Steak dinners are a true delight, but choosing the perfect side dishes can elevate the meal to a new level. Whether you prefer classic favorites or want to try something new, the right accompaniments can make a world of difference. What are the best sides to serve alongside your steak?
In this article, you will discover a variety of delicious side dishes that complement steak beautifully. From hearty vegetables to creamy, cheesy delights, each of these options promises to make your steak dinner exceptional. Enjoy exploring these ideas to find the perfect match for your next steak night.
1) Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with steak. They are creamy, flavorful, and easy to make.
Start by boiling peeled and cubed potatoes until they are tender. While the potatoes are cooking, sauté minced garlic in butter until it is fragrant but not browned.
Once the potatoes are done, drain them and return them to the pot. Add the sautéed garlic and butter, along with some milk and sour cream. Mash everything together until smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra richness, you can also add grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve the garlic mashed potatoes hot, with a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley on top for a touch of color and flavor.
Garlic mashed potatoes are not only delicious, but they also add a comforting element to your steak dinner.
2) Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a classic steakhouse side. It offers a creamy texture that contrasts well with the juicy, rich flavors of steak.
This dish combines fresh spinach with a blend of cream, butter, and cheese. A touch of garlic and onion adds depth to the taste.
Creamed spinach is also quick to prepare. You start by blanching the spinach, then drain it to remove excess water.
Next, sauté some butter and onion until they’re lightly browned. Add the spinach, cream, and cheese. Stir until everything is melted and warm.
This side dish pairs well with various types of steak. Its smooth, cheesy taste balances the savory meat.
Consider adding a touch of nutmeg or grated Parmesan for extra flavor. Enjoy your meal!
3) Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is a simple yet tasty side dish that pairs perfectly with steak.
Before grilling, wash the asparagus and trim the tough ends. Then, toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Heat your grill to medium-high. Place the asparagus perpendicular to the grates to prevent them from falling through. Cook for 8-10 minutes until they are crisp-tender with light char marks.
For extra flavor, add fresh lemon juice. Grill lemon halves alongside the asparagus. When serving, squeeze the grilled lemon over the asparagus.
This dish is quick to prepare and provides a nice balance of flavors and textures with your steak. Serve warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
4) Baked Sweet Potatoes
Baked sweet potatoes are a fantastic side dish for steak. Their natural sweetness complements the savory flavors of steak. They are easy to prepare and full of nutrients.
You only need a few ingredients. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Pierce them with a fork to allow steam to escape.
Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes until they are tender.
For added flavor, you can top them with a bit of butter, a sprinkle of salt, and a dash of cinnamon. This simple side dish will enhance your steak meal and satisfy your taste buds.
Another option is to add some crispy bacon pieces or a drizzle of honey on top. Both additions provide a delightful contrast to the creamy texture of the sweet potatoes.
Baked sweet potatoes also pair well with other sides like grilled asparagus or a fresh tomato salad. Mixing different sides can make your meal more interesting and balanced.
Overall, adding baked sweet potatoes to your steak dinner is a great choice. They are versatile, delicious, and easy to make.
5) Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Brussels sprouts with bacon is a flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with steak. The crispy, salty bacon complements the earthy taste of the Brussels sprouts.
To make this dish, start by cooking the bacon until crisp in a medium skillet. Remove the bacon and set it aside, but leave the drippings in the pan.
Add halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet, placing them cut side down. Cook them on medium heat until they turn golden brown. This helps develop a nice, caramelized flavor.
Stir the Brussels sprouts occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. Once tender, chop the bacon and mix it back into the pan. You can also add a touch of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving. This dish is quick to prepare and makes a delicious, savory addition to your steak dinner.
6) Caesar Salad
Caesar Salad is a classic and refreshing side for steak. The crisp romaine lettuce mixed with creamy Caesar dressing offers a delightful contrast.
The crunchy croutons add texture, while the Parmesan cheese adds richness. You can also add anchovies for an extra burst of flavor.
To make it more filling, you might consider topping the Caesar salad with some grilled chicken or shrimp. This can turn it into a more substantial dish.
It’s simple to prepare and complements the hearty flavors of a well-cooked steak.
7) Roasted Mushrooms
Roasted mushrooms make a perfect side for steak. They are easy to prepare and bring deep, earthy flavors to your meal. You can use different types of mushrooms, like cremini, portobello, or button mushrooms. Each type offers its own unique taste and texture.
To roast mushrooms, start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth and remove the stems if needed. Place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. Garlic can also be added. Roast the mushrooms in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
They should be tender and slightly caramelized when done. The natural juices of the mushrooms mix with the olive oil and herbs, creating a delicious sauce. Serve these roasted mushrooms alongside your steak for a hearty and flavorful addition.
