Bratwurst sizzling on the grill, the aroma wafting through the air—it’s a scene that promises comfort and satisfaction. But here’s the thing: the bratwurst is just the beginning. The real question, the one that takes your meal from good to unforgettable, is what side dish goes with brats?
This isn’t just about filling up the plate; it’s about creating a symphony of flavors that complement and elevate that juicy, perfectly grilled sausage.
With over 15 years of experience in the kitchen, I’ve learned that the right side can turn a simple brat into a culinary experience.
Whether you’re leaning into classic German sides, exploring unique and creative pairings, or finding that perfect vegetable or starch accompaniment.
By the end of this article, you’ll have all the inspiration you need to craft a meal that’s as unforgettable as the bratwurst itself.
What Side Dish Goes with Brats
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Texture | Preparation | Best With |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sauerkraut | Tangy, Fermented | Crunchy | Fermented/Cooked | Classic Bratwurst |
| Potato Salad | Creamy or Tangy | Soft, Chunky | Boiled, Mixed | Grilled Brats |
| Grilled Vegetables | Smoky, Sweet | Charred, Tender | Grilled | Juicy Brats |
| Spaetzle | Buttery, Mild | Soft, Chewy | Boiled, Fried | Juicy, Rich Bratwurst |
| Pretzels | Salty, Doughy | Chewy, Soft | Baked | Mustard-Dipped Brats |
Classic German Sides for Brats
When you’re diving into a plate of bratwurst, there’s something almost magical about pairing it with traditional German sides. It’s like each bite of sausage is a key unlocking a deeper flavor experience, and the sides are the hidden treasures.
Sauerkraut: The Fermented Favorite
Tangy, crunchy, and a little bit wild. Sauerkraut is the first thing that comes to mind when I think of classic bratwurst accompaniments. There’s a reason this fermented cabbage has been a staple for centuries. The acidity of the sauerkraut cuts through the rich, juicy flavors of the bratwurst, creating a balance that keeps you coming back for more.
Imagine the brat on your plate, the smoky, grilled aroma mingling with the sharp scent of sauerkraut. It’s like a dance between two old friends who know each other’s steps perfectly.
German Potato Salad: Warm and Comforting
Forget the mayonnaise-laden stuff you find at American BBQs—German potato salad is a different beast altogether. Warm, vinegar-based, with crispy bits of bacon hiding in every bite. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a co-star.
The potatoes, perfectly cooked, soak up that tangy dressing, while the bacon adds just the right amount of crunch and saltiness. Together, it’s a mouthful of comfort that plays off the hearty bratwurst in the best way possible.
Pretzels: The Ultimate Carb Companion
Yes, pretzels. Not the kind you buy in a bag at the store, but the soft, warm, golden-brown beauties you pull apart with your hands. There’s something satisfying about tearing into a pretzel, dipping it into some beer cheese or mustard, and taking a bite between bites of bratwurst. It’s that chewy texture, the salt crystals on top—it all just works.
Pairing pretzels with brats feels like the most natural thing in the world. It’s a nod to their shared German heritage, and they bring out the best in each other.
Braised Red Cabbage: Sweet Meets Savory
Braised red cabbage is like the unexpected twist in a good novel—sweet, but not too sweet, with a hint of vinegar that keeps things interesting. The deep purple color alone makes your plate look like a work of art. But it’s the flavor that really matters.
When you have a forkful of bratwurst with a little bit of this sweet, tangy cabbage, it’s like everything else fades away. You’re just left with this perfect blend of savory and sweet, rich and refreshing.
Spaetzle: The German Noodle
If you haven’t had spaetzle before, you’re in for a treat. These soft, eggy noodles are the kind of side dish that makes you wonder why you’ve been settling for plain pasta all these years. Tossed in butter, sometimes with a sprinkle of herbs or cheese, they’re the perfect vehicle to soak up any juices from the brats.
Spaetzle adds a tender, pillowy counterpoint to the meaty bratwurst, creating a contrast that’s as much about texture as it is about flavor.
