Brisket sandwiches are a favorite in the world of barbecue. The smoky, tender beef brisket, nestled between slices of soft, warm bread, is more than just a sandwich—it’s a hearty, soul-satisfying meal. But what really makes the experience complete is the sides and toppings that accompany the sandwich.
Whether you’re hosting a family barbecue, gathering friends for a weekend cookout, or simply enjoying a casual dinner at home, knowing what goes with brisket sandwiches can elevate your meal. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the best classic BBQ sides, creative vegetable-based pairings, and unique toppings that complement the rich flavors of brisket.
What to Put on Brisket Sandwiches
Choosing the right toppings for your brisket sandwich is crucial for enhancing its flavor. While the tender meat is the star, the toppings can add contrast, texture, and complexity, transforming your sandwich into something extraordinary.
Coleslaw: Creamy and Tangy
One of the most popular toppings for brisket sandwiches is coleslaw. The crunch of fresh cabbage and carrots, paired with a creamy or tangy dressing, provides a great contrast to the savory brisket. It also adds a light, refreshing bite to the sandwich, balancing the heaviness of the meat.
- Classic Coleslaw: The traditional mayo-based slaw is always a hit. The creamy texture complements the juiciness of the brisket, while the vinegar provides a subtle tang that cuts through the richness.
- Cilantro Lime Slaw: For a fresh twist, try a cilantro lime slaw, which adds bright citrus notes and a hint of spice from jalapeños. This variation is particularly good for anyone who enjoys a bit of zest in their meal.
Pro Tip: If you want to avoid making your sandwich soggy, serve the slaw on the side or place it atop the meat just before eating.
Pickles: Crunch and Zing
Pickles are another classic topping for brisket sandwiches. Their briny flavor pairs perfectly with the rich, fatty brisket, cutting through the heaviness and adding a crunchy texture.
- Dill Pickles: The go-to option for most BBQ sandwiches. Their bright, vinegary taste brings out the deep flavors of the brisket.
- Spicy Pickles: For a little extra kick, try adding spicy pickles to your sandwich. You can make these at home by soaking cucumber slices in a brine of vinegar, garlic, and chili flakes.
Classic BBQ Sides for Brisket Sandwiches
Now that we’ve covered toppings, let’s move on to the sides. No BBQ is complete without some hearty sides to round out the meal. Here are some classic barbecue side dishes that perfectly complement brisket sandwiches.
Baked Beans
Baked beans are a staple at BBQs across the country. Their sweet, smoky flavor pairs perfectly with the robust, meaty taste of brisket. The molasses and brown sugar in baked beans bring a natural sweetness that complements the savory brisket.
- Best served with: Smoked or barbecue brisket.
- Ingredients: Navy beans, brown sugar, molasses, onions, BBQ sauce.
Baked beans also absorb the flavors of the brisket if you let them sit together on the plate for a bit, making every bite a perfect marriage of sweet and savory.
Mac and Cheese
Creamy, gooey mac and cheese is another favorite side dish to pair with brisket. The richness of the cheese balances out the smokiness of the meat, while the soft pasta adds a comforting texture. To elevate this side, you can add a smoky flavor by using smoked cheddar or gouda in your recipe.
- Smoked Mac and Cheese: Adding some smoked cheddar or gouda takes this dish to the next level. The cheese’s smoky flavor mirrors the brisket’s, creating a harmonious pairing.
- Topping options: Try sprinkling breadcrumbs or crispy bacon on top before baking for a crunchy finish.
Potato Salad
Potato salad is a versatile BBQ side that pairs beautifully with brisket sandwiches. Whether you prefer a creamy mayo-based salad or a tangy mustard-based version, the dish complements the rich brisket with its contrasting textures and flavors.
- Creamy Potato Salad: Made with boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, and seasonings, this version adds a cool, creamy texture to your meal.
- Mustard Potato Salad: This version uses mustard instead of mayo, creating a tangier dish that cuts through the fattiness of the brisket.
Vegetable-Based Sides
For those looking to balance out the richness of brisket with lighter, more refreshing sides, vegetables are an excellent choice. Grilled, roasted, or sautéed, they bring texture and flavor without overwhelming the star of the show.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
A summer BBQ classic, grilled corn on the cob is a perfect companion for brisket sandwiches. The natural sweetness of the corn, enhanced by the char from grilling, contrasts beautifully with the smoky meat.
- How to serve: Serve it with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of chili powder or lime for a flavor boost.
- Tip: You can also cut the corn off the cob and mix it with other veggies for a fresh salad.
Roasted Carrots
Roasted carrots, with their natural sweetness and caramelized edges, make for an excellent side dish for brisket sandwiches. Simply toss carrots in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until tender.
- Pro Tip: Drizzle a bit of honey over the carrots before roasting for a sweet and savory combination.
