Brisket is a tasty meat that many people love. It’s often the star of a meal, but what you serve with it matters too.

Good side dishes can make your brisket dinner even better.

You have lots of choices for brisket sides. Some are classic favorites, while others might be new to you.

From veggies to breads to salads, there’s something for everyone. Let’s look at some great options to pair with your brisket.

1. Coleslaw with Apple and Raisins

Coleslaw with apple and raisins is a tasty twist on classic coleslaw. This side dish pairs perfectly with brisket.

Mix shredded cabbage, carrots, chopped apples, and raisins in a bowl. The apples add crunch and sweetness, while raisins bring a chewy texture.

For the dressing, combine apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, and a pinch of salt. Pour it over the vegetables and fruit, then toss to coat evenly.

Chill the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend and the cabbage to soften slightly.

2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are a perfect side dish for brisket. They offer a creamy texture that complements the meat’s richness.

To make them, boil peeled potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk, and roasted garlic cloves.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, try adding herbs like chives or parsley.

These potatoes are versatile and easy to customize. You can make them ahead of time and reheat before serving your brisket meal.

3. Honey-Glazed Carrots

Honey-glazed carrots are a sweet and savory side dish that pairs well with brisket. You can make them easily on the stovetop or in the oven.

To prepare this dish, start by peeling and cutting carrots into even pieces. Melt butter in a pan and add honey, garlic, and spices like cinnamon or rosemary.

Toss the carrots in this mixture and cook until tender. The honey will caramelize, giving the carrots a shiny glaze and rich flavor.

This colorful side adds a pop of brightness to your plate. The sweetness of the carrots balances out the rich, savory taste of brisket.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Reduction

Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic reduction make a tasty side for brisket. You can easily prepare this dish in your oven.

Start by preheating the oven to 375°F. Clean and halve the Brussels sprouts, then toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet, cut-side down. Roast for about 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.

While the sprouts roast, make a balsamic reduction. Simmer balsamic vinegar in a small pan until it thickens.

When the Brussels sprouts are done, drizzle them with the balsamic reduction. The sweet and tangy flavor pairs well with savory brisket.

5. Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy macaroni and cheese is a perfect side dish for brisket. Its rich, cheesy flavor complements the smoky meat beautifully.

You can make it extra special by using a mix of cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and parmesan. This adds depth to the flavor profile.

Try different pasta shapes for variety. Elbow macaroni is classic, but shells or cavatappi can be fun too.

For a smoky twist, cook your mac and cheese on the smoker alongside the brisket. This infuses it with extra flavor and saves oven space.

6. Classic Potato Salad

Classic potato salad is a perfect side dish for brisket. It offers a creamy and tangy contrast to the rich meat. The smooth texture of the potatoes complements the smoky brisket nicely.

You can make a basic version with mayonnaise, mustard, and pickles. For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs or crispy bacon bits. Some people even like to include diced avocado for a unique twist.

This versatile dish is easy to prepare ahead of time. It’s great for both casual backyard barbecues and fancier dinner parties. Your guests will love the combination of tender potatoes and flavorful dressing alongside their brisket.

7. Warm Cornbread with Honey Butter

Warm cornbread with honey butter is a perfect side for your brisket. You can make it in a smoker or oven, depending on your preference.

To prepare, mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, and baking powder in a bowl. Add milk, eggs, and melted butter. Pour the batter into a greased pan.

Cook the cornbread at 350°F for about 25-45 minutes. It’s done when golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

For honey butter, mix softened butter with honey. Spread this on your warm cornbread slices. The sweet and savory combo pairs great with smoky brisket.

8. Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest

Grilled asparagus with lemon zest is a tasty and easy side dish for your brisket. Start by washing and trimming the tough ends off the asparagus spears.

Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place them directly on a hot grill for 8-10 minutes, turning once.

When the asparagus is tender and lightly charred, remove it from the grill. Sprinkle fresh lemon zest over the top for a bright, citrusy flavor.

You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of garlic powder for extra taste. This simple side brings a fresh, green element to your brisket meal.

9. Quinoa Salad with Cranberries and Walnuts

Quinoa salad with cranberries and walnuts is a tasty and healthy side for brisket. You can make it easily at home.

Cook quinoa in water or vegetable broth for about 15 minutes. Let it cool after cooking.

Mix the cooked quinoa with dried cranberries and chopped walnuts. Add some green onions for extra flavor.

For dressing, try a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and honey. Toss everything together.

This salad gives you a mix of textures and flavors. The quinoa is soft, the cranberries are chewy, and the walnuts are crunchy.

10. Baked Beans with Molasses and Bacon

Baked beans with molasses and bacon are a perfect side for your brisket. The sweet and savory flavors complement the meat well.

Start by cooking bacon until crispy. Sauté onions in the bacon fat for extra flavor. Drain canned pork and beans and add them to a casserole dish.

Mix in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, and brown sugar. The molasses adds a rich sweetness. Stir in the cooked bacon and onions.

Bake the beans until they’re hot and bubbly. The flavors will meld together as they cook. You can make these beans ahead of time and reheat them when ready to serve.

11. Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds

Sautéed green beans with almonds make a tasty side for your brisket. This dish combines crisp-tender beans with crunchy almonds.

Start by trimming fresh green beans. Heat butter in a skillet and toast almond slivers until golden. Set the almonds aside.

Add olive oil to the pan and sauté the beans over medium heat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to brown.

Pour in a splash of water and cover the pan. Steam for 2 minutes to soften the beans. Uncover and let any excess water evaporate.

Toss the toasted almonds with the beans before serving. This simple side adds color and crunch to your brisket meal.

12. Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans

Sweet potato casserole with pecans is a tasty side dish for brisket. You’ll love its creamy texture and sweet flavor.

To make it, boil peeled sweet potatoes until tender. Mash them and mix with butter, milk, and spices.

Spread the mixture in a baking dish. Top it with a mixture of chopped pecans, brown sugar, and butter.

Bake the casserole at 350°F for about 30 minutes. The pecan topping will become crispy and golden brown.

This dish can be made ahead and frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight before reheating.

13. Pickled Red Onions

Pickled red onions are a tasty addition to your brisket meal. They bring a tangy zip that cuts through the rich meat flavors.

You can make them easily at home. Slice red onions thinly and soak them in vinegar, salt, and sugar. Add spices like peppercorns or bay leaves for extra flavor.

These bright pink onions add a nice crunch to your plate. They also look pretty next to the dark brisket. Try them on sandwiches made with leftover brisket too.

14. Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread

Jalapeño cheddar cornbread adds a spicy twist to your brisket meal. You’ll love the golden crust and tender crumb of this savory bread. The jalapeños give it a kick, while the cheddar adds richness.

To make it, mix cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. Add milk, eggs, and melted butter. Stir in shredded cheddar and chopped jalapeños. Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake until golden.

Serve warm slices alongside your brisket. The bread’s heat and cheese balance the meat’s smoky flavor. It’s a tasty way to soak up any extra sauce on your plate.

15. Caesar Salad with Homemade Dressing

Caesar salad is a classic side that pairs well with brisket. You can elevate this dish by making your own dressing at home.

To create the dressing, mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, anchovy fillets, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

For the salad, use crisp romaine lettuce as your base. Top it with croutons and more Parmesan cheese. Pour your homemade dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.

This fresh and creamy salad complements the rich flavors of brisket perfectly. It’s quick to prepare and adds a light touch to your meal.

Understanding Brisket Sides

Brisket sides add variety and balance to your meal. They complement the rich flavor of the meat and make the dining experience more enjoyable.

Cultural Significance

Brisket sides reflect different cultural traditions. In Texas, you’ll often find potato salad, coleslaw, and baked beans alongside brisket. These dishes have deep roots in Southern cooking.

Jewish cuisine pairs brisket with kugel, a noodle or potato casserole. This combination is common at holiday meals and family gatherings.

In Korean barbecue, kimchi is a popular side. It adds a tangy, spicy kick that cuts through the fatty brisket.

Regional Variations

Brisket sides change based on where you eat them. In the Midwest, you might get corn on the cob or mac and cheese with your brisket.

On the East Coast, baked beans are a staple side. They’re often sweetened with molasses or maple syrup.

In the South, greens like collards or mustard greens are common. These provide a bitter contrast to the meat’s richness.

Texas-style sides often include pickles and sliced onions. These simple additions help cleanse the palate between bites of brisket.

Pairing Brisket Sides

Choosing the right side dishes can make or break your brisket dinner. The key is to find sides that balance and complement the rich, savory flavor of the meat.

Balancing Flavors

When pairing sides with brisket, think about contrast.

Crisp, tangy coleslaw cuts through the fattiness of the meat. Its cool crunch offers a nice change from the warm, tender brisket.

Creamy mac and cheese is another great choice. The smooth, cheesy pasta balances the smoky beef. For a lighter option, try roasted Brussels sprouts. Their slight bitterness and crispy edges work well with brisket’s rich taste.

Don’t forget about sauces! A zesty barbecue sauce or horseradish cream can add extra flavor. Just be careful not to overpower the meat’s natural taste.

Seasonal Considerations

Your side dish choices may change with the seasons.

In summer, fresh corn on the cob or a light potato salad pair nicely with brisket. These sides feel right for outdoor cookouts.

For fall and winter, try heartier options.

Baked beans bring warmth and sweetness to the plate. Roasted root vegetables like carrots or parsnips add color and nutrition.

In spring, focus on bright, fresh flavors.

A green salad with a light vinaigrette works well. You could also serve steamed asparagus or sautéed spring peas.

Choosing Sides for Outdoor Events

Brisket is perfect for picnics and barbecues.

When eating outdoors, pick sides that travel well and stay fresh.

Coleslaw is a good choice – it tastes better after sitting for a bit.

Cornbread is another great option. It’s easy to pack and doesn’t need reheating. Plus, it soaks up any extra brisket juices.

For a crowd, consider a big bowl of potato salad. It’s filling and can be made ahead of time. Just keep it cool until serving.

Don’t forget drinks!

Iced tea or lemonade are refreshing with brisket. For adults, a light beer or crisp white wine can round out the meal nicely.