Flipping some patties tonight? Serve them with these sides for burgers that go way beyond fries, with recipes for pasta salads, beans, air-fried vegetables and more.
I love making topping-loaded burgers for dinner, especially once spring comes around and I can finally clean off the grill. But in the spirit of keeping weeknight dinners somewhat healthy, I can’t serve a mountain of fries on the side every time I make burgers (no matter how much I love baked sweet potato fries).
As it turns out, there are plenty of sides for burgers that go beyond a simple mountain of fries. Salads loaded with hearty vegetables, like potato salads, corn salads, pasta salads and cucumber salads, are among the best sides for burgers and keep well in the fridge for days (who doesn’t love make-ahead salads?). On hot summer days, I’ll whip up light leafy green summer salads, like a Caesar salad or an Olive Garden salad dupe, then leave off the romaine on the burger.
Some other days, though, call for stick-to-your-bones sides for burgers. Baked beans are a go-to for me, so expect plenty of baked bean recipes in here, plus roasted or grilled veggies, homemade chips, battered onion rings, breaded zucchini fries, hush puppies and grilled corn on the cob. No matter how many times you whip up burger recipes throughout the year, keep dinner interesting by changing the sides with the seasons.
1/30
Fresh Corn Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
People who prefer food with some tang find this corn salad particularly appealing. It's a pretty dish, too, and very economical. If you are like me and enjoy growing your own ingredients, you won't have to pick up much at the store. —Carol Shaffer, Cape Girardeau, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 102 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 251mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1/2 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
2/30
Onion Rings
From the Recipe Creator:
We use this onion rings recipe as a burger topper to add an extra element to already fantastic burgers. These onion rings are also perfect for giving your salads a little crunch. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 71 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 153mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
3/30
Homemade Baked Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
These hearty homemade baked beans are a super side dish for a casual meal. The ingredients blend perfectly for a wonderful from-scratch taste. The old-fashioned flavor will have people standing in line for more. —Jesse and Anne Foust, Bluefield, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 154 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 269mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 7g fiber), 7g protein.
4/30
Corn Ribs
From the Recipe Creator:
The weather is warming up, and that means it's time to pull out the grills! This corn ribs recipe contains notes of garlic, onion, mild heat from cayenne pepper and a zesty spritz of lime—the perfect addition to your upcoming summer barbecue. —Bill Roberts, Geneva, Illinois
5/30
Crunchy Cucumber and Fennel Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I created this when my herbs were overflowing. It makes for a refreshing, crunchy salad to enjoy on those hot summer days. I use an English cucumber because of its mild flavor, but other types can be used as well. —Margee Berry, White Salmon, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 20 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 349mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
6/30
Sheet-Pan Sweet Potato Ribbons
From the Recipe Creator:
Sweet potato ribbons are a fun, whimsical twist on traditional roasted sweet potatoes. Because they're bathed in an herby garlic butter, they never last long on the dinner table in our house. —Lauren Habermehl, Pewaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 319 calories, 24g fat (12g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 604mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein.
7/30
Dill Pickle Potato Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This creamy dill pickle potato salad makes a flavorful and attractive addition to a Fourth of July picnic or a church supper. —Nancy Holland, Morgan Hill, California
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 415 calories, 30g fat (5g saturated fat), 139mg cholesterol, 677mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein.
8/30
Easy Caesar Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Fans of Caesar salad will find the dressing used in this tasty version one of the best. My sister, Jan, developed this Caesar salad recipe and was nice enough to share her secret with me. —Dianne Nash, Kaslo, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 73 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 126mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
9/30
Grilled Corn in Husks
From the Recipe Creator:
If you’re new to grilled corn in the husk, season the ears with butter, Parmesan cheese and parsley. It’s especially good! Be sure to give the corn a long soak before putting it on the grill. Hot off the grate, the kernels are moist and tender with a wonderful, sweet flavor. —Nancy Zimmerman, Cape May Court House, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 ear grilled corn: 196 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 186mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 4g fiber), 8g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 fat.