Mustard and Pickles: The Essential Accents
These might not be full-on sides, but they’re non-negotiable in my book. A good, sharp mustard—whether it’s the classic yellow, a spicy Dijon, or something with whole grains—is a must. It’s that tangy bite that cuts through the fattiness of the bratwurst and adds a whole new layer to every mouthful.
And pickles—let’s not forget those. Whether you go for the classic dill, something sweet, or even pickled onions, they add a crunch and acidity that wakes up your palate between bites of brat and pretzel, or brat and spaetzle.
Bratwurst might be the star, but these sides are what make it a full-blown flavor experience. And let’s face it—when someone asks what side dish goes with brats, it’s these classic German accompaniments that take the meal from good to unforgettable.
Salad Accompaniments
Salads might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of bratwurst, but trust me, they can be the perfect counterbalance to that rich, savory sausage. The trick is in the contrast—the lightness, the crunch, the way a good salad can cut through the heaviness of the brats and refresh your palate.
German Potato Salad: Warm and Tangy
First off, let’s talk about the classic German potato salad. It’s not your typical cold, mayonnaise-heavy affair. No, this one’s warm, with a vinegar-based dressing that has just the right amount of tang. The potatoes are soft but still hold their shape, soaking up all that flavor like sponges.
When paired with bratwurst, it’s like a perfect harmony—the warm, tangy potatoes play off the juicy, smoky sausage, creating a mouthful that’s both comforting and exciting.
Cucumber Salad: Crisp and Refreshing
Now, picture this: thinly sliced cucumbers, marinated in a light vinaigrette with a hint of dill. It’s crisp, it’s cool, and it’s exactly what you need to cleanse your palate between bites of bratwurst. The cucumber salad brings a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy sausage.
Sometimes, I’ll even add a touch of onion for an extra bite, but the simplicity here is key. You don’t want anything too heavy—the cucumbers should feel like a breath of fresh air amid the richness of the brats.
Coleslaw: Creamy and Crunchy
Coleslaw, with its creamy dressing and crunchy cabbage, is another excellent choice. But not just any coleslaw—go for a version that balances the creaminess with a bit of acidity. A little vinegar in the dressing can work wonders, cutting through the fat of the bratwurst and adding a zesty kick.
I like my coleslaw with a touch of mustard in the dressing, which ties it back to the traditional flavors often served with brats. The cabbage brings a satisfying crunch, while the dressing adds a tangy creaminess that complements the sausage without overpowering it.
Beet Salad: Earthy and Sweet
And then there’s beet salad—a bit of an underdog but worth mentioning. The earthy sweetness of beets, maybe roasted and tossed with a little goat cheese or walnuts, brings something unique to the table. It’s not the obvious choice, but that’s what makes it interesting.
The beets, with their deep, rich flavor, stand up well to the bratwurst, offering a sweet contrast that’s both unexpected and delightful. Throw in a few greens to lighten it up, and you’ve got a salad that’s as bold as the brats themselves.
Mixed Greens with Mustard Vinaigrette: Light and Zesty
Finally, sometimes you just want something light. A simple mixed greens salad with a mustard vinaigrette can be the perfect sidekick. The bitterness of the greens, the sharpness of the mustard—it’s all there to keep things interesting.
This salad doesn’t steal the show, but it doesn’t need to. It’s there to do its job: refresh your taste buds, add a bit of bite, and let the bratwurst shine even brighter. Plus, that mustard vinaigrette—well, it’s practically begging to be paired with a good sausage.
When someone asks what side dish goes with brats, they might not immediately think of salads, but that’s the beauty of it. The unexpected, the refreshing, the contrast—these are the things that elevate a meal from good to unforgettable.
Vegetable Sides
Vegetables. They don’t just sit on the side of the plate—they transform the whole meal. When you’ve got a sizzling bratwurst on your plate, the right vegetable side can elevate it, turning something simple into something memorable.
