Imagine biting into a juicy hamburger, the savory patty oozing flavor, while a side of crispy fries beckons with their golden allure. The aroma of sizzling onions and tangy coleslaw dances in the air, creating an irresistible symphony that promises to elevate your meal to new heights.
Jump to:
Now, picture this: a backyard barbecue where laughter fills the air, friends gather around the grill, and everyone eagerly anticipates those perfect sides for hamburgers. From creamy baked beans to zesty slaw, each dish adds its own unique flair, making every bite an unforgettable experience that warms the heart and brings people together.
Why Will You Keep Making sides for hamburgers?
Deliciously Classic: French fries made from Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are a timeless favorite, offering the perfect crunch to complement your juicy burger.
Crispy Texture: With just a few simple ingredients and frying, you can achieve golden-brown fries that everyone loves.
Refreshing Crunch: Our homemade coleslaw, with its creamy mayo dressing and crunchy cabbage, adds a refreshing contrast to your meal.
Sweet & Savory: The baked beans bring a delightful mix of sweetness and tang, elevating your sides to new levels of flavor.
Quick & Easy: All these sides can be prepared in just 30 minutes each, making them a breeze for busy weeknights or backyard barbecues!
sides for hamburgers Ingredients
For the French Fries
- 4 medium Potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold) – These potatoes yield the perfect crispy texture and fluffy interior, ideal for fries.
- 2 cups Vegetable Oil (for frying) – Essential for achieving that golden brown color and satisfying crunch.
- 1 teaspoon Salt (to taste) – Enhances the flavor of the fries; adjust according to your preference.
For the Coleslaw
- 4 cups Shredded Cabbage – Adds a nice crunch and freshness that balances out hearty burgers.
- 1 cup Carrots (shredded) – Offers sweetness and vibrant color to your coleslaw mix.
- 1 cup Mayonnaise – Provides creaminess and helps bind all ingredients together beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar – Brightens the flavors and adds a tangy kick to the slaw.
- 1 tablespoon Sugar – Balances out the acidity of the vinegar for a well-rounded taste.
- 1 teaspoon Salt (to taste) – Season to enhance all the flavors in your coleslaw.
For the Baked Beans
- 2 cans Baked Beans (15 oz each) – A classic side that adds warmth and heartiness, perfect with hamburgers.
- 1 medium Onion (chopped) – Infuses a savory aroma and flavor that complements baked beans wonderfully.
- 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar – Adds a rich sweetness to balance the savory elements of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon Mustard – Gives a subtle tanginess that elevates the flavor profile of baked beans.
- 1 tablespoon Ketchup – Adds a hint of sweetness and acidity, rounding out this comforting side dish.
How to Make sides for hamburgers
1. Peel and cut the potatoes into thin strips.
Start by peeling 4 medium Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, then slice them into thin, uniform strips for that perfect fry texture.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
Pour 2 cups of vegetable oil into your frying pan and warm it up until it shimmers, creating the ideal environment for frying.
3. Fry the potato strips in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
Carefully add a batch of potato strips to the hot oil, letting them sizzle away until they turn a delightful golden brown and become irresistibly crispy.
4. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Season with salt to taste.
Use a slotted spoon to lift out the fries, draining them on paper towels to absorb excess oil, then sprinkle with salt for added flavor.
For the Coleslaw:
5. Combine shredded cabbage and carrots in a mixing bowl.
In a large bowl, toss together 4 cups of shredded cabbage and 1 cup of shredded carrots for that crunchy base of your coleslaw.
6. Whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt in a separate bowl.
In another bowl, mix 1 cup of mayonnaise with 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt until smooth and creamy.
7. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly.
Drizzle your delicious dressing over the veggies and gently toss everything together until every shred is beautifully coated.
8. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Let the coleslaw chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes; this enhances its flavors and makes it refreshingly crisp.
For the Baked Beans:
9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Get your oven ready by preheating it to 350°F (175°C), setting the stage for perfectly heated baked beans.
10. Combine baked beans, chopped onion, brown sugar, mustard, and ketchup in a baking dish.
In a baking dish, mix together 2 cans of baked beans (15 oz each), along with 1 chopped onion, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of mustard, and 1 tablespoon of ketchup.
11. Stir well and bake for 30 minutes until heated through.
Give everything a good stir to combine all those fabulous flavors before placing it in your preheated oven to bake for about 30 minutes.
Optional: Garnish baked beans with fresh parsley for a pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pro Tips for sides for hamburgers
- Potato Selection: Choose Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for the best texture. They fry up crispy on the outside while staying fluffy inside.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying; if not, fries can become greasy. Test with a small potato strip—if it sizzles, you’re ready!
- Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding your pan when frying. Frying in small batches ensures even cooking and that perfect golden-brown crispiness.
- Season Immediately: Season your fries with salt right after frying while they’re still hot. This helps the salt stick and enhances their flavor significantly.
- Coleslaw Crunch: For a crunchier coleslaw, use fresh cabbage and carrots. Letting it chill in the fridge allows the flavors to meld beautifully without losing texture.
- Bean Balance: When mixing baked beans, taste before baking! Adjust seasoning with more brown sugar or mustard to balance sweetness and tanginess perfectly.
How to Store and Freeze sides for hamburgers
- Fridge: Store coleslaw in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for crunchiness.
- Freezer: French fries can be frozen for up to 2 months. Spread them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag for easy access.
- Baked Beans: Keep baked beans in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until steaming hot, stirring occasionally.
- Reheating: To revive leftover coleslaw, add a splash of vinegar and mix well; this will brighten its taste and texture.
sides for hamburgers Your Way
Feel free to get creative and customize these sides to match your family’s taste preferences!
- Sweet Potato Fries: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a naturally sweet and slightly healthier twist. Their vibrant color and flavor add a delightful touch to any meal. Plus, they’re packed with vitamins!
- Spicy Seasoning: Add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to your fries before frying for an extra kick. This simple addition elevates the flavor profile and gives your fries a smoky, spicy edge that pairs beautifully with burgers.
- Garlic Parmesan Fries: Toss freshly fried potatoes in minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese for a savory upgrade. The rich, cheesy coating combined with aromatic garlic creates an irresistible side that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Crispy Air-Fried Fries: For a healthier option, use an air fryer instead of oil frying. Simply coat the potatoes lightly in olive oil and season them, then let the air fryer do its magic. You’ll enjoy crispy fries without the guilt!
- Herb-Infused Fries: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into your fries for a refreshing flavor boost. These fragrant herbs infuse each bite with a garden-fresh essence, making your dish feel both gourmet and comforting.
- Loaded Fries: Top your fries with melted cheese, crispy bacon bits, and green onions for a decadent treat. This indulgent version transforms your simple fries into a hearty side that can even steal the spotlight from the main dish!
- Vegan Fries: Use a plant-based oil or coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for frying. This ensures everyone can enjoy this classic side while keeping it vegan-friendly without sacrificing taste or texture.
- Zucchini Fries: For a lighter alternative, try zucchini sticks coated in breadcrumbs instead of traditional potatoes. They bake up crispy and provide a unique twist that complements any burger beautifully!
Make Ahead Options
When it comes to planning a delicious meal, these sides for hamburgers are perfect for meal prep. You can peel and cut the potatoes for the French fries and store them in cold water for up to 24 hours before frying. For the coleslaw, you can combine the shredded cabbage and carrots a day in advance, only adding the dressing just before serving to keep it crisp. The baked beans can be assembled in advance; simply mix the canned beans with chopped onion, brown sugar, mustard, and ketchup, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, heat everything up as directed: fry the potato strips in batches until golden and crispy, toss the coleslaw, and bake the beans at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. This way, you save time while still serving up mouthwatering sides that perfectly complement your hamburgers!
sides for hamburgers Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for making French fries?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. They have a high starch content, which helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior while remaining fluffy on the inside.
How do I store leftover coleslaw?
You can store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3 days. Just keep in mind that the cabbage may become slightly softer over time, so it’s best enjoyed within those first few days!
Can I freeze baked beans?
Yes, you can freeze baked beans! Just allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
What if my French fries are soggy?
If your fries turn out soggy, it could be due to overcrowding the frying pan or not allowing enough oil temperature. Make sure you’re frying in batches and that the oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before adding the potatoes. If they still don’t crisp up, try letting them drain longer on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This delightful collection of sides yields about 4 servings. So whether you’re hosting a family barbecue or just enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this is a perfect amount to complement your hamburgers without overwhelming your table.
Can I modify the coleslaw dressing for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, you could substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise, giving it a tangy flavor while reducing calories. For those avoiding sugar, you might try using honey or agave syrup instead of granulated sugar to taste. Enjoy experimenting with flavors that suit your dietary needs!
Sides for Hamburgers
Ingredients
Method
- Peel and cut the potatoes into thin strips.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high 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 to taste.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a baking dish, combine baked beans, chopped onion, brown sugar, mustard, and ketchup.
- Stir well and bake for 30 minutes until heated through.
