Burgers are a classic favorite for many people. They’re tasty on their own, but adding the right side dish can make your meal even better.

There are lots of options to choose from when picking sides for burgers.

You can make your burger meal more exciting by trying different side dishes. Some popular choices include fries, onion rings, and coleslaw. But there are many other options too.

From salads to grilled veggies, you’ll find something to suit your taste. This article will give you ideas for 25 great sides to serve with burgers.

1. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a tasty twist on classic french fries. They offer a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors that complement burgers well.

To make them, cut sweet potatoes into thin strips and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can add paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.

Bake the fries in a hot oven until crispy on the outside and soft inside. Sweet potato fries are healthier than regular fries, with more vitamins and fiber.

Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce like honey mustard or ranch. They’re sure to be a hit at your next cookout or burger night.

2. Coleslaw with Apple

Coleslaw with apple adds a sweet and tangy twist to a classic burger side. This refreshing dish combines crisp cabbage with crunchy apple slices.

To make it, mix shredded cabbage with grated carrot and thinly sliced apples. For the dressing, blend mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey.

Toss the vegetables and fruit with the dressing until well coated. Let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

This cool and creamy side perfectly balances the rich, savory taste of burgers. You’ll love how the apple adds a pleasant sweetness and extra crunch to traditional coleslaw.

3. Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges

Garlic Parmesan potato wedges are a tasty side for your burgers. Cut potatoes into wedges and toss them with olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and herbs.

Spread the wedges on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven until golden and crispy. The garlic adds a savory kick, while the Parmesan creates a crispy, cheesy crust.

These wedges are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re a step up from regular fries and pair great with burgers. You can sprinkle extra Parmesan and parsley on top for more flavor.

4. Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Baked macaroni and cheese is a classic side that pairs perfectly with burgers. You’ll love its creamy texture and rich flavor.

Start by cooking your macaroni until it’s al dente. While it’s boiling, make a cheese sauce using butter, flour, milk, and your favorite cheeses.

Mix the cooked pasta with the sauce and pour it into a baking dish. Top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.

Bake until golden and bubbly. The result is a comforting, cheesy side that complements your burger beautifully. You can even add bacon or jalapeños for extra flavor if you like.

5. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is a perfect side for your burgers. It’s easy to make and tastes great.

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat.

Remove the silk from the corn but leave the husks on. This helps protect the kernels while cooking. Place the corn directly on the grill grates.

Cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning every few minutes. The husks will char, but that’s okay. It adds flavor to the corn inside.

When done, the corn will be bright yellow and slightly charred. Carefully remove the husks and silk. Serve with butter and a sprinkle of salt.

For extra flavor, try brushing the corn with herb butter or sprinkling it with chili powder before serving.

6. Onion Rings

Onion rings are a classic burger side that adds crunch and flavor to your meal. To make them, slice onions into thick rings and dip them in a batter of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.

Fry the coated rings until golden brown and crispy. You can also bake them for a healthier option.

Serve your onion rings hot alongside your burgers.

For extra taste, try dipping your onion rings in sauces like ranch, barbecue, or spicy mayo. You can even add seasonings to the batter for more flavor variety.

7. Zucchini Fries

Zucchini fries are a tasty and healthier alternative to regular french fries. They’re easy to make and pair well with burgers.

To prepare them, cut zucchini into sticks and coat them in a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Bake them in the oven until crispy.

You can serve zucchini fries with a variety of dipping sauces. Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or garlic aioli are popular choices.

These fries offer a nice crunch and veggie boost to your burger meal. They’re also lower in calories than traditional potato fries.

8. Caesar Salad

Caesar salad is a classic side dish that goes great with burgers. You can easily make it at home with crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing.

For a twist, try adding grilled chicken to turn it into a heartier side. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for more flavor.

You can also use Caesar salad ingredients to top your burger. Add some chopped romaine, a drizzle of dressing, and a sprinkle of Parmesan directly on the patty.

This combo gives you a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich burger. It’s a tasty way to add greens to your meal.

9. Caprese Salad

Caprese salad makes a great side for burgers. This Italian classic combines fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil leaves.

Drizzle it with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. The salad’s light, refreshing taste balances the richness of your burger.

You can serve it on a plate or skewer the ingredients for easy eating. For a twist, try using cherry tomatoes or adding some avocado slices.

Caprese salad is quick to make and requires no cooking. It’s perfect for hot summer days when you want something cool with your burger.

10. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts make a tasty side for your burgers. Cut them in half, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes.

For extra flavor, add some minced garlic or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before roasting.

The high heat caramelizes the sprouts, giving them a crispy exterior and tender inside.

Serve these alongside your burger for a veggie boost. The slight bitterness of the sprouts pairs well with the savory meat. You can also drizzle them with balsamic glaze for a tangy twist.