Grilled Asparagus
If you want something light and quick to prepare, grilled asparagus is an excellent choice. The slightly charred, tender-crisp asparagus spears bring a fresh element to the meal, which contrasts nicely with the heavy brisket.
- Serving suggestion: Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for a refreshing touch.
- Tip: You can grill the asparagus at the same time as the brisket to save time.
Unique and Creative Sides
For those looking to add a twist to their BBQ spread, these unique sides will bring an unexpected yet delicious pairing to your brisket sandwiches.
Grilled Peach Salsa
Sweet and tangy grilled peach salsa is an unexpected yet delightful pairing with brisket. The sweetness of the peaches, combined with the acidity of the tomatoes and the heat from chili peppers, creates a balanced flavor that complements the rich, smoky brisket.
- Ingredients: Grilled peaches, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, chili peppers.
- How to serve: Serve this salsa as a topping for the brisket sandwich or as a side to dip your sandwich in for extra flavor.
Stuffed Mushrooms
Grilled stuffed mushrooms are a smoky, cheesy, and savory addition to any BBQ spread. Fill them with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and breadcrumbs, and grill them alongside your brisket.
- Best served with: Brisket sandwiches as a side or an appetizer.
- Pro Tip: Add jalapeños to the stuffing for an extra spicy kick.
Desserts to Pair with Brisket Sandwiches
After a hearty meal of brisket sandwiches, a light and fruity dessert is the perfect way to finish. Here are a couple of dessert options that pair well with the bold flavors of brisket.
Grilled Peaches with Ice Cream
Grilled peaches are a sweet and smoky dessert that pairs wonderfully with brisket. The heat from grilling brings out the natural sugars in the peaches, which caramelize beautifully.
- How to serve: Serve the peaches warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool, creamy ice cream balances the warm, sweet peaches.
Peach Cobbler
If you prefer a baked dessert, peach cobbler is a Southern classic that pairs perfectly with BBQ. The juicy, sweet peaches combined with the buttery, crumbly topping create a delicious contrast to the savory brisket.
- Pro Tip: Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat.
Serving Brisket Sandwiches for Gatherings
If you’re hosting a BBQ or gathering, you’ll want to create a spread that’s both delicious and easy to serve. Brisket sandwiches are a great choice for a crowd because you can prepare the meat ahead of time and let guests assemble their sandwiches with a variety of sides and toppings.
Buffet-Style Serving
Setting up a buffet-style spread allows your guests to customize their sandwiches and sides according to their preferences. Here’s how to do it:
- Brisket: Keep the brisket warm in a slow cooker or chafing dish to ensure it stays tender and juicy.
- Sides: Offer a variety of classic BBQ sides like baked beans, mac and cheese, and potato salad.
- Toppings: Set out a toppings bar with coleslaw, pickles, caramelized onions, and different types of sauces like BBQ sauce and mustard.
Best Sides for Large Groups
When serving large groups, it’s essential to choose sides that can be prepared in advance and hold up
in texture and flavor.
- Baked Beans: Prepare baked beans in a slow cooker or large pot. The sweet and smoky flavors make it a perfect pairing for the fatty brisket. It can also be made a day ahead and reheated on the day of the event. This hearty side is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Mac and Cheese: Rich and creamy mac and cheese can be made in large batches and reheated without losing its flavor. Opt for smoked cheddar for an added smoky depth, mirroring the brisket’s BBQ essence.
- Grilled Vegetables: Veggies like grilled asparagus or corn on the cob are light, easy to prepare, and always a good idea for larger gatherings.
FAQs
What are the best toppings for brisket sandwiches?
The best toppings include coleslaw, pickles, caramelized onions, and barbecue sauce. These ingredients complement the rich, smoky flavors of the brisket by adding tang, crunch, and sweetness.
What side dishes are best with brisket sandwiches?
Popular sides include baked beans, mac and cheese, and potato salad. For a lighter option, you can serve grilled vegetables like corn, asparagus, or roasted carrots.
Can brisket sandwiches be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the brisket a day ahead and reheat it in a crockpot on the day of serving. Keep it moist by adding some broth or meat drippings while reheating.
How do I keep brisket warm for serving at a party?
The best way to keep brisket warm for a party is by storing it in a slow cooker or wrapping it tightly in foil and placing it in a warm oven. A temperature of around 200°F will ensure the meat stays warm without drying out.
Conclusion
Brisket sandwiches are a standout dish at any BBQ, but what truly makes them special is the array of sides and toppings that accompany them. Whether you prefer the classic combo of baked beans and mac and cheese, or you’re looking to try something unique like grilled peach salsa or stuffed mushrooms, there are endless ways to enhance your brisket sandwich experience.
So the next time you’re planning a BBQ or craving a hearty sandwich, don’t forget to pair it with the perfect sides and toppings. Your taste buds—and your guests—will thank you.
This article provides all the inspiration you need to create a mouthwatering brisket sandwich spread, ensuring a memorable and delicious BBQ meal.