When it comes to a classic burger night, the burger itself often steals the show. But the truth is, the perfect side dish can take your burger meal to a whole new level. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard BBQ, sides to serve with burgers hosting a casual weeknight dinner, or craving a quick and easy meal, choosing the right sides to pair with burgers is just as important as picking the perfect patty. From crispy fries and tangy coleslaw to healthier options like grilled veggies and light salads, there’s no shortage of delicious sides that can complement your burger. In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of mouthwatering sides that will satisfy any craving and help you elevate your next burger night—without the stress. Ready to add some flair to your burger spread? Let’s dive in!
Classic Sides That Go Perfectly with Burgers
When you think of a classic burger meal, certain sides instantly come to mind. These timeless favorites are simple to prepare and pair perfectly with the savory goodness of a juicy burger. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or preparing a weeknight meal, these classic sides will never disappoint.
Crispy French Fries
It’s impossible to go wrong with the classic pairing of burgers and French fries. The golden, crispy texture of fries perfectly complements the juicy, tender burger patty. Whether you prefer thin shoestring fries, thick-cut steak fries, or curly fries, this side dish is a crowd-pleaser.
For a twist, try offering a few different options. Sweet potato fries add a slightly sweet flavor that contrasts beautifully with the savory richness of a burger. You could even go a step further by adding some loaded fries, topped with melted cheese, bacon bits, or a drizzle of ranch dressing for an indulgent treat.
Pro Tip: For homemade fries, don’t forget to season them with a little sea salt and pepper right out of the fryer or oven. For extra flavor, you can also toss them in garlic powder, paprika, or fresh herbs like rosemary.
Onion Rings for Extra Crunch
For those who enjoy a little extra crunch, onion rings are a fantastic choice to serve with burgers. Their crispy, battered coating and sweet onion flavor make them the perfect textural contrast to the soft, juicy burger bun. Onion rings are a great way to elevate your burger night and add a bit of flair.
You can easily make them at home by dipping onion slices in a simple batter made of flour, cornmeal, and seasoning, then frying them until golden. If you’re short on time, pre-made frozen onion rings are also a solid option that you can quickly bake or fry.
Pro Tip: Serve your onion rings with a side of dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or spicy mayo for added flavor. They also work well as a topping for your burger if you prefer a little extra crunch in every bite.
Classic Coleslaw
Coleslaw may seem like a humble side, but it’s one that pairs wonderfully with a rich and savory burger. The cool, creamy texture of the slaw complements the heat and juiciness of the burger while providing a refreshing crunch. You can opt for a classic mayo-based coleslaw, or switch things up with a vinegar-based slaw for a tangy, lighter option.
Coleslaw is also incredibly easy to make at home. Just shred some cabbage and carrots, mix with a simple dressing (mayo, vinegar, and a bit of sugar), and toss together. If you’re in a hurry, store-bought coleslaw is a perfectly fine alternative.
Pro Tip: For a twist, you can add additional ingredients like diced apples, raisins, or red onions for a sweet and savory flavor combination. You can also make a spicy coleslaw by adding a little sriracha or jalapeños for a kick.
Healthier Sides to Serve with Your Burger
While a classic burger and fries combo is undeniably delicious, sometimes it’s nice to balance out the indulgence with healthier, lighter options. Whether you’re looking to keep things nutritious or simply want a side that complements your burger without overwhelming it, these healthier side dishes are a perfect choice. Not only do they pair wonderfully with your favorite burger, but they also offer a lighter alternative that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a fantastic way to add color, texture, and a dose of nutrition to your burger meal. Grilling enhances the natural sweetness of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and mushrooms, while also infusing them with a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with a juicy burger. The slight char from the grill gives vegetables a satisfying crispiness that contrasts wonderfully with the tender burger patty.
For an easy and healthy option, simply brush your veggies with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill until they are tender and slightly caramelized. You can also add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor.
