Enhance your brats with the perfect side dish. Start with tangy sauerkraut or hearty potato salad for classic flavors. Add a invigorating crunch with coleslaw or crisp cucumber salad. Grilled vegetables provide a nutritious and colorful contrast. For a heartier option, try savory baked beans or crispy German potato pancakes. Pretzels and macaroni and cheese offer comforting, rich textures. Sweet corn on the cob and a vibrant fresh fruit salad balance the meal beautifully. Don't forget about pickles for a tangy kick and a sophisticated cheese platter. Every choice complements the brats wonderfully – you'll discover more delicious options next.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut, with its tangy and robust flavor, is a classic accompaniment that enhances the savory taste of bratwurst.
This fermented cabbage not only brings a zesty kick but also offers health benefits, such as probiotics for gut health.
Traditional pairings often include sauerkraut due to its rich history and complementary taste, making it a perfect partner for your next bratwurst meal.
Potato Salad
Potato salad consistently serves as a hearty and satisfying side dish that pairs exceptionally well with bratwurst. With an array of potato variations, from red to Yukon Gold, this versatile dish can be customized to suit any palate.
The choice of salad dressings, whether creamy mayonnaise-based or tangy vinegar-based, adds further depth and richness, making it an ideal complement to the savory flavors of brats.
Coleslaw
Another classic accompaniment to bratwurst is coleslaw, which offers an invigorating crunch and a zesty contrast to the rich flavors of the sausages.
Coleslaw variations can range from creamy to tangy, depending on the dressing types used. Whether you prefer a mayonnaise-based dressing or a vinegar-based one, coleslaw adds a revitalizing element that balances the hearty bratwurst perfectly.
Grilled Vegetables
Why not elevate your bratwurst meal with a medley of grilled vegetables that add both flavor and visual appeal?
A seasonal selection of veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus can be perfectly complemented by marinated options, enhancing their natural flavors.
Grilled vegetables not only provide a colorful contrast but also offer a nutritious balance to the richness of bratwurst.
Baked Beans
Baked beans serve as a hearty and flavorful side dish that pairs exceptionally well with bratwurst. The rich, smoky taste of baked beans complements the savory flavor of brats, creating a delightful flavor combination.
Additionally, baked beans offer nutritional information worth noting: they are high in protein and fiber. This makes them not only delicious but also a wholesome addition to your meal.
German Potato Pancakes
German potato pancakes, known as Kartoffelpuffer, are a traditional and savory side dish that pairs wonderfully with bratwurst. These crispy, golden delights are often served with apple sauce or sour cream, enhancing their rich flavor.
The combination of the crunchy exterior and soft interior makes them a perfect complement to the hearty taste of bratwurst, adding a touch of authenticity to your meal.
Pretzels
Pretzels, with their distinctively chewy texture and salty exterior, serve as an excellent accompaniment to bratwurst. Bavarian pretzels, in particular, enhance the meal with their traditional flavor.
Pairing them with a tangy mustard dipping sauce creates a delightful contrast that complements the savory brats. This combination not only adds variety but also introduces a touch of authentic German cuisine to your table.
Macaroni and Cheese
A creamy and rich macaroni and cheese serves as a perfect comfort food side to complement the savory flavors of bratwurst.
The creamy texture of the cheese sauce envelops the pasta, creating a delightful contrast to the hearty, seasoned bratwurst.
Simple to prepare, this beloved dish brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal, making it an ideal choice for a comforting and delicious accompaniment.
Corn on the Cob
Paired with bratwurst, corn on the cob offers a sweet and crunchy contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.
For butter options, consider garlic herb, spicy chili, or classic salted to elevate the flavor.
Grilling tips include brushing the corn with olive oil, then cooking it on medium-high heat until charred, creating a smoky taste that complements the savory brats perfectly.
Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad provides an invigorating and crisp side dish that balances the richness of bratwurst. This revitalizing option highlights cucumber benefits like hydration and vitamins.
Dressing variations, such as tangy vinaigrettes or creamy dill, enhance its flavor and cater to personal preferences.
Simple to prepare, cucumber salad is a delightful and healthful addition to any bratwurst meal, making it truly enjoyable.
Roasted Potatoes
Adding a hearty touch to your bratwurst meal, roasted potatoes offer a satisfying and flavorful complement.
With a variety of seasoning options such as rosemary, garlic, and paprika, these crispy delights can be tailored to your taste.
For serving suggestions, consider pairing them with a tangy mustard dip or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, enhancing your dining experience with ease.
Pasta Salad
An energizing pasta salad provides a delightful and versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with bratwurst.
Cold pasta, mixed with fresh vegetables and various dressing variations, offers a revitalizing contrast to the rich flavors of the bratwurst.
This side dish can be easily customized to suit different tastes, making it a favorite choice for gatherings.
Its vibrant colors and flavors enhance any meal.
Pickles
Complementing the fresh and vibrant pasta salad, pickles offer a tangy and crunchy contrast that enhances the savory flavors of bratwurst. Homemade pickles, with their unique flavors and textures, provide an excellent side dish.
Pickle varieties such as dill, bread-and-butter, and spicy pickles cater to different tastes, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal. These crisp, flavorful additions make every bite of bratwurst even more delightful.
Cheese Platter
Creating a cheese platter with a variety of textures and flavors can elevate the bratwurst dining experience. Incorporate artisanal cheeses like gouda, blue cheese, and aged cheddar to add depth.
Pairing wines, such as a crisp white or a robust red, enhances the experience further. This combination offers a delightful balance, making your meal both sophisticated and satisfying.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Brats and Peppers?
When grilling brats and peppers, the best side dishes for brats include coleslaw, potato salad, and baked beans. These classic sides complement the flavors of the brats and peppers, providing a satisfying and well-balanced meal. Additionally, a side of sauerkraut or a fresh green salad can add a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the main dish.
Fresh Fruit Salad
Balancing the rich flavors of the cheese platter, a fresh fruit salad introduces an invigorating and lively contrast to the meal.
Utilizing a mix of seasonal fruits, this side dish offers a burst of natural sweetness and vibrant colors. A light citrus dressing enhances the natural flavors, adding a rejuvenating tang that complements the savory brats perfectly, making each bite delightful.