Burgers are a staple at any cookout or casual meal, but what really makes them shine are the sides you pair with them. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, finding the right sides can elevate your burger experience to a whole new level.
What are the best sides to serve with burgers? From classic options like baked beans and coleslaw to more creative choices like zucchini chips and watermelon cucumber salad, there are plenty of side dishes that can complement the taste and texture of a juicy burger. This article will introduce you to 25 sides that can add flavor and excitement to your burger meals.
1) Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a fantastic choice to serve with burgers. They offer a slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the savory taste of a burger.
You can season sweet potato fries with a variety of spices. Try adding a sprinkle of paprika and garlic powder to enhance their natural sweetness.
Baking sweet potato fries can give you a healthier option compared to deep frying. They become crispy on the outside while staying soft inside.
Sweet potato fries are also versatile. You can serve them plain or with different dips. Consider a savory tahini sauce or a spicy aioli for added flavor.
These fries are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Sweet potatoes are a good source of vitamins A and C, which are beneficial for your health.
Next time you serve burgers, try adding sweet potato fries to the menu. Their unique flavor and nutritional benefits make them a perfect side dish choice.
2) Roasted Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Potatoes are an excellent side dish to serve with burgers. They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Clean and cut your potatoes into wedges or cubes, making sure they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and a mix of herbs like oregano and thyme. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Toss the potatoes in the bowl until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture. Spread the potatoes onto a lightly oiled or non-stick baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake the potatoes in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, flip the potatoes to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.
Once they are golden and crispy, take them out of the oven. These flavorful potatoes are ready to serve with your burgers. Their rich garlic and Parmesan taste make them a crowd-pleaser for any meal.
3) Crispy Onion Rings
Crispy onion rings are a fantastic side dish for burgers. These golden delights add a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor to your meal. You can make them at home with ease.
To start, slice your onions into rings. Soak them in buttermilk for about an hour to tenderize and add flavor. This step is crucial for the best texture.
Next, mix flour with salt and pepper in a shallow dish. Coat each ring in the seasoned flour. For an extra crispy coating, dip them back into the buttermilk and then into the flour again.
Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 375°F. Carefully drop the coated rings into the hot oil. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot; this allows the rings to cook evenly.
Fry the onion rings until they are golden brown and crispy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per batch. Remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels.
Serve your crispy onion rings hot, alongside your favorite burgers. They are perfect with a side of dipping sauce, like ranch or ketchup. Enjoy the crunchy, savory goodness with every bite!
4) Ranch Coleslaw
Ranch coleslaw is a fresh, crunchy side dish that pairs beautifully with juicy burgers. It combines the classic flavors of coleslaw with a creamy ranch dressing, offering a delicious twist on traditional recipes.
To make ranch coleslaw, thinly slice green and red cabbage. Add shredded carrots and finely chopped green onions. These vegetables give the coleslaw a vibrant color and satisfying crunch.
The dressing is the star of this dish. Mix buttermilk, mayonnaise, and ranch seasoning in a bowl. Toss it with the vegetables until everything is evenly coated. This dressing adds a tangy and herb-filled flavor that complements any burger.
For an extra touch, you can add some chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley. This brings a burst of freshness and enhances the ranch flavor. Serve your ranch coleslaw chilled for the best taste and texture.
Ranch coleslaw is not just tasty but also quick to make. It’s a great side for cookouts or weeknight dinners. Plus, the creamy dressing makes it appealing to kids and adults alike. Enjoy it alongside your favorite burger for a perfect meal.
5) Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a must-have side dish for burgers. The smoky flavor from the grill adds a delicious twist to the sweet corn. It’s also easy to make and pairs perfectly with any burger.
To grill corn, you can leave the husks on. Trim the silk off the tops and peel away the first layer of husks. Grill the corn over medium-high heat until the husks are browned and slightly charred on all sides.
Another method involves removing the husks and silks completely. Rub the corn with a little olive oil and salt, then wrap each cob in foil. Grill for about 15 minutes, turning every few minutes to ensure even cooking.
For extra flavor, you might try grilling the corn without the husk or foil. Place the bare cobs directly on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until they are tender and slightly charred.