Grilled Vegetables: Smoky and Charred
Grilling bratwurst is one thing, but throwing some vegetables on the grill? That’s where the magic happens. Imagine those smoky, charred edges on zucchini, bell peppers, and onions. Each bite gives you a burst of flavor—sweet, savory, with that unmistakable hint of smoke.
The best part? Grilled vegetables don’t compete with the bratwurst—they complement it. They soak up that smokiness, adding layers of flavor without overpowering the main event. Pair them with a good brat, and you’ve got a match made in heaven.
Braised Red Cabbage: Deep and Complex
Braised red cabbage isn’t just a side—it’s an experience. Slowly cooked until it’s tender, with a balance of sweet and sour that hits all the right notes. The cabbage, with its deep purple hue, brings a touch of sweetness to the table, but not the sugary kind—the kind that’s been mellowed out, softened by the heat, and deepened by the vinegar.
When you take a bite of bratwurst with a forkful of this cabbage, it’s like they were meant for each other. The richness of the sausage meets the complexity of the cabbage, creating a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and unexpected.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet and Juicy
Corn on the cob. It’s the summer side dish that everyone knows and loves. But when you pair it with bratwurst, it becomes something more. The sweetness of the corn, with those little bursts of juice in every bite, plays off the savory, spicy notes of the brat.
Whether you slather it in butter, sprinkle it with a little salt, or get adventurous with some herbs or cheese, corn on the cob brings a fresh, juicy element to the plate. It’s the kind of side that makes you smile, no matter what.
Sautéed Spinach: Earthy and Simple
Simplicity is underrated. Take sautéed spinach, for example. Just a little olive oil, garlic, maybe a squeeze of lemon, and you’ve got a side dish that’s light, earthy, and full of flavor. It doesn’t need to be fancy—it just needs to be good.
The slight bitterness of the spinach balances out the rich, fatty bratwurst, making each bite feel less heavy. Plus, it adds a pop of color to the plate, reminding you that sometimes, the simplest things are the most satisfying.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and Caramelized
Roasting is a game-changer for Brussels sprouts. High heat transforms them into something crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, with that perfect caramelization that brings out their natural sweetness. Add a little salt, maybe some balsamic vinegar, and you’ve got a side dish that stands up to even the heartiest bratwurst.
Brussels sprouts might not be the first thing you think of when someone asks what side dish goes with brats, but once you try them roasted, you’ll wonder why they aren’t.
Pickles and Onions: The Unexpected Pair
And then, there’s the wildcard—pickles and onions. Not exactly a vegetable side in the traditional sense, but oh, do they make a difference. A few slices of pickles, maybe some pickled onions, bring a tangy, crunchy contrast that wakes up your taste buds between bites of bratwurst.
These little additions aren’t just there for garnish—they’re there to enhance, to add that sharp, acidic bite that cuts through the richness of the sausage and leaves you ready for the next forkful.
Bean-Based Sides
Beans. They’re not just a side—they’re a statement. When you’re grilling up some bratwurst, you need something that can stand up to those bold flavors, something that doesn’t just fade into the background. Beans are up for the challenge.
Baked Beans: Sweet, Smoky, and Satisfying
Baked beans are a classic, and there’s a reason for that. They bring a sweetness that plays against the savory notes of bratwurst, but it’s not just about the sugar. It’s that deep, smoky flavor, the hint of molasses, maybe even a little bacon in there if you’re doing it right.
You spoon those beans onto your plate next to a brat, and suddenly, it’s like they’re having a conversation. The sausage, rich and hearty, meets the beans, soft and sweet, and together they create this perfect bite that’s both familiar and exciting.
White Bean Salad: Light, Fresh, and Unexpected
But beans don’t have to be heavy. Picture this: a white bean salad, with cannellini beans, maybe a little red onion, some parsley, tossed in a light vinaigrette. It’s fresh, it’s bright, and it’s the kind of side that makes you think, Why don’t I eat this more often?
