A hamburger is a classic All-American comfort food packed with flavor. Its components may be basic – a grilled beef patty in white buns – but when cooked to perfection, no one can say no to this juicy meal. For me, some good old-fashioned French fries are the ultimate pairing! But sometimes, it’s fun to switch things up a little. In this article, I’ll be sharing 21 of the best sides that taste just as good as, or even better than French fries. So, if you’re having friends over for burger night, consider these tasty additions to transform your burgers into an unforgettable meal.
Best Sides for Burgers
1. Barbecue Baked Beans
It’s simple and easy to make, yet packed with so much flavor. This is classic cookout food. It’s got that sweet, savory, and smoky thing going on that tastes wonderful with a classic cheeseburger.
2. Pasta Salad
Pasta salad is light, tangy, and refreshing. Which pairs perfectly with a juicy burger. Plus, it’s super easy to make and feeds a crowd! In a large bowl, combine cooked rotini pasta, grape tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese, and olives. Toss with Greek dressing and lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Fast… Easy… and Delicious!
3. Quinoa Salad
If you want a lighter side dish, make a quinoa salad instead. Just combine quinoa, broccoli, peppers and your choice of veggies. Drizzle with a beautiful red wine vinaigrette and enjoy! A simple salad bursting with great flavors and textures.
4. Sweet Potato Fries
We already know that classic French fries make the ultimate burger combo, but so do sweet potato fries! Bake them for a less-calorie dish that tastes sweet, savory, and satisfying. For extra flavor, season these bad boys with garlic powder and rosemary.
5. Onion Rings
Here’s another wonderful alternative to the usual French fries. When it comes to burger sides, you can never go wrong with this fried treat. They are both sweet and savory, and soft and crisp. It’s the perfect flavor and texture combination that a hamburger needs.
6. Coleslaw
This creamy, refreshing side dish pairs perfectly with hamburgers. It’s got a nice crunch and a wonderful flavor. Plus, it’s very easy to make. Just chop up some cabbage and carrots and flavor them with mayo, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and salt and pepper! Oh, and you also might want to try adding pineapple tidbits to give it that sweet and summery vibe.
7. Roasted Tomatoes
Tomatoes are sweet, juicy, and delicious. Roast them in the oven and they taste even better! Drizzle some olive oil over those plump cherry tomatoes and top with fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper, and pop them in the oven. Easy breezy! You could also top them with feta and Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
8. Zucchini Chips
Give your burger a crispy and healthy companion by making some baked zucchini chips. Don’t worry, they’re easy to make. Just slice up some zucchini, drizzle them with olive oil, and coat with bread crumbs, oregano, and parmesan. Pop them in the oven and bake for 15 minutes at 425 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
9. Creamed Spinach
You might think this side won’t be a hit with kids, but you may be surprised at just how good the combination of spinach, cream, cheese, and butter is! This is the perfect dish to serve if you want to include some veggies in your kids’ diet.
10. Avocado Salad
Avocado, also known as the fruit of the millennials, is rich, creamy, and oh so good for you. Slice up a few pieces of avocado and mix them with onions and tomatoes, and top with a light lime dressing. An easy peasy side that’s refreshing and adds gorgeous colors to your meal.
11. Potato Wedges
They’re like French fries, but you get chunkier and juicier pieces! And, they’re baked too, so you know they’ve got less grease and calories.
12. Potato Salad
Making potato salad is another great way to make use of potatoes without making French fries! It’s rich and hearty and can feed a hungry crowd.
13. Fried Pickles
These are often served as an appetizer but they also pair perfectly alongside your burgers. Crunchy, juicy fried pickles dipped in ranch. It’s savory and refreshing all at the same time. Plus, you get that same great “dipping” action that you do with fries.
14. Grilled Potatoes
You’re already grilling burger patties anyway, so you might as well use the grill to make some tasty sides. Grilled potatoes are incredibly easy to make – just top those spuds with chive and sour cream butter, wrap them in foil, and grill.
15. Mac and Cheese
You’re already making something sinful anyway, might as well go all the way! Mac and cheese is a rich and cheesy side dish that tastes wonderful with burgers! Both dishes are hearty and indulgent, which makes them perfect for one another.
16. Steamed Asparagus
On the contrary, if you want to cut back on the carbs, some crunchy steamed asparagus is the way to go. These guys are nutritious, delicious, and easy to prepare! And since asparagus is good for you anyway, you may want to flavor it with just a bit of butter. A little dose of fat can’t hurt!
17. Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is the ultimate summer side! Grill them for a few minutes to give them a wonderful char and smoky flavor. Slather it with lots of butter and enjoy its sweet crunch. Pure summer bliss.
18. Corn and Avocado Salad
Whoever combined corn and avocado is a genius. Their colors, textures, and flavors are excellent on their own, but when you put them together, they make one hell of a combination! Add some fresh romaine lettuce and radishes and coat in a creamy dressing and you’ve got yourself a refreshing salad to die for!
19. Melon and Cucumber Salad
Who would have thought that melon and cucumber make a delightful combo? Picture this: soft and sweet melon slices joined by crunchy and juicy cucumber, drizzled in olive oil, and seasoned with salt and pepper. A wonderful salad that gives a splash of freshness to your rich and savory burger meal.
20. Pickled Veggies
Whether it’s carrot, cucumber, beet, or a combination of all three, pickled veggies always go so well with burgers. And, it’s not that complicated to make! Just cook them in a vinegar mixture for 10 minutes and they’re done.
21. Watermelon Salad
Here’s another fruit salad that’s so sweet and refreshing. Just slice up a beautiful red watermelon and flavor it with lime and mint. The sweetness of the fruit balances out the richness of the burger. Click on a star to rate it!
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