Best 7 Burger Sides You Will Want to Try

Burgers are great, but let’s be honest here —half the fun of it is in the sides!

Whether you’re grilling up a classic cheeseburger, a juicy veggie burger, or a spicy chicken sandwich, the right side dish takes your meal to the next level.

We’re talking about crispy fries, fresh slaws, creamy dips, and everything in between here.

Here are some of the best burger sides and how to make them at home!

1. Classic Crispy French Fries

Because what’s a burger without fries? These homemade fries are golden, crunchy, and way better than fast food.

What You’ll Need:

• 3 large russet potatoes

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for extra crispiness)

• 3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

How to Make It:

1. Prep the Potatoes – Peel (or leave the skin on for rustic fries) and cut into thin strips. Soak in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.

2. Dry and Coat – Drain and pat dry completely. Toss with cornstarch to help crisp them up.

3. Fry in Batches – Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potatoes in small batches for 3–4 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and drain.

4. Double Fry for Extra Crispiness – Increase heat to 375°F (190°C) and fry again for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.

5. Season and Serve – Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Enjoy with ketchup, aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce!

2. Sweet Potato Fries

A slightly healthier alternative to regular fries with a hint of natural sweetness.

What You’ll Need:

• 2 large sweet potatoes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make It:

1. Cut into Fries – Slice sweet potatoes into even strips.

2. Toss with Seasoning – Coat with olive oil, cornstarch, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Bake or Air Fry – Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway. Or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes.

4. Serve – Best with a spicy mayo or honey mustard dip!

3. Crispy Onion Rings

Golden, crunchy, and just the right amount of salty!

What You’ll Need:

• 2 large onions, sliced into rings

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 egg

• 1 cup milk (or buttermilk)

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• Oil for frying

How to Make It:

1. Prep the Onions – Slice onions into thick rings and separate them.

2. Make the Batter – Mix flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. In another bowl, whisk the egg and milk.

3. Coat and Bread – Dip each ring in flour, then into the egg mixture, then into panko breadcrumbs.

4. Fry – Heat oil to 375°F (190°C) and fry rings in batches for 2–3 minutes per side.

5. Serve – Drain on paper towels and serve with ranch or a spicy dip!

4. Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges

These are thick, crispy, and loaded with flavor.

What You’ll Need:

• 3 large russet potatoes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make It:

1. Cut into Wedges – Slice potatoes into thick wedges.

2. Season – Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.

3. Bake – Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. Add Parmesan – Sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley right before serving.

5. Creamy Coleslaw

A cool, tangy slaw balances out a rich burger perfectly.

What You’ll Need:

• 3 cups shredded cabbage (green or mixed with purple)

• 1/2 cup shredded carrots

• 1/2 cup mayo (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make It:

1. Mix the Dressing – Combine mayo, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper.

2. Toss the Veggies – Add cabbage and carrots, tossing to coat.

3. Chill & Serve – Let it sit for 20 minutes before serving to absorb the flavors.

6. Grilled Corn on the Cob

A smoky, slightly sweet side that pairs beautifully with a juicy burger.

What You’ll Need:

• 4 ears of corn

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

How to Make It:

1. Preheat the Grill – Heat to medium-high.

2. Brush Corn with Butter – Coat each ear with butter, salt, pepper, and chili powder.

3. Grill – Cook for 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally until slightly charred.

4. Serve – Enjoy with extra butter or a sprinkle of cotija cheese.

7. Baked Mac and Cheese Bites

Cheesy, creamy, and bite-sized—perfect for snacking.

What You’ll Need:

• 2 cups cooked macaroni

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1 egg

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

How to Make It:

1. Mix Everything – Combine macaroni, cheese, milk, egg, and salt.

2. Scoop into Muffin Tin – Fill a greased mini muffin tin with the mixture.

3. Top with Breadcrumbs – Sprinkle with breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.

4. Bake – Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.

Final Thoughts

The right side dish makes a good burger even better. Whether you go for crispy fries, crunchy onion rings, or a refreshing slaw, these sides will take your burger night to the next level.

Try one (or more) of these recipes, and let me know which one’s your favorite!