You can serve the grilled corn with a variety of toppings. Butter, cheese, lime, and cilantro all make great additions. This simple yet flavorful side dish will elevate your burger meal to a whole new level.
6) Baked Beans
Baked beans are a classic side dish that perfectly complements burgers. Their rich, savory flavor pairs well with the grilled, juicy meat.
Making homemade baked beans is simple and rewarding. You can use a variety of beans like navy beans or pinto beans. Slow-cook them with molasses, brown sugar, and a touch of mustard for a deep, satisfying taste.
Adding some diced bacon can enhance the smoky flavor. You can also spice it up with a bit of chili powder or smoked paprika. The result is a pot of beans that adds a hearty touch to your meal.
This dish is great for cookouts and casual dinners and always a hit with guests. It’s easy to prepare in large quantities, making it ideal for gatherings.
Baked beans also offer nutritional benefits. They are rich in protein, fiber, and minerals. This makes them not just tasty but also good for you.
Serve them hot alongside your burger, and you’ll have a combination that satisfies both your taste buds and your appetite. Enjoy the comfort and tradition baked beans bring to any burger meal.
7) Caesar Salad
A Caesar salad is a great side dish with burgers. It’s made with crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, crunchy croutons, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This mix of textures and flavors works well next to a juicy burger.
You can make a Caesar salad even more exciting by adding grilled chicken or shrimp. This adds protein and keeps the side dish hearty and filling.
Making a Caesar salad is simple. Just toss the lettuce with Caesar dressing, add croutons, and sprinkle with cheese. For extra flavor, you can add cracked black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Pairing a Caesar salad with your burger offers a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich meat and toppings. This balance makes your meal more enjoyable, satisfying, and light.
8) Garlic Dill Pickles
Garlic dill pickles make a great side for burgers. They add a tangy and crunchy bite that contrasts well with the juicy, savory burger. These pickles are easy to make and perfect for adding a homemade touch to your meal.
To start, pack your jars with cucumbers, garlic cloves, and fresh dill. You can also add red pepper pods if you like your pickles spicy. Crush or smash the garlic cloves to release more flavor.
Next, make a brine with water, vinegar, and pickling salt. Bring it to a boil and ensure the salt dissolves completely. Pour the hot brine over the cucumbers until they’re fully covered, leaving a little space at the top of the jars.
It’s important to process the jars in a water bath canner. This step helps to ensure the pickles are properly sealed and safe to eat. Usually, 10-15 minutes is enough time in the canner.
After processing, let the jars cool and seal. Store them in a cool, dark place for at least 2-3 weeks. This waiting period allows the flavors to meld and intensify. When ready, these garlic dill pickles will complement any burger perfectly.
9) Zucchini Chips
Zucchini chips are a tasty and healthier alternative to regular potato chips. They are light, crispy, and packed with nutrients.
To make zucchini chips, slice the zucchini thinly. This helps them cook evenly and become perfectly crispy.
Season the slices with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. You can also add a bit of grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
Arrange the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are in a single layer for even baking.
Bake the zucchini chips in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.
Zucchini chips pair wonderfully with burgers. They add a satisfying crunch without the heaviness of traditional fries. Plus, their light flavor complements the savory taste of grilled burgers.
Try serving your burgers with a side of homemade zucchini chips at your next cookout. It’s a simple way to add variety and a healthy twist to your meal.
10) Macaroni Salad
Macaroni salad is a classic side dish that goes great with burgers. You’ll love its creamy texture and tangy taste.
To make macaroni salad, you need cooked macaroni, mayonnaise, and a little mustard for flavor. Add chopped celery, onions, and bell peppers for crunch.
Mix everything together in a large bowl. Season it with salt and pepper to taste. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
This side dish is easy to make, yet full of flavor. It’s a great choice for a cookout or a casual dinner. You can also customize it by adding ingredients like pickles, shredded cheese, or hard-boiled eggs.
Serve your macaroni salad cold alongside your burgers, and watch it disappear fast. Your guests will enjoy this creamy and satisfying dish.
11) Caprese Salad
Caprese salad is a refreshing and healthy side that pairs wonderfully with burgers. It’s simple to prepare and visually appealing.
You’ll need fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into even pieces.
Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on a plate, alternating between the two. Tuck basil leaves between each slice.
