Burgers are a classic meal that many people enjoy throughout the year. Whether you’re grilling in the summer or cooking indoors during colder months, a juicy burger deserves great side dishes to complete your meal.
While French fries might be the traditional choice, you have many other delicious options to consider. You can elevate your burger experience by pairing it with sides like pasta salads, baked beans, coleslaw, potato wedges, or grilled vegetables.
These alternatives offer variety in texture and flavor that complement the savory taste of burgers. Many of these sides are quick to prepare, making them perfect for both casual family dinners and backyard gatherings with friends.
1. Classic Coleslaw
Classic coleslaw is a perfect side dish for burgers. This refreshing mix of shredded cabbage and carrots provides a nice crunch that balances the soft burger bun.
The creamy, tangy dressing makes coleslaw special. Traditional recipes use mayonnaise as the base, mixed with a bit of vinegar, sugar, and seasonings.
You can easily prepare coleslaw ahead of time. Letting it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours enhances the flavors.
Some people also enjoy putting coleslaw directly on their burgers. This adds both moisture and texture to your sandwich.
2. Baked Beans
Baked beans make a perfect partner for your burger. They offer a sweet and savory flavor that complements the juicy meat.
You can choose store-bought baked beans for convenience or make your own from scratch. Add bacon, brown sugar, and a touch of mustard to elevate the flavor profile.
Baked beans provide a good source of protein and fiber, making your burger meal more filling and nutritious.
Serve your burger and baked beans with steamed vegetables like broccoli or corn on the cob.
3. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries offer a healthier alternative to regular fries while still delivering a satisfying crunch. They pair perfectly with burgers thanks to their slightly sweet flavor that balances the savory meat.
Make them in an air fryer for a crispy exterior with less oil. Keep the skin on for extra nutrients and a rustic appearance.
Season your sweet potato fries with salt and pepper for a classic taste. Experiment with spices like paprika, garlic powder, or cinnamon for something different.
These colorful fries make your plate look more appealing. They also add valuable nutrients to your burger meal.
4. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables make perfect burger sides that are both healthy and flavorful. They add vibrant color to your plate and offer a smoky taste that complements burgers.
Try grilling corn, zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus with just a light coating of oil and your favorite seasonings. Grilled corn pairs wonderfully with burgers when topped with feta cheese and fresh herbs like parsley, mint, and basil.
Grilled broccolini is another excellent option that cooks quickly and delivers a crisp texture. For a Mediterranean twist, grill a mix of vegetables and sprinkle with lemon juice and herbs before serving.
5. Loaded French Fries
Loaded french fries take your burger meal to the next level. These fries go beyond basic salt seasoning by adding toppings that turn them into a dish worth talking about.
Pile your fries high with cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, and green onions for a classic loaded option. This combination creates a perfect balance of flavors that complements your burger.
For more adventurous eaters, try topping your fries with chili, jalapeños, or even pulled pork. Customize loaded fries to match your burger’s flavor profile.
These hearty fries serve as both a side and an additional treat. They make your meal more satisfying.
6. Onion Rings
Onion rings offer a delicious alternative to fries when serving burgers. These crispy, golden hoops provide a satisfying crunch that complements the juiciness of your burger.
Make onion rings at home by dipping sliced onions in batter and frying them until crispy. For a healthier option, bake them instead.
The sweetness of the onion combined with the savory coating creates a perfect flavor balance. Many restaurants offer onion rings as a burger side, but homemade versions often taste even better.
Serve your onion rings with a dipping sauce like ranch, barbecue, or aioli for added flavor.
7. Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
Pasta salad with Italian dressing is a perfect side for your burgers. The zesty flavor complements the rich taste of beef patties.
Combine bowtie or other pasta with crunchy vegetables and creamy mozzarella cheese. The Italian dressing ties everything together with its tangy, herb-filled flavor.
Customize your pasta salad with pepperoncini, olives, or spicy salami for extra flavor. Prepare it ahead of time, as the flavors blend nicely when chilled.
Serve this refreshing side at your next cookout alongside burgers.
8. Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a classic burger companion that brings sweetness and simplicity to your plate. It’s especially popular at summer cookouts when fresh corn is at its peak.
Prepare corn on the cob by grilling it in the husk for a smoky flavor, boiling it for quick results, or wrapping it in foil with butter and seasonings. For extra flavor, roll your corn in butter and sprinkle it with salt, pepper, or a dash of paprika.
Some people enjoy adding a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of cotija cheese for a Mexican-inspired twist.
9. Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad offers a protein-packed alternative to traditional burger sides. This versatile dish combines fluffy quinoa with fresh vegetables, herbs, and often a tangy dressing.
