Steak lovers rejoice! Are you tired of serving steak with the same old boring sides? Look no further. We’re excited to share our top picks for side dishes that will elevate your steak game and bring a restaurant-quality dining experience right into your own home.
From classic combinations to more adventurous options, we’ve got 30 mouth-watering ideas that cater to all tastes and cooking levels. Whether you’re a culinary newbie or a seasoned pro, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Our selection includes a mix of salads, veggies, carbs, and more, all designed to complement your steak perfectly. And the best part? These recipes are easy to make and require minimal fuss, so you can focus on enjoying the experience with family and friends.
Instant Pot Asparagus
Indulge in the tender sweetness of asparagus, infused with the delightful crunch and flavor of toasted almonds and a hint of orange zest. This Instant Pot recipe takes the humble vegetable to new heights, offering a refreshing twist on traditional baked asparagus.
Mac And Cheese
When it comes to rounding out a hearty meal, a comforting mac and cheese dish is the perfect accompaniment. The rich, creamy sauce provides a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of a meaty main course. For added nutrition and depth of flavor, consider elevating this classic recipe by incorporating crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of fresh herbs and spices.
A well-crafted mac and cheese can be a game-changer, and with a few simple tweaks, it’s easy to take your dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Mashed Potatoes
If you’re looking for a reliable side dish that complements steak perfectly, consider opting for a timeless classic. Mashed potatoes are a crowd-pleaser, boasting a rich, creamy flavor profile that’s sure to impress. By incorporating butter and sour cream into the mix, you’ll create a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave your guests craving more. This comforting side dish is a foolproof choice for any steak dinner.
Roasted Broccolini
Roasted broccoli is our go-to side dish for any gathering, offering a refined twist on the humble vegetable. Its unique flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for mixing and mingling with friends from diverse backgrounds. The subtle kick from red pepper flakes adds an extra layer of excitement for those who appreciate a little heat in their meals. As an added bonus, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to effortlessly boost the nutritional value of your dishes.
Onion Rings
On any list of classic steakhouse treats, onion rings are a must-have inclusion. For those who prefer a tangier alternative to traditional fries, this recipe is a game-changer. By marinating the onions in buttermilk before coating them with cornmeal, you’ll achieve an unparalleled level of crispiness. And let’s not forget the fun part – adding your favorite dipping sauce for an added layer of flavor!
Brussels Sprouts With Bacon And Dates
When it comes to incorporating vegetables into a meal, one of the biggest hurdles is finding ways to make them appealing to even the most skeptical eaters. The key is to add unique and unexpected flavor combinations that elevate the humble veggie from side dish to star of the show.
This recipe for Brussels sprouts with bacon and dates is a game-changer – by combining sweet, smoky, and savory flavors, you’ll create a delicious and well-rounded side dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With its crispy texture and complex flavor profile, this dish is perfect for those looking to add some excitement to their mealtime routine.
Salsa Roasted Potatoes
Indulge in the savory delight of salsa-roasted potatoes without relying solely on the visual appeal. Experience the mouthwatering fusion for yourself, as the harmonious blend of flavors will leave you craving more. This unconventional pairing is surprisingly well-suited to accompany a perfectly grilled steak, elevating the dining experience to new heights. Try it out and discover why these roasted potatoes have earned their place in your culinary repertoire.
Oven-Roasted Vegetables
While it’s understandable that not everyone wants to spend hours in the kitchen, there is a way to balance time constraints with healthy eating habits. One simple solution is to utilize oven-roasted vegetables as a quick and flavorful addition to your meal. By tossing your favorite veggies into the oven while you’re cooking your steak, you can easily infuse them with extra flavor and nutrients. For an added boost, simply add some vinegar to taste.
This effortless approach allows you to enjoy healthy food without sacrificing too much time.
Instant Pot Carrots
For those who have invested in an Instant Pot, it’s likely because you’re seeking a hassle-free cooking experience. And if that’s your goal, these carrots won’t disappoint. By combining carrots with a sweet and tangy Dijon glaze, then steaming them to perfection, followed by a drizzle of honey for added depth, this recipe offers a delightful and effortless culinary outcome.
Lemon-Feta Green Beans
Elevate your steak night with this refreshing lemon feta green bean recipe, a harmonious side dish that strikes the perfect balance. The brightness of the lemon juice expertly counterbalances the tanginess of the Capers and crumbly feta, while also leaving room for creative experimentation. Feel free to add some juicy tomatoes and succulent cooked shrimp to take your dish off-script – the versatility is part of its charm.
Green Beans
Green beans are an excellent example of a nutritious and healthy food component that can elevate the color and appeal of any meal. When cooked with butter, sugar, and shallots in a pan, they transform into a sophisticated side dish that’s surprisingly quick to prepare. This impressive-looking accompaniment is sure to impress your guests without requiring an excessive amount of time or effort.
Cheesy Garlic Broccoli
Transforming veggies into a culinary delight requires just the right combination of flavors. In this case, adding cheese to the mix takes center stage. When paired with garlic and broccoli, the trio creates a nutrient-dense treat suitable for even the most discerning eaters – including fussy kids who might not typically go for their greens. The simplicity of this recipe belies its impressive flavor profile, making it an excellent addition to any meal or snack.
Roasted Turnips And Potatoes
When pairing potatoes with other root vegetables, turnips are a standout choice for us. Roasting them together yields an incredible caramelized flavor that’s elevated by the addition of smoked paprika. This harmonious combination is perfect for serving alongside a fresh green salad, where a pinch of pepper adds a welcome burst of flavor.
