Steak is a classic main dish that many people love. But picking the right sides to go with it can make your meal even better.
Good side dishes can add flavor, texture, and balance to your plate.
Choosing tasty sides for steak can turn a simple meal into a special dinner. You have lots of options to pick from.
This article will look at over 15 side dishes that go great with steak. These sides range from veggies to starches to salads. You’ll find ideas for different tastes and cooking styles.
1. Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Garlic butter mushrooms are a perfect side dish for steak. They’re quick to make and pack a lot of flavor.
You can whip them up in just 15 minutes while your steak rests.
To make them, sauté mushrooms in a pan with butter and minced garlic. Add some herbs like thyme or parsley for extra taste.
The mushrooms soak up all the garlicky goodness as they cook.
These mushrooms complement steak really well. Their savory, earthy flavor pairs nicely with the meat.
You can serve them right on top of your steak or in a separate dish.
Try different types of mushrooms for variety. Button, cremini, or shiitake all work great.
The rich, buttery sauce is sure to be a hit at your next steak dinner.
2. Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is a great side dish for steak. It’s fresh and crisp, balancing out the rich flavors of the meat.
The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons add extra taste and texture to your meal. The salad’s light nature also helps cut through the heaviness of the steak.
You can easily make Caesar salad at home or find it at most restaurants. For a twist, try adding grilled chicken or shrimp to make it more filling.
Remember to use fresh romaine lettuce and high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best taste. A homemade dressing can take your Caesar salad to the next level.
3. Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a classic steakhouse side dish that pairs perfectly with your juicy steak. This rich and velvety vegetable dish adds a touch of luxury to your meal.
The creamy texture and mild flavor of spinach complement the bold taste of steak.
It’s easy to make at home with fresh or frozen spinach, cream, and a few simple seasonings.
For a twist, try adding garlic, nutmeg, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to your creamed spinach. You can also make it healthier by using Greek yogurt instead of cream.
Serve your creamed spinach hot alongside your steak for a satisfying and indulgent dinner. It’s sure to impress your guests at your next steak night.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts make a tasty side dish for steak. They offer a nice mix of flavors and textures that go well with the meat.
To make them, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast them in the oven until they’re tender and slightly crispy on the outside.
For extra flavor, try adding balsamic vinegar or bacon bits. The sweet and tangy balsamic complements the steak nicely. Bacon adds a smoky taste that many people enjoy.
This veggie side is both healthy and delicious. It gives your steak dinner some green without being boring.
5. Truffle Mashed Potatoes
Truffle mashed potatoes are a luxurious side dish that pairs perfectly with steak. You’ll love the creamy texture and earthy flavor they bring to your meal.
To make them, start with Yukon Gold potatoes for a naturally buttery taste. Mash them with warm cream, butter, and a drizzle of truffle oil.
The key is to use truffle oil sparingly. A little goes a long way in adding that distinct truffle aroma and taste. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
Your steak will shine even more when served alongside these indulgent mashed potatoes. They’re sure to impress your dinner guests.
6. Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is a tasty side dish for steak. It’s easy to make and adds color to your plate.
To prepare, toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes until tender and lightly charred.
The smoky flavor from grilling complements the steak well. You can add a squeeze of lemon juice or sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Grilled asparagus is also healthy. It’s low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. This makes it a great choice to balance out your steak dinner.
7. Classic French Fries
French fries are a perfect match for steak. The crispy, golden-brown exterior and fluffy interior complement the juicy meat.
You can’t go wrong with this classic pairing. The salty, savory fries balance the rich flavors of the steak.
For the best results, serve your fries hot and crispy. You can season them with salt or add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
If you want to get creative, try different dipping sauces. Garlic aioli, truffle mayo, or even ketchup can add variety to your meal.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes
Baked sweet potatoes are a tasty and nutritious side dish for steak. You can easily prepare them by washing, poking holes, and baking until tender.
The natural sweetness of these potatoes complements the savory flavor of steak. You can keep it simple with just butter, salt, and pepper.
For extra flavor, try topping your baked sweet potato with a dollop of sour cream and chives. You could also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or brown sugar for a sweet twist.
Baked sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and fiber. They’re a healthier alternative to regular potatoes and add beautiful color to your plate.
9. Onion Rings
Onion rings are a tasty side dish that goes great with steak. They add a crunchy texture to your meal. You can make them at home or order them at many restaurants.
The best onion rings use sweet onions like Vidalias. They’re dipped in batter and fried until golden brown. Some recipes use buttermilk to make the batter extra crispy.
Serve your onion rings hot with dipping sauces. Try ketchup, ranch dressing, or barbecue sauce. You can also put them right on top of your steak for extra flavor.
Onion rings are a fun alternative to french fries. They’re a classic steakhouse side that will make your meal more exciting.
10. Ratatouille
Ratatouille is a tasty French veggie dish that goes well with steak. It’s made with eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and bell peppers.