Pro Tip: Grilled vegetable skewers are a fun, party-friendly option that’s easy to prepare in advance. You can mix and match different vegetables for variety and a burst of color on your plate.
Light Green Salads
When looking for something fresh and crisp to balance the richness of a burger, green salads are a perfect choice. A simple mixed greens salad or a spinach and arugula salad can provide a satisfying contrast to the heaviness of the burger without overwhelming the meal. Dress it lightly with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or a tangy lemon vinaigrette, and you’ve got a refreshing side that’s both light and flavorful.
You can even jazz up your salad by adding ingredients like avocado, cherry tomatoes, or cucumber for added texture. If you’re craving a bit more protein, consider adding a hard-boiled egg, grilled chicken, or some chickpeas for a heartier salad.
Pro Tip: Try making a Caesar salad with homemade dressing for a healthier version of the classic. Swap out the heavy cream with Greek yogurt to reduce calories while keeping the creamy texture.
Roasted Sweet Potato Fries
If you’re craving fries but want a healthier alternative, sweet potato fries are the perfect option. Rich in fiber and vitamins A and C, sweet potatoes provide a nutritious twist on the traditional fry. Roasting them in the oven brings out their natural sweetness and creates a crispy texture that rivals regular fries.
Simply cut the sweet potatoes into wedges or sticks, toss them in olive oil, and season with a pinch of sea salt, paprika, and a dash of cinnamon for a unique flavor. Roast them at a high temperature until crispy, and serve as a side that not only tastes delicious but also adds a burst of color to your meal.
Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, try air frying your sweet potato fries. This method uses less oil, giving you a lighter, healthier version of your favorite side.
Creative Sides That Will Elevate Your Burger Night
If you’re looking to take your burger night to the next level, why not step outside the box with some creative and unexpected side dishes? These inventive sides will add flair, flavor, and excitement to your meal. Whether you’re hosting a fun dinner party or simply want to spice things up for a family meal, these unique sides pair perfectly with burgers and make your meal feel extra special.
Loaded Nachos
Who says nachos can’t be a side? The beauty of loaded nachos is that they’re incredibly versatile and can be topped with just about anything, making them the perfect creative side dish to serve with burgers. Start with a base of tortilla chips and layer on your favorite toppings such as melted cheese, jalapeños, guacamole, sour cream, and chopped tomatoes. For a more indulgent version, add ground beef, black beans, or even shredded chicken for a savory twist.
Loaded nachos are perfect for sharing and work well if you’re feeding a crowd. The rich and cheesy goodness complements the savory flavors of the burger while providing a crunchy contrast. And because nachos are so customizable, you can easily adapt them to fit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Pro Tip: For an even quicker version, make mini nachos using small tortillas and bake them in the oven for a fun, bite-sized appetizer.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese Bites
Take your mac and cheese game to the next level by turning it into crispy, bite-sized pieces. Baked mac and cheese bites are the ultimate comfort food, and they pair beautifully with a burger for a cozy and indulgent meal. These cheesy bites are made by baking mac and cheese in a muffin tin or pan, then cutting them into squares or serving them in individual portions.
The crispy outer layer and creamy interior make for a mouthwatering contrast to the burger’s texture. You can also make them in advance and pop them in the oven for a quick, crowd-pleasing side.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, add a touch of bacon bits or chopped scallions to your mac and cheese bites. You can also swap out traditional cheddar cheese for a sharper variety like Gruyère or smoked Gouda to add depth of flavor.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
For a fun and flavorful twist, serve elote, or Mexican street corn, as a side with your burgers. This dish features grilled corn on the cob slathered in a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, lime juice, cilantro, and chili powder, then sprinkled with crumbled cotija cheese for an extra burst of flavor. The sweet and smoky corn, combined with the creamy dressing and spicy kick, is an exciting and bold complement to any burger.
Elote is perfect for a BBQ-style burger night or a more casual gathering, and it brings a refreshing change from the typical side dishes. Plus, the grill marks on the corn add a beautiful smoky flavor that enhances the overall meal.