10/30
Bow Tie Pasta Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This classic picnic pasta salad has it all: fresh and bright cherry tomatoes, crisp red peppers, red onion and parsley tossed with al dente bow tie pasta, salty olives, savory salami and provolone in a tangy homemade Italian dressing. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 204 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 326mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
11/30
Grilled Mushrooms
From the Recipe Creator:
Mushrooms cooked over hot coals always taste good, but this easy recipe makes them taste fantastic. As a mother of two children, I love to cook entire meals on the grill. It's fun spending time outdoors with the kids. —Melanie Knoll, Marshalltown, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 skewer: 77 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 230mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
12/30
Homemade Tater Tots
From the Recipe Creator:
If you love Tater Tots and use them as a crunchy topping for Tater Tot hot dishes and casseroles, the next step is making your own from scratch. It’s a surprisingly simple process, and once you master the basic technique, you can make these homemade Tater Tots your own! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
6 tater tots: 173 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 324mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein.
13/30
Creamy Coleslaw
From the Recipe Creator:
For me, this is the best coleslaw recipe because a package of shredded cabbage and carrots really cuts down on prep time. This coleslaw recipe is great for potlucks or to serve to your family on a busy weeknight. —Renee Endress, Galva, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 256 calories, 23g fat (5g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 398mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein.
14/30
Ranch-Style Beans
From the Recipe Creator:
This ranch-style beans recipe is served at all our barbecues. It seems most people who live here like spicy, flavorful food, and this fits the bill just right. —Wilma Ruth James, Ranger, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 226 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 345mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 10g fiber), 14g protein.
Editor’s Tip: If you’re hosting a party and it’s time to plan the menu, you could order a party sub or serve these amazing slider recipes!
15/30
Potluck Mac and Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
You'll always have a winner at the potluck when you bring macaroni and cheese. Here's an extra-rich, creamy version for the slow cooker. —Jennifer Blondek, Chicopee, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 388 calories, 28g fat (17g saturated fat), 122mg cholesterol, 652mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 0 fiber), 17g protein.
16/30
Grilled Broccoli
From the Recipe Creator:
I started using this recipe in 1987 when I began cooking light. With its lemon and Parmesan flavors, it's been a favorite side dish ever since, and it once took second place in a cooking contest. —Alice Nulle, Woodstock, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 107 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 304mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
17/30
Tomato Cobbler
From the Recipe Creator:
I make this recipe during the height of summer, when tomatoes are abundant and super flavorful. The topping is a cross between that of a crisp and a cobbler. It's a delightful way to use up fresh garden produce. —Mohammad Abdullah, Fremont, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 217 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 543mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein.
18/30
Air-Fryer Potato Chips
From the Recipe Creator:
For Christmas one year, I received an air fryer. Potato chips are simple to make in it and are an essential, crispy side for lunch. —Melissa Obernesser, Oriskany, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 148 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 252mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 4g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch.
19/30
Cherry Tomato Pasta with Avocado Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
Heart-healthy avocado makes this pasta dish feel indulgent without being overly rich. The flavorful sauce is so luscious, you’ll think there is cream hiding in there. It’s guilt-free and dairy-free, but with a texture and consistency that’s similar to traditional cream-based sauces. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 314 calories, 18g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 125mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 5g fiber), 9g protein.
20/30
Grilled Vegetable Platter
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe is the best of summer in one dish! These pretty veggies are perfect for entertaining. Grilling brings out their natural sweetness, and the easy marinade really perks up the flavor. —Heidi Hall, North St. Paul, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 144 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 50mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 2 fat.
Discover more recipes like this that are perfect for Fourth of July side dishes.
