What Side Dishes Pair Best With Steak? Here’s How to Make Your Meal Unforgettable
A perfectly cooked steak deserves more than just applause—it deserves the perfect supporting cast of side dishes. While the star of the meal may be the tender, juicy cut of beef sizzling on your plate, the sides are what turn a steak dinner into a complete dining experience.
Whether you’re grilling a ribeye at home or savoring Wagyu at a top-notch steakhouse, these side dishes will elevate your meal to something truly unforgettable.
Potatoes With a Cajun Twist
If steak is the king of the dinner table, then potatoes are its loyal court. No steak dinner is complete without this timeless pairing, and the versatility of potatoes means there’s always a way to keep things interesting. While mashed or baked potatoes are the go-to choices, why not shake things up with a bold and flavorful twist? Enter cajun potatoes.
This recipe for cajun potatoes is the perfect blend of crispy, spicy, and creamy. Coated in a rich cajun seasoning, they add just the right amount of heat and texture to complement the tender richness of a steak. Whether you’re grilling a strip steak or searing a filet mignon, these potatoes provide a satisfying crunch and a punch of flavor that takes the meal to the next level. Easy to make and hard to resist, they’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any steak night.
Wagyu and Wedge Salad: A Sophisticated Pairing
When you’re indulging in the luxury of Wagyu beef, your side dishes need to rise to the occasion. The buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture of Wagyu pairs beautifully with a fresh, crisp wedge salad. The simplicity of iceberg lettuce, drizzled with creamy dressing and topped with tangy blue cheese, creates a refreshing contrast to the rich, marbled steak.
For inspiration on perfect pairings, different cities each have a unique take on what to put with steaks. You can easily find ideas at a Providence, Hartford, or Pittsburgh steakhouse. Eateries in these cities are known for their expertise in crafting impeccable side dishes to complement their top-quality steaks. A good wedge salad offers a cool crunch of lettuce paired with the sharpness of the cheese. These balance the decadent flavors of Wagyu, creating a harmony of exciting textures and tastes that will leave you enjoying each and every bite.
Creamed Spinach is the Velvety Side That Steals the Show
Few side dishes can hold their own against a steak quite like creamed spinach. This rich and velvety dish combines the earthiness of spinach with the indulgence of cream, butter, and a hint of nutmeg. It’s a classic for a reason—its bold yet balanced flavor profile complements the savory depth of a steak without overwhelming it.
The best part about creamed spinach is its versatility. Whether you’re enjoying a medium-rare porterhouse or a simple sirloin, this dish adds a touch of elegance to the plate. Plus, it satisfies the green vegetable requirement of the meal without feeling like a compromise. It’s indulgent but not heavy, making it the perfect side for steak lovers looking to balance richness with freshness.
Grilled Asparagus Offers a Lighter Touch With a Smoky Char
If you’re looking for a side that’s lighter but still packed with flavor, grilled asparagus is a standout choice. Its natural sweetness and tender-crisp texture make it a delightful companion to the smoky char of a grilled steak. Tossed with olive oil, salt, and a squeeze of lemon, asparagus adds a bright and refreshing element to the meal.
Grilling the asparagus alongside your steak not only enhances its flavor but also streamlines your cooking process. The slight char brings out a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the beef’s richness. It’s a simple yet sophisticated side dish that proves you don’t need to go overboard to impress your taste buds.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Once the overlooked vegetable of the dinner table, Brussels sprouts have made a full comeback as a trendy and delicious side dish. Roasted until caramelized and crispy, these little green gems bring a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with steak. Tossed with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of crispy bacon, they add both depth and dimension to your meal.
The beauty of roasted Brussels sprouts lies in their simplicity. They’re easy to prepare but deliver a complex flavor profile that elevates the entire dining experience. Pair them with a juicy T-bone or a seared ribeye, and you’ve got a side dish that balances healthfulness with gourmet flair.
A good steak deserves a great supporting cast, and these side dishes are ready to step into the spotlight. Whether you’re in the mood for bold cajun potatoes, a crisp wedge salad with Wagyu, or a cozy classic like Brussels sprouts, there’s a perfect pairing for every cut of beef.