Need tasty sides for your next barbecue? If you’re serving bratwurst, here are 30+ of the best bratwurst side dishes to complete your meal.
Bratwurst is a classic grilling choice that works for backyard barbecues, beach trips, and busy weeknights. Its savory, satisfying flavor is always a crowd-pleaser.
We love making grilled bratwurst, but sausages alone don’t make a meal. The right sides should complement the bratwurst, highlighting its flavor without stealing the show.
This collection gathers a variety of side dishes that pair beautifully with bratwurst.
From bright simple fruit salad and creamy paprika pasta to hearty broccoli crunch salad and tangy summer slaw, these options cover salads, vegetables, potatoes, grains, and easy appetizers to suit any crowd.
🌭 Best way to cook bratwurst
There are several reliable methods for cooking bratwurst. Here are three common techniques and what to expect from each.
- Grilling – Grilling is our favorite. It delivers a smoky flavor and crisp exterior while allowing you to control temperature to avoid drying out the sausages. Watch for hot spots to keep the brats cooking evenly.
Pan-frying – Pan-frying gives beautifully caramelized, juicy brats and is convenient for indoor cooking. It can be a bit messy with splattering fat, and requires attention to prevent burning.
Boiling – Boiling (often in beer or broth) ensures the sausages cook through and stay moist; finish with a quick sear for color. Boiling produces a softer texture than grilling or frying, so the final sear is important for a crisp bite.
🍷 Wine pairings for bratwurst
Wine pairing for bratwurst often depends on your chosen sides. A few examples:
With potato salad: A light, fruity Pinot Noir works well. Its red fruit and subtle earthiness support the creamy, savory notes without overwhelming them.
With cabbage or sauerkraut: A medium-bodied Gewürztraminer or another aromatic white with a touch of sweetness and spice balances the tang of cabbage and complements the richness of the sausage.
Bratwurst is versatile and pairs with many sides—sauerkraut, potato salads (classic or vinegar-based), slaws, roasted vegetables, and more. Explore the list below to find the perfect accompaniments for your next meal.
30+ best bratwurst side dishes
Best Side Dishes for Bratwurst
Instant Pot Cabbage
A quick, flavorful cabbage side that’s ready in under 20 minutes. If you enjoy cabbage, this simple Instant Pot recipe makes a great accompaniment to bratwurst.
Italian Bow Tie Pasta Salad
A hearty, make-ahead pasta salad loaded with flavor—perfect for family gatherings, barbecues, or as a satisfying side to grilled sausages.
Broccoli Crunch Salad
A crunchy, nutritious broccoli salad that’s fast to make and satisfying alongside grilled meats.
Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Brown Rice
Flavorful cilantro-lime brown rice brightens the plate and pairs well with savory sausages.
Elote Dip
A creamy Mexican street-corn dip that works as a warm or cold appetizer—great with chips alongside bratwurst.
Air Fryer Corn Ribs
These flavorful corn ribs are a viral favorite—crispy, savory, and ideal for summer cookouts.
Air Fryer Broccoli (Ninja Foodi)
A quick, nutritious side—crispy on the edges and tender inside—perfect for balancing richer mains.
Grilled Asparagus in Foil
Simple grilled asparagus tossed with garlic and lemon—an elegant, healthy side for any BBQ.
Frozen Onion Rings in the Air Fryer
Crunchy air-fried onion rings are an easy, crowd-pleasing side or snack for game day and barbecues.
Baby Potato Salad with Bacon
A tangy potato salad with bacon—easy in under 30 minutes and a classic BBQ side.
Simple Fruit Salad
A bright, refreshing fruit salad—light and cooling alongside savory bratwurst and heavier sides.
Summer Slaw with Corn, Peaches, Tomatoes
A colorful, crunchy slaw that highlights summer produce and adds a tangy counterpoint to grilled meats.
Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Rich, creamy garlic mashed potatoes made in one pot—comforting and filling with bratwurst.
Instant Pot Green Beans
Simple, flavorful green beans that pair well with a wide range of mains.
Asian Carrot Cucumber Salad
A crisp, quick salad you can make ahead—refreshing and light next to richer grilled flavors.
Filipino Macaroni Salad
A sweet, crunchy pasta salad commonly served at gatherings—an unexpected but delicious partner for bratwurst.
20-Minute Creamy Paprika Pasta
A quick, creamy paprika pasta that can serve as a comforting vegetarian side or light main alongside bratwurst.
Pan Fried Squash and Zucchini
Quick sautéed summer squash and zucchini—versatile, nutritious, and an easy veggie side for any grill night.
Ultimate Potato Salad
A classic creamy potato salad with eggs and celery—timeless and crowd-pleasing at barbecues.
Red Cabbage Sauerkraut
Tangy, fermented red cabbage—an authentic, flavorful match for bratwurst whether served hot or cold.
Authentic German Potato Salad (Vegan)
A vinegar-based warm potato salad with tangy, smoky flavors—an especially good pairing with sausages.
KFC-Style Coleslaw
A creamy, crunchy coleslaw that’s familiar and comforting with grilled fare.
Green Bean Caprese Salad
A caprese-inspired green bean salad that adds freshness and color to the plate.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash
Caramelized roasted vegetables bring sweetness and texture—great with smoky sausages.
Chopped Rainbow Veggie Salad
A quick chopped salad loaded with colorful vegetables—easy to prep and great for leftovers.
Easy Creamy Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes
A lower-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that still offers a creamy, comforting texture.
Crispy Air Fryer Baby Potatoes
Crispy on the outside and tender inside—these baby potatoes are quick to make and naturally gluten-free.
Smoked Baked Potatoes
Smoked baked potatoes are an indulgent side—load them with favorite toppings for a hearty pairing.
German Coleslaw (Krautsalat)
A light vinegar-based coleslaw with caraway and bright acidity—classic with sausages.
Duck Fat Smashed Potatoes
Indulgent smashed potatoes roasted in duck fat and finished with lemon-chive dressing—rich and memorable next to bratwurst.
Simply Delicious Roasted Vegetables
Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables are easy, nutritious, and versatile—serve them warm or at room temperature.
Roasted Mini Potatoes
Easy roasted mini potatoes that pair well with nearly any main—gluten-free and vegan-friendly when prepared simply.
Boursin Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with Boursin cheese—an elegant upgrade for special dinners.
Avocado Potato Salad
A creamy avocado-based potato salad that’s fresh, rich, and a great alternative to mayo-heavy versions.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
A herb-forward quinoa salad with vegetables and beans—light, nutritious, and suitable as a side or main.
More side dish recipes
- Easy Summer Salad Recipes
- Fried Wonton Strips
- Vegetarian Mexican Rice
- Beer Battered Shrimp
Did you make any of these recipes? Don’t forget to leave a 5-Star 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 rating and comment below letting us know which one you made and how it turned out. Thank you!