This salad isn’t about overpowering the bratwurst—it’s about complementing it. The beans are creamy and mild, soaking up the vinaigrette, while the onions add a bit of bite, and the parsley gives it that herby freshness. It’s a side dish that brings balance to the plate, making each bite of sausage feel a little lighter, a little more refined.
Three-Bean Salad: A Symphony of Textures and Flavors
And then there’s the three-bean salad. It’s a bit of a retro classic, but done right, it’s a side dish that can really sing. You’ve got green beans, kidney beans, maybe some chickpeas or black beans, all mixed together with a tangy dressing that’s equal parts sweet and sour.
This isn’t just a salad—it’s a symphony. Each bean brings its own texture, its own flavor, and when you take a bite with some bratwurst, it’s like they’re playing in harmony. The crispness of the green beans, the softness of the kidney beans, the tang of the dressing—they all work together to create something that’s more than the sum of its parts.
Chili Beans: Bold and Hearty
Sometimes, you want something a little more robust, something that can really hold its own next to a bratwurst. That’s where chili beans come in. Cooked with spices, maybe some ground beef or sausage mixed in, these beans are hearty, flavorful, and definitely not shy.
When you scoop some chili beans onto your plate, you know you’re in for a treat. The spices bring a warmth that complements the smokiness of the bratwurst, while the beans add a creamy, comforting texture that makes you want to keep coming back for more.
And let’s not forget—chili beans have a way of turning a simple meal into something that feels a little bit special, a little bit like a feast.
When someone asks what side dish goes with brats, beans might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but once you’ve tried these, they’ll definitely be on your list.
Starch and Pasta Sides
Starch and pasta sides—they’re the comfort food, the satisfying filler that makes a meal feel complete. When you’re grilling up brats, these sides are the anchor that holds everything together. They absorb flavors, they complement textures, and they make sure no one leaves the table hungry.
Spaetzle: The German Noodle Dream
Spaetzle is like the unsung hero of German cuisine. These tiny, tender dumplings are a bit of a mystery to anyone who hasn’t had them, but once you do—there’s no turning back. Picture it: little morsels of dough, soft yet chewy, bathed in butter and maybe even a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
When spaetzle meets bratwurst, it’s a match made in heaven. The noodles soak up the brat’s juices, creating this rich, buttery bite that’s the perfect counterpoint to the sausage’s snap and sizzle. It’s almost unfair how good they are together.
Mac and Cheese: The All-American Sidekick
Mac and cheese might not be German, but it sure knows how to hold its own next to a brat. Creamy, cheesy, with a bit of crunch if you bake it just right—this is the kind of dish that people pile high on their plates. It’s comfort food in its purest form.
The richness of the cheese pairs beautifully with the smokiness of the bratwurst, creating a harmony that’s almost too indulgent to describe. And let’s be honest—when you’re asking yourself what side dish goes with brats, mac and cheese might just pop into your head, no matter what cuisine you’re thinking of.
Potato Salad: The Versatile Classic
Potato salad comes in many forms, but when it’s done right, it’s a side that can elevate a simple bratwurst into a memorable meal. Whether you go for the creamy, mayo-based version that Americans love, or the tangy, vinegar-based German classic, potato salad is the kind of side dish that just works.
The potatoes are soft yet firm, holding onto their shape while absorbing all the flavors of the dressing. The tanginess of the vinegar or the creaminess of the mayo offers a contrast to the bratwurst, cutting through the richness and providing that much-needed balance.
Mashed Potatoes: Pure Comfort
Let’s not forget about mashed potatoes. Silky, buttery, maybe with a touch of garlic or a hint of chives—they’re the kind of side dish that never fails. When you’ve got a brat on your plate, a dollop of mashed potatoes on the side feels like the most natural thing in the world.
The creamy texture of the potatoes is the perfect foil to the firm bite of the sausage. Each mouthful is like a warm hug, comforting and familiar, yet always satisfying.
