You’ve come to the correct spot if you’re wondering what to serve with your brisket.
In this essay, I present 57 of the most popular brisket side dishes.
In a rush? Heres the short answer.
Pickled red cabbage, corn and avocado salad, cowboy beans, and watermelon salad are the greatest side dishes to offer with brisket. Caprese potato skins, cornbread muffins, jalapeño popper mac and cheese, and chili lime pineapple are all options. A low-cost alternative is cheddar polenta.
Ready? Lets jump right in.
Contents
- Great flavor pairings for brisket
- Starches
- BBQ classics
- Salads
- Vegetables
- The best side dishes for brisket
- What To Serve With Brisket (57 Ideas)
- FAQs
- What is a good side dish to go with brisket?
- What vegetables go well with brisket?
- What is traditionally served with Texas brisket?
- What to serve with brisket on a bun?
- What do you serve with brisket at Christmas?
- What not to do with brisket?
- How long should brisket rest?
- How many pounds of brisket per person?
- Should I put BBQ sauce on brisket?
- What are the 2 sides of a brisket called?
Great flavor pairings for brisket
Brisket is a popular cut of beef for grilling. It’s meaty and delicious, with a rough texture that may be softened by gradual cooking.
It pairs well with:
- Tangy tastes derived from naturally sour and acidic items such as vinegar, mustard, and pickles cut through the meatiness of the brisket, providing a more balanced bite.
- Flavors of smokiness Smoking is a popular method of cooking brisket because it imparts a distinct smokey taste that accentuates the meaty quality of the brisket. A similar effect may be achieved using barbecue sauce and spices like as cumin, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper.
- Creamy tastes Brisket’s robust savory tastes can easily hold their own against creamy components like cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream. Pair it with a rich spaghetti dish or smother it in a cream-based sauce.
Starches
I usually serve my brisket with a starchy side, and there are many to pick from!
Cornbread and polenta are traditional accompaniments, although roasted potatoes or rice are other alternatives.
Honey jalapeno cornbread muffins
These cornbread muffins are an excellent complement to any grilling buffet.
I usually leave a few bits of cornbread towards the end so that I may wipe up any residual liquids or sauce on my plate.
Its usually the tastiest bite!
Why we like this recipe: it calls for brown butter, which gives a nutty flavor to the cookies.
Recipe FeaturedMuffins with honey jalapeno cornbreadMake it gooey.Cornbread with jalapeno and cheddarPrepare a casseroleQuick corn casserole
Caprese pesto potato skins
Add iconic Italian tastes like pesto and Caprese salad to your potato skins!
The contrast of vibrant, zesty pesto, luscious tomatoes, and melting mozzarella cheese with softly crunchy potato skins is absolutely divine.
Serve them with a beef slab for a nice, sumptuous supper.
Why we like this recipe: it’s a fun and different way to eat potato skins.
Recipe FeaturedPotato skins with Caprese pestoReturn to the fundamentalsBaked potato skins with fillingGo for the sweet.Sweet potato skins stuffed
Cheddar polenta
This cheddar polenta is an excellent low-cost accompaniment to your brisket.
I like to put a couple of slices of brisket on top of the polenta and drizzle it with barbecue sauce wonderful!
Psst you can save the leftovers for breakfast.
Why we like this recipe: it’s a one-pot meal.
Recipe Featuredpolenta with cheddarTurn on the oven.Baked polenta MargheritaMake it comfortable.Grits with cheese
Mexican rice
Tired of the same old rice? Instead, try this Mexican variation!
It’s as simple as preparing ordinary rice and just takes around 30 minutes to prepare.
The mix of fire roasted tomatoes, spices, and tomato sauce gives this meal a zesty taste and a vivid orange hue.
For a great Tex-Mex touch, serve your brisket with this rice dish.
Why we like this recipe: it tastes better than restaurant food.
Recipe FeaturedRice from MexicoMake it energizing.Rice with cilantro and limeGo ChineseFried rice from scratch
BBQ classics
Are you grilling brisket for a cookout? Serve it with these classics for the ideal barbecue feast.
In my home, mac & cheese and collard greens are staples, but you can also make deviled eggs.
Pssst dont forget about the BBQ sauce!
Bourbon honey BBQ sauce
Brisket needs a sauce. Thats a fact.
