If you’re looking to elevate your hamburger meal, I’ve got some amazing side dish suggestions for you. Air fryer French fries and baked potato wedges are always a hit. For something different, try grilled veggie kabobs or roasted cauliflower steaks. Air fryer broccoli adds a nice crunch, while instant pot baked beans bring a sweet touch. Don’t forget about creamed corn and grilled portobello mushrooms to satisfy every taste bud. Stick around, and you’ll discover even more irresistible options!
1. Air Fryer French Fries
Although I love a good burger, there’s nothing quite like pairing it with crispy, homemade air fryer French fries. I use russet potatoes, cut them into 1/4-inch pieces, and soak them in water to remove excess starch. After preheating the air fryer, I cook them for 10-15 minutes, tossing them with olive oil and seasonings for extra flavor. It’s important to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for optimal crispiness. Enjoy them fresh!
2. Baked Potato Wedges
Baked potato wedges are a fantastic side dish that perfectly complements any burger.
I love using Russet potatoes, cutting them into evenly sized wedges, and soaking them for about 20 minutes. Tossing them in olive oil and seasoning with garlic, onion powder, and parmesan adds great flavor. Using russet potatoes ensures the best results for a crispy texture.
Baking them at 400°F until golden brown creates a crispy delight that pairs wonderfully with dipping sauces!
3. Grilled Veggie Kabobs
When I fire up the grill for burgers, I can’t resist adding grilled veggie kabobs to the mix. I toss sweet onions, zucchini, bell peppers, pineapple, and mushrooms onto skewers, drizzling them with olive oil and seasoning with garlic powder and oregano. Grilled Veggie Kabobs can be prepped ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making them a convenient side dish. Grilling them for 10-20 minutes gives that perfect char. They’re a colorful, flavorful complement to any burger!
4. Roasted Cauliflower Steaks
Grilled veggie kabobs are a fantastic addition to any barbecue, but roasted cauliflower steaks bring a unique twist to the table. I love using two medium heads of cauliflower, drizzling them with olive oil, and seasoning with garlic powder and paprika. Two cauliflower heads are necessary to account for any florets that may fall apart during slicing. Roasting at 425°F for about 30 minutes results in tender, flavorful steaks, perfect for pairing with burgers and impressing guests!
5. Air Fryer Broccoli
Air fryer broccoli is a quick and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with hamburgers. I simply toss fresh broccoli florets in olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. After preheating the air fryer to 350°F, I cook them for 7 to 10 minutes, shaking halfway through. The result? Tender, crispy broccoli that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor! Frozen broccoli should not be thawed before air frying for optimal crispiness.
6. Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a fantastic side dish that can elevate your hamburger experience. I love trimming and halving them before roasting at 425 degrees for about 25 minutes. Sautéing with garlic in a cast iron pan adds a wonderful caramelization. Roasted Brussels sprouts are not only flavorful but also a great addition to any meal. Toss in some toasted pecans for crunch, and drizzle with balsamic vinegar for a tangy finish. They’re nutritious and simply delicious!
7. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that perfectly complements a juicy hamburger. I love using a mix of green and purple cabbage, adding carrots for color. A tangy dressing with mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar makes it creamy and flavorful. With its low calories and high vitamin C content, it’s a healthy choice that enhances any barbecue spread. Homemade coleslaw is healthier than store-bought options, making it an excellent addition to your meal. Enjoy!
8. Zucchini Salad
Zucchini salad is a fantastic side dish that adds a fresh, vibrant touch to any hamburger meal.
I love slicing small green zucchini and yellow summer squash into ribbons, marinating them in lemon juice, garlic, and salt. This salad features paper-thin slices of raw zucchini that maintain a delightful crunch. After a few hours, I drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle feta or pine nuts for extra flavor.
It’s refreshing and simply delicious!
9. Avocado Salad
While a classic hamburger is always satisfying, I find that avocado salad elevates the meal with its creamy texture and vibrant flavors. To make it, I combine diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions in a bowl. A drizzle of olive oil, vinegar, and lemon juice ties it all together. It’s fresh, healthy, and complements burgers perfectly! This salad is made with fresh ingredients and is ideal for serving immediately after preparation.
10. Baked Macaroni and Cheese
When I want to take my hamburgers to the next level, I often whip up a creamy baked macaroni and cheese. I boil elbow macaroni until al dente, then make a rich cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and various cheeses. After combining everything, I bake it until bubbly and golden. Boiling macaroni is crucial to achieving the perfect texture, making it the perfect, indulgent side that complements my burgers beautifully!
11. Tater Tots
Tater tots are one of my go-to side dishes that elevate any burger meal. I love using russet potatoes, shredded and seasoned with garlic and onion powder. Whether I deep-fry, bake, or air fry them, they always come out crispy and delicious. Plus, I can customize the flavors easily. Homemade tater tots are easy to make topped with fresh parsley, they’re simply irresistible alongside a juicy burger!
12. Instant Pot Baked Beans
Instant Pot baked beans are a fantastic side dish that perfectly complements any hamburger meal. I love using dry navy or pinto beans, cooking them quickly without soaking. These beans are cooked to tender perfection with a sweet and smokey sauce that enhances their flavor. After sautéing bacon and veggies, I mix in BBQ sauce, mustard, and spices. Just 10-15 minutes in the Instant Pot gives me creamy, flavorful beans that everyone enjoys at our BBQs!
13. Creamed Corn
Baked beans make a great pairing with hamburgers, but creamed corn adds a delightful twist to any meal. I love using fresh or frozen corn, combined with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese for richness. Cooking it’s simple—just make a roux or a slurry, season, and stir until creamy. It’s a flavorful side that’s perfect for barbecues and family gatherings! Creamed Corn is a simple side dish made of corn kernels in a creamy sauce that everyone will enjoy.
14. Portobello Mushrooms
While hamburgers are often the star of the show, portobello mushrooms can steal the spotlight as a hearty and flavorful side dish.
With just 18.5 calories each and packed with protein and antioxidants, they’re a nutritious choice.
I love marinating them in soy sauce and grilling for a smoky flavor. Grilled portobello mushrooms offer a unique texture that complements any meal.
Serve them on toasted buns with toppings for a delightful twist!
15. Tempura Vegetables
When I think about elevating a hamburger meal, tempura vegetables come to mind as an irresistible side dish. I love using sweet potatoes, broccoli, and green beans, coated in a light batter and fried to crispy perfection. Shallow frying allows for a delightful crunch while ensuring the veggies are cooked evenly. Dipping them in a savory soy sauce or a zesty Tentsuyu sauce adds an extra layer of flavor, making each bite absolutely delightful!