8) Steakhouse Mac and Cheese
Steakhouse mac and cheese is a comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with a juicy steak. It combines creamy cheese sauce with tender pasta, creating a delicious contrast with your steak.
To make it, you’ll need pasta, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and milk. Begin by cooking the pasta until tender.
Next, prepare the cheese sauce. Melt some butter in a pan and whisk in flour to make a roux. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly. Once it thickens, mix in the cheeses until they’re melted and smooth.
For added texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top before baking. You can also include bits of bacon or a touch of cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
Bake the mac and cheese in the oven until the top is golden and crispy. The result is a rich, creamy side that complements the savory steak perfectly.
This dish is a favorite in steakhouses for a reason. It adds a comforting, cheesy element to your meal that both kids and adults will enjoy.
9) Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a classic side dish that pairs well with steak. The sweet, juicy kernels provide a pleasant contrast to the savory flavor of the meat.
You can prepare corn on the cob in various ways. Grilling it brings out a smoky flavor, while boiling keeps it tender and juicy.
For added taste, consider rolling the corn in butter and sprinkling it with salt and pepper. You might also try seasoning with herbs or grated cheese for a unique twist.
Corn on the cob is simple to prepare and complements a hearty steak meal beautifully. Your guests will appreciate the vibrant, summery taste that corn brings to the table.
10) Sautéed Green Beans
Sautéed green beans are a simple yet tasty side dish perfect for steak. Start by heating some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the green beans. Stir them regularly so they cook evenly.
For extra flavor, you can add minced garlic. Cook the garlic until it becomes fragrant. This usually takes just a couple of minutes.
Season the green beans with salt and freshly cracked pepper. You can also add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a rich, savory taste. Mix everything well so the beans are evenly coated.
If you want the beans to have a slightly softer texture, cover the pan for a minute or two. This lets them steam and brightens their color. Afterward, remove the cover and give them one final toss.
For a buttery finish, add some butter at the end. Allow the residual heat to melt the butter, coating the green beans nicely. These sautéed green beans make a vibrant and flavorful side to accompany your steak.
11) Truffled Fries
Truffled fries are a glamorous and tasty side for steak.
Start with high-quality potatoes, like russet or Yukon gold. Cut them into thin strips for faster cooking.
Toss the fries in olive oil and bake or fry until golden and crisp.
Once cooked, sprinkle them with truffle oil. A little goes a long way, so add just enough for a distinct flavor.
Finish with a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of sea salt.
These fries offer a rich, earthy taste that pairs well with steak.
They also add an upscale touch to your meal, making it feel like a restaurant experience at home.
Serve truffled fries hot alongside your perfectly cooked steak for a special treat.
12) Buttered Broccoli
Buttered broccoli is a simple yet delicious side dish that pairs well with steak. When you cook broccoli just right, it keeps its vibrant green color and crisp texture.
To make buttered broccoli, start by steaming or boiling the broccoli florets until they are tender but still firm. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Once the broccoli is cooked, drain any excess water and return the broccoli to the pot. Add a generous amount of butter—around 2 tablespoons for a medium head of broccoli.
Stir the butter into the hot broccoli until it melts and evenly coats each piece. You can also sprinkle a little salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
For an extra touch, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Both add a bright and tangy flavor that complements the buttery richness.
Buttered broccoli not only tastes great but is also full of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for your steak dinner.
13) Onion Rings
Onion rings make a fantastic side dish for steak. Their crispy texture offers a delightful contrast to the tender and juicy steak.
You can make them easily by slicing onions into rings, dipping them in a batter, and then frying until golden brown. The crunchiness adds an extra dimension to your meal.
You can pair onion rings with various dips like ketchup, ranch, or aioli. These dips add more flavor and make the onion rings even more enjoyable.
If you prefer baking over frying, you can still achieve a nice crunch. Just coat the onion rings in breadcrumbs and bake at a high temperature.
Onion rings’ savory taste complements the rich flavors of steak. Try adding some seasoned salt or paprika to the batter to enhance the taste.
14) Caprese Salad
Caprese salad is an ideal side for steak. It’s light and refreshing, balancing the rich flavors of the meat.
You only need a few ingredients: fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. This simplicity makes it quick to prepare.
The tomatoes should be ripe and juicy. Mozzarella should be fresh, ideally in a ball form. Basil provides a fragrant note that enhances the dish.
Layer the tomatoes and mozzarella slices alternately on a plate. Add fresh basil leaves in between. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the top.
Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. This combination brings a burst of flavors that pairs well with a hearty steak.
