Beyond Fries: Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Your Burgers

Burgers are a quintessential comfort food, perfect for backyard barbecues, casual dinners, or a quick weeknight meal. While French fries are the classic companion, there’s a whole world of delicious side dishes that can elevate your burger experience. If you’re wondering What To Serve With Burgers Besides Fries, you’ve come to the right place. This guide is packed with over 45 amazing side dish ideas, guaranteed to make your next burger night a culinary adventure.

From fresh and tangy slaws to hearty potato salads, and everything in between, we’ll explore a variety of options to perfectly complement any burger you can imagine. We’ll also delve into tips for creating the perfect burger meal, explore exciting burger variations, and list essential toppings and condiments to take your burgers from simple to spectacular. So, ditch the predictable fries and let’s discover a universe of flavorful sides to serve with your next burger feast!

Expert Tips for Crafting Burger Side Dishes

Creating the perfect side dish spread for burgers is all about balance and smart cooking. Here are some expert tips to ensure your sides are just as memorable as the main event:

Embrace Seasonal Ingredients: The freshest flavors come from seasonal produce. Utilize vegetables that are in season to create vibrant, flavorful, and healthy sides. Think summer tomatoes for salads, fall squashes for roasting, or spring greens for slaws. Seasonal eating is not only tastier but also more budget-friendly.
Master the Art of Make-Ahead Sides: Hosting a cookout or feeding a crowd? Your secret weapon is make-ahead side dishes. Choose recipes that can be prepared a day or two in advance. This allows you to relax and enjoy your guests instead of spending the entire day in the kitchen. Cold salads, slaws, and some potato salads are excellent make-ahead candidates.
Delegate and Delight with a Potluck: Turn your burger night into a collaborative culinary event by inviting guests to bring a side dish. This lightens your workload and adds variety to the meal. Guests often enjoy contributing and showing off their favorite recipes.
Offer a Diverse Side Dish Selection: Cater to everyone’s tastes and dietary needs by providing a variety of sides. Include a mix of fresh salads for lightness, hearty cold sides for substance, and warm dishes for comfort. This ensures there’s something for everyone, including those with dietary restrictions or specific preferences.
Keep it Simple and Flavorful: Side dishes don’t need to be complicated to be delicious. In fact, often the best sides for burgers are quick, easy, and allow the burger to remain the star. Focus on simple preparations that enhance the burger’s flavor profile without overshadowing it. Think about complementary tastes and textures to create a harmonious meal.

Planning Your Ultimate Burger Meal: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a balanced and delicious burger meal involves more than just the burger itself. Thoughtful planning ensures a cohesive and satisfying dining experience. Follow these steps to plan your perfect burger menu:

Burger Patty Selection: The foundation of your meal is the burger patty. Are you opting for classic beef, venturing into vegetarian with a black bean burger, or choosing a lighter option like turkey or salmon? Your patty choice will influence the best side dish pairings. For example, a rich beef burger can handle heartier sides, while a lighter salmon burger might pair better with fresh salads.
Bun Brilliance: Don’t underestimate the importance of the bun! Traditional hamburger buns are always a solid choice, but consider exploring other options. Whole wheat buns add a nutty flavor, brioche buns offer richness and sweetness, and lettuce wraps are a fantastic low-carb alternative. Think about the bun’s texture and flavor and how it complements your chosen patty and sides.
Condiment Central: A well-stocked condiment station is essential for burger customization. Offer classic choices like mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard, but also consider more adventurous options. Spicy mayo, tangy aioli, or vibrant tzatziki can add exciting flavor dimensions. Provide a range of flavors and textures to allow everyone to create their perfect burger bite.
Vibrant Veggie Toppings: Fresh vegetables are key to burger perfection. Beyond the standard lettuce and tomato, offer a colorful array of toppings. Sliced tomatoes, red onions, crisp lettuce, and creamy avocados are classics, but don’t be afraid to get creative! Grilled onions, pickled red onions, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers can add layers of flavor and texture.
Side Dish Decisions: Now for the fun part – choosing your sides! Explore the extensive list below of over 45 side dish ideas. Aim for a balance of flavors, textures, and temperatures. Consider including a fresh salad, a hearty cold side, and a warm or grilled option to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Exploring Burger Varieties: Beyond the Beef

While beef burgers are a beloved classic, the world of burgers is vast and exciting. Experimenting with different burger types opens up new flavor profiles and side dish possibilities. Consider these delicious burger variations for your next cookout:

Classic Beef Burgers: The timeless favorite. Pair with hearty sides like potato salad, baked beans, or classic coleslaw.
Turkey Burgers: A leaner alternative. Try lighter sides like fresh garden salad, zucchini salad, or grilled vegetables.
Chicken Burgers: Versatile and flavorful. Consider sides like corn tomato avocado salad, healthy coleslaw, or roasted cauliflower.
Salmon Burgers: A delicious and healthy option. Pair with vibrant salads like watermelon feta salad, spinach strawberry salad, or grilled romaine lettuce.
Black Bean Burgers: A vegetarian favorite. Complement with Mexican-inspired sides like corn salad, guacamole, or a refreshing red cabbage slaw.
Portobello Mushroom Burgers: A hearty vegan option. Serve with grilled onions, roasted vegetables, or a flavorful chickpea salad.

