Letting brisket rest is a must. Those juicy, smoky slices need time to settle—and that gives you the perfect chance to prep your sides.
Instead of pacing or peeking under the foil, fill that time with quick, flavorful dishes that round out the feast.
These 15 recipes are simple, satisfying, and built to make your brisket shine even brighter.
1. Classic Creamy Coleslaw
Crunchy shredded cabbage meets a tangy mayo-based dressing with just enough vinegar to keep it sharp. A pinch of sugar adds balance.
It’s crisp, cool, and ready in minutes. This slaw cuts through brisket’s richness like a pro.
2. Garlic Butter Corn On The Cob
Steamed or grilled, ears of corn slathered in garlic butter and sprinkled with flaky salt are pure backyard gold. Fresh herbs add bonus flair.
The sweetness of corn pairs perfectly with smoked meat. Every bite pops with juice and warmth.
3. Tangy Pickled Red Onions
Thin slices of red onion soaked in vinegar, sugar, and spice come alive in under 30 minutes. They brighten every plate they touch.
Their color is electric, their bite refreshing. Serve them over brisket or next to it—they steal the show.
4. Skillet Jalapeño Cornbread
Hot from the cast iron, this cornbread is golden on the edges with a soft, buttery center. Diced jalapeños add just enough heat.
Serve in wedges with a pat of butter. The contrast of sweet and spice plays beautifully with smoky meat.
5. Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges
Tossed in oil, salt, and smoked paprika, these wedges roast into crispy-edged perfection. Their natural sweetness amplifies the brisket’s deep flavor.
No need to peel—just roast and go. They’re hearty enough to stand on their own.
6. Smoky Baked Beans
Simmered in a mix of molasses, mustard, and spice, these beans bubble into thick, sticky magic. Canned or soaked beans both work.
They carry smoke and sweetness with ease. A true barbecue classic, ready while the meat rests.
7. Quick Cucumber And Dill Salad
Crisp cucumber slices tossed in a vinegar-based dressing with fresh dill and cracked black pepper refresh the palate in seconds.
It’s light, bright, and snappy. Exactly what you want between bites of rich brisket.
8. Buttery Dinner Rolls
Warm, soft rolls brushed with butter and baked until golden are perfect for mopping up sauce. No kneading required if you use a quick-rise dough.
Pull-apart style makes them irresistibly fun. They bring comfort and structure to the plate.
9. Simple Mac And Cheese
Elbow pasta coated in a silky cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and a splash of cream creates creamy indulgence without the fuss.
It’s rich, nostalgic, and fast. Stir, melt, bake—or serve straight from the stovetop.
10. Grilled Veggie Skewers
Chunks of zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion brushed with olive oil and charred lightly on the grill balance out the meat-heavy spread.
They add color and crunch with a smoky twist. Plus, they’re fast and customizable.
11. Red Potato Salad With Mustard Dressing
Tender red potatoes tossed in a tangy, creamy mustard vinaigrette keep things bold and balanced. No mayo needed if you want it lighter.
Celery and scallions add bite. This salad holds its own beside any brisket.
12. Cheesy Grits Or Polenta
Simmered low and finished with cheddar or Parmesan, these creamy grains are pure comfort. Butter adds richness, while salt keeps it savory.
They’re spoonable, smooth, and surprisingly quick. A Southern nod that makes brisket feel extra cozy.
13. Honey-Lime Fruit Salad
Chunks of melon, pineapple, and berries tossed in a honey-lime glaze bring freshness to the table. Mint leaves add a cooling finish.
It’s a juicy, colorful side that cuts through the smoke. Serve chilled for max effect.
14. Deviled Eggs With A Kick
Halved eggs filled with a creamy yolk mix punched up with Dijon and a dash of hot sauce offer protein and pop. Paprika dusting optional.
They’re a bite-sized burst of flavor. Crowd-pleasers that disappear fast.
15. Quick Pickle Relish Tray
Toss together a tray of pickles, olives, pickled okra, and baby peppers. The briny, sour flavors sharpen everything around them.
It takes minutes to build and seconds to love. A crunchy, tangy contrast to your slow-smoked star.