25 Satisfying Sides to Serve with Burgers
Sides for burgers offer a world of flavor and texture, adding that perfect balance to a juicy bite. These sides range from crisp and refreshing to rich and hearty, creating a complete meal that satisfies all cravings.
Ideal for backyard gatherings or a cozy night in, they bring variety and creativity to the table. These ideas enhance the burger experience, making every bite more enjoyable.
With flavors that match or contrast, they add excitement to a classic favorite. Here’s a list of the 25 best sides to serve with burgers, guaranteed to impress your taste buds:
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a refreshing salad that perfectly balances creaminess and crunch, making it an essential addition to any summer gathering.
With just a quick chop of crisp cabbage and carrots mixed with a tangy dressing, you’ll have this classic side ready in no time.
It complements grilled meats beautifully or adds flair to sandwiches at potlucks.
Sharing this dish often sparks curiosity about the recipe's secret touch, as everyone enjoys its satisfying texture and flavor combination.
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Featuring fresh corn, zesty lime, and creamy cotija cheese, this dish transforms classic ingredients into something extraordinary.
You’ll appreciate how easy it is to prepare while impressing guests with its vibrant taste profile.
This salad stands out at any cookout or potluck, drawing everyone’s attention away from traditional options like pasta or potato salads.
Rainbow Pasta Salad
Rainbow pasta salad brings a burst of freshness to any gathering.
This dish combines cooked pasta with an array of crisp vegetables, creating not just a feast for the eyes but also a satisfying medley of flavors.
A sprinkle of feta adds creaminess that perfectly complements the crunch from bell peppers and cucumbers.
Ideal for potlucks or casual get-togethers, it’s simple enough to whip up quickly yet impressive on presentation.
Latkes
Latkes are crispy potato pancakes that hold a cherished place in Eastern European Jewish cuisine. These treats stand out due to their perfectly golden-brown, lace-like edges and light texture achieved from finely grated potatoes and onions.
You’ll find them irresistible as they offer a satisfying crunch with every bite. Traditionally enjoyed during Hanukkah, these savory delights add a delightful touch to any meal or gathering.
Whether served plain or paired with applesauce or sour cream, latkes bring warmth and flavor to the table like no other dish can.
Cucumber Avocado Tomato Salad with Pesto
Cucumber avocado tomato salad is a refreshing dish that captures the essence of spring and summer. The standout feature lies in the basil pesto dressing, which adds a burst of flavor to each bite.
This combination not only showcases fresh ingredients but also brings together healthy elements that you can feel good about enjoying. When served chilled, it becomes an ideal side for barbecues or picnics, making it versatile for various occasions.
You’ll appreciate how easy this recipe is while still impressing anyone who tries it.
Easy Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Baked sweet potato fries are a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional French fries, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into crispy strips that make for an excellent snack or side dish.
With their natural sweetness complemented by savory seasonings, these fries appeal to both health-conscious eaters and those craving comfort food.
You’ll appreciate how easy it is to prepare them in your own kitchen without the need for frying oil.
Balela Salad
Balela salad brings together the earthy goodness of chickpeas and black beans with the crisp freshness of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
This wholesome mix not only offers an explosion of flavors but also showcases a delightful array of textures that makes it truly satisfying.
With fresh parsley and mint adding aromatic notes, each forkful feels both refreshing and fulfilling.
Ideal as a light meal or a zesty side, this salad embodies simplicity while delivering on taste.
Mediterranean Pasta
Mediterranean pasta features fresh ingredients that create a satisfying and flavorful dish. The beauty lies in its versatility, as it can be enjoyed warm or chilled, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping or quick weeknight dinners.
With just 20 minutes needed to prepare, this recipe is perfect when time is tight but flavor is essential. Serving up a bowl filled with vegetables and aromatic herbs that everyone will enjoy together at the table.
This easy-to-follow pasta dish ensures you’ll have plenty of deliciousness ready for any occasion without breaking a sweat.
Succotash
Succotash is a timeless American side dish that highlights corn kernels and lima beans.
Originating from Native American cuisine, this hearty mixture has evolved over time to incorporate various vegetables and meats, offering a taste that's rich in history and flavor.
Each regional variation brings its own unique twist, reflecting local ingredients and culinary preferences.
Enjoying succotash means savoring both tradition and creativity on your plate as it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or enhances any summer meal experience.