For a Mediterranean twist, mix cooked quinoa with cucumber, red onion, tomato, and feta cheese. Add chickpeas, avocado, or leafy greens like spinach or kale to boost nutrition.
Make quinoa salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. This makes it perfect for meal prep or summer cookouts.
10. Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese makes a rich and creamy side for burgers. This classic comfort food adds a delicious contrast to your burger meal with its gooey cheese sauce and tender pasta.
Serve homemade mac and cheese for the best flavor, or use quality store-bought versions when you’re short on time. The creamy texture pairs nicely with the juicy meat of your burger.
Add mix-ins to your mac and cheese like bacon bits, jalapeños, or extra cheese for a more exciting combo. This side dish is especially popular with kids.
11. Avocado Salad
Avocado salad is a refreshing side that pairs perfectly with burgers. It’s quick to make and adds a creamy texture contrast to your juicy burger.
Make a simple version with cucumber, tomatoes, and red onions mixed with ripe avocado chunks. Season it with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper for a bright flavor.
This light side dish brings healthy fats to your meal while the fresh vegetables offer a nice balance to the richness of a burger. The cool, creamy texture works well against the warm, savory patty.
Avocado salad goes with everything, making it a versatile option for any burger night.
12. Three-Pickle Potato Salad
Three-Pickle Potato Salad brings a tangy twist to your burger meal. This Southern favorite combines petite red potatoes with three different pickled vegetables for maximum flavor.
The recipe calls for 3 pounds of red potatoes cut into eighths, mayonnaise, and various pickled ingredients. Southern Living’s version uses a combination of kosher salt, mayonnaise, and pickle varieties that create a perfect balance.
Prepare this side dish ahead of time for cookouts. The crisp, tangy pickles contrast beautifully with the soft potatoes.
13. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs make a perfect side dish for your burger meal. These protein-packed treats offer a creamy, tangy contrast to juicy burgers.
Prepare them ahead of time and keep them chilled until serving. The classic version includes mayo, mustard, and paprika, but you can experiment with add-ins like pickle relish or bacon bits.
Deviled eggs pair well with grilled foods and complement other popular sides like potato salad or baked beans. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to enjoy at cookouts and barbecues.
Serve them alongside vinegar-based sides to balance their richness.
14. Air-Fried Zucchini Chips
Air-fried zucchini chips make a perfect side for your burgers. These crispy treats offer a healthier alternative to regular fries while still providing that satisfying crunch.
Make them by coating zucchini slices with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. Some recipes add herbs and spices for extra flavor.
They take about 15 minutes to prepare in your air fryer. The result is a golden, crispy exterior with a tender inside.
Serve them with a dill sour cream dip or warm marinara sauce. They pair beautifully with all types of burgers, from classic beef to vegetarian options like black bean or portobello mushroom patties.
15. Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
Elote, or Mexican street corn, brings zesty flavor to your burger meal. This tasty side features grilled corn coated with a creamy mixture of mayo, spices, and cheese.
The classic version includes lime juice and cotija cheese for a tangy kick. Serve it on the cob or cut the kernels off to make a convenient bowl version called esquites.
For a quick preparation, try a skillet version that brings all the flavors together in minutes. Elote pairs perfectly with burgers, adding a bright contrast to the rich meat.
16. Cucumber and Tomato Salad
Cucumber and tomato salad is a refreshing side that perfectly complements burgers. The crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes create a light contrast to your hearty burger.
Combine sliced cucumbers, quartered tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions in a bowl. For the dressing, mix olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Enhance the flavor by adding chopped fresh herbs like basil or dill. For a Mediterranean twist, include some kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese.
This salad comes together in just 15 minutes and requires no cooking.
17. BBQ Baked Beans with Bacon
BBQ baked beans with bacon are a classic burger companion that brings sweet, smoky, and savory flavors to your plate. The combination of bacon, onions, and beans creates a rich side dish that complements the meatiness of burgers.
Cook bacon until crispy, then add chopped onions and green peppers. Mix in canned pork and beans with BBQ sauce and bake until everything melds together.
For extra flavor, add ground beef along with the bacon. This hearty addition transforms simple beans into a substantial side.
18. Fresh Garden Salad
A fresh garden salad makes a perfect light side for burgers. It adds a crisp contrast to the hearty burger.
Start with a mix of fresh greens like lettuce, spinach, or arugula. Add color with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and shredded carrots.
Customize your salad with toppings like red onion, bell peppers, or avocado. Choose a simple vinaigrette, ranch, or blue cheese dressing to pair with burgers.
