Let’s be real, we all need ideas to jazz up our braised red cabbage. We’ve got you covered with eight seriously good side dishes.
Braised red cabbage is fab, but what’s next to it can make or break the meal. Want something tasty? These pairings are all winners.
The first time we tried braised red cabbage, it was pure magic. The side dishes? Not so much. We’ve tried ’em all, and these are the absolute best.
Get ready to mix things up. And get hungry. If you weren’t already obsessed with red cabbage, you will be now./im

Top 8 Side Dishes for Braised Red Cabbage
Here are our top picks for side dishes to serve with braised red cabbage:
Side Dish | Ingredients | Flavor | Difficulty | Time |
Roasted Potatoes | Potatoes, olive oil, herbs | Savory, crispy | Easy | 45 mins |
Buttered Egg Noodles | Egg noodles, butter, parsley | Buttery, comforting | Easy | 15 mins |
Mashed Potatoes | Potatoes, milk, butter | Creamy, rich | Moderate | 30 mins |
Sautéed Apples | Apples, butter, cinnamon | Sweet, tart | Easy | 20 mins |
Crusty Bread | Flour, yeast, water, salt | Warm, crusty | Moderate | 2 hrs |
Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes | Potatoes, sour cream, butter | Tangy, creamy | Moderate | 40 mins |
Herb Roasted Carrots | Carrots, olive oil, herbs | Savory, earthy | Easy | 35 mins |
Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower | Cauliflower, garlic, Parmesan | Garlicky, cheesy | Moderate | 30 mins |
1 – Roasted Potatoes
Roasted potatoes are a classic. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. We love them golden brown. The simple seasoning makes them tasty.
Perfect with braised red cabbage for a hearty meal. Our family always makes extra because they’re gone in minutes. Roasted potatoes are a must for any dinner table. They’re simply irresistible.
2 – Buttered Egg Noodles
Egg noodles, man, where do we start? They’re buttery, they’re soft, and they get a little crispy on the edges. We’re talking melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness. These noodles balance the tangy cabbage perfectly.
We’ve tried them with every meal possible. Trust us, they shine. Add a bit of salt, and it’s magic. This is a true comfort food.
3 – Mashed Potatoes
Who doesn’t love mashed potatoes? They’re creamy, buttery, and smooth with a velvety texture. The perfect comfort food. The fluffy consistency pairs beautifully with the tangy braised red cabbage.
These spuds aren’t just tasty; they’re versatile. A pinch of garlic or a sprinkle of chives? Game changer. We devour them every time.
4 – Sautéed Apples
Apples and cabbage? Yes, please. The sweet and tart from the apples balance the cabbage’s acidity. Trust us, it’s a tasty combination.
We’ve all had that moment: biting into warm, buttery apple slices. They are slightly caramelized, soft but with a slight bite. Add these to your meal, and thank us later.
5 – Crusty Bread
Oh, crusty bread, how we love thee. The crunch of the outer crust and the delightful chewiness inside are perfection.
Slather some butter on it, and it becomes irresistible. The plain bread amplifies the bold flavors of the braised red cabbage.
It’s ideal for sopping up all those luscious juices too.
6 – Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes
Sour cream mashed potatoes are the perfect comfort food. The creaminess from the sour cream adds a tangy twist you might not expect.
We love the contrast between the smooth potatoes and the thick, rich sour cream.
Plus, the garlic flavor infused throughout just makes it sing. Our family can’t get enough of them. Try it, you’ll see.
7 – Herb Roasted Carrots
Carrots with zest. Herb roasted carrots are tender, slightly sweet, and packed with flavor. We get a hint of thyme and rosemary in every bite. These carrots bring out the best in the braised red cabbage.
We love the crunch outside with a soft center. They are perfect for a balanced meal.
8 – Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower
So, you think mashed potatoes are the king? Think again.
Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower is a delightful twist. Lighter and healthier, with bold garlic flavor and a cheesy kick.
Creamy and smooth, yet packed with nutrients. Perfect side for when we want to eat smart but still eat well.
Roasted garlic gives it depth. Parmesan cheese? Adds richness.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.