The veggies are cooked until soft and mixed with herbs. This creates a colorful side that balances out your steak’s richness.
Ratatouille adds a light, fresh element to your meal. Its flavors complement the meat without overpowering it.
You can serve ratatouille hot or cold. Either way, it brings a touch of Mediterranean flair to your steak dinner.
11. Caprese Salad
Caprese salad adds a fresh, light contrast to your steak dinner. This Italian classic combines ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil.
Drizzle the salad with olive oil and balsamic glaze for extra flavor. The bright acidity of the tomatoes cuts through the richness of the steak.
You can serve caprese as a side dish or appetizer. For a twist, try using cherry tomatoes or burrata cheese instead. This simple salad brings color and balance to your plate.
12. Parmesan Risotto
Parmesan risotto is a creamy, flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with steak. This Italian classic is made by slowly cooking Arborio rice with broth and cheese.
The rich, velvety texture of risotto complements the robust flavors of steak beautifully. Its savory taste enhances your meal without overpowering the main course.
You can customize your risotto by adding herbs or vegetables. Try stirring in some fresh basil or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
Cooking risotto takes some time and attention, but the results are worth it. Serve it alongside your steak for a luxurious and satisfying dinner.
13. Yorkshire Pudding
Yorkshire pudding is a classic British side dish that pairs wonderfully with steak. This light and fluffy batter creation offers a delightful contrast to the rich meat.
You can make Yorkshire pudding using a simple mix of eggs, flour, and milk. When baked, it puffs up into a crispy golden shell with a soft center.
Serve your Yorkshire pudding hot from the oven. It’s perfect for soaking up juices and gravy from your steak. The combination of textures – crispy pudding and tender meat – creates a satisfying meal.
For best results, make sure your oven is very hot before baking the pudding. This helps it rise properly and achieve that signature crispy exterior.
14. Coleslaw
Coleslaw adds a crisp, cool contrast to your steak dinner. This classic side dish brings a refreshing crunch to your plate.
You can make coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing. For a twist, try adding apples or raisins for extra sweetness.
The tangy flavor of coleslaw cuts through the richness of steak. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for busy meals.
Serve your coleslaw chilled for the best taste. You can customize it with different veggies or dressings to suit your preferences.
15. Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with steak. Its sweet, juicy flavor complements the savory meat.
You can prepare corn on the cob in various ways. Boil it for a simple, tender result. Grill it for a smoky taste that matches grilled steak.
For added flavor, brush the corn with butter and sprinkle with salt. You can also try herbs or spices like paprika or chili powder.
Corn on the cob is easy to serve and eat. It’s a hands-on food that adds fun to your steak dinner.
How to Choose the Perfect Side for Steak
Picking the right side dish can make your steak dinner even better. The best sides match well with steak and fit your taste.
Balancing Flavors and Textures
Think about how your side will taste with the steak. Choose sides that add new flavors without being too strong.
Creamy mashed potatoes go well with a juicy steak. Roasted veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts add a nice crunch.
Mix up textures to keep things interesting. Try a soft side like creamed spinach with a crispy one like onion rings. This gives you different feelings in each bite.
Remember the steak’s flavor when picking sides. Rich, fatty cuts pair well with lighter sides. Leaner steaks can handle heavier, creamier dishes.
Considering Dietary Preferences
Think about what you and your guests like to eat. If someone doesn’t eat gluten, skip the bread and try roasted potatoes instead.
For low-carb eaters, go for veggie sides like grilled asparagus or a fresh salad. These are tasty and healthy choices.
If you want to add more protein, pick sides like beans or quinoa. These fill you up without taking away from the steak.
Don’t forget about allergies. Ask your guests if they can’t eat certain foods. This helps you pick sides everyone can enjoy.
Seasonal veggies are a great choice. They’re fresh, tasty, and often cheaper. Plus, they add color to your plate.
Wine Pairing Tips with Steak and Sides
The right wine can make your steak dinner even better. Picking a good match depends on the cut of meat and the sides you’re serving.
Matching Red Wines with Sides
For fatty cuts like ribeye, try a bold Cabernet Sauvignon. Its tannins cut through the richness.
With leaner steaks, go for a smoother Merlot or Pinot Noir.
Pair earthy sides like mushrooms with an aged Bordeaux. Its complex flavors work well together.
For veggie sides, choose a medium-bodied red like Syrah. It won’t overpower lighter flavors.
Spicy sides? Pick a fruit-forward Zinfandel to balance the heat.
Exploring White and Sparkling Wines
White wines can work with steak too. Try an oaked Chardonnay with buttery sides like mashed potatoes.
For salads or lighter sides, pick a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. Its acidity refreshes your palate between bites.
Sparkling wines are great with fried sides. The bubbles cut through greasiness. Choose a dry Prosecco or Cava.
Rosé can be a good middle ground. It pairs well with both the meat and veggie sides. Look for a dry, fuller-bodied style.