Drizzle olive oil over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste. This light dish adds a burst of freshness to your meal.
Caprese salad also brings a nice contrast to the flavors of a juicy burger. The tomatoes add a sweet and tangy taste, while the mozzarella offers a creamy texture.
Basil leaves introduce subtle herbal notes, making each bite more exciting. This side dish is perfect for summer barbecues or casual dinners.
In addition, Caprese salad is versatile. You can easily adjust it by adding a balsamic glaze for extra sweetness. Or, toss in some arugula for a peppery kick.
Your guests will appreciate this flavorful and colorful addition to your burger night.
12) Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are a Southern classic that is sure to impress. The tangy flavor of green tomatoes pairs perfectly with the crunchy coating they get from being fried.
They make a crispy and tangy side dish that complements the savory flavors of burgers beautifully. The contrast between the juicy burg ers and the crispy tomatoes is delightful.
Adding a dipping sauce like remoulade or ranch can enhance the taste even further. The creamy sauces pair well with the tartness of the tomatoes.
To prepare, simply slice the green tomatoes, coat them in a seasoned cornmeal mixture, and fry until golden brown. Serve hot for the best experience.
13) Cucumber and Tomato Salad
Cucumber and tomato salad is a refreshing side that pairs perfectly with burgers. The crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes provide a nice contrast to the richness of your burger.
To make this salad, start with fresh cucumbers and ripe tomatoes. Slice them into bite-sized pieces. You can add thinly sliced red onions for extra flavor and a bit of crunch.
For the dressing, mix olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions in the dressing until everything is well coated.
This salad is best served cold, making it an ideal summer dish. It’s light and refreshing, so it won’t overpower the main course. Plus, the colors add a great visual appeal to your plate.
Feel free to sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top. They add an extra layer of flavor and make the salad look even more inviting.
Cucumber and tomato salad is simple, quick to prepare, and a hit at any barbecue or family gathering. It’s a healthy option that complements the savory taste of a well-grilled burger seamlessly.
14) Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a tasty side for your burgers. The crisp bacon pairs wonderfully with the tender asparagus. It’s a combination that adds both texture and flavor to your meal.
Start by trimming the ends of the asparagus. Wrap each spear with a slice of bacon. Lay them flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the bacon-wrapped asparagus for about 15-20 minutes. The result should be crispy bacon and tender asparagus.
If you prefer to grill, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the asparagus for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. This adds a smoky flavor that complements the bacon.
15) Watermelon Feta Salad
Watermelon Feta Salad is a refreshing and light side that pairs well with burgers. This salad combines juicy watermelon with tangy feta cheese for a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
To make this salad, start by cubing fresh watermelon. Add crumbled feta on top. The saltiness of feta enhances the sweetness of the watermelon.
You can also include sliced cucumbers and red onions for added crunch. Fresh mint leaves add a burst of flavor and a hint of coolness.
For the dressing, a simple mix of olive oil, lime juice, and a pinch of salt works great. This light dressing ties all the ingredients together without overpowering them.
Watermelon Feta Salad is a vibrant and colorful dish. It’s perfect for warm-weather picnics or barbecues, adding a touch of freshness to your meal.
16) BBQ Baked Carrots
BBQ baked carrots are a delightful and healthy side dish for your burgers. They are simple to make and offer a sweet and smoky flavor.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Peel and cut your carrots into sticks or rounds. Toss them in olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite BBQ seasoning.
Spread the carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are tender and caramelized.
Serve these BBQ baked carrots hot alongside your burgers. They add a nutritious touch and a pop of color to your meal.
You can also drizzle them with a bit of honey or maple syrup before serving for extra sweetness.
These carrots pair well with a variety of burger choices, whether you’re serving beef, chicken, or veggie patties.
17) Avocado Salad
Avocado salad is a great side dish to pair with burgers. It’s light, fresh, and easy to make, adding a vibrant touch to your meal.
You can start by slicing ripe avocados and mixing them with cherry tomatoes, red onions, and cucumbers. Drizzle olive oil and lime juice over the mixture.
For added flavor, you can include chopped cilantro and a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple combination brings a mix of creamy, tangy, and refreshing notes.