Tomato Couscous Salad
When it comes to summer steaks, a cooling salad provides the perfect counterbalance to the rich flavors and heat. One such standout is a vibrant tomato couscous salad, reminiscent of Mediterranean cuisine’s bold colors and refreshing flavors. This elegant combination is an effortless way to elevate your summer dining experience.
Caramelized Mushrooms
Transforming your dining space into an extraordinary setting doesn’t have to involve elaborate recipes or extensive preparations. This delectable mushroom side dish is a testament to the incredible versatility and visual appeal of this humble ingredient. From elegant dinner parties to casual weeknight gatherings, mushrooms can elevate any meal with their rich flavor and stunning presentation. Who says they have to be relegated to mere mediocrity?
Simple Mashed Rutabagas And Potatoes
While rutabagas may not be as widely recognized as some other root vegetables, they share many characteristics with potatoes once cooked and mashed. With a flavor profile that combines the pungency of cabbage and turnips, but also has a slightly bitter undertone, rutabagas can add a unique depth to dishes when paired with earthy potatoes. The subtle complexity of their taste makes them an excellent addition to various recipes.
Corn On The Cob
Corn on the cob evokes memories of sunny summer days spent savoring the smoky sweetness of perfectly grilled kernels. But, let’s not limit ourselves to just one way of enjoying this all-American favorite. Why not get creative and blend it into a vibrant Mexican-inspired salad? The addition of chili powder and mayonnaise will transport your taste buds to a whole new level, making for a truly refreshing twist on a classic treat.
Grilled Onions
In the realm of culinary wisdom, ‘less is more’ often takes a backseat to flashy presentation or bold flavors. However, when it comes to pairing side dishes with a perfectly cooked steak, this adage shines. The simplicity of a thyme-infused balsamic dressing and a light sprinkle of salt on top of caramelized onions creates a harmonious balance that elevates the entire dining experience.
As the crunch of the onions gives way to the tender juiciness of the steak, it’s clear that sometimes, less truly is more.
Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
Indulge in the classic comfort of our traditional recipe, where buttermilk mashed potatoes seamlessly blend with russet potatoes to create a delightful texture and flavor combination. The richness is elevated by the harmonious trio of dairy flavors – creamy butter, tangy buttermilk, and velvety creme fraiche – ensuring this dish will be a hit among both kids and adults alike.
Red Cabbage And Fennel Coleslaw
What sets this coleslaw recipe apart is its unique blend of flavors, which is elevated by the addition of fennel. This crunchy and refreshing ingredient adds a tangy coolness to the dish, making it a perfect accompaniment to any grilled red meat. Moreover, this side dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great option for those looking for a healthy and easy-to-make accompaniment.
Baked Potato Wedges
Potatoes are a timeless staple when it comes to accompanying steak, but there’s no reason why they have to be ordinary. This recipe adds a twist to the classic side dish, transforming it into a delightful and satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. The best part? They’re not overly filling, making them perfect for those who appreciate a lighter bite.
Scalloped Potatoes
As we venture away from our beloved potatoes, we’ll introduce the delightful scalloped potato dish, tailored specifically for those who crave thinly sliced, super cheesy spuds. This crowd-pleaser can be effortlessly prepared in a crock pot, freeing you to focus on perfecting your steak while letting the slow cooker handle the culinary heavy lifting. Simply make sure to prepare enough for all to enjoy.
Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Looking to make a healthier alternative to traditional fries? Consider substituting the usual French fry recipe for this baked sweet potato fry variation. By opting for sweet potatoes, you’ll not only reduce your reliance on processed ingredients but also enjoy a deeper flavor profile that pairs beautifully with a nicely charred steak. The best part? This recipe can be ready in under 15 minutes, though leaving them to cook a bit longer will yield an extra crispy result.
Baked French Fries
Satisfying cravings for a nostalgic dining experience is effortless with our simple yet authentic baked French fries recipe. By skipping unnecessary frills, we’ve honed in on the classic formula that will transport you back to your favorite restaurant. Our suggested approach involves preparing the fries nice and thick, then seasoning them with a pinch of salt and pepper before allowing the oven to do its magic.
Cheesy Potatoes
Indulge in these scrumptious cheesy potatoes, topped with a rich and velvety mixture of cheddar and Gruyère cheese. The combination proves to be a match made in heaven, melting effortlessly into the tender spuds. But what truly elevates this dish is the surprising addition of Worcestershire sauce, imbuing it with an unmistakable depth of flavor that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
This side dish is a masterclass in texture and taste, resulting in a beautifully light and fluffy accompaniment that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Wedge Salad
This delectable salad boasts a refreshing base of crisp iceberg lettuce, complemented by the smoky richness of chunky bacon and the tanginess of blue cheese dressing. Juicy tomatoes add natural sweetness to the mix. As a side dish, it pairs exceptionally well with steak, or you can customize it further by adding nutritious toppings like chickpeas or lentils for an added boost of flavor and nutrition.
Kale And Sweet Potato Salad
Elevate your healthy side dishes by combining the nutritious powerhouses of kale and sweet potatoes in a delicious salad. The fusion of leafy green kale, soft and fluffy sweet potatoes, caramelized onions, and crunchy almonds is elevated to new heights with a rich and creamy dressing that adds moisture and depth to each bite.
Final Thoughts
With the main course decided, it’s time to think about complementary dishes that will impress your guests. The key is finding a harmonious combination that satisfies everyone’s taste buds. Our extensive collection offers ample opportunities for experimentation, so don’t be afraid to get creative and pair unusual side dishes together. This is also an excellent chance to venture out of your culinary comfort zone and discover new flavors you may not have considered before.
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.