Batata Harra
Batata harra is a Lebanese dish that transforms ordinary potatoes into an aromatic sensation. With its bold spices and fresh herbs, this recipe elevates your dining experience effortlessly.
You’ll find the combination of garlic, coriander, and chili creating a captivating flavor profile that pairs well with various meals. The texture adds a delightful crunch to each serving while maintaining a tender interior you can savor in every bite.
Perfect as a side or even on its own, batata harra brings an exciting twist to your table without complicating your cooking routine.
Tostones
Tostones are crispy green plantain rounds that deliver a satisfying crunch with each bite. These twice-fried snacks shine when seasoned simply with sea salt, creating an irresistible flavor profile.
A perfect companion to burgers or enjoyed on their own, they invite you to dip into your favorite sauces for added taste dimensions. Whether served as an appetizer or snack, these golden discs promise endless enjoyment at any gathering.
Their unique texture and savory appeal make them a must-try dish for anyone looking to add excitement to their meals.
Israeli Couscous Salad
Israeli couscous salad merges the nutty chewiness of pearl couscous with an array of fresh, colorful vegetables.
This creation incorporates tangy Kalamata olives, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy pine nuts to elevate your salad experience.
Tossed in a zesty lemon Dijon vinaigrette, it brings lively flavors together beautifully.
Ideal for those seeking both texture and flavor in their meals, this salad adapts effortlessly to any dining occasion while satisfying cravings for hearty ingredients without compromising on freshness.
Steak Fries
Steak fries are thick-cut potato wedges known for their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, making them an excellent companion to various main dishes. What sets these baked delights apart is the careful seasoning that enhances their natural flavor while achieving a satisfying crunch.
Using simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, I find these fries can elevate any meal with minimal effort. Whether served alongside burgers or steak, they seamlessly complement your favorite protein options.
A perfect choice when you're in search of a side that's both hearty and easy to prepare awaits you here.
Creamed Corn
Creamed corn is a sumptuous side that elevates any meal with its rich and velvety texture.
Crafted primarily from fresh or frozen corn, this dish bursts with flavor, transforming simple ingredients into an irresistible accompaniment.
Perfect for summer gatherings when sweet corn is at its peak, it also shines during festive occasions like Thanksgiving and Christmas.
With just the right touch of creaminess, this recipe stands out as a favorite you'll want to keep on your table year-round.
Cherry Tomato Gratin
Cherry tomato gratin shines as a great addition to any meal, showcasing the natural sweetness of tomatoes enveloped in a golden-brown crust. Baked until bubbling and fragrant, this dish transforms simple ingredients into an eye-catching side that complements grilled meats beautifully.
The blend of creamy cheese and fresh herbs enhances each bite while offering a satisfying crunch on top. It’s not only easy to prepare but also adds vibrant color to your plate, making it appealing for gatherings or family dinners.
You’ll find that serving this alongside burgers elevates both dishes effortlessly.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Mediterranean quinoa salad features a refreshing combination of wholesome ingredients that embody the essence of summer. Packed with protein-rich quinoa, crisp vegetables, and classic Mediterranean flavors, this dish stands out for its bright lemon dressing that ties everything together seamlessly.
With each forkful, you'll discover a delightful interplay of textures and tastes that make it an ideal accompaniment to any meal or as a standalone light lunch. The use of seasonal veggies adds not only color but also nutritional benefits you can feel good about incorporating into your diet.
You’ll find this recipe both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for warm-weather gatherings or casual dining at home.
Watermelon Salad
Watermelon salad is a refreshing dish that highlights the sweet, succulent nature of ripe watermelon. This recipe elevates your summer gatherings with its delightful combination of juicy melon, fragrant mint leaves, and tangy feta cheese.
A drizzle of lemon and honey adds just the right amount of zest to brighten up each bite. Ideal for poolside parties or casual BBQs, this salad brings a burst of flavor while being incredibly easy to prepare.
You’ll find it’s not only visually appealing but also a crowd-pleaser during those warm days when you crave something light and invigorating.
Maque Choux
Maque choux is a spirited dish that highlights the sweet crunch of corn infused with rich Cajun flavors.
The magic happens when fresh corn gets sautéed in bacon grease, creating an irresistible base enhanced by zesty seasonings and aromatic ingredients.
This seasonal recipe shines brightest during summer, making it an ideal companion for barbecues or festive gatherings.
Whether you're hosting friends or family, maque choux guarantees a taste adventure everyone will appreciate.
