coating each bite in a rich, velvety goodness.
Spicy Cilantro Lime Summer Slaw
The coleslaw recipe takes on a vibrant Mexican flair with the addition of onions, corn, red peppers, jalapenos, cheese, and cilantro. The absence of rich and fatty mayonnaise is compensated by a zesty dressing infused with lime and olive oil, giving it a refreshing and light quality. To achieve optimal flavor, it’s recommended to refrigerate the slaw overnight, allowing the ingredients to meld together.
Sauteed Asparagus & Mushrooms
If you’re on the lookout for a straightforward side dish requiring minimal ingredients, look no further than this asparagus and mushroom sauté. A perfect accompaniment to your brisket dinner, its simplicity belies the depth of flavor it brings. The key lies in sautéing these vegetables in garlicky oil, which infuses them with an intense taste that lingers throughout each bite. Additionally, feel free to pair this delightful combination with a classic lasagna for a well-rounded meal.
Cider Roasted Parsnips
Imagine the indulgence of roasted parsnips elevated to new heights with a surprising twist – a drizzle of apple cider! The sweetness of these tender sticks is further amplified by a maple and cider glaze, providing a delightful flavor contrast. To add depth and balance, a judicious amount of cider vinegar is incorporated into the recipe, resulting in a harmonious blend that will leave you craving more.
Chopped Veggie Salad
Savoring a salad that’s as cool as a summer breeze, this fresh mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions provides an invigorating accompaniment to any meat-based meal. The addition of crumbly feta cheese and the pungency of oregano-infused dressing transport you to the Mediterranean coast, making it an ideal choice for warm-weather gatherings. For a surprising twist, substitute goat cheese for the feta, which will yield a richer and more complex flavor profile.
Cucumber Salad with Dill
When it comes to pairing this revitalizing salad with your preferred protein dish, the possibilities are endless. To truly unlock its flavors, consider allowing it to chill in the refrigerator for several hours before serving cold. For added depth and complexity, experiment with combining both sweet and red onions. The former will introduce a subtle, velvety texture, while the latter will bring a tangy, pungent note to the mix.
Roasted Carrots with Honey Mustard Glaze
The natural sweetness of carrots can be truly elevated through a roasting process that brings out their full flavor potential. While the addition of fresh herbs like parsley, pungent garlic, and fragrant rosemary already makes for an impressive combination, it’s the sweet and tangy glaze comprised of honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil that really takes these carrots to the next level, making them a truly delightful treat.
Roasted Broccoli with Garlic Cheese Sauce
Indulge in the rich flavors of roasted broccoli florets smothered in a decadent garlicky sauce and topped with a satisfying crunch from toasted almond slices. This recipe employs a gourmet cheese spread for maximum flavor, though any meltable cheese will suffice. For those who don’t appreciate almonds, consider substituting them with roasted pumpkin seeds or walnuts to add a delightful textural contrast.
Instant Pot Cajun Corn on the Cob
In just a few quick minutes, you can transform your kitchen into a culinary hub with the Instant Pot’s incredible efficiency. Preparing this delectable dish takes merely 5 minutes from start to finish, ensuring it’s always ready when you need it most – on your dinner table. The silky texture and buttery flavor are perfectly balanced by spicy Cajun notes that pair magnificently with any red meat, making it an ideal accompaniment to your slow-cooked brisket.
Carrot Cucumber Salad
A harmonious blend of cucumber, carrots, and onion, elevated by a subtle hint of vinegar, can complement a wide range of dishes. To achieve this balance, the recipe incorporates just a whisper of sugar, which helps temper the tanginess of the vinegar and creates a more palatable flavor profile. For those seeking a sugar-free alternative, consider substituting with a sweetener of your choice, rather than omitting it altogether.
Heirloom Tomato Salad
In the world of salads, heirloom tomatoes reign supreme due to their milder flavor profile compared to regular tomatoes. Their subtle sweetness and reduced acidity make them an ideal addition to any salad bowl. The perfect marriage of flavors is achieved by combining these tomato wedges with pickled Vadala onions, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. To elevate the dish further, a drizzle of Balsamic dressing and a splash of pickling juice are added, creating a harmonious balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes.
Best Sides to Go with Brisket
For those seeking to elevate their brisket experience, discovering the ideal accompaniments can be a culinary quest. Among the plethora of options, there are a few standout choices that have garnered widespread acclaim.
