Best Sides to Serve with Burgers and Hot Dogs
If you ask me, there really is nothing better than a good burger and hot dog night! They're such classics and my go-to on those busy weeknights when I can't decide what to cook for dinner. But the one thing I love most when I whip up a tasty burger or hot dog are the sides that I get to pair them with.
I've put together some of my favorite sides to pair with burgers and hot dogs. You'll find a wide variety here—from different styles of fries and fresh salads to potato sides, veggie sides, and appetizer-style sides. I'm so excited to share them with you!
Why You'll Love These Side Dishes!
I have a little something for everyone in this list :) I've included both indulgent and healthier options, so there's something no matter what kind of mood you're in! Many of these dishes are perfect for serving a crowd as well, just in case you're looking for a side dish for a cookout or a family dinner. You'll love that each dish is full of flavor, easy to prepare, and turns your burger or hot dog into a delicious meal.
Fries:
Fries are probably the most classic pairing for burgers. Here are some different fry variations on classic french fries to mix things up:
Air Fryer Avocado Fries: Creamy, crispy, golden avocado fries coated in panko breadcrumbs—if you've never tried these before, you're definitely missing out!
Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries: These zucchini fries have such a nice crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender zucchini inside. The rich flavor from the parmesan cheese adds a delicious depth, making each bite incredibly satisfying.
Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Carrot Fries: Have some carrots sitting in your fridge that you're not sure what to do with? These parmesan carrot fries are crispy on the outside and sweet on the inside, perfectly complemented by a cheesy parmesan crust you'll love!
Copycat In-N-Out Animal Style Fries: Craving some In-N-Out Animal Style Fries? These Copycat fries are crispy, topped with gooey melted cheese, grilled onions, and a tangy special sauce, making them SO irresistible!
Crispy Air Fried Sweet Potato Fries: Who doesn't love sweet potatoes? Better yet, sweet potato fries? They're sweet, filling, and just like regular fries but even better!
Fresh Salads
Looking for a lighter side filled with fresh veggies? You’re going to love these refreshing salads!
Easy Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe: This easy recipe is a flavorful mix of cheese-filled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and fresh herbs, all tossed in Italian dressing. I love pairing this delicious side dish with a yummy veggie burger!
Copycat Chick-Fil-A Market Salad: This fresh and vibrant salad is packed with a mix of greens, fresh fruit, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers and tossed in a light vinaigrette. Try this dish to add a refreshing note to your meal.
Copycat Cheesecake Factory Skinnylicious® Chopped Salad: With a mix of chopped romaine, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and crispy turkey bacon, all topped with air-fried chicken nuggets and tangy blue cheese—this meal brings so much flavor to the table! It’s one of my favorite side dishes for a healthy, delicious option.
Copycat Chick-Fil-A Cobb Salad: This salad is a mix of fresh vegetables and greens that pairs so well with just about anything! Loaded with bacon, eggs, and veggies, this salad is hearty to say the least. It makes for a great main dish, too!
TikTok Green Goddess Salad Recipe: If you love fresh herbs and a lot of flavor, this Green Goddess Salad is for you! This salad has a tangy green dressing, and is a great way to balance out the richness of a burger.
Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe: I absolutely loveeee this salad! I like making this one when I'm craving something sweet and light. Fresh watermelon combined with cucumber, feta, and fresh mint makes this salad SOOOO refreshing! It’s the perfect side for a hot summer evening.
Potatoes Sides
Potatoes are always a favorite side dish! Here's and the different ways I like to prepare them:
TGI Fridays Loaded Potato Skins Recipe: Potato skins topped with crispy bacon, cheese, and sour cream, how can you resist?? Try this side dish to add something rich and filling to your meal!
Smashed Potatoes: These smashed baby potatoes are such a fun way to switch up classic potatoes! They're crispy at the edges and paired with some of my favorite seasonings— you'll have to give these a try!
Tip: If you’re in a hurry, potato chips are an easy side that never fails. Serve them alongside your burger or crumble them on top for an extra crunch.
Veggie-Based Sides
I love adding vegetables as sides, it's such a great way to keep your meal balanced! Here are some of my favorites:
Air Fryer Corn on The Cob: Sweet and juicy fresh corn cooked in the air fryer with a touch of butter and chopped parsley!
Air Fried Green Beans: Tossed with sliced mushrooms and thinly sliced onions, these crispy green beans are rich and savory, making them the perfect side dish!
Air Fried Brussels Sprouts: These yummy brussels sprouts are tossed with bacon, making them full of flavor and a great addition to any meal!
Air Fried Cauliflower: Another healthy side dish that’s incredibly easy to make! Tossed in olive oil and a blend of spices, it’s a simple and delicious dish that I'm sure you'll love.
Air Fried Asparagus: Asparagus is a vegetable that can elevate just about any meal! My favorite way to prepare this side is in the air fryer, it gives it the perfect crisp.
Appetizer-Style Sides
Appetizer-style sides can also be the best burger and hot dog sides! Here are a few of my favorite options:
Salt & Pepper Chicken Wings: When in doubt, these wings are the perfect side option! They're flavorful, and a side that everyone is sure to love—in other words, they're a fail-proof choice!
Jalapeño Poppers With Bacon: If you like some heat, these bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are an amazing side dish option. They will surely add a kick to your meal.
Chicken Nuggets: These chicken nuggets are family-friendly and make a fantastic side dish that everyone will enjoy, especially kids! They make a great side dish that is both delicious and fun for the whole family.
Jazz’s Tips and Tricks for the Best Sides
Don’t skimp on seasoning! A good balance of salt, pepper, and spices can raeally enhance the flavor of your side dishes.
Don’t feel like you need to stick to just one side dish. I love pairing something classic, like sweet potato fries, with a fresh salad and maybe some spicy jalapeño poppers for some variety.
Use an Air Fryer! The air fryer is my absolute favorite kitchen tool! They make dishes healthier by using less oil while still keeping things crispy.
Prep Ahead! Many of these sides can be prepped ahead of time, which makes creating your meal so much easier!
Burger and Hot Dog Recipes!
Don't have a burger or hot dog recipe yet? Try the ones below from my blog!
Jazz's Recommended Products:
Our Place Wonder Oven
The Our Place Wonder Oven is a game-changer for efficiency and even cooking—read my full review here or buy it here!Chosen Foods Avocado Oil Spray
I love using Chosen Foods Avocado Oil Spray for a crisp, golden finish—read my review here or buy it here!Bowls:
I hope you found some delicious sides to pair with your meal! These are some of the best side dishes that can elevate any main course and make your meal complete.
