23 Best Side Dishes For Hamburgers: Easy & Delicious Pairing For Burger Night

Best Side Dishes for Hamburgers can turn a good burger night into an unforgettable feast.

There’s nothing better than biting into a juicy, flavorful hamburger, but the real magic happens when it’s paired with the perfect side.

In this guide to the 23 Best Side Dishes for Hamburgers, you’ll find easy, delicious options for every occasion whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, planning a family dinner, or simply enjoying a casual weekend meal.

These sides are quick to make, crowd-pleasing, and versatile enough to match any burger style, from classic beef patties to chicken, turkey, or veggie burgers.

Best Side Dishes For Hamburgers

When it comes to finding the best side dishes for hamburgers, think about balance.

A juicy, savory burger pairs beautifully with something crunchy, creamy, or fresh.

While fries and onion rings are classics, don’t be afraid to try salads, grilled veggies, or even a light pasta dish.

The key is to choose flavors that complement, not compete with, your burger.

1. Crispy French Fries

Nothing says “burger night” quite like a generous pile of crispy French fries.

Perfectly golden on the outside and soft, fluffy on the inside, they’re the ultimate comfort food pairing for a juicy hamburger.

Whether you deep-fry, bake, or air fry them, the key is seasoning them while they’re hot so every bite is flavorful.

Serve with classic ketchup, creamy mayo, or get creative with garlic aioli, spicy sriracha, or cheese sauce.

2. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a slightly healthier and more colorful twist on the classic fry.

Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory flavor of a burger, creating a perfect balance.

You can bake or air fry them for a lighter version, or deep fry for an indulgent treat.

Sprinkle with smoked paprika, chili powder, or even a dash of cinnamon-sugar for a unique flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

3. Onion Rings

Crispy, golden onion rings bring a satisfying crunch and a hint of sweetness that complement the richness of a hamburger.

Thick slices of onion are dipped in a light batter or breadcrumb coating, then fried until they’re irresistibly crunchy.

They’re delicious as a side, but you can also layer them inside your burger for an extra punch of flavor and texture.

4. Coleslaw

Cool, crunchy, and tangy, coleslaw is the perfect refreshing contrast to a hot, juicy burger.

Creamy mayonnaise-based coleslaw delivers classic comfort, while vinegar-based slaw offers a lighter, zesty option.

You can add extras like shredded carrots, purple cabbage, or even apple slices for more texture and flavor.

Serve it alongside your burger, or pile it right on top for a satisfying crunch in every bite.

5. Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salad is a creamy, chilled pasta dish that’s a classic choice for picnics, BBQs, and, of course, burger night.

The tender pasta is coated in a flavorful dressing often made with mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings- then tossed with extras like diced celery, peppers, and hard-boiled eggs for added texture.

It’s the perfect make-ahead side dish that tastes even better after chilling in the fridge, letting all the flavors meld together.

6. Corn on the Cob

Sweet, juicy corn on the cob is a summertime favorite that pairs beautifully with hamburgers.

You can grill it for a smoky, charred flavor, boil it for a tender bite, or roast it for extra caramelization.

Brushing the corn with melted butter and sprinkling it with salt is a classic approach, but you can also try seasonings like paprika, chili powder, parmesan cheese, or even a squeeze of lime for a zesty twist.

7. Potato Wedges

Potato wedges are hearty, thick-cut potato pieces that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

They’re a bit more substantial than regular fries, making them perfect for scooping up sauces or dips alongside your burger.

Season them simply with salt and pepper, or go bold with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and herbs for extra flavor.

Baking or air frying keeps them lighter without losing that satisfying crunch.

8. Baked Beans

Baked beans are a warm, comforting side that brings a sweet and smoky flavor to your burger meal.

Made with tender beans simmered in a sauce of molasses, brown sugar, and spices (sometimes with smoky bacon for extra richness), they add a hearty touch to the plate.

They’re especially great for BBQs and outdoor gatherings, and their saucy goodness is perfect for dipping bread or fries.

9. Caesar Salad

Caesar salad is a crisp, refreshing side that pairs perfectly with the richness of a hamburger.

Made with crunchy romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, it’s both light and flavorful.

For extra freshness, you can add cherry tomatoes or avocado slices. Its tangy, garlicky dressing cuts through the heaviness of a burger, making every bite feel balanced.

10. Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is a colorful, versatile side dish that works well for any burger night.