Pro Tip: If you want to serve a deconstructed version of elote, simply cut the grilled corn off the cob and toss it with the creamy mixture in a bowl for a corn salad. This makes it easier to eat while still delivering that bold, zesty flavor.
Quick and Easy Sides for Busy Weeknights
Sometimes, after a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen preparing side dishes. Fortunately, there are plenty of quick and easy sides that pair perfectly with burgers without requiring a lot of time or effort. These simple yet flavorful options are perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without the hassle.
Simple Cucumber and Tomato Salad
A cucumber and tomato salad is one of the quickest and freshest side dishes you can whip up. The crispness of the cucumber and the juicy sweetness of the tomatoes are the perfect light complement to a savory burger. Plus, it takes just minutes to prepare.
For a basic version, all you need is some fresh cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a simple dressing made of olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. If you want to get creative, you can add red onions, fresh herbs like basil or parsley, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Pro Tip: If you’re in a hurry, you can use pre-sliced cucumber and cherry tomatoes to save time on prep. A store-bought vinaigrette can also work as a shortcut to make the dressing even faster.
Microwaveable Steamed Vegetables
If you’re really pressed for time but still want something healthy, microwaveable steamed vegetables are a lifesaver. Many grocery stores offer pre-packaged, frozen veggies like broccoli, green beans, or carrots that can be easily steamed in the microwave in just a few minutes. These frozen veggies are just as nutritious as fresh ones and can be prepared quickly with minimal cleanup.
For extra flavor, toss your steamed veggies with a little olive oil, garlic powder, and lemon zest once they’re done. You can also sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top for added richness. This simple side dish is the perfect way to get some veggies on the plate without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
Pro Tip: Opt for frozen vegetable blends for a variety of textures and flavors. A combination of corn, peas, and carrots is always a winner and takes just minutes to cook.
Pre-Made Coleslaw
If you don’t have the time or energy to make coleslaw from scratch, pre-made coleslaw from the grocery store is an excellent shortcut that still delivers great flavor. Many stores offer coleslaw mixes that come with pre-shredded cabbage and carrots, saving you time on prep work. All you need to do is mix it with the dressing, and you have a tangy, creamy side dish in minutes.
If you want to give store-bought coleslaw a personal touch, add a few ingredients like raisins, apple slices, or a dash of apple cider vinegar to elevate the flavor. You can even spice it up by adding some jalapeños or sriracha for an extra kick.
Pro Tip: You can also skip the dressing in favor of a lighter, healthier option by using Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a creamy but lower-calorie version of coleslaw.
Sides to Pair with Different Burger Styles
When it comes to burger night, the sides you choose can take the meal from good to great. The key to a memorable burger experience lies in matching the right sides with the burger’s flavor profile. Whether you’re serving up a classic cheeseburger, a veggie burger, or something more adventurous like a BBQ burger, selecting sides that complement the burger’s unique style can elevate the entire meal. Here’s a guide to pairing sides with different burger styles to make sure every bite is perfection.
Classic Cheeseburger
For the timeless classic cheeseburger, the perfect sides are those that enhance the simple, savory flavors of the burger without overpowering them. Think crispy, crunchy, and fresh.
- Crispy French Fries: You can’t go wrong with a classic. Whether you go for thin, shoestring fries or thick-cut steak fries, the crunchy texture and salty flavor balance out the richness of the beefy patty. For a twist, try garlic Parmesan fries or truffle fries for an elevated take on a traditional favorite.
- Onion Rings: Lightly battered and fried, onion rings bring a perfect mix of sweetness and crunch, which complements the savory flavors of a cheeseburger. Serve them with a side of ketchup or a spicy ranch dip for extra flavor.
- Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy crunch of coleslaw offers a nice contrast to the rich, juicy cheeseburger. It adds freshness and cuts through the heaviness of the meat, making each bite feel more balanced.
