10 Best Sides That Go With Corned Beef and Cabbage
When serving corned beef and cabbage, it’s all about pairing it with the right sides to create a comforting and delicious meal.
Traditional Irish colcannon or creamy instant pot mashed potatoes bring a rich, creamy texture that complements the savory flavors of the corned beef.
For those who crave a bit of crunch, garlic herb skillet potatoes or crispy roasted cabbage wedges offer savory, textured contrasts that enhance the dish beautifully.
Brighten up your plate with lemon garlic green beans or fresh green bean almondine for a refreshing bite.
And let’s not forget about the garlic butter Brussels sprouts and classic Irish brown soda bread—perfect for soaking up those delicious juices!
A cheesy potato gratin also makes for a satisfying indulgence that rounds out the meal.
Explore further to discover the perfect sides that will elevate your corned beef and cabbage experience!
Traditional Irish Colcannon
One classic side you can’t miss with corned beef and cabbage is traditional Irish colcannon.
This dish blends creamy mashed potatoes with tender green cabbage, creating a hearty side that perfectly complements your meal.
Rooted in Irish tradition, colcannon was originally a simple, peasant comfort food made from whatever ingredients were on hand.
You’ll find butter, cream, and chopped green onions mixed in, adding rich flavor and smooth texture.
It’s more than just a side dish—it’s a warm, satisfying mash that brings a bit of Ireland to your table, especially during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
If you want a classic, stick to the traditional version; it’s a comforting, filling addition that pairs beautifully with corned beef and cabbage.
Garlic Herb Skillet Potatoes
While colcannon offers a creamy, traditional potato side, garlic herb skillet potatoes bring a different kind of flavor and texture to your corned beef and cabbage meal.
Garlic herb skillet potatoes add a flavorful, crispy twist to your classic corned beef and cabbage meal.
You’ll sauté diced Yukon Gold or red potatoes in butter with fresh garlic and herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley.
This side dish takes about 30 minutes, creating crispy potatoes with tender centers.
The garlic herb potatoes add a savory, aromatic element that perfectly complements the rich corned beef.
To elevate the herb-seasoned potatoes, finish with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
These skillet potatoes provide a satisfying contrast in texture and flavor, making them a delicious alternative to mashed or boiled potatoes alongside your classic Irish feast.
Roasted Cabbage Wedges
Roasting cabbage wedges brings out a sweet, caramelized flavor that enhances their natural earthiness and adds a smoky touch to your corned beef and cabbage meal.
These roasted cabbage wedges make a perfect Irish side dish, balancing savory corned beef with rich, caramelized notes.
To get the best results:
- Cut the cabbage into sixths or wedges for even roasting and maximum browning.
- Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and add balsamic vinegar or herbs for extra flavor.
- Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-30 minutes until edges are crispy and the cabbage is fork-tender.
Serve these roasted cabbage wedges alongside your corned beef for a simple, tasty complement.
Lemon Garlic Green Beans
Lemon garlic green beans bring a bright, zesty flavor that cuts through the richness of corned beef and cabbage.
This side dish is quick and easy to prepare—just blanch or steam the green beans until tender, then sauté them with fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and olive oil.
The lemon’s acidity balances the meal’s richness while highlighting the beans’ natural sweetness.
You’ll enjoy a healthy, flavorful addition packed with vitamins A, C, and K.
For extra texture, garnish with slivered almonds or Parmesan cheese.
| Preparation Time | Cooking Method | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| 10-15 minutes | Blanched & sautéed | Bright, zesty |
| with lemon & garlic | Healthy, vibrant | |
| Quick and easy |
Creamy Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
One of the quickest ways to make creamy mashed potatoes is by using an Instant Pot, which cooks peeled potatoes under high pressure in about 10 minutes.
Instant Pot cooks peeled potatoes under high pressure in about 10 minutes for quick, creamy mashed potatoes.
This pressure cooker recipe lets you whip up an easy side dish perfect for your Irish dinner.
Here’s why you’ll love instant pot mashed potatoes:
- They cook faster than traditional methods, saving you time.
- Mashing right in the pot means fewer dishes to clean.
- You can customize creamy mashed potatoes with butter, milk, or herbs for extra flavor.
Using the Instant Pot locks in flavor and nutrients, giving you smooth, fluffy potatoes every time.
This versatile side pairs beautifully with corned beef and cabbage, making your meal both delicious and hassle-free.
Crispy-Edged Smashed Potatoes
Small potatoes get a delicious makeover when you boil them until tender, then lightly smash and bake or fry them to achieve irresistibly crispy edges.
These crispy-edged smashed potatoes offer a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with their soft, creamy interior.
Before baking, season them with salt, pepper, garlic, or herbs to boost their natural flavor.