Typically served cold, it features cooked pasta tossed with fresh vegetables, cheese, olives, and a light vinaigrette or creamy dressing.

You can customize it with seasonal ingredients or add a protein like grilled chicken for a heartier side.

11. Pickles

Tangy, crunchy, and bursting with flavor, pickles are one of the easiest and most classic sides for hamburgers.

Whether you prefer dill, bread-and-butter, or spicy pickles, they add a refreshing contrast to the rich, meaty flavors of a burger.

Serve them on the side, or tuck them into the bun for an extra punch in every bite.

12. Garlic Bread

Warm, buttery garlic bread isn’t just for pasta—it makes a surprisingly delicious side for hamburgers too.

Crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, each slice is infused with garlicky goodness and sometimes topped with herbs or melted cheese.

Serve it alongside your burger for a hearty, indulgent addition to the meal.

13. Tater Tots

Tater tots are a fun and nostalgic side that pairs perfectly with hamburgers.

These bite-sized potato puffs are crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, making them ideal for dipping into ketchup, cheese sauce, or even ranch.

You can bake, fry, or air fry them, and season with a little garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor. They’re a hit with kids and adults alike.

14. Caprese Salad

Caprese salad is a light, fresh side that adds a burst of color and flavor to burger night.

Made with slices of ripe tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, it’s drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness.

This simple Italian classic balances out a savory burger with its fresh, bright flavors.

15. Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables bring a smoky, slightly charred flavor that complements the richness of a hamburger.

Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and asparagus are all great choices. Brush them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and herbs before grilling for maximum flavor.

They’re healthy, colorful, and make the plate look extra appetizing.

16. Chips and Guacamole

Crispy tortilla chips paired with creamy, flavorful guacamole make for a casual yet satisfying burger side.

The guacamole, made with ripe avocados, lime juice, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, adds a fresh, tangy element to the meal.

It’s perfect for parties or casual get-togethers where guests can snack between bites of their burger.

17. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a flavorful, nutrient-packed side that brings a deliciously crispy texture to your plate.

When roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper, they develop a caramelized exterior and a tender inside.

You can add balsamic glaze, garlic, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor. Their slightly nutty, savory taste pairs surprisingly well with the juicy richness of a hamburger.

18. Fried Pickles

Fried pickles are a Southern-inspired treat that combines tangy, juicy pickles with a crunchy, golden coating.

Perfect for dipping in ranch, spicy mayo, or barbecue sauce, they add a fun, zesty kick to burger night.

You can use dill pickle chips or spears, and they’re just as good baked in the oven for a lighter version.

19. Waffle Fries

Waffle fries are a playful twist on classic fries, with a crisscross cut that makes them extra crispy and perfect for holding onto dips.

Their larger surface area means more seasoning and crunch in every bite.

They’re especially delicious with cheese sauce, chili, or seasoned salt for a little extra punch.

20. Garden Salad

A fresh garden salad is the perfect way to add a light, crisp element to a burger meal.

Filled with lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and carrots, it’s a simple yet refreshing side.

Dress it with a vinaigrette for tanginess or creamy ranch for richness. The cool crunch of the vegetables balances out the heartiness of a burger beautifully.

21. Mozzarella Sticks

Mozzarella sticks are a cheesy, indulgent side that’s always a crowd favorite.

Crispy on the outside with a gooey, melted cheese center, they’re perfect for dipping in marinara sauce or ranch.

Their rich, savory flavor makes them a fun and satisfying complement to a juicy hamburger, especially for a comfort-food style meal.

22. Potato Salad

Potato salad is a creamy, hearty side that pairs wonderfully with burgers, especially during summer BBQs and picnics.

Made with tender boiled potatoes, mayonnaise (or a tangy mustard-based dressing), and extras like celery, onions, and herbs, it’s flavorful and filling.

Serve it chilled for a refreshing contrast to hot-off-the-grill burgers.

23. Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a bite-sized, flavorful side that adds a touch of elegance to a burger spread.

Made by filling boiled egg halves with a creamy, seasoned yolk mixture often featuring mustard, mayo, and paprika, they’re rich, tangy, and satisfying.

They’re easy to make ahead, making them perfect for parties or casual gatherings.

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Summary

Hamburgers are the star of the show, but the right side dish can take your meal to the next level.

Whether you go for classic fries, a fresh salad, or something cheesy and indulgent, these best side dishes for hamburgers that will keep your burger night exciting and delicious.

Mix and match for variety, and you’ll never run out of tasty pairings.