11. Fried Pickles

Fried pickles are a tasty treat to serve with your burgers. You can make them easily at home with just a few ingredients.

Start by slicing dill pickles into chips or spears.

Dip the pickle pieces in a mixture of flour, eggs, and seasonings. Then coat them in breadcrumbs or cornmeal.

Fry the pickles in hot oil until they’re golden and crispy.

Serve your fried pickles hot with a side of ranch dressing or spicy mayo for dipping. They add a crunchy, tangy element that pairs well with juicy burgers.

12. Avocado Salad with Lime

This refreshing side dish pairs perfectly with burgers. You’ll love the creamy texture of ripe avocados mixed with tangy lime juice.

To make it, cube avocados and toss them with lime juice, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

For extra flavor, you can include diced tomatoes or bell peppers.

This salad offers a cool contrast to hot, juicy burgers. The lime juice helps keep the avocados from browning too quickly.

13. BBQ Baked Beans

BBQ baked beans are a perfect side dish for burgers. They bring a sweet and savory flavor that complements the meat nicely.

To make them, start by cooking ground beef with onions and mesquite seasoning. This adds depth to the dish.

Next, mix the beef with canned beans, barbecue sauce, and other seasonings. Bake the mixture in the oven until hot and bubbly.

The result is a hearty side that’s both filling and tasty. You can adjust the sweetness or spiciness to suit your tastes.

BBQ baked beans are easy to make in large batches, making them great for cookouts and parties.

14. Loaded Potato Skins

Loaded potato skins are a tasty side for burgers. You start with baked potato halves scooped out, leaving a thin layer of potato inside the skin.

Fill the skins with cheese, bacon bits, and green onions. Bake them again until the cheese melts and the edges get crispy.

You can customize the toppings to your liking. Try pulled pork, sour cream, or chives for variety.

For extra crispy skins, brush them with butter and spices before the second bake. This step adds flavor and crunch.

Potato skins pair well with burgers because they’re both fun finger foods. They add a nice contrast in texture to your meal.

15. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Buffalo cauliflower bites make a tasty vegetarian side for burgers. They offer a spicy kick that pairs well with the savory meat.

To make them, cut cauliflower into bite-sized pieces. Coat the pieces in a batter of milk, flour, oil, and spices. Bake them until crispy, then toss in buffalo sauce.

You can also prepare these in an air fryer for extra crispiness. Season with chili powder, garlic salt, and pepper before cooking.

Serve your buffalo cauliflower bites with a cooling dip like ranch or blue cheese dressing. This balances out the heat and adds richness to the dish.

16. Watermelon Cucumber Salad

Watermelon cucumber salad is a cool, refreshing side for your burgers. It’s perfect for hot summer days when you want something light and crisp.

To make this salad, you’ll need watermelon, cucumber, and some fresh mint leaves. Cut the watermelon and cucumber into bite-sized cubes.

Mix the fruits in a bowl and add torn mint leaves. For dressing, use a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

The salad offers a nice mix of textures. The watermelon is soft and juicy, while the cucumber adds a satisfying crunch. It’s a tasty way to balance out your burger meal.

17. Garlic Herb Mushrooms

Garlic herb mushrooms make a tasty side for burgers. They’re quick and easy to prepare.

Start by cleaning and slicing your mushrooms. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

Toss in minced garlic, chopped parsley, and thyme. Cook for another 30-60 seconds until fragrant.

These savory mushrooms pair well with beef, turkey, or veggie burgers. Their rich flavor complements the meat nicely.

18. Orzo Salad with Lemon

Orzo salad with lemon is a refreshing side dish for burgers. This pasta salad is light and tangy, perfect for summer cookouts.

To make it, cook orzo until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Mix the cooled orzo with lemon zest, lemon juice, and olive oil.

Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor. You can also include diced cucumber, tomatoes, or bell peppers for crunch.

For a protein boost, toss in some crumbled feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill the salad before serving alongside your burgers.

19. Chili Lime Corn Salad

This tasty side dish brings a zesty kick to your burger meal. Mix cooked corn kernels with diced bell peppers and red onions for crunch and color.

Whisk together a dressing of mayo, lime juice, chili powder, and cumin. Pour it over the corn mixture and toss well.

Add some chopped cilantro for freshness. The blend of tangy lime, spicy chili, and sweet corn complements burgers perfectly.

Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature. You can make it ahead of time and let the flavors meld in the fridge.

20. Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Spinach and artichoke dip is a tasty side for burgers. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with veggies.

To make it, mix cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Add chopped spinach and artichoke hearts. Stir in minced garlic for extra flavor.

Bake the dip in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly. Serve it warm alongside your burgers.

You can also use this dip as a burger topping. Spread it on your bun or stuff it inside the patty for a gooey surprise.