This side adds nutrients and a fresh element without weighing you down.
19. Spiced Potato Chips
Spiced potato chips offer a flavorful twist on a classic burger side. Make them at home by tossing store-bought chips with your favorite seasoning mix or create them from scratch.
For homemade spiced chips, thinly slice potatoes and toss them with olive oil and spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Bake the chips until crispy for a healthier alternative to fried chips.
If you’re short on time, simply sprinkle pre-made chips with a spice blend and quickly toast them in the oven. The extra kick of flavor pairs perfectly with juicy burgers.
20. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Elevate burger night with these delicious garlic parmesan roasted Brussels sprouts. They’re simple to prepare yet packed with flavor.
Halve one pound of Brussels sprouts and toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Roast them until crispy on the outside and tender inside.
Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs for an irresistible combination. The savory garlic and nutty parmesan complement the slightly crisp texture of the roasted sprouts.
21. Broccoli Slaw
Broccoli slaw offers a fresh, crunchy alternative to traditional coleslaw. This vibrant side combines shredded broccoli stems with carrots and red cabbage in a creamy, sweet-tart dressing.
Pair broccoli slaw with burgers for a delicious meal. The crisp texture and light flavor complement the richness of burgers.
For a quick version, find pre-packaged broccoli slaw mix at most grocery stores. Add your favorite dressing and customize with extras like sunflower seeds or dried cranberries.
This side dish brings color to your plate while providing a healthier option than french fries.
How To Pair Sides With Burgers
Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your burger experience from good to exceptional. The perfect pairing complements your burger’s flavors while adding variety to your meal.
Balancing Flavors And Textures
When pairing sides with burgers, consider contrasting flavors. If your burger is rich and savory, add something acidic or fresh like coleslaw or a vinegar-based potato salad to cut through the richness.
Texture contrast is equally important. Crispy sides like onion rings or potato chips pair well with soft, juicy burgers.
For BBQ bacon burgers, try corn on the cob or baked beans to complement the smoky flavors.
Some classic pairings work for a reason:
- Classic cheeseburger: French fries, onion rings
- Spicy burger: Cooling cucumber salad or creamy mac and cheese
- Mediterranean burger: Greek salad or hummus with veggies
Try to avoid competing flavors. If your burger has complex seasonings, choose simpler sides that won’t overwhelm your palate.
Considering Dietary Preferences
Adapt your side dishes to accommodate various dietary needs. For low-carb options, replace traditional fries with cauliflower “fries” or a fresh green salad.
For vegetarian guests, ensure sides don’t contain hidden meat ingredients. Many traditional baked beans contain bacon, so check recipes carefully.
Some excellent plant-based sides include:
- Grilled vegetable skewers
- Chickpea salad
- Sweet potato wedges
- Tomato and cucumber salad
Consider temperature variety too. Hot burgers pair nicely with cold sides like pasta salad or fruit salad, especially in summer months.
For gluten-free needs, avoid bread-based sides and opt for naturally gluten-free options like roasted vegetables or rice-based salads. Always check packaged ingredients for hidden gluten sources when preparing for guests with allergies or sensitivities.
Serving And Presentation Tips
The right serving techniques and presentation can elevate your burger meal from good to memorable. A well-presented plate catches the eye first before satisfying the appetite.
Portion Size Recommendations
For casual meals, serve about 1/2 cup of side dishes per person. This applies to favorites like potato salad, mac and cheese, or baked beans.
For French fries, 4-6 ounces per person is usually sufficient. When hosting a cookout, prepare slightly more than you think you’ll need.
About 3-4 different sides provide good variety without overwhelming your guests or your prep time.
For kids, reduce portion sizes by about half. Serve sides family-style in the center of the table, allowing everyone to take what they want.
Hearty sides like mac and cheese will fill guests up quickly, while lighter options like slaws allow room for second helpings or dessert.
Plating Ideas For Visual Appeal
Use colorful side dishes to create contrast on the plate. Pair your burger with vibrant options like purple cabbage slaw or bright green asparagus for eye-catching presentation.
Serve sides in small, individual containers like ramekins or mason jars for a trendy, Instagram-worthy look. Place baked beans, mac and cheese, or potato salad in these containers.
Consider creative arrangements:
- Stack onion rings in a tower beside the burger
- Serve fries in a small metal basket or paper cone
- Fan out sliced avocado or cucumber in a semicircle
Add fresh herbs as garnish. Sprinkle chopped parsley on potato salad or cilantro on corn salad to add color and freshness.
For backyard cookouts, use colorful platters that complement your outdoor setting. Present sides on these platters for extra visual appeal.
