BEST SIDE DISHES TO PAIR WITH EACH STEAK
- Dave Walker
- Jan 1
- 2 min read

Best Side Dishes to Pair With Each Steak Cut
A great steak is only half the experience. The right side dish can elevate flavor, balance richness, and turn a good steak dinner into an unforgettable one. Whether you prefer a buttery filet or a bold ribeye, pairing your steak with the perfect side makes all the difference.
Here’s a guide to the best side dishes to pair with each steak cut—straight from classic steakhouse tradition.
🥩 Filet Mignon
Tender, lean, and elegant
Filet mignon is prized for its tenderness and mild flavor, so it pairs best with sides that add richness without overpowering the steak.
Best Sides:
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Garlic Butter Asparagus
Truffle Fries
Sautéed Mushrooms
Why it works: The buttery textures complement the filet’s softness while adding depth.
🥩 Ribeye
Rich, juicy, and full of marbling
Ribeye is bold and indulgent, so it pairs well with sides that either cut through the fat or embrace the richness.
Best Sides:
Crispy Steakhouse Fries
Grilled Vegetables
Creamed Spinach
Onion Rings
Why it works: Crisp and savory sides balance ribeye’s intense flavor.
🥩 New York Strip
Balanced flavor and texture
The New York strip sits perfectly between tender and hearty, making it one of the most versatile steaks for pairing.
Best Sides:
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Caesar Salad
Mac & Cheese
Why it works: These sides highlight the steak’s beefy flavor without competing with it.
🥩 Sirloin
Lean, bold, and satisfying
Sirloin has a strong beef flavor with a leaner profile, so it benefits from comforting, flavorful sides.
Best Sides:
Mashed Potatoes or Fries
Grilled Onions
Steamed Broccoli
Rice Pilaf
Why it works: These sides add moisture and richness to complement the lean cut.
🥩 T-Bone & Porterhouse
The best of both worlds
With both a strip and a tenderloin on one plate, these steaks call for classic steakhouse pairings.
Best Sides:
Steak Fries
Creamed Spinach
Sautéed Mushrooms
House Salad
Why it works: Traditional sides keep the focus on the star of the plate—the steak.
🥩 Flat Iron & Skirt Steak
Bold flavor, perfect for marinades
These cuts are packed with flavor and pair well with vibrant or crispy sides.
Best Sides:
Grilled Corn
Chimichurri Vegetables
Fries or Potato Wedges
Fresh Garden Salad
Why it works: Bright, fresh sides balance the steak’s boldness.
🥔 Classic Steakhouse Rule of Thumb
Rich steak? Go crisp or fresh.
Lean steak? Go creamy or buttery.
Bold steak? Keep sides simple and classic.
The Perfect Steakhouse Experience
At a great steakhouse, every detail matters—from premium, never-frozen beef to sides prepared with care. When steak and sides work together, the result is a meal that keeps guests coming back.
Whether you’re craving fries or mashed potatoes, vegetables or comfort classics, the right pairing ensures your steak shines exactly the way it should.
Just say the word. 🥩🔥



Comments