You can use bottled sauce, but I’m here to tell you that homemade sauces are much superior!
You may experiment with the components until you find the perfect taste for you. There are no nasties in there either.
Why we like this recipe: this sauce may be stored in the fridge for up to a month.
Recipe FeaturedBBQ sauce with bourbon honeyGet rid of the bourbon.Jack Daniels BBQ sauceInclude a fruity note.BBQ sauce with blueberries
Cowboy beans
This meal, also known as frijoles charros, includes carefully boiling pinto beans with aromatics, bacon, fire-roasted tomatoes, and jalapenos.
The resulting dish?
A warm, savory stew that will fill you up nicely.
Serve with brisket pieces and warm bread for the ultimate comfort food.
Why we like this recipe: it includes instructions for cooking this meal in a slow cooker, an instant pot, or on the stovetop.
Recipe FeaturedCowboy legumesMake it unique.Beans that have been drankConsider another classic.Black-eyed peas in the manner of the South
Southern collards and cabbage
Adding cabbage to the Southern traditional collard greens helps to soften any remaining bitterness.
If you have company who have never had collard greens before, this is a terrific meal to present.
Remember that these greens have different cooking times, so start with the collard greens!
Why we enjoy this recipe: it’s a great vegetarian side dish with grilled meats like brisket.
Recipe FeaturedMixed collard and cabbage greens from the SouthMake it happen quickly.Collard greens in a pressure cookerMake it opulent.Collard greens creamed
Chili lime grilled pineapple
Make use of the open grill at your next BBQ by throwing some pineapples on it!
They’ll be delicious simply, but flavoring them with chaat masala, chili powder, and lime juice will take them to the next level.
This will result in smoky-sweet pineapples that will transport you to a Caribbean paradise.
Why we like this recipe: it simply calls for four ingredients.
Recipe FeaturedGrilled pineapple with chili lime sauceInclude a savory notePineapple covered with baconAlter the tasteskewers of watermelon tajin
Jalapeno popper mac and cheese
This simple recipe combines mac & cheese with jalapeño poppers to create a delicious side dish for your brisket.
The addition of diced jalapenos to the bechamel cheese sauce base lends a slight smoky aroma and dimension to your standard cheesy pasta recipe.
The finishing touch is a buttery panko combination that lends a delicious crunch to each mouthful.
Why we love this recipe: your visitors will undoubtedly want second helpings.
Recipe FeaturedMac & cheese with jalapeno poppersMake it Italian-themed.Macaroni and cheese caprese Back to the fundamentalsMac and cheese on the stovetop
Salads
Salads are a great way to complement your brisket.
For a nutritional boost, make a crisp slaw or a green salad. For a more filling supper, try a creamy pasta salad.
Fiesta corn and avocado salad
This bright salad is the perfect complement to some grilled meat.
It’s a delicious combination of sweet corn, creamy avocado, fiery jalapenos, and salty cheese.
The sumac in the dressing adds an acidity to the meal, giving it a festive flavor.
If you can’t get sumac, you can use paprika.
Why we love this recipe: it’s a healthful and tasty salad that doesn’t include any leafy greens!
Recipe FeaturedAvocado and corn salad FiestaMake it filling.Salad with avocado, corn, and couscousMake it nutritious.Succotash
Cucumber jicama slaw
Coleslaws are a popular side dish at cookouts, but the mayo dressing may make them fairly hefty.
Try this cucumber jicama slaw for a lighter option.
The julienned cucumber and jicama slices are dressed simply with lime, salt, and cilantro.
The acidity will sever the fattiness of your brisket.
Why we like this recipe: it’s ideal for a hot summer day.
Recipe FeaturedSlaw with cucumber and jicamaInclude a fruity note.Slaw with mango and jicamaMake it Tex Mex style.Coleslaw from Mexico
Watermelon arugula and feta salad
The perfect summer salad is this watermelon arugula salad.
It’s packed with spicy, sweet, and salty tastes that are brought together by a tangy balsamic dressing that’s ideal for a barbeque.
And the luscious watermelon is a marriage made in heaven with your tender brisket.
Why we like it: it looks as nice as it tastes.
Recipe FeaturedSalad with watermelon, arugula, and fetaLeave out the watermelon.Salad with mango and arugulaMake it unique.Salsa de peaches fresca
Ranch pasta salad
There’s a reason why creamy side dishes are often offered with grilled meats like brisket; they simply go well!
