What to Serve with BBQ Beef Brisket: 12 Best Side Dishes

Ever find yourself standing in front of a smoky, perfectly cooked BBQ beef brisket and think, “What now?” You’re not alone. It’s the moment of truth, and what you choose to plate up next can elevate this BBQ masterpiece to legendary status.

What is BBQ beef brisket?

BBQ beef brisket isn’t just a dish; it’s a labor of love. This cut comes from the lower chest of beef or the breast. It’s known for its rich flavor and, yes, a bit of a tough reputation. But that’s where the magic of BBQ comes in. When you cook it low and slow, something extraordinary happens. The fat renders, the connective tissues break down, and you’re left with tender, juicy, melt-in-your-mouth meat that’s infused with smoky goodness. It’s not just cooking; it’s an art form

The Two Sides of a Brisket

Diving into the world of brisket, you’ve got to get acquainted with its dynamic duo: the flat and the point.

1. The Flat: This is the lean mean fighting machine of the brisket world. It’s thinner, more uniform in shape, and has less fat. Ideal for those who love their meat with a side of discipline. Think of it as the brisket’s sophisticated side, perfect for slicing and serving up in neat, tidy pieces.
2. The Point: Here’s where the party’s at! The point is thicker, richer, and packed with marbled fat that melts during cooking, infusing the meat with flavor. It’s the brisket’s wild child, offering juicy, tender bites that BBQ dreams are made of.

Understanding these two sides is like knowing the secret handshake of the BBQ elite. Each brings its own vibe to the table, making brisket the versatile superstar of smoked meats.

How Should Beef Brisket Be Served?

Serving beef brisket isn’t just about plopping it down on a plate; it’s about showcasing this BBQ masterpiece in all its glory. Here’s how to do it right and make your brisket the star of the show:

1. Slice It Right: First off, remember that brisket comes with its own set of rules for slicing. Cut against the grain to ensure each slice is tender and not chewy. The flat and the point have grains that run in different directions, so pay attention as you slice.
2. Keep It Juicy: Before you even start slicing, let your brisket rest covered in foil for about 30 minutes to an hour after cooking. This lets the juices redistribute, making sure every slice is as moist and flavorful as can be.
3. Sauce Wisely: If you’re a sauce lover, consider serving it on the side rather than slathering it all over the brisket. This way, everyone can control the sauciness level to their liking, and the brisket’s smoky flavor shines through.
4. Serve With Sides: Pair your brisket with sides that complement its rich flavor. Think light and refreshing salads, tangy pickles, or creamy mac ‘n’ cheese. The goal is to balance, not overpower, the brisket’s taste.
5. Presentation Matters: Lay out those beautiful slices on a platter, maybe garnish with some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of coarse salt. A visually appealing presentation makes the brisket even more inviting.

What to Serve with BBQ Beef Brisket: 12 Easy Sides

Here are some delicious and easy side dishes you can pair with your BBQ brisket:

1. Macaroni and Cheese

The ultimate comfort food, mac and cheese brings creamy, cheesy goodness to your brisket meal. Its rich texture and comforting flavor profile make it a crowd-pleaser, providing a smooth counterpoint to the smoky brisket.

2. Baked Beans

A classic BBQ side, baked beans offer a sweet and savory taste with a hint of smokiness that mirrors the brisket’s flavor. They’re hearty and satisfying, making them the perfect companion for any BBQ dish.

3. Cornbread

With its sweet, buttery flavor, cornbread is a Southern staple that pairs beautifully with brisket. It’s great for soaking up juices and sauce, providing a soft, crumbly texture that contrasts nicely with the meat’s tenderness.

4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

These potatoes are creamy, garlicky, and utterly irresistible. The smooth texture and rich flavor of garlic mashed potatoes make them an ideal side, offering a comforting base for the brisket’s robust flavors.

5. Grilled Vegetables

A mix of grilled vegetables, like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, brings a light, smoky flavor to the table. Their charred edges and tender insides offer a fresh contrast to the hearty brisket.

6. Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, sweet potato fries are a slightly sweet, savory option that complements the richness of brisket. They add a colorful and nutritious side to your BBQ feast.

7. Green Bean Almondine

This elegant dish features green beans tossed with butter and sliced almonds. It offers a crunchy, nutty contrast to the brisket, with a hint of lemon for brightness.

8. Cucumber Salad

A refreshing side, cucumber salad with dill and a vinegar-based dressing offers a crisp, cooling break from the brisket’s intensity, balancing the meal with its light, fresh flavors.

9. Corn on the Cob

Sweet, buttery corn on the cob adds a simple, summery touch to your brisket meal. Its natural sweetness and juicy kernels provide a delightful contrast to the smoky meat.

10. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted until crispy and tossed with a bit of bacon, these Brussels sprouts introduce a savory, earthy element that stands up well to the brisket’s bold flavor.

11. Caprese Salad

Slices of tomato, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a light, refreshing side. The salad’s simplicity and freshness offer a nice palate cleanser alongside the brisket.

12. Potato Salad

A creamy, tangy potato salad with a hint of mustard and crunchy celery offers a cool, comforting side that’s perfect for any BBQ. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints.

These 12 easy sides for brisket are like the ultimate supporting cast for the star of your meal – the brisket itself. Each one brings its own unique flavor, texture, and character to the table, creating a well-rounded, satisfying dining experience. From the creamy, comforting embrace of mac and cheese to the refreshing crunch of a vibrant slaw, there’s a side dish to suit every palate and complement the rich, smoky flavors of the brisket.

What’s fantastic about these selections is their versatility and ease of preparation, ensuring that whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, you can whip up a feast that’ll impress. They’re designed to balance the heaviness of the brisket with lighter, brighter notes, or to double down on comfort with creamy, indulgent options. It’s all about creating harmony on the plate, with each side dish enhancing the brisket eating experience, making every bite a little journey through textures and tastes.

What Kind of Bread Goes with Brisket?

If you are a carbs lover and can’t live without it we have some bread pairing just for you. When it comes to pairing bread with brisket, you want something that complements its rich, smoky flavors without stealing the spotlight. Here are some top picks:

1. Cornbread: Its sweet, buttery flavor and soft texture make it a classic choice. Plus, it’s great for soaking up all that delicious brisket juice.
2. Sourdough: The tangy flavor of sourdough contrasts nicely with the richness of the brisket, adding a delightful depth to each bite.
3. Texas Toast: Thick, buttery, and often garlicky, Texas toast can stand up to the heft of brisket, making it a hearty choice for a true BBQ feast.
4. Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy, these are perfect for making mini brisket sliders or simply sopping up sauce.
5. Brioche Buns: If you’re looking for a touch of sweetness and a luxuriously soft texture, brioche buns are your go-to, elevating your brisket to gourmet sandwich status.

Choosing the right bread can turn your brisket meal from good to unforgettable, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect match!

Conclusion

And there you have it, we gave you an answer about what to serve with BBQ beef brisket a roadmap to the ultimate BBQ beef brisket feast, complete with a lineup of stellar side dishes that are sure to dazzle your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you lean towards the comforting embrace of mac and cheese and garlic mashed potatoes, or prefer the crisp, refreshing contrast of slaws and cucumber salad, there’s something here to complete every brisket meal.

Remember, the key to a memorable brisket experience lies in the balance and harmony of flavors and textures on your plate. So, don’t be afraid to mix and match, experiment with new combinations, and find your personal favorites. With these easy, delicious sides in your culinary arsenal, your brisket dinners are bound to become the stuff of legend. Happy cooking, and even happier eating!