No matter your burger preference, the key is to choose sides that complement the burger’s flavor and create a balanced and satisfying meal.

The Ultimate Guide to Burger Sides, Toppings, and Condiments

Ready to dive into the delicious world of burger accompaniments? Below is a comprehensive list of topping, condiment, and side dish ideas, categorized for easy browsing. Mix and match to create your perfect burger feast!

Must-Have Condiments & Toppings for Burgers

Elevate your burger with flavorful condiments and toppings. These additions can transform a simple burger into a gourmet experience:

Classic Condiments: Ketchup, Mustard (yellow, Dijon, or honey mustard), Mayonnaise (homemade or store-bought)
Spicy Mayo: A creamy and fiery kick. (How to Make Spicy Mayo Recipe)
Homemade Mayonnaise: Rich and flavorful, a step up from store-bought. (How to Make Mayonnaise Recipe)
Aioli: Garlic-infused mayonnaise for a sophisticated touch. (How to Make Aioli Recipe)
Avocado Crema: Creamy, lime-infused avocado sauce. (Avocado Crema Recipe)
Pickles: Tangy and crunchy, classic dill pickles or homemade variations. (How to Make Pickles Recipe)
Pickled Red Onions: Adds a sweet and tangy crunch. (How to Pickle Red Onions Recipe)
Caramelized Onions: Sweet and savory, adds depth of flavor. (How to Caramelize Onions Recipe)
Grilled Onions: Smoky and sweet, perfect for grilling alongside burgers. (Grilled Onions Recipe)
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms: Meaty and flavorful, great as a topping or vegetarian burger option. (Grilled Portobello Mushrooms Recipe)

Potato Side Dishes: Beyond Basic Fries

While fries are traditional, potatoes offer a versatile range of side dish options for burgers. Explore these potato-centric sides:

Air Fryer Baked Potato: Crispy skin and fluffy inside, a healthier alternative to traditional baked potatoes. (Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe)
Air Fryer French Fries: Homemade and extra crispy, a healthier take on classic fries. (Air Fryer French Fries Recipe)
Air Fryer Potatoes: Crispy and flavorful, easily seasoned to your liking. (Air Fryer Potatoes Recipe)
Oven Baked Potato Chips: Crunchy and customizable, a fun alternative to store-bought chips. (Oven Baked Potato Chips Recipe)
Baked Potato Wedges: Seasoned and crispy, perfect for dipping. (Baked Potato Wedges Recipe)
Baked Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet and savory, a healthier fry option. (Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe)
Hasselback Sweet Potatoes: Elegant and flavorful, with crispy edges and soft insides. (Hasselback Sweet Potatoes Recipe)
Grilled Potatoes: Smoky and seasoned, perfect for summer barbecues. (Grilled Potatoes Recipe)
Rosemary Garlic Smashed Potatoes: Crispy and creamy, a flavorful twist on mashed potatoes. (Rosemary Garlic Smashed Potatoes Recipe)

Fresh & Tangy Salads and Slaws for Burgers

Balance the richness of burgers with refreshing salads and slaws. These sides offer vibrant flavors and textures:

Red Cabbage Slaw: Simple and tangy, a mayo-free slaw option. (Red Cabbage Slaw Recipe)
Healthy Coleslaw: Creamy and tangy, made with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. (Healthy Coleslaw Recipe)
Chopped Green Goddess Salad: Vibrant and herbaceous, with a creamy green goddess dressing. (Chopped Green Goddess Salad Recipe)
Fresh Garden Salad: Customizable and simple, a classic salad with a light vinaigrette. (Fresh Garden Salad Recipe)
Corn Tomato Avocado Salad: Summer in a bowl, fresh and flavorful. (Corn Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe)
Broccoli Salad: Crunchy and creamy, with sunflower seeds and cranberries. (Broccoli Salad Recipe)
Lebanese Cabbage Salad: Bright and refreshing, with a lemon and olive oil dressing. (Lebanese Cabbage Salad Recipe)
Spinach Strawberry Salad: Sweet and savory, with feta and a basil vinaigrette. (Spinach Strawberry Salad Recipe)
Watermelon Feta Salad: Sweet and salty, a quintessential summer salad. (Watermelon Feta Salad Recipe)

Hearty & Satisfying Cold Side Dishes

For a more substantial side dish, explore these cold and hearty options that pair perfectly with burgers:

