There’s something comforting about biting into a perfectly baked potato. Its crispy skin and soft, fluffy interior make it a versatile base for countless flavor combinations. While baked potatoes are often enjoyed on their own, they truly shine when paired with complementary side dishes. But what’s the best way to elevate this humble dish?
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best side dishes for baked potatoes that can transform your meal into something extraordinary. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, a