Raisin Coleslaw
The classic combination of brisket and coleslaw is a match made in heaven. However, adding an unexpected twist – raisins – can elevate the dish to new heights. The sweet and tangy flavor profile created by combining the slaw with carrots, raisins, and a rich mayo dressing is sure to captivate your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Apple Slaw
Indulge your taste buds in a delightful fusion of flavors as crunchy scallion greens mingle with a rich and tangy dressing, expertly balanced by the sweetness of apples. The harmonious union of these ingredients is truly revelatory, making it impossible to imagine coleslaw without them. For an even more refined experience, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream, imbuing each bite with a lighter, creamier essence.
Grilled Cauliflower Bacon Mac & Cheese
Cauliflower’s mild flavor makes it an excellent canvas for showcasing bold flavors. When you opt for cauliflower as your primary carbohydrate source, taste bud anxiety is a thing of the past. This versatile veggie effortlessly absorbs seasonings, complementing a wide range of ingredients with ease. For instance, pair it with crispy bacon and melted cheese for a rich, velvety low-carb take on the comforting classic mac and cheese.
Beer Butter Mushrooms
Rich aromas and deep flavors are achieved by combining four generous tablespoons of butter with fresh herbs, creating a truly indulgent culinary experience. At the heart of this recipe is a cup of Pilsner – or any lager-style beer for that matter. Allowing the mushrooms to simmer in this liquid gold for approximately 30 minutes yields caps that are tender and supple, elevating the overall dish to new heights.
Smoked Baked Beans
Baked beans are an integral part of Southern cuisine, effortlessly pairing with various red meat options. The combination of bacon, a hint of cinnamon, and the other essential ingredients – molasses, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup – creates a flavor profile that’s impossible to resist. It’s crucial not to substitute these key components, as they’re what give this recipe its distinct taste.
Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
Savory mashed potatoes infused with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a hint of green onions come together in a rich and creamy potato casserole that pairs perfectly with a tender brisket. For an added layer of depth, don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to take the flavor to new heights.
Blue Cheese Coleslaw
When it comes to red cabbage and blue cheese, it’s as if they were destined to be together. When you add creamy elements like mayo and sour cream to the mix, you’ve got a side dish that’s both rich and refined. The real magic happens when you incorporate zesty ingredients like lemon and Worcestershire, which add a depth of flavor that takes this recipe to the next level. And don’t even get me started on the versatility of fresh herbs – use whatever variety you love most to bring your own unique twist to the dish.
Cowboy Baked Beans
Crafting this bean bake is an effortless endeavour that requires mere mixing of ingredients, followed by a leisurely spread into a baking dish. The finishing touches are added with a sprinkle of diced bacon, after which it’s left to bake for at least 90 minutes, allowing the rich flavours to meld together. The harmonious blend of tomato sauce, molasses and crispy bacon on top creates a truly satisfying culinary experience.
BBQ Braised Cabbage with Bacon
When it comes to pairing side dishes with slow-cooked red meat, any recipe that features the words ‘BBQ’ is a winning combination. This is especially true when it involves tender, juicy beef or pork. One such recipe that’s sure to please is braised red cabbage with onions, garlic, crispy bacon, and a tangy barbecue sauce. Not only does this side dish make a great accompaniment to sliced brisket on a plate, but it also shines in a sandwich with pulled meat – the perfect way to add some crunch and flavor to your meal.
Risotto with Butternut Squash & Green Beans
While risotto as a standalone dish is undoubtedly delicious, its versatility also makes it an excellent side dish option. When loaded with nutrient-dense ingredients like green beans and butternut squash, the benefits are even more pronounced. The creamy texture and rich flavor profile of this velvety risotto make it a hard-to-resist addition to any meal. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a convenient choice for busy home cooks.
Homemade Onion Rings
Crafting onion rings from scratch is a straightforward endeavor, requiring minimal effort yet yielding impressive results. The key to achieving crispy, well-coated onion rings lies in allowing them to soak in buttermilk for at least an hour. This step enables the coating to adhere effectively to the onion, resulting in that coveted crunch that defines a superior onion ring experience.
Baked Green Bean Fries
Transforming the humble green bean into a crispy, breaded delight is the perfect way to elevate any meal. When paired with a tender and smoky brisket, this unexpected twist will surely impress your dinner guests. But why stop there? Take it up a notch by serving these crunchy green beans alongside a rich and creamy herbal dipping sauce, guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
Mexican Street Corn
The harmonious union of Mexican and brisket flavors is a match made in culinary heaven. The addition of corn takes it to the next level, as the combination creates an irresistible treat that’s sure to leave your guests craving more. When you masterfully grill the brisket under the broiler, slather it with a tangy spicy mayo glaze, and top it off with crumbly cotija cheese, you’ll be creating a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to disappear quickly.
