Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy burger, the flavors exploding in your mouth, while a side of crispy fries beckons you from the plate, inviting you to dip them into creamy ketchup. The aroma of grilled corn wafts through the air, mingling with the freshness of crunchy coleslaw, creating an irresistible feast that transforms any backyard barbecue into a culinary celebration.
Remember those sunny days spent with friends, laughter echoing as you devoured delicious sides for burgers? The perfect accompaniments elevate every bite, making each meal memorable and fun. Whether it’s a casual cookout or a festive gathering, these delightful sides turn an ordinary dining experience into a flavor-packed adventure that leaves everyone smiling and satisfied.
Why Does Everyone Love sides for burgers?
Crispy fries are the ultimate comfort food, delivering a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with any burger. Fresh coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and a hint of creaminess, balancing out rich flavors. Grilled corn brings a smoky sweetness that enhances your meal, while all three sides are incredibly easy to prepare in just 30 minutes! Ideal for gatherings, these crowd-pleasers will keep everyone coming back for more!
sides for burgers Ingredients
- For the Crispy Fries
- 4 medium potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold) – Choose potatoes with a high starch content for that perfect crispy texture.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying) – This will help achieve that golden-brown finish we all love.
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste) – Adjust according to your preference for seasoning these delightful fries.
- For the Coleslaw
- 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple) – Use a mix for added color and crunch in your slaw.
- 1 cup carrots (shredded) – Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to your coleslaw.
- 1 cup mayonnaise (for dressing) – Creamy base that binds all the flavors together beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – This adds a tangy kick that balances the richness of the mayonnaise.
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional) – A hint of sweetness enhances the overall flavor profile, if desired.
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste) – Essential for bringing out the natural flavors in your coleslaw mix.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (to taste) – A little spice can elevate this dish to new heights.
- For the Grilled Corn
- 4 ears corn (husked) – Fresh corn on the cob brings a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with burgers.
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted) – This will enrich the flavor of your corn and give it a lovely sheen.
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste) – A sprinkle enhances the natural sweetness of the corn, making it irresistible as a side!
How to Make sides for burgers
1. Peel and cut the 4 medium potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold) into thin strips. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking, giving you that perfect crispy texture.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. You want the oil hot but not smoking, creating the ideal environment for frying your fries to golden perfection.
3. Fry the potato strips in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should sizzle as they cook, turning that lovely shade of gold.
4. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt to taste while they’re still hot, allowing the salt to cling beautifully to each fry.
For the Coleslaw:
5. Combine 4 cups of shredded cabbage (green or purple) and 1 cup of shredded carrots in a large mixing bowl. The vibrant colors will make your coleslaw visually appealing and fresh!
6. Whisk together in a separate bowl: 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and if you desire some sweetness, add 1 teaspoon of sugar, along with 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon black pepper.
7. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine thoroughly. Each piece should be coated evenly to ensure every bite is deliciously creamy.
8. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving. This resting time allows flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing your coleslaw’s taste.
For the Grilled Corn:
9. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s nice and hot for that delicious charred flavor you love in grilled corn.
10. Brush the husked corn with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt. This adds richness and enhances the natural sweetness of the corn while grilling.
11. Place the corn on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred and tender. Look for those beautiful grill marks as a sign it’s almost ready!
12. Remove from grill and serve hot, letting guests enjoy this delightful side alongside their burgers!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of paprika or chili powder for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pro Tips for sides for burgers
- Potato Selection: Choose Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for the crispiest fries; they have the right starch content that helps achieve that perfect crunch.
- Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. If it’s too cool, the fries will absorb oil and become soggy instead of crispy.
- Batch Frying: Fry the potato strips in small batches to maintain consistent oil temperature, preventing overcrowding and allowing them to fry evenly.
- Season at the Right Time: Season your fries with salt immediately after draining from the oil. This helps the salt adhere better, enhancing their flavor.
- Coleslaw Crunch: For extra crunch in your coleslaw, allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This also helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
- Grill Corn Perfectly: Turn the corn frequently while grilling to avoid burning. Aim for a nice char without drying out the kernels—this enhances both flavor and texture, making it a delightful side for burgers.
How to Store and Freeze sides for burgers
- Fridge: Store coleslaw in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crispness.
- Freezer: Crispy fries can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat crispy fries in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes until hot and crispy.
- Corn Storage: Grilled corn should be consumed within 1-2 days when stored in the fridge. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap to preserve moisture.
sides for burgers Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on classic crispy fries!
- Sweet Potato: Swap in sweet potatoes for a naturally sweet and vibrant alternative. The caramelization enhances their flavor, making them a perfect companion to any savory burger.
- Seasoned: Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite herbs before frying to add an aromatic kick. These added flavors will elevate the humble fry, providing a fragrant experience with each bite.
- Baked: For a healthier option, toss cut potatoes in olive oil and bake at 425°F until golden. Baked fries offer a satisfying crunch with less oil, keeping it light and guilt-free.
- Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the oil before frying for an exciting heat. Each fry will pack a flavorful punch that complements the juicy burger beautifully.
- Herb-infused: Toss your fries with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme after cooking for an earthy twist. The aromatic herbs create a delightful fragrance that will leave everyone asking for more.
- Parmesan: Dust freshly fried fries with grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy delight. This savory addition brings richness and umami that pairs perfectly with classic condiments.
- Vegan: Replace mayonnaise in coleslaw with cashew cream or vegan mayo for a delicious plant-based option. This ensures everyone at the table can enjoy the meal without compromising on flavor.
Make Ahead Options
Meal prepping these delightful sides for burgers is a breeze and can save you valuable time during busy weeknights or weekend barbecues. You can prepare the crispy fries by peeling and cutting the potatoes into thin strips up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in water to prevent browning. For the coleslaw, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots, then whisk together the dressing of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Mix them together and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving; it will stay fresh for about 3 days. As for the grilled corn, husk it ahead of time and brush with butter and salt; it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the fries until crispy, toss the coleslaw again, and grill the corn until charred—your meal will be as fresh as if made on the spot!
sides for burgers Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes work best for crispy fries?
For the crispiest fries, I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. These varieties have a high starch content, which helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crunch. Slice them thinly, and you’ll be rewarded with fries that are both crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
Can I prepare coleslaw in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the coleslaw up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your coleslaw even more delicious when served alongside your burgers!
How should I store leftover grilled corn?
If you have any grilled corn left over, let it cool completely before storing. Wrap each ear in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can grill it again briefly or microwave it wrapped in a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in coleslaw?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or want to avoid mayonnaise, try Greek yogurt as a substitute! It adds creaminess while providing extra protein. You could also use a vinaigrette made from olive oil and vinegar for a lighter dressing that still packs flavor.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This delightful selection of sides serves about 4 people, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers with friends. You’ll find that everyone will appreciate these tasty additions to their burger meals!
What’s the best way to ensure my fries are crispy?
To achieve perfectly crispy fries, ensure your oil is at medium heat—around 350°F (175°C)—before adding the potato strips. Fry them in small batches to avoid overcrowding and allow them to cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown. Draining them on paper towels after frying helps remove excess oil and keeps them crispy!
Sides for Burgers
Ingredients
Method
- Peel and cut the potatoes into thin strips.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the potato strips in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Season with salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the corn with melted butter and sprinkle with salt.
- Place the corn on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and tender.
- Remove from grill and serve hot.