Whether you choose the oven or skillet for baking, the result is a mouthwatering side that pairs beautifully with corned beef and cabbage.
You can even top these smashed potatoes with cheese, fresh herbs, or sour cream for extra indulgence.
Quick to prepare and packed with texture, crispy-edged smashed potatoes are a versatile, satisfying choice that adds a flavorful, crunchy touch to your meal.
Garlic Butter Brussels Sprouts
Garlic butter Brussels sprouts bring a rich, savory flavor that perfectly complements the hearty taste of corned beef and cabbage.
Garlic butter Brussels sprouts add a rich, savory touch that pairs beautifully with corned beef and cabbage.
This flavorful side dish is both simple and satisfying. Here’s why you should add it to your meal:
- Roasted to perfection: Brussels sprouts are roasted or sautéed in garlic butter until tender and caramelized, enhancing their natural nuttiness.
- Quick and easy: They take just 15-20 minutes to cook, making them a convenient addition to your dinner.
- Versatile flavor boosts: Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra depth and balance.
This crispy, garlicky vegetable side dish adds a delicious contrast to your main course, elevating the entire plate.
Fresh Green Bean Almondine
If you enjoyed the rich, buttery flavor of Brussels sprouts, you’ll appreciate the bright, crunchy texture of Fresh Green Bean Almondine.
This quick side features tender green beans sautéed with slivered almonds, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
The almonds add a nutty crunch, while the lemon juice brightens the dish, enhancing the natural freshness of the green beans.
Parmesan cheese brings a subtle savory depth that complements the corned beef’s richness perfectly.
Ready in just 10-15 minutes, this elegant, French-inspired side is easy to prepare and adds a fresh, vibrant note to your meal.
You can even customize it with herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.
It’s a simple yet sophisticated addition your guests will love.
Irish Brown Soda Bread
A classic Irish brown soda bread offers a hearty, rustic complement to your corned beef and cabbage feast.
This traditional Irish bread uses whole wheat flour and baking soda, making it a no yeast bread that’s quick to prepare.
You’ll love its dense, moist texture and slightly tangy flavor from buttermilk.
Here’s why you should add Irish brown soda bread to your meal:
- It’s a quick bread that requires minimal kneading and no rising time, so you can bake it in under an hour.
- The hearty bread pairs beautifully with savory corned beef and cabbage, soaking up juices perfectly.
- Optional ingredients like raisins or seeds add flavor and texture, enhancing this traditional Irish bread’s charm.
This side is a must-have for an authentic Irish dining experience.
Potato Gratin
While Irish brown soda bread soaks up savory juices beautifully, potato gratin offers a creamy, cheesy side that brings a rich contrast to your corned beef and cabbage.
Potato gratin brings a creamy, cheesy richness that perfectly contrasts the savory corned beef and cabbage.
This cheesy baked dish features thinly sliced potatoes layered with cream and cheese, baked until golden and bubbly.
The tender interior of the gratin complements the hearty texture of the meat and cabbage perfectly.
You can elevate the classic potato gratin by adding roasted black garlic, which infuses a deep umami flavor.
Or, you could toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra aroma.
Whether you prefer it simple or with bacon or scallions mixed in, this rich, comforting dish rounds out your meal with luscious creaminess and satisfying cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Goes Well With Cabbage and Corned Beef?
You’ll want to pair corned beef and cabbage with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Don’t forget some Irish soda bread to soak up the juices and add a satisfying texture.
What Side Dishes Go With Corned Beef?
You’ll want to pair corned beef with mashed potatoes, Irish soda bread, or colcannon.
Don’t forget roasted carrots or a fresh green salad.
These sides make your meal feel like a cozy, timeless feast.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Go With Corned Beef?
You’ll love pairing corned beef with mashed potatoes, colcannon, or roasted root veggies.
Add a fresh salad or sautéed cabbage for crispness.
Don’t forget Irish soda bread to soak up those delicious juices!
Conclusion
Now that you’ve discovered these 10 delicious sides to pair with your corned beef and cabbage, isn’t it time you elevated your meal to something truly memorable?
From creamy mashed potatoes to zesty green beans, these dishes bring out the best in your hearty Irish feast.
So, why settle for ordinary when you can make every bite extraordinary?
Get cooking and enjoy a meal that’s as festive as it is flavorful!
By choosing the right sides, you can transform a traditional dish into a culinary experience.
Imagine the hearty flavors of corned beef complemented by the crunch of fresh vegetables or the smoothness of a rich side.
With these sides, your dinner will not only be satisfying but also a delightful celebration of taste.
Elevate your corned beef and cabbage feast today! Your taste buds will thank you!