If you want extra texture, you can add some arugula or baby spinach. They add a bit of crunch and more nutrients to your meal.
Caprese salad adds color to your plate. Its vibrant red, white, and green make it visually appealing.
This salad is not just tasty; it’s also healthy. It offers vitamins, healthy fats, and protein in a simple dish.
15) Chimichurri Sauce
Chimichurri sauce is a classic Argentine condiment that pairs perfectly with steak.
It’s made from fresh parsley, garlic, vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes.
This green sauce is vibrant and tangy, adding a punch of flavor to your steak.
You can drizzle chimichurri over the steak or serve it on the side.
It enhances the meat’s natural juices and brings out a fresh, herby taste.
The preparation is simple. You just chop the ingredients finely and mix them together.
There’s no cooking involved, making it quick and easy to prepare.
Chimichurri not only goes well with steak but also complements vegetables and bread.
It’s a versatile sauce that’s sure to elevate your meal.
Nutritional Benefits of Steak
Steak is a valuable source of nutrients, providing a high amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. These contribute to muscle growth, immune function, and overall health.
Protein Content
Steak is rich in protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and growth. A typical serving of steak, about 3 ounces, contains approximately 25 grams of protein. This is roughly half of the daily protein requirement for most adults.
Protein from steak is high-quality, containing all nine essential amino acids. These amino acids help in tissue repair, enzyme production, and immune function. Eating steak can help you meet your daily protein needs, supporting various bodily functions and maintaining muscle mass.
Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Steak is also a great source of important vitamins and minerals. It provides a significant amount of iron, which is vital for blood production and transporting oxygen throughout your body. Iron deficiency can lead to fatigue and weakened immunity.
Another key nutrient found in steak is zinc. Zinc plays a crucial role in immune system function and wound healing. A serving of steak provides around 30% of the daily recommended intake of zinc.
Additionally, steak contains vitamin B12, essential for nerve health and DNA synthesis. Your body does not produce vitamin B12 naturally, so consuming steak helps ensure you get enough. A 3-ounce serving of steak can provide about 200% of the daily vitamin B12 needs.
These nutrients make steak a beneficial addition to a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
Pairing Sides with Steak
Choosing the right sides for your steak can elevate your meal, enhancing both flavors and textures. Pay attention to balancing tastes and creating pleasing contrasts in each bite.
Balancing Flavors
When pairing sides with steak, think about complementary and contrasting tastes.
- Classic pairings like creamed spinach add a rich, creamy taste that contrasts pleasantly with the savory meat. This balance keeps the palate excited and satisfied.
- Asparagus or green beans offer a fresher, lighter touch that contrasts well with the heavy, robust flavor of beef. A hint of lemon or garlic can brighten these vegetables further.
- Cheesy dishes like mac and cheese blend creamy and savory flavors that pair excellently with steak. A sharp cheese like aged cheddar can highlight the smokiness of grilled beef.
The goal is to create a harmonious experience without overwhelming your main dish.
Contrasting Textures
Texture plays a big role in making a meal memorable.
- Crispy potato wedges or garlic bread contribute a satisfying crunch to balance the tenderness of the steak. This mix keeps each bite interesting.
- A simple wedge salad with crisp lettuce, crunchy bacon bits, and a tangy dressing offers a refreshing, cool contrast to the warmth of the meat. Salads add a light and crunchy element.
- Creamy sides like mashed potatoes or lobster mac and cheese provide a silky texture that complements the firmness of the steak. Introducing crispy toppings, such as breadcrumbs or bacon, adds an extra layer of texture and richness.
Mixing these textures makes your meal diverse and keeps every bite exciting.
Popular Cuisines and Their Sides
Pairing steak with traditional side dishes from various cuisines can elevate your meal. Here, we explore the best sides from French cuisine and American BBQ that perfectly complement a juicy steak.
French Cuisine
French cuisine is known for its rich, flavorful sides that enhance the main course. Ratatouille, a mix of stewed vegetables, brings both color and taste to your plate. Potatoes au Gratin adds a creamy, cheesy layer that pairs well with steak.
Pommes Frites (French fries) are crispy and delicious when seasoned with herbs. Green Beans Almondine, featuring sautéed green beans with almonds, offers a nutty twist. These sides bring out the best flavors in a steak and offer a sophisticated dining experience.
American BBQ
American BBQ sides are bold and hearty, complementing the meaty flavor of steak. Coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch with its tangy dressing. Macaroni and Cheese provides a creamy texture, creating a cozy meal.
Baked Beans add a sweet and smoky taste, perfect with grilled steak. Cornbread is another classic BBQ side, with its slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture. These sides are crowd-pleasers that enhance the savory goodness of steak.