And pasta salad is guaranteed to be a winner.
Psst, this salad tastes best after resting for 1-2 hours to allow all of the flavors to mingle.
Why we like this recipe: you may prepare this salad with whatever pasta and vegetables you have on hand.
Recipe FeaturedPasta salad with creamy ranch dressingAlter the tasteSalad with lemon basil pastaInstead, go for potatoes.The most delicious potato salad
German potato salad
Traditional potato salads employ a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing, but this German variation utilizes a bacon-based vinaigrette instead.
It lightens the potato salad and provides a tangy-flavorful layer that cuts through the savory brisket.
This potato salad is best served warm, but it may be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
We adore this dish since it’s perfect for cookouts and picnics.
Recipe FeaturedSalad with potatoes from GermanyMake it simple.Salad with creamy red potatoesMake it with herbySalad with pesto potatoes
Vegetables
Brisket is a large protein source, and you’ll need a vegetable side to round out your meal.
You don’t have to go fancy; sautéed green beans or grilled veggies would suffice.
However, a cheesy vegetable casserole or creamed spinach might be added as an indulgence.
Pickled red cabbage
Pickled red cabbage is my favorite side dish with beef.
It has a pleasing crunch and a sharp, acidic taste that pairs well with soft, meaty brisket.
Allow the cabbage to soak in the pickling solution for three days before eating.
Why we like this recipe: other from heating the pickling liquid, you don’t have to do any cooking.
Recipe FeaturedRed cabbage pickledWarm it up.German red cabbage braisedLeave out the red cabbage.Sweet peppers, pickled
Balsamic marinated grilled vegetables
Grilled vegetables are an excellent nutritious side dish to offer with brisket.
They’re all charred and delicious, and you can season them with anything you like (balsamic vinegar in this example, but a wonderful garlic butter would also work well).
You can grill whatever vegetables you like; just check in your refrigerator.
Why we like it: it’s perfect for last-minute crises.
Recipe FeaturedGrilled veggies marinated in zesty balsamic vinegarMake them into skewers.Kebabs of vegetablesAvoid using the grill.Roasted veggies with balsamic glaze
Broccoli and cheese casserole
Do you want something warm and pleasant to accompany your brisket?
You can’t go wrong with this dish or any other cheese casserole! Consider a corn casserole, creamed peas, or spinach gratin.
P.S. I sometimes add a dusting of blue cheese.
Why we like this recipe: it may be made the day before to save time.
Recipe Featuredcasserole with broccoli and cheeseMake use of corn.Casserole of cornReduce the carbs.Cauliflower rice with cheese
Skillet garlic green beans
Want a fast yet filling side dish to go with your brisket? These fried green beans are on your side.
They are sautéed first, then steamed, retaining their brilliant green color and developing a delightfully crisp-tender texture.
I like fresh green beans, but frozen ones may be used in a hurry; just adjust the cooking time to prevent mushy green beans.
Why we like it: These are perfect for hectic weeknights.
Recipe FeaturedGreen beans with garlic in a skilletMake it zingy.Salad of green beans with lemon and dillMake it opulent.Casserole of green beans
Creamed spinach
Creamed spinach isn’t exactly healthy, but it’s a great vegetarian side to go with your brisket.
Most recipes call for either fresh or frozen spinach, but I Wash You Drys’ version is designed exclusively for frozen spinach.
The quantity of cream called for in this recipe, along with the added moisture from the frozen greens, results in the ultimate smooth, cheesy cream sauce!
Why we love this recipe: its budget-friendly.
Recipe FeaturedPreheat the oven to 350°F.gratin de spinachKeep it fresh with a spinach salad
The best side dishes for brisket
- Honey jalapeno cornbread muffins
- Caprese pesto potato skins
- Cheddar polenta
- Mexican rice
- Bourbon honey BBQ sauce
- Cowboy beans
- Southern collards and cabbage
- Chili lime grilled pineapple
- Jalapeno popper mac and cheese
- Fiesta corn and avocado salad
- Cucumber jicama slaw
- Watermelon arugula and feta salad
- Ranch pasta salad
- German potato salad
- Pickled red cabbage
- Balsamic marinated grilled vegetables
- Broccoli and cheese casserole
- Skillet garlic green bean
- Creamed spinach
What To Serve With Brisket (57 Ideas)
Print Pin Rate
Ingredients
- 1portionhoney jalapeno cornbread muffins
- 1portionsouthern collards and cabbage
- 1portioncucumber jicama slaw
- 1portioncreamed spinach
- 1portiongerman potato salad
- 1portionjalapeno popper mac and cheese and more
Instructions
- Make your brisket according to your preferred recipe.