For a healthier twist, try using Greek yogurt instead of some of the cheese. This cuts calories without sacrificing flavor.

21. Classic French Fries

French fries are a perfect match for burgers. You can’t go wrong with this timeless combo.

Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, fries add a satisfying crunch to your meal.

You can season them simply with salt or get creative with spices. Try garlic powder, paprika, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

For a healthier twist, bake your fries in the oven or use an air fryer. These methods use less oil but still give you that crispy texture you crave.

Serve your fries hot and fresh for the best taste alongside your juicy burger.

22. Tangy Cucumber Salad

A tangy cucumber salad is a cool and refreshing side for your burgers. You can make it easily with just a few ingredients.

Slice cucumbers thinly and mix them with thinly sliced red onions.

For the dressing, combine vinegar, a touch of sugar, salt, and pepper.

Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and onions. Let it sit in the fridge for about an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to mix.

The crisp cucumbers and zesty dressing provide a nice contrast to your juicy burger. It’s a light and tasty option that won’t weigh you down.

23. Caramelized Onions

Caramelized onions make a tasty topping for burgers. To make them, you’ll need onions, butter, and salt.

Slice the onions thinly and cook them in a skillet over medium heat.

Stir the onions often as they cook. It takes about 20 minutes for them to turn golden brown and sweet. Add a splash of water if the pan gets too dry.

You can use white, yellow, or red onions. White onions have a stronger flavor. The butter helps them caramelize and adds richness.

Caramelized onions go well with cheese and bacon on burgers. They also taste great on steaks and sliders. You can make extra and store them in the fridge for a few days.

24. Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers are a tasty and easy side for your burger meal. You’ll need cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves.

Thread the ingredients onto small skewers or toothpicks. Start with a tomato, then add a folded basil leaf, and finish with a mozzarella ball.

Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle them with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.

Sprinkle some salt and pepper over the skewers before serving. These bite-sized treats offer a fresh, Italian-inspired complement to your burgers.

25. Lemon Parmesan Broccoli

Lemon Parmesan broccoli is a tasty side dish that pairs well with burgers. You can make it quickly and easily.

Steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp. Toss them with olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Add some minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

The bright lemon and savory Parmesan complement the broccoli’s natural flavor. This side dish adds a fresh, zesty element to your burger meal.

Pairing Principles

The right side dishes can make or break your burger experience.

Flavor balance and texture variety are key to creating the perfect burger meal.

Flavor Balancing

When picking sides for burgers, think about complementary flavors. Tangy coleslaw cuts through rich beef patties. Savory baked beans add depth to plain burgers. Sweet potato fries bring out the smokiness of grilled meat.

Mix light and heavy flavors. Pair a hearty cheeseburger with a crisp green salad. Match a spicy jalapeno burger with cooling potato salad.

Don’t forget about sauces. Offer ketchup, mustard, and mayo, but also try garlic aioli or chipotle ranch. These can bridge flavors between burgers and sides.

Texture Considerations

Texture variety keeps your burger meal interesting. Crispy onion rings contrast with soft buns. Crunchy pickles add snap to juicy patties. Creamy coleslaw balances chewy meat.

Mix up cooking methods. Serve grilled corn alongside fried zucchini chips. Pair cold pasta salad with hot, crispy fries.

Think about mouthfeel too. Smooth avocado slices complement rough-textured veggie burgers. Fluffy potato wedges balance dense meat patties.

Try these combos:

• Crispy + soft: Onion rings with sliders
• Crunchy + juicy: Pickle spears with cheeseburgers
• Creamy + chewy: Pasta salad with bacon burgers

Nutritional Insights

Burger sides can offer both nutritious and indulgent options. Making smart choices and controlling portion sizes can help balance your meal.

Healthier Options

You can boost the nutrition of your burger meal with some tasty sides.

Fresh salads add vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Try mixing greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers for a quick veggie boost.

Grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers are low in calories but high in flavor. Sweet potato fries give you more vitamins than regular fries. They’re especially rich in vitamin A.

For a protein-packed side, consider bean salads. Black beans or chickpeas mixed with herbs and a light dressing are filling and nutritious. Corn on the cob is another healthy choice. It provides fiber and is naturally sweet without added sugar.

Portion Control

Watching your portions is key when enjoying burger sides. Use smaller plates to help control serving sizes.

This trick can make your portions look bigger and more satisfying.

For fries or onion rings, stick to a small handful. These fried foods are high in calories and fat.

Share them with friends to enjoy the taste without overdoing it.

With creamy salads like coleslaw or potato salad, use a small scoop or spoon.

Try the “half plate” rule for a balanced meal. Fill half your plate with veggies, a quarter with your burger, and a quarter with a starchy side.

This approach helps you get a good mix of nutrients without overeating.