Mustard Potato Salad: Creamy and tangy, a classic potato salad with a mustard kick. (Mustard Potato Salad Recipe)
Healthy Egg Salad: Light and creamy, made with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. (Healthy Egg Salad Recipe)
Red Kidney Bean Salad: Flavorful and protein-packed, a unique and satisfying salad. (Red Kidney Bean Salad Recipe)
Italian Pasta Salad: Cold and creamy, with fresh veggies and a tangy dressing. (Italian Pasta Salad Recipe)
Vegan Macaroni Salad: Classic macaroni salad, made vegan with a creamy plant-based dressing. (Vegan Macaroni Salad Recipe)
Macaroni Egg Salad: Creamy and comforting, a no-mayo version for a lighter option. (Macaroni Egg Salad Recipe)
Chickpea Salad: Fresh and flavorful, a vegan and gluten-free salad option. (Chickpea Salad Recipe)
Cauliflower Potato Salad: Low-carb and keto-friendly, a lighter alternative to traditional potato salad. (Cauliflower Potato Salad Recipe)

Warm & Comforting Side Dishes for Burgers

For cooler days or when you crave something warm and comforting, these side dishes are excellent burger companions:

Creamed Corn: Sweet and creamy, a classic comfort food side dish. (Creamed Corn Recipe)
Sautéed Mushrooms with Garlic: Savory and flavorful, a quick and easy side or burger topping. (Sautéed Mushrooms with Garlic Recipe)
Baked Macaroni and Cheese: Classic and cheesy, a crowd-pleasing comfort food. (Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe)
Instant Pot Baked Beans: Rich and flavorful, quick and easy to make in the Instant Pot. (Instant Pot Baked Beans Recipe)
Roasted Cauliflower Au Gratin: Cheesy and comforting, a sophisticated take on cauliflower. (Roasted Cauliflower Au Gratin Recipe)

Healthy & Light Side Dish Options

Looking for lighter and healthier sides to balance your burger? These options are packed with nutrients and flavor:

Zucchini Salad: Fresh and vibrant, a simple raw zucchini salad. (Zucchini Salad Recipe)
Grilled Romaine Lettuce: Unique and flavorful, grilled romaine with a lemon vinaigrette. (Grilled Romaine Lettuce Recipe)
Baked Zucchini Fries: Crispy and healthier than traditional fries, served with a yogurt dipping sauce. (Baked Zucchini Fries Recipe)
Air Fryer Broccoli: Crispy and tender, a quick and easy veggie side. (Air Fryer Broccoli Recipe)
Grilled Veggie Kabobs: Colorful and smoky, a medley of grilled vegetables. (Grilled Veggie Kabobs Recipe)
Roasted Cauliflower Steaks: Flavorful and versatile, roasted cauliflower steaks are a great vegan side. (Roasted Cauliflower Steaks Recipe)
Rutabaga Fries: Low-carb and keto-friendly, a unique and healthy fry alternative. (Rutabaga Fries Recipe)

Tips for Keeping Your Burger Sides Warm

If you’re serving a crowd or preparing sides in advance, keeping food warm is essential. Here are some effective methods:

Oven Warmth: If your oven is free, set it to a low temperature (around 200°F) to keep dishes warm.
Aluminum Foil Insulation: Cover dishes tightly with aluminum foil to trap heat and maintain moisture.
Slow Cookers & Instant Pots: Utilize slow cookers or Instant Pots on the “warm” setting to keep sides at serving temperature.
Insulated Coolers for Warmth: Coolers aren’t just for keeping things cold! They can also trap heat and keep food warm for hours. Line the cooler with aluminum foil for extra insulation.

Storing Leftover Burger Side Dishes

Proper storage ensures your delicious leftovers stay fresh and safe to enjoy later:

Recipe-Specific Instructions: Always check individual recipe instructions for specific storage recommendations.
Separate Wet and Dry: Store wet ingredients like tomatoes and onions separately from cooked burger patties and salads to prevent sogginess. Dress salads separately and just before serving if possible.
Freezing for Longevity: Many side dishes are freezer-friendly. Check individual recipes for freezing instructions to enjoy them later.
Guest-Friendly Leftover Packs: If hosting, prepare compartmentalized containers for guests to take home balanced leftover meals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Burger Side Dishes

What are some good alternatives to fries with burgers?
Beyond fries, there’s a vast array of delicious sides! Consider classic options like baked beans, macaroni and cheese, or coleslaw. For lighter choices, try a simple side salad, grilled vegetables, onion rings, or corn on the cob. This guide offers over 45 ideas to inspire you!

For a quick and easy burger side, what do you recommend?
When time is short, opt for quick sides like coleslaw (using pre-shredded cabbage), a simple garden salad, or even high-quality potato chips or veggie sticks for minimal prep.

How can I prepare burger sides in advance for a BBQ or party?
Many burger sides are perfect for make-ahead preparation. Salads, slaws, and pasta salads often taste even better when made a day ahead, allowing flavors to meld. Store dressings separately and add just before serving. Hot sides can often be prepared in advance and reheated. Always refer to individual recipe instructions for best make-ahead practices.

Hopefully, this extensive guide to what to serve with burgers besides fries has inspired you to explore new and exciting side dish pairings. Don’t be afraid to step outside the fry box and discover a world of flavors that will elevate your burger nights to a whole new level!

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If you found this guide on what to serve with burgers helpful, please rate the recipes! Your feedback helps others discover great recipes. Share your burger side creations on Instagram – we’d love to see what you’re cooking!