- Meanwhile, select one of the following sides to go with it.
- Side dishes include: honey jalapeno cornbread muffins, caprese pesto potato skins, cheddar polenta, mexican rice, bourbon honey bbq sauce, cowboy beans, southern collards and cabbage, chili lime grilled pineapple, jalapeno popper mac and cheese, fiesta corn and avocado salad, cucumber jicama slaw, watermelon arugula and feta salad, ranch pasta salad, german potato salad, pickled red cabbage, balsamic marinated grilled vegetables, broccoli and cheese casserole, skillet garlic green bean, and creamed spinach.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition
FAQs
What is a good side dish to go with brisket?
Brisket with Vinegar Coleslaw.
Bar of Baked Potatoes.
Salad with potatoes from Germany.
Tomato Cucumber Salad.
Mac and cheese in the Instant Pot.
What vegetables go well with brisket?
21 Best Side Dishes for Brisket
01 of 22. Vinagrete (Brazilian Tomato Slaw) View Recipe.
02 of 22. Sauteed Radishes.
03 of 22. Mom’s Potato Latkes.
04 of 22. Roasted Iowa Root Vegetables.
05 of 22. Plant-Based Taco.
06 of 22. Jan’s Chipotle Roasted Sweet Potatoes.
07 of 22. Kickin’ Collard Greens.
08 of 22. Apple Baked Beans.
What is traditionally served with Texas brisket?
And none are any less delectable.
Okra fried in butter.
Beans that have been baked.
Potatoes mashed.
Beans in green.
Greens from the cabbage family.
Hushpuppies.
Corn that has been creamed.
Mac and cheese.
What to serve with brisket on a bun?
Brisket Sandwiches: How to Serve Them
Baked Crispy Parmesan Fingerling Potato Fries.
Baked Hawaiian Beans.
Salad with strawberries, avocado, and broccoli.
Salad with BLT Pasta and Lemon Chive Dressing.
Bacon and peas Salad with Creamy Pasta.
Salad with Creamy Grapes.
Fruit Salad with Pina Colada.
Salad of corn with a citrus honey dressing.
What do you serve with brisket at Christmas?
Sides for Christmas Brisket
The sour cream Skins on potatoes. Acker, Peter.
Beans in green.
Salad with potatoes.
Pudding made from corn.
Slaw with Brazilian tomatoes.
Beans that have been baked.
Vegetables roasted.
Hard-boiled eggs with a herb dressing.
What not to do with brisket?
12 Brisket Errors Everyone Should Avoid
Cooking at the Wrong Temperature.
Using the Incorrect Rub.
Not Allowing (More Than) Enough Time to Smoke.
Not Letting Brisket Rest Long Enough.
Too many changes between chefs.
Only Looking at Time and Temperature Before Wrapping.
Spraying the Fat.
Over or Under Smoking the Meat.
How long should brisket rest?
Smoked brisket should be rested for at least an hour before slicing. I usually aim for at least two hours, but I’ve rested briskets in an enclosed container for up to eight hours previously.
How many pounds of brisket per person?
We must remember that the brisket, as well as you, will shrink significantly after cooking. We suggest a half-pound final serving per person. Choose one pound of uncooked brisket per person to establish a fair balance between the larger eaters and the youngsters on your guest list.
Should I put BBQ sauce on brisket?
Unlike other types of barbecue, such as ribs and pulled pork, brisket is often served dry, or with no sauce on top. However, it is often given with sauce on the side so that you may do your own slathering. When served with brisket, barbecue sauce adds taste and moisture to the meat.
What are the 2 sides of a brisket called?
The brisket is composed of two muscles: the tip and the flat. The point cut is the fatty portion of the brisket known as the deckle. The flat cut, often known as the “first cut,” has the deckle removed, making it slimmer and allowing it to lie flat.