Sides & Appetizers

The Perfect Burger Pairings

A great burger is only as strong as its supporting cast. The bun, patty, cheese, sauce, and toppings do the loud talking, but the sides set the pace of the meal.

Start with crunch

For a classic cheeseburger, the first move is texture. A double-fried french fry earns its place because it stays crisp long enough to survive conversation, ketchup, and that last bite of burger. Onion rings play a different role: sweeter, heavier, more dramatic. Serve them when the burger is simple and the plate can handle a little swagger.

Bring in something creamy, then something sharp

Our legendary, gooey three-cheese mac and cheese belongs with smoky, charred burgers, especially the kind that lean into bacon, caramelized onions, or peppery sauce. It is rich, so give it a counterweight. A vinegary slaw, a bowl of half-sour pickles, or a crisp chopped salad keeps the meal from turning sleepy.

Quick Tip: Pair rich burgers with bright sides, and pair leaner or cleaner burgers with something crisp and savory.

Make appetizers shareable

For gatherings, skip the scattered snack table. Put out one warm starter, one crunchy side, and one fresh or acidic bite. That is enough variety without stealing attention from the burgers.

By seven o’clock, the fries are landing on a paper-lined tray, the mac is bubbling at the edges, and someone at the kitchen counter is already reaching for the pickle bowl before the first burger hits the plate.