21/30
Air-Fryer Zucchini Chips
From the Recipe Creator:
Crispy, crunchy, yummy and healthy? These zucchini chips check all the boxes! Simply cut zucchinis into rounds, toss them in some light oil and seasoning, air-fry them and voila—you have a delicious snack. —Anvita Bhatnagar Mistry, Chantilly, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 47 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 156mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
22/30
Copycat Olive Garden Salad and Dressing
From the Recipe Creator:
Make your favorite Olive Garden salad at home in just 20 minutes with this fresh and creamy recipe. This copycat recipe is sweet, tangy and textured, just like the original. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 270 calories, 25g fat (4g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 831mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
23/30
Orzo Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I’m always looking for fun ways to use the fresh veggies that come in my Community Supported Agriculture box, and this summer orzo salad is one of my favorite creations. I like to improvise with whatever I have on hand, so feel free to do the same here! —Shayna Marmar, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 291 calories, 15g fat (4g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 501mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 11g protein.
24/30
Zucchini Fries
From the Recipe Creator:
These aren't anything like potato fries—in a good way! They are air-fried to crispy perfection and oh, so flavorful. Enjoy them as an appetizer or a low-carb alternative to french fries. Don't have an air fryer? You can convection-bake for the same time. —Jen Pahl, West Allis, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 91 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 52mg cholesterol, 389mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
25/30
Air-Fryer Hush Puppies
From the Recipe Creator:
Crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside, these fried fritters are the perfect companion for a seafood night. Using diced jalapenos can add an extra kick. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 69 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 183mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
26/30
Classic Macaroni Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
This classic macaroni salad recipe is a refreshingly light take on an all-time favorite. It’s perfect for a fast weeknight dinner or a festive weekend barbecue. —Dorothy Bayes, Sardis, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 115 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 362mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch.
27/30
Summer Squash and Zucchini Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
I came up with this colorful, tasty zucchini salad years ago for a recipe contest and was delighted when I won honorable mention! The recipe easily doubles and is the perfect dish to take to potlucks or family gatherings. —Paula Wharton, El Paso, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 101 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 124mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
28/30
Air-Fryer Smashed Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Smashed baby Yukon Gold potatoes combine the creamy texture of boiled potatoes with the golden crunch of roasted ones. These are also delightfully customizable—dress them up with herbs or spices, or load them up with cheese, sour cream and bacon. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 243 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 611mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein.
29/30
Esquites
From the Recipe Creator:
We discovered Mexican street corn at a festival. This easy one-pan version saves on prep and cleanup. Every August I freeze a lot of our own fresh sweet corn and then I use that in this recipe, but store-bought corn works just as well. —Erin Wright, Wallace, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 252 calories, 21g fat (4g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 259mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
30/30
Roasted Radishes
From the Recipe Creator:
Radishes aren't just for salads anymore. Roasted radishes makes a colorful side to any meal. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 88 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0mg cholesterol, 165mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1-1/2 fat.
Sides for Burgers FAQ
What sides make burgers feel like a complete meal?
Sides that make burgers feel like a complete meal are produce-heavy options that balance the meat- and carb-heavy main. Serve your burgers with sides that are packed with veggies, like pasta salads, potato salads, leafy greens, grilled or roasted vegetables, corn on the cob, Tater Tots, coleslaw, veggie chips or slow-cooked baked beans. You could also serve a crudites platter with cold dips like a dirty martini dip or French onion dip.
What kind of salad goes with burgers?
There are two types of salads that go with burgers: leafy green salads and salads loaded with hearty veggies. Leafy green salads that pair well with burgers include a Caesar salad, a couscous-loaded summer salad, our beloved that good salad or a spinach salad with berries. For those who prefer heartier salads, try a corn salad, potato salad, cucumber salad, panzanella salad, Caprese salad (we love this peach Caprese salad variation!) or balsamic green bean salad.
What are easy sides for burgers that can be made ahead?
Easy sides for burgers that can be made ahead are corn salad, pasta salad, coleslaw, summer squash and zucchini salad, and esquites. These take barely any time to cook (if any at all) and are hearty enough to sit in the fridge overnight without losing their integrity. You can also get a head start on other sides by making vinaigrettes, cutting vegetables or measuring out ingredients beforehand.