Avocado salad complements the rich taste of burgers, balancing the flavors perfectly. It’s a healthy option that adds nutrients without being heavy. Serve it chilled for the best taste.
18) Potato Wedges
Potato wedges are a timeless side that go perfectly with burgers. They are simple to make and can be seasoned in various ways to match your taste.
You can bake or fry the wedges until they are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. This texture contrast adds a satisfying element to your meal.
Season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for a classic flavor. For a spicier touch, add some paprika or cayenne pepper.
If you’re looking to switch things up, try adding grated Parmesan and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. This will give your wedges a gourmet twist.
Potato wedges are very versatile, letting you experiment with different dips. Pair them with ketchup, ranch, or even a spicy aioli for an extra kick.
Using sweet potatoes instead of regular ones can also be a tasty alternative. They offer a slightly sweeter flavor that complements savory burgers well.
19) Creamy Cucumber Salad
Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing side that pairs wonderfully with burgers. It’s simple to prepare and doesn’t require many ingredients. You’ll need fresh cucumbers, sour cream, dill, and a few seasonings to make it.
Start by slicing the cucumbers thinly. Place them in a bowl and sprinkle with a bit of salt. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess water.
After the cucumbers have drained, mix sour cream, chopped dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper in another bowl. Stir until well combined.
Add the cucumber slices to the sour cream mixture. Toss gently to coat the cucumbers evenly. This creamy and tangy salad will complement the rich flavors of your burger, providing a cool and crisp contrast.
20) Spicy Corn Salsa
Spicy Corn Salsa brings a fresh and zesty twist to your burger meal. The sweetness of the corn pairs perfectly with the heat from the jalapenos.
To make this salsa, you will need fresh corn, chopped red onions, diced tomatoes, and minced jalapenos.
Add a squeeze of lime juice to give it a tangy touch and a handful of chopped cilantro for freshness.
This mix of ingredients creates a vibrant dish packed with flavors.
Serve the Spicy Corn Salsa on the side or even as a topping for your burger. It adds a crunchy texture and a burst of taste in every bite.
If hosting a cookout, you can prepare this salsa ahead of time. This allows the ingredients to marinate and enhances the flavors even more.
21) Vegetable Skewers
Vegetable skewers are a colorful and nutritious side dish for burgers. Skewers let you grill a mix of veggies together, adding a vibrant touch to your meal.
You can use a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onions. Coat them in olive oil, salt, and pepper for simple seasoning.
Grilling brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, making them a delicious complement to your burger. Don’t forget to soak wooden skewers in water before grilling to prevent burning.
Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices. Basil, rosemary, or a pinch of smoked paprika can add extra flavor to your vegetable skewers.
22) Grape Tomato Salad
Grape Tomato Salad is a simple and fresh side that pairs well with burgers.
To start, cut grape tomatoes into bite-size pieces. Halve or quarter them as needed for easier bites. Place the cut tomatoes into a medium bowl.
For the dressing, mix together olive oil, white vinegar, salt, and a bit of granulated sugar in a small bowl. Whisk until well combined for a balanced flavor.
Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and toss gently to coat. You can add fresh basil or parsley for extra freshness. This salad is light, tangy, and perfect for a summer meal.
23) Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Garlic butter mushrooms are a tasty side dish that pairs well with burgers. They are easy to make and bring rich, savory flavors to your meal.
Start by heating a mix of butter and olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until they soften, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add minced garlic and cook until it becomes fragrant, typically just 30 seconds to a minute.
Add sliced mushrooms to the pan. Cook them without stirring for about 5-7 minutes until the bottoms are browned. Then, stir the mushrooms and keep cooking until all sides are brown and they have released their moisture.
Season the mushrooms with salt, pepper, and a few chili flakes if you like some heat. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
These garlic butter mushrooms can elevate your burger meal, offering a complementary earthy flavor that doesn’t overshadow your main dish. They’re also a great option if you’re looking for something quick and easy yet delicious.
24) Honey-Glazed Carrots
Honey-glazed carrots are a tasty and colorful side for burgers.
Start by peeling and slicing the carrots diagonally into 1/4-inch rounds. This shape helps them cook evenly.
Heat some butter in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Add the carrots and cover the skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes without stirring.