Macaroni Salad
Macaroni salad serves as a quintessential side dish, particularly adored for its creamy texture and zesty flavor profile. The richness of the dressing perfectly complements fried fish, making it a favorite at gatherings and picnics.
This particular recipe stands out with an extra tang that keeps each forkful exciting while ensuring you won't tire of leftovers anytime soon. It’s easy to whip up in large quantities, so sharing becomes effortless without sacrificing taste or quality.
With this classic preparation on your table, satisfying both family and friends is guaranteed.
Spanish Summer Salad (Pipirrana)
Spanish summer salad, known as pipirrana, highlights the abundance of ripe tomatoes that flourish under the sun.
This refreshing dish features a medley of seasonal vegetables, creating an inviting crunch with every bite.
Originating from southern Spain, it captures the essence of warm days and vibrant flavors found in Mediterranean cuisine.
You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients or herbs to enhance its appeal further.
Homemade French Fries
Homemade French fries offer a delightful twist on your usual snack, featuring crisped potatoes cut into sticks and cooked to perfection.
The process of preparing these fries is not only enjoyable but also allows for creative seasoning options that can cater to any palate.
Whether served alongside burgers or enjoyed on their own, they elevate casual dining with a satisfying crunch in every bite.
With simple ingredients and minimal fuss, whipping up this classic treat becomes an effortless endeavor you’ll want to repeat often.
Baked Beans
Baked beans are a hearty dish featuring tender beans simmered in a rich and savory sauce. The standout element is the combination of sweet and smoky flavors, often enhanced with ingredients like brown sugar or bacon that elevate every spoonful.
Crafting these from scratch not only offers superior taste but also allows for customization to suit your palate. Pair them effortlessly alongside grilled burgers, making any meal feel complete and satisfying.
You’ll find this recipe brings warmth to gatherings while being straightforward enough for any home cook looking to impress without fuss.
Potato Salad
Potato salad is a timeless dish celebrated for its simplicity and heartiness.
Featuring tender, boiled potatoes tossed with just a few essential ingredients, this recipe offers comfort in every bite.
With easy preparation involving chopping and mixing, it becomes an effortless addition to any meal or gathering.
You’ll appreciate how versatile this dish can be; it pairs well with grilled meats or stands alone as a light lunch option.
Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese stands out as a quintessential comfort food, celebrated for its creamy texture and rich flavor profile. This version offers an indulgent cheesy experience that envelops each noodle in warmth.
Adding it alongside burgers enhances your meal with a delightful pairing of textures and tastes, perfect for any occasion when you crave something hearty. The balance between the savory cheese sauce and tender pasta creates satisfaction in every mouthful while bringing joy to gatherings or solo meals alike.
You'll appreciate how this dish turns simple ingredients into pure comfort on your plate.
Milkshakes
Milkshakes are a classic indulgence that perfectly complement any burger meal. This creamy treat, often made with rich ice cream and your choice of flavorings, has been delighting taste buds for decades.
The delightful contrast between the savory notes of a hearty burger and the sweet chill of a milkshake creates an unforgettable dining experience you can’t resist. As you enjoy this nostalgic pairing, it becomes clear why so many eateries serve shakes alongside their burgers, it's all about balance in flavor!
With endless variations to choose from, there's always something new to try or create at home when you're ready for that next sip.
Linda Dean
Expertise
Culinary Arts, Food Journalism, Global Cuisine, Exploration, Recipe Development, Cultural Food Studies, Culinary Travel and Storytelling
Education
Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY
Program: Associate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Developed a comprehensive understanding of global cuisines and essential cooking techniques. Engaged in intensive hands-on practice in both kitchens and real-world settings, guided by expert chefs. This program emphasized the application of culinary skills in professional environments, preparing students for a variety of roles in the culinary industry.
City, University of London, London, UK
Program: BA Journalism
Focus: Gained expertise in media studies with a strong foundation in reporting, editing, and communicating. While the program focuses broadly on journalism, the skills acquired apply to food journalism, including the ability to analyze and report on food culture and culinary trends effectively.
Linda Dean is an experienced chef and food writer who loves exploring flavors from around the world. Trained at the Culinary Institute of America, Linda has spent over ten years mastering the art of making dishes that truly represent different cultures. She also studied journalism at City, University of London, which helps her write engaging stories about these foods.
On heythattastesgood.com, Linda shares recipes that bring the world’s kitchens to her readers. She focuses on authentic tastes and the stories behind them, making it easy for anyone to try international cuisine at home.