Grilling burgers is a beloved summer tradition, and pairing them with the perfect side dishes makes it even better. Consider classic potato salad, with its creamy texture and customizable ingredients. Grilled corn on the cob adds a smoky, caramelized twist. Healthier air fryer French fries offer a crunchy alternative, and coleslaw brings an invigorating crunch with tangy flavors. Don't forget sweet potato fries for a nutritious twist. Each of these sides complements the smoky savor of grilled burgers wonderfully. There's more to explore, with varied choices that will delight your guests and complete your outdoor feast.
Classic Potato Salad
Why is classic potato salad a favored companion for burgers on the grill?
This traditional side dish, made from boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, celery, and seasonings, complements the smoky flavors of grilled burgers perfectly. Popular at summer cookouts, it provides a creamy, satisfying contrast.
Additionally, classic potato salad can be customized with ingredients like hard-boiled eggs, pickles, onions, or bacon for added flavor.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob, with its charred and smoky flavor, is a quintessential side dish for summer barbecues.
This summer side enhances the natural sweetness of the corn, while the grilling process caramelizes its sugars, adding depth to its flavor and texture.
Seasoned with butter, herbs, or spices, this versatile grilled vegetable complements a variety of outdoor meals perfectly.
Air Fryer French Fries
Air Fryer French Fries provide a healthier and equally delicious alternative to traditional deep-fried fries, making them an excellent side dish for grilled burgers.
Using an air fryer reduces calorie and fat content while achieving a crispy texture.
Seasoned with cumin and cayenne pepper, these fries offer a flavorful twist, making them a quick, convenient, and guilt-free accompaniment to your burger nights.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a classic side dish that features shredded cabbage and carrots in a creamy dressing. It offers an invigorating crunch that perfectly complements the savory richness of grilled burgers. Ideal for BBQs and outdoor gatherings, coleslaw combines mayonnaise and vinegar for a deliciously tangy flavor.
Its easy preparation and ability to stay fresh in the refrigerator make it a convenient and popular choice.
Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries serve as a nutritious and flavorful alternative to traditional fries, enhancing any burger meal with their unique taste and health benefits.
Easily prepared in an air fryer or oven, these fries can be seasoned with spices like cumin, paprika, or cinnamon, offering a versatile flavor profile.
Paired with grilled burgers, sweet potato fries make for a delightful and nutritious side dish.
Greek Chickpea Salad
Greek Chickpea Salad offers a revitalizing and nutritious side dish that perfectly complements grilled burgers.
This Mediterranean salad combines chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese, creating a delightful mix rich in protein and fiber.
A tangy dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs adds zest and flavor, making this healthy option a lighter alternative to traditional sides, ideal for outdoor gatherings.
Baked Beans
Baked beans, a quintessential BBQ side dish, offer a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors that pair seamlessly with grilled burgers.
This classic and flavorful side dish, made with beans, tomato sauce, brown sugar, and spices, is a hearty and comforting addition to any BBQ.
Easy to prepare, baked beans can be customized for added flavor, making them a versatile accompaniment.
Onion Rings
While baked beans provide a comforting, hearty complement to grilled burgers, onion rings introduce a delightful crunch and savory flavor that elevates the BBQ experience.
These deep-fried, crispy delights are a popular classic side dish at family gatherings and restaurants alike.
With endless side dish recipes to explore, onion rings add a satisfying texture that perfectly pairs with juicy, grilled burgers.
Caprese Pasta Salad
Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant and invigorating side dish that perfectly complements the hearty flavors of grilled burgers. Featuring cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, this seasonal salad is ideal for summer cookouts.
Its vibrant colors and fresh, juicy ingredients add a rejuvenating element to your meal. This delicious twist on a classic Caprese salad will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
Cucumber Salad
How can you elevate your summer cookout with a side dish that's both invigorating and simple to prepare? Try a cucumber salad, a fresh and easy-to-make summer salad.
Combine sliced cucumbers, red onion, garlic powder, and olive oil for a cool, crisp treat.
As one of the best side dishes for burgers, it balances the warm, savory flavors perfectly.
Macaroni and Cheese
Why not elevate your burger cookout with a side of macaroni and cheese, a timeless comfort food that complements the smoky flavors of grilled burgers perfectly?
This creamy, gooey side dish features tender macaroni pasta enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, often baked for a crispy top layer. Loved by all ages, macaroni and cheese adds an indulgent, satisfying touch to any barbecue.
Grilled Vegetables
While macaroni and cheese brings a creamy comfort to your barbecue, grilled vegetables offer a fresh and vibrant contrast that enhances the meal's overall flavor profile.
Grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, corn on the cob, eggplant, and mushrooms gain a smoky char that pairs perfectly with burgers. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper to elevate their natural flavors, providing a healthy and colorful side dish.
Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad serves as a nutritious and protein-packed side dish that perfectly complements grilled burgers. This healthy, gluten-free option features cooked quinoa mixed with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers.
Dressed with a tangy vinaigrette, it provides an invigorating contrast to the hearty flavors of grilled burgers, making it an ideal side for those seeking a lighter, flavorful choice.
Fried Zucchini
Fried zucchini offers a crispy and flavorful side dish that brings a unique twist to traditional burger accompaniments. These zucchini sticks, coated in seasoned batter and fried to perfection, provide a satisfying crunch similar to that of Air Fryer French fries or crunchy onion rings.
A delightful alternative to potato sides, they pair well with fresh corn and sweet onion flavors, enhancing any summer cookout.
Are the Best Side Dishes for Bison Burgers the Same as for Regular Burgers?
When it comes to the best side dishes for bison burgers, the options are similar to those for regular burgers. Classic choices like crispy fries, onion rings, or a fresh garden salad all pair well with the hearty flavors of bison. Grilled vegetables or sweet potato fries are also great options to complement bison burgers.
Green Bean Salad
Green bean salad is a versatile and invigorating side dish that complements grilled burgers perfectly. It features a combination of fresh green beans, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese, all tossed in a tangy vinaigrette dressing. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this salad not only enhances the dining experience but also provides a nutritious option.
Easy to prepare ahead, the green bean salad is ideal for outdoor grilling gatherings.