When it comes to burgers, the patty might be the star of the show, but the side dish is the supporting act that completes the meal. A great side dish does more than just fill the plate; it enhances the flavors, textures, and overall enjoyment of the burger experience. Whether you're serving up a juicy classic cheeseburger, a gourmet creation, or a plant-based patty, the right side dish can elevate your meal to new heights. But what makes a side dish truly great, and how do you decide which one to serve?
A great side dish for burgers strikes the perfect balance between complementing and contrasting the main dish. Here are a few key factors to consider when choosing the perfect side:
Texture Contrast: The texture of your side dish should balance the burger’s elements. If your burger is rich and juicy, a crispy side like French fries or onion rings can provide a satisfying crunch. On the other hand, if your burger has a crunchy element, a softer side like coleslaw or potato salad can offer a pleasant contrast.
Flavor Balance: A well-paired side dish should complement the flavor profile of your burger. A rich, savory burger might pair well with a tangy or acidic side like pickles or coleslaw to cut through the richness, while a spicy burger might benefit from a cooling side like a cucumber salad or tzatziki.
Nutritional Balance: If your burger is indulgent, consider a lighter side dish to balance the meal. For example, pairing a decadent bacon cheeseburger with a fresh avocado salad can help lighten things up. Conversely, if you’re enjoying a leaner burger, a heartier side like mac and cheese can round out the meal.
Cultural or Thematic Match: Sometimes, the best side dishes are those that match the theme or origin of the burger. For example, pairing a BBQ burger with southern-inspired sides like baked beans or cornbread can create a cohesive dining experience.
Personal Preference:Ultimately, the best side dish is one that you enjoy. Whether you’re a traditionalist who loves French fries or a foodie who enjoys exploring new flavors, choose sides that make you happy and enhance your burger experience.
Armed with these tips, let’s explore a variety of side dishes that will take your burger game to the next level. From the classic to the creative, healthy to indulgent, and regional to international, this guide has you covered for every burger occasion.
French Fries
Arguably the most iconic burger side dish, French fries are synonymous with the classic American burger experience. These golden, crispy strips of potato are versatile, too—whether you prefer them thin and crispy, thick-cut, or crinkle-cut, they always deliver. For a more indulgent twist, opt for loaded fries topped with cheese, bacon, and jalapeños.
Tater Tots
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, tater tots add a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with a juicy burger. These golden barrels bring a satisfying contrast in texture and flavor to any burger experience.
Coleslaw
This creamy, tangy side is a refreshing counterbalance to a hearty burger. Classic coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a mayo-based dressing is a staple, but you can also experiment with vinegar-based slaws or slaws featuring unique ingredients like apples or jalapeños for a more nuanced flavor profile.
Pickles
Pickles may seem simple, but their crunchy, tangy bite adds a great contrast to the richness of a burger. Whether served on the side or piled high atop your patty, pickles are an essential companion.
Potato Chips
A summer BBQ staple, potato chips bring a comforting crunch that works well with any burger. With a variety of flavors from classic salty to BBQ, salt and vinegar or sour cream and onion, you can mix and match your flavors for a savory side.
Brussels Sprouts
Once relegated to the sidelines, Brussels sprouts have undergone a renaissance in recent years. Roasted until crispy and tossed with balsamic glaze or bacon bits, they offer a savory side that complements the richness of a burger.
Health Tip: Brussels sprouts are a nutrient powerhouse, providing fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Avocado Salad
Fresh, creamy, and slightly tangy, an avocado salad adds a touch of California cool to your burger. Tossed with lime juice, cilantro, and cherry tomatoes, it’s a light and refreshing side that pairs perfectly with a grilled patty.
Health Tip: Avocados are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins, making this side as nutritious as it is delicious.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus are an excellent, health-conscious alternative to fried sides. Their smoky flavor adds depth to your meal, while the vibrant colors bring visual appeal to your plate.
Pro Tip: Drizzle with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt for a simple yet flavorful side dish.
German Potato Pancakes (Kartoffelpuffer)
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, German potato pancakes are a hearty alternative to fries. They’re often served with applesauce or sour cream, adding a unique, tangy sweetness that pairs well with a savory burger.
Japanese Tempura Vegetables
Light and crispy, tempura vegetables bring an elegant touch to your burger. Traditionally made with a variety of vegetables like sweet potato, zucchini, and mushrooms, tempura offers a delicate crunch that’s less heavy than traditional fried sides.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
A popular street food in Mexico, elote is corn on the cob grilled to perfection and slathered with mayo, chili powder, cotija cheese, and lime. The smoky, tangy flavors of elote are a fantastic match for any burger, especially those with bold, spicy flavors.
Greek Tzatziki and Pita
For a Mediterranean flair, pair your burger with a side of tzatziki and warm pita bread. The cool, creamy yogurt and cucumber dip is a refreshing contrast to the rich burger, while the pita adds a light, satisfying crunch.
British Chips
Distinct from American fries, British chips are thick-cut, soft on the inside, and crispy on the outside. Served with malt vinegar or curry sauce, they bring a traditional pub vibe to your burger experience.
Italian Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze—this simple, elegant side pairs beautifully with a lighter, grilled chicken or veggie burger. The combination of flavors is fresh, light, and perfect for a summer meal.
Truffle Fries
Truffle fries take the classic fry to new heights with the addition of truffle oil and parmesan cheese. Earthy, aromatic, and utterly decadent, truffle fries are a luxurious treat that pairs beautifully with gourmet burgers.
Mac and Cheese
There’s something irresistibly indulgent about pairing a burger with creamy mac and cheese. Whether it’s a classic cheddar or a more upscale version with lobster or truffle, this side dish is pure comfort food.
Loaded Nachos
Why not have a bit of everything? Loaded nachos topped with cheese, jalapeños, sour cream, and guacamole offer a satisfying, crunchy, and cheesy side that pairs well with spicy or Tex-Mex-inspired burgers.
Poutine
A Canadian favorite, poutine is a heaping plate of fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich gravy. This decadent dish is a perfect match for a hearty burger, especially on a cold day.
Fried Pickles
If you love pickles and love fried food, why not combine them? Fried pickles are crispy, tangy, and perfectly bite-sized. Dip them in ranch or a spicy sauce for the ultimate indulgence.
Classic Cheeseburger: Stick with the classics—French fries, onion rings, or coleslaw.
BBQ Bacon Burger: Pair with loaded fries, elote, or mac and cheese.
Veggie Burger: Try a side of grilled vegetables, quinoa salad, or avocado salad.
Spicy Burger: Cool it down with tzatziki and pita, cucumber dill salad, or fruit salad.
Gourmet Burger: Opt for truffle fries, Brussels sprouts, or a Caprese salad.
The perfect burger is a matter of taste, but the right side dish can elevate your meal from good to unforgettable. Whether you’re sticking with timeless classics like fries and onion rings, exploring global flavors with elote or tempura, or making healthier choices with quinoa salad and kale chips, there’s a perfect side match for your burger out there, just waiting to be enjoyed!