Pretzels: The German Staple
And then there’s the pretzel—a German staple that’s more than just a snack. When served alongside brats, it transforms into something else entirely. The chewy dough, the salty crust, maybe even a side of mustard for dipping—it’s a side dish that’s as interactive as it is delicious.
Pretzels add a chewy, salty contrast to the juicy bratwurst, making each bite a little adventure. They’re perfect for tearing apart, sharing, and enjoying with every mouthful of sausage.
When it comes to starch and pasta sides, it’s all about balance and comfort. These dishes don’t just fill the plate—they complete the meal, turning a simple bratwurst into something unforgettable.
Unique and Creative Sides
Sometimes, you’ve got to break the mold. Sure, the classics are great, but there’s something thrilling about taking a leap and serving up something unexpected alongside bratwurst. It’s about shaking things up, turning heads, and making people say, “I never would have thought of that!” That’s where the magic happens.
Sweet Potato Fries: A Sweet and Savory Twist
Sweet potatoes have a way of sneaking up on you. At first, they’re just a bright orange alternative to the standard spud. But when you fry them up, crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, they become something much more—a side dish that brings both sweetness and a bit of earthiness to the table.
Imagine biting into a juicy brat, followed by a sweet potato fry dipped in a bit of spicy mayo or maybe a drizzle of honey. It’s a contrast that works because it surprises you—the sweetness playing off the savory, the crunch against the snap of the sausage. It’s that kind of unexpected combo that makes you wonder why more people aren’t doing it.
Apple and Fennel Slaw: Crisp, Refreshing, and Bright
Now, this one’s a bit of a curveball. Apple and fennel slaw isn’t your average side dish, but man, does it bring the crunch. The crispness of the fennel, with its slight anise flavor, combined with the sweetness of the apple—it’s a match that feels both refreshing and sophisticated.
And when you pair it with bratwurst? It’s like that perfect sip of crisp white wine on a summer day. The slaw cuts through the richness of the sausage, adding a light, refreshing note that keeps the whole meal from feeling too heavy. Plus, that crunch? It’s just satisfying.
Cheddar and Jalapeño Cornbread: Spicy, Cheesy, and Irresistible
Cornbread, on its own, is already a winner. But when you start adding sharp cheddar and spicy jalapeños into the mix, it becomes something else entirely—a side dish that’s got heat, depth, and a whole lot of character.
Serve this alongside your bratwurst, and you’ve got a side that doesn’t just sit there quietly. It demands attention, with each bite giving you a hit of cheese, a pop of spice, and that crumbly, buttery texture that makes cornbread so irresistible. It’s a side dish that holds its own, but doesn’t steal the show—just the kind of balance you want.
Pickled Vegetables: Tart, Tangy, and Full of Life
Pickled vegetables might not be the first thing that comes to mind when someone asks what side dish goes with brats, but once you’ve tried it, you’ll wonder why you waited so long. The tanginess, the crunch, the burst of flavor from each bite of pickled carrot, cucumber, or onion—it’s a side that’s as vibrant as it is versatile.
What makes it unique is how it contrasts with the heaviness of the bratwurst. The acidity of the pickles cuts through the fat, cleansing your palate with each bite and leaving you ready for more. It’s that kind of balance that makes the whole meal come alive, turning a simple bratwurst dinner into something unforgettable.
Grilled Peaches: Sweet, Charred, and Surprising
Grilling peaches is a game-changer. The heat caramelizes their natural sugars, giving you this smoky, sweet, and slightly tart flavor that’s pure summer on a plate. And when you serve them with bratwurst? It’s like fireworks in your mouth.
The charred sweetness of the peaches brings out the savory depth of the sausage, creating a contrast that’s as surprising as it is delicious. Drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top if you’re feeling fancy, and you’ve got a side dish that’s not just unique—it’s downright show-stopping.
The beauty of these unique and creative sides is that they don’t just fill the plate—they elevate the meal. Each one brings something different to the table, a new flavor, a new texture, a new way to experience bratwurst. And in the end, isn’t that what cooking is all about? Pushing boundaries, surprising your palate, and creating something unforgettable.
