Corned beef, a beloved classic, is known for its tender, flavorful, and juicy nature. This delicious meat has been a staple in many households for generations. But what to serve with corned beef to elevate the meal and create a perfectly balanced dining experience?

In this post, we'll explore 15 delicious side dishes that complement corned beef and enhance its flavors.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with corned beef are sauteed cabbage, green beans, baby potatoes, brown rice, mashed carrots, , pickled beets, irish soda bread, horseradish cream sauce, colcannon, and braised brussels sprouts.

Let's dive in!

Table of Contents

1. Green Beans
2. Baby Potatoes
3. Mashed Carrots
4. Brown Rice
5. Sauteed Cabbage
6. Pickled Beets
7. Irish Soda Bread
8. Horseradish Cream Sauce
9. Colcannon
10. Brussels Sprouts
11. Tater Tots
12. Garlic Roasted Asparagus
13. Creamed Spinach
14. Red Cabbage and Apple Slaw
15. Sweet Potato Casserole
What To Serve With Corned Beef

1. Green Beans

Fresh, crisp green beans bring a delightful burst of color and a pleasant crunch to your plate. Their mild flavor allows the corned beef to shine while providing a necessary contrast.

2. Baby Potatoes

These tender, bite-sized potatoes absorb the flavors of the corned beef, creating a perfect harmony. Roast or boil them and toss in butter and herbs for a simple yet tasty side dish.

3. Mashed Carrots

A sweet and velvety alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, mashed carrots bring a unique twist to your meal. Their subtle sweetness contrasts beautifully with the saltiness of the corned beef.

4. Brown Rice

A hearty and nutritious choice, brown rice provides a fiber-rich base that complements the savory flavors of corned beef. This whole grain adds a satisfying textural element to your meal.

5. Sauteed Cabbage

As a classic pairing for corned beef, sautéed cabbage offers a tender and slightly sweet side that complements the rich meat. Add a touch of butter, garlic, and caraway seeds for extra flavor.

6. Pickled Beets

The tangy, earthy flavor of pickled beets adds a refreshing contrast to the savory corned beef. This colorful side dish also provides a delightful textural contrast.

7. Irish Soda Bread

This traditional Irish bread is the perfect accompaniment for corned beef. Its dense, slightly sweet, and crumbly texture makes it ideal for soaking up any leftover juices.

8. Horseradish Cream Sauce

A tangy, creamy horseradish sauce adds a zesty kick to your corned beef meal. This bold condiment brings a new level of flavor to the dish.

9. Colcannon

This traditional Irish dish combines creamy mashed potatoes with sautéed kale or cabbage, offering a rich and satisfying side that pairs wonderfully with corned beef.

10. Brussels Sprouts

Slow-cooked in a flavorful broth, these tender Brussels sprouts develop a caramelized exterior that complements the robust taste of corned beef.

11. Tater Tots

These crispy, golden bites of potato goodness make a fun and playful side dish for corned beef. Their crunchy exterior and soft interior create a pleasing contrast to the tender meat.

12. Garlic Roasted Asparagus

A simple yet flavorful side dish, garlic roasted asparagus brings a burst of bright green color to your plate. The garlic enhances the asparagus's natural flavors, pairing well with the savory corned beef.

13. Creamed Spinach

Rich and creamy, this classic side dish adds a luxurious touch to your corned beef meal. The smooth texture and mild flavor of creamed spinach allow the main dish to shine while providing a comforting and tasty accompaniment.

14. Red Cabbage and Apple Slaw

This tangy and sweet slaw adds a vibrant touch to your corned beef meal. The combination of crunchy red cabbage and juicy apples offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meat.

15. Sweet Potato Casserole

For a sweet and savory twist, try serving a sweet potato casserole with your corned beef. The natural sweetness of the potatoes provides a delicious balance to the salty meat, while the casserole's fluffy texture complements the tender beef.

With these 15 options, you'll have a diverse array of flavors and textures to create the perfect meal that will please your guests and make your corned beef the star of the show.