BBQ Burger
If you’re making a BBQ burger with smoky BBQ sauce and perhaps a bit of cheddar or bacon, you’ll want sides that can handle the bold, smoky flavors while adding complementary textures.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet, grilled corn on the cob, especially with a smoky char, pairs perfectly with the tangy, sweet notes of BBQ sauce. Try it slathered in a bit of butter, garlic, and a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor.
- Baked Beans: A classic BBQ side, baked beans are rich, hearty, and slightly sweet, which pairs perfectly with the savory goodness of a BBQ burger. The beans add a comforting, soul-food touch to your meal.
- Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables, like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, bring out smoky flavors that mirror the grilled burger. They’re light yet flavorful and make for a great counterpoint to the richness of a BBQ burger.
Veggie Burger
When you’re serving a veggie burger, you want to choose sides that are fresh, light, and add a burst of flavor without overwhelming the lighter taste of the veggie patty.
- Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of sweet potato fries pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of a veggie burger. Their slightly earthy, sweet taste makes a perfect balance for plant-based patties.
- Avocado Salad: A light avocado salad with fresh cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus dressing is a great option for pairing with a veggie burger. The smooth, creamy texture of the avocado enhances the flavors of the veggie patty, while the freshness of the salad provides a satisfying crunch.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing and protein-packed quinoa salad with herbs and lemon vinaigrette is a great side dish that complements the healthier profile of a veggie burger. This salad provides a hearty yet light side that won’t overpower the flavors of the patty.
Spicy Burger (Jalapeño or Sriracha Burger)
For a spicy burger, such as one topped with jalapeños, Sriracha sauce, or other spicy ingredients, the sides should offer balance and some cooling elements to complement the heat.
- Creamy Cilantro-Lime Rice: This cool, zesty rice dish adds a creamy, cooling component that helps balance out the spiciness of the burger. The tanginess of lime and the freshness of cilantro are perfect partners for a fiery burger.
- Chilled Cucumber Salad: Cucumber salad with a light vinegar dressing is perfect for cutting through the heat of a spicy burger. The cool, crunchy cucumbers provide refreshing relief from the spice, while the vinegar adds a tangy bite.
- Mango Salsa: If you want to enhance the heat with a touch of sweetness, try a mango salsa. The sweet, juicy mango pairs wonderfully with spicy flavors and adds a fresh, tropical twist to your burger.
Bacon Burger
For a bacon burger, with all its crispy, salty goodness, you’ll want sides that balance the richness of the bacon while adding some fresh, crispy contrast.
- Garlic Parmesan Fries: The garlic and cheesy flavors complement the savory, smoky taste of the bacon perfectly. The crispy fries provide texture, making it an ideal side for a bacon-packed burger.
- Tomato and Mozzarella Salad: A Caprese-style salad made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil offers a fresh, light contrast to the rich, fatty bacon. The simplicity of this salad pairs perfectly with a flavorful, bacon-loaded burger.
- Pickles: A side of pickles (either classic dill or bread-and-butter) provides the ideal balance of crunch and tang. The acidity of pickles cuts through the richness of the bacon, helping to cleanse the palate between bites.
Conclusion of Section:
Pairing the right sides with different burger styles can elevate your meal and enhance the overall dining experience. Whether you’re serving a classic cheeseburger, a BBQ burger, a veggie burger, or something spicy, choosing sides that complement the unique flavor profile of the burger is key to creating a balanced and satisfying meal. With these side dish suggestions, you can make your burger night even more delicious and enjoyable.
Chef’s Note:
As a chef, I believe that the magic of a great burger lies not only in the quality of the patty but in the sides that accompany it. Whether you’re going for classic comfort or exploring creative, healthy, or spicy options, the right sides can elevate the entire meal and create a memorable dining experience. Remember to balance the richness of your burger with sides that offer crunch, freshness, or a bit of zest. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to get a little adventurous with your side choices—after all, food is all about bringing joy to the table and making every bite as satisfying as the last. Happy cooking, and enjoy your burger night to the fullest!