FAQ on What Side Dish Goes With Brats
What’s a traditional German side dish for brats?
Sauerkraut. It’s the ultimate pairing with bratwurst, offering a tangy, fermented crunch that balances the richness of the sausage. The acidity cuts through the fat, creating a bite that’s both satisfying and refreshingly light. Whether you’re going for authenticity or flavor, sauerkraut is a must.
What vegetables go well with bratwurst?
Grilled vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, when charred to perfection, bring a smoky, sweet contrast to the savory brats. The veggies soak up the grill’s flavor, offering a crunchy, fresh element that complements the sausage’s juicy richness without overpowering it. Simple, yet incredibly effective.
What are some easy sides for bratwurst?
Potato salad. Whether it’s creamy and mayo-based or the tangy, vinegar-laden German version, potato salad is a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing side that pairs beautifully with bratwurst. The potatoes’ soft texture and the salad’s rich or tangy dressing make each bite of sausage feel complete and comforting.
What can I serve with brats at a BBQ?
Baked beans. Their sweet, smoky flavor is a natural fit for bratwurst at any BBQ. The beans’ soft texture and rich sauce create a satisfying, hearty side that complements the charred, savory sausage. It’s a pairing that just works, especially when the grill is involved.
How can I add a healthy side to bratwurst?
Cucumber salad. Thinly sliced cucumbers in a light vinaigrette with a hint of dill bring a refreshing, crisp element to your meal. This salad’s lightness contrasts perfectly with the rich, fatty bratwurst, making it a healthy and revitalizing addition to your plate. It’s as simple as it is effective.
What’s a good starch to serve with brats?
Spaetzle. These soft, eggy noodles are the perfect sponge for the bratwurst’s juices. Tossed in butter and maybe a sprinkle of herbs, spaetzle brings a comforting, doughy texture that’s the ideal complement to the sausage’s snap. It’s hearty, satisfying, and distinctly German.
What are some unique side dishes for brats?
Grilled peaches. The caramelized sweetness of peaches, kissed by the grill, brings a surprising contrast to bratwurst. Their natural sugars intensify with heat, adding a sweet and smoky layer to the meal that’s unexpected yet harmonious. Drizzle with balsamic for an extra kick.
What salads go well with bratwurst?
Apple and fennel slaw. Crisp apples and the slight anise flavor of fennel, tossed in a light dressing, provide a bright, refreshing crunch. This slaw cuts through the bratwurst’s richness, balancing each bite with a crisp, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor. It’s a salad that doesn’t just accompany but enhances.
What dips or condiments should I serve with brats?
Mustard. Whether it’s a sharp Dijon, a whole-grain variety, or a classic yellow, mustard is the quintessential condiment for bratwurst. Its tangy, spicy profile cuts through the sausage’s fat, adding a burst of flavor that complements every bite. A must-have on any bratwurst table.
What are some popular sides for bratwurst in Germany?
Pretzels. A soft, chewy pretzel with a salty crust is the perfect German side for bratwurst. Paired with a good mustard, it brings a satisfying chew and a touch of saltiness that enhances the flavors of the sausage. It’s a simple, yet iconic combination that’s hard to beat.
Conclusion
Deciding what side dish goes with brats is more than just a choice—it’s about crafting an experience that elevates the entire meal. The right sides, whether they’re traditional German accompaniments like sauerkraut and potato salad, or something more adventurous like grilled peaches or sweet potato fries, each bring their own flavor, texture, and story to the table.
Bratwurst, with its rich, savory profile, begs for sides that can stand up to it, complement it, or even surprise it. Think beyond the basics—explore creative pairings that add depth and excitement to your meal. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or just savoring a simple dinner, the sides you choose are what transform the brats from a meal into a memorable feast.
In the end, it’s all about balance, flavor, and a bit of daring. Your bratwurst deserves nothing less than the perfect, thoughtful side.