Keto sides for burgers don’t have to be boring. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just making a weeknight meal, finding the right low-carb companion for your burger is key. This guide is packed with flavorful, easy keto sides that pair perfectly with everything from beef patties to veggie burgers. You’ll also get answers to common questions, like how to enjoy a burger without the bun and what qualifies as a keto Southern side. If you’re looking for inspiration beyond lettuce and pickles, this is where it gets delicio.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Keto Sides for Burgers That Actually Satisfy
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Easy keto sides for burgers including crunchy zucchini fries, creamy slaws, and roasted vegetables that are low in carbs and full of satisfying flavor. These are perfect for weeknight dinners or summer cookouts.
Ingredients
2 zucchinis
½ cup grated parmesan
1 tbsp olive oil
½ head green cabbage
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Salt & pepper to taste
1 cup cauliflower florets
1 tbsp butter
½ tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Slice zucchini into fry shapes and toss with olive oil and grated parmesan.
Spread zucchini fries on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes until golden.
In a bowl, mix shredded cabbage, mayo, vinegar, salt, and pepper to make slaw.
Steam cauliflower until tender, then mash with butter and smoked paprika.
Serve all sides warm alongside your favorite keto burgers.
Notes
You can substitute cauliflower with broccoli for the mash.
Let the slaw sit in the fridge for 1–2 hours to deepen the flavor.
Zucchini fries are best served hot for the perfect crisp.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 8g
Why Keto Sides for Burgers Became a Game-Changer in My Kitchen
When I first cut back on carbs, I didn’t miss the bun as much as I missed the sides. Fries had always been my favorite thing to serve with burgers. But as I started trying out new low-carb recipes, I discovered that roasted vegetables, creamy slaws, and even mock fries could fill that gap beautifully. One summer evening, I made a spread of zucchini fries, cauliflower tots, and a tangy dill slaw for friends. No one missed the chips, and no one asked where the potatoes were. That moment proved these keto sides for burgers were anything but second-rate.
Comfort Food, the Keto Way
Burgers are one of the easiest meals to keep low-carb, but the sides? That takes a little creativity. Think crispy green beans, grilled cheese skewers, or a chilled cauliflower salad that hits all the right notes. These sides aren’t just filler—they bring flavor, crunch, and a sense of real comfort food. On busy nights, I turn to these ideas again and again, especially when I want to make a meal that feels hearty without being heavy. When you’re eating keto, the right side dish transforms a simple burger into something special.
Keto Classics That Always Work
Crunch Without the Carbs: Keto-Friendly Fries & Chips
When you’re craving that crisp, golden crunch, the right keto sides for burgers can make all the difference. Traditional fries might be off the table, but zucchini fries baked with parmesan or air-fried green beans bring back that same satisfying texture. Another favorite? Turnip fries seasoned with garlic, or crispy radish chips roasted in olive oil until they’re lightly browned. These keto sides for burgers give you all the bite and flavor without the carbs. Just sprinkle on your favorite seasoning blend, and you’ve got a side dish that stands tall next to any burger.
Slaws That Actually Steal the Show
No burger night feels complete without something cool and crunchy. That’s where slaw steps in—and when made right, it becomes one of the best keto sides for burgers. Skip the sugar and go for creamy mayo or vinegar-based dressings. Shredded cabbage is classic, but tossing in Brussels sprouts, fennel, or jicama adds a twist. A creamy dill pickle slaw works beautifully with beef patties, while a mustard-forward Southern slaw pairs well with grilled turkey or chicken burgers. These keto sides for burgers don’t just play a supporting role—they shine all on their own.
Unexpected Twists on Keto Sides for Burgers
Cheesy Bakes and Roasted Goodness
If you’re in the mood for something warm and indulgent, baked sides are where keto sides for burgers really shine. Cheesy cauliflower gratin, roasted broccoli with garlic butter, or a bacon-wrapped asparagus tray bake bring richness without breaking your carb goals. The trick is keeping flavors bold—think smoked paprika, sharp cheddar, and a splash of cream. These baked keto sides for burgers hold their own next to juicy patties, making even a bunless burger feel like a complete meal. Plus, they reheat beautifully, so they’re ideal for leftovers the next day.
Fresh and Grilled: Light Yet Flavorful Pairings
Not every side has to be heavy. Some of the best keto sides for burgers are light, grilled, and bursting with seasonal flavor. Grilled zucchini ribbons, charred bell peppers, or a chilled cucumber salad with fresh herbs make excellent choices. These refreshing sides balance out heavier proteins and add color to the plate. On warmer days, I love slicing avocado over a lime-dressed cabbage mix for a quick, creamy slaw. The contrast of smoky burger and crisp, cool vegetables is hard to beat—proof that keto sides for burgers can be both satisfying and bright.
FAQ
What is a good side dish with burgers?
A good side dish with burgers adds balance—texture, temperature, and flavor. When you’re eating low-carb, the best keto sides for burgers include options like zucchini fries, creamy slaw, roasted green beans, or grilled vegetables. These all add interest without overwhelming the burger, letting the main flavor still shine.
What are good sides for keto?
Good sides for keto are low in carbs but full of flavor. Some top picks include cauliflower mash, sautéed spinach, baked avocado fries, and grilled halloumi. When planning keto sides for burgers, think of dishes that give contrast—like creamy textures next to grilled meat or crunchy bites beside juicy burgers.
How do you eat burgers on keto?
Eating burgers on keto is easier than you’d think. Simply skip the bun and opt for lettuce wraps or a knife-and-fork approach. Choose high-fat toppings like cheese, avocado, or bacon, and pair the burger with keto sides for burgers such as cheesy cauliflower, slaw, or roasted veggies to round out the meal.
What is a keto Southern side dish?
Southern cooking doesn’t have to be loaded with carbs. Keto Southern sides for burgers can include deviled eggs, mustard-heavy slaw, cauliflower “potato” salad, or sautéed greens with bacon. These dishes carry the bold, comforting flavors Southern food is known for, but without the added sugar or starch.
Conclusion
Finding satisfying keto sides for burgers is all about mixing creativity with comfort. Whether you’re grilling outside or cooking indoors, the right sides turn a simple burger into a standout meal. From crunchy zucchini fries to creamy slaws and smoky roasted vegetables, these dishes bring texture, flavor, and variety without the carbs. Next time burger night rolls around, skip the bun—but don’t skip the sides. With just a few ingredients and a little prep, you’ll be serving a plate that’s hearty, colorful, and completely keto.