After that, remove the lid and stir in kosher salt, brown sugar, and honey. This mixture creates a sweet and savory glaze.
If you prefer roasting, preheat your oven to 425°F. Toss the carrots with honey, melted butter, and spices like garlic, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes until tender.
You can also boil the carrots for 5-6 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Then drain them and toss with honey, butter, and a pinch of salt in the saucepan for an extra minute.
These carrots pair well with any burger, adding a unique sweet touch while still keeping things light and fresh. The contrast of sweet and slightly salty flavors will enhance your burger experience, making it a delightful meal.
25) Pasta Salad
Pasta salad is a classic side dish that pairs beautifully with burgers. It’s versatile and can be made with a variety of ingredients to match your tastes.
You can start with cooked pasta as the base. Rotini, penne, or farfalle work great. Add in some cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and black olives for a burst of flavor.
Think about mixing in some fresh vegetables like bell peppers and cucumbers. They add a crisp texture and refreshing taste. Don’t forget to toss in some salami or pepperoni slices for a bit of protein.
For the dressing, a simple Italian dressing or a homemade vinaigrette works well. Make sure to chill the salad for at least an hour before serving. This step helps the flavors blend together.
Pasta salad is not only delicious but also easy to make ahead of time. This makes it a convenient option for cookouts and gatherings. The vibrant colors and mix of flavors ensure that it will be a hit with everyone.
Nutritional Balancing of Burger Sides
When choosing sides for your burgers, it’s important to find a balance between healthy options and indulgent choices. This helps create a meal that’s both enjoyable and nutritionally beneficial.
Healthy Options
Healthy sides can add nutritional value to your meal. Grilled vegetables are a perfect choice; they are low in calories and rich in vitamins. Air-Fryer Sweet Potato Fries offer a healthier twist on regular fries by reducing oil content while maintaining crispiness. Kale Salad with Balsamic & Parmesan is another great option, providing fiber and important nutrients.
Fruit salads, such as Watermelon Cucumber Salad, add a refreshing touch to your meal with their natural sweetness and hydrating properties. Butter Lettuce Salad is another light, healthy side that can include ingredients like cucumbers, avocados, and radishes, topped with a lemon vinaigrette for added flavor without extra calories.
Indulgent Choices
Sometimes you crave something more indulgent. BBQ Baked Beans are a hearty side with a delicious mix of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. They are easy to make and perfect for a cookout. Dill Pickle Pasta Salad combines the tangy flavor of pickles with pasta, creating a unique and flavorful side dish.
Grilled Potato Slices can be seasoned and cooked quickly, providing a crispy and savory accompaniment to your burgers. They balance tenderness inside with a satisfying crunch outside. Classic French Fries are always a hit. Opt for seasoned fries to add an extra layer of flavor.
Choosing your sides wisely can enhance your burger meal, offering a mix of healthiness and indulgence to please everyone’s taste buds.
Flavor Pairings for Burger Sides
Choosing the right sides can enhance the burger-eating experience. You need to think about both complementary and contrasting flavors to make your meal well-rounded.
Complementary Flavors
Sides with complementary flavors enhance the taste of the burger by blending well with its existing flavors. For example, BBQ baked beans have a smoky-sweet taste that pairs wonderfully with the rich, savory flavors of grilled meat. A creamy coleslaw adds a cool, refreshing crunch that balances the warmth and texture of the burger.
Sweet potato fries also fall into this category. Their natural sweetness and slight crispiness play off the savoriness of the burger. Another good choice is macaroni and cheese, where the creaminess and cheesy goodness pair perfectly with the juiciness of the burger, creating a delightful comfort food experience.
Contrasting Flavors
Contrasting flavors create a more dynamic eating experience by adding a different taste or texture. Dill pickle pasta salad has a tangy, vinegar bite that contrasts well with the burger’s rich flavors, providing a refreshing change. Watermelon cucumber salad is another excellent example. The juicy, cool fruits offer a light contrast to the dense, heavy burger.
Zucchini chips offer a crisp texture and slight bitterness, balancing the rich, greasy feel of a burger. Similarly, quinoa salad provides a nutty flavor and lightness that contrasts with the more robust meatiness of a burger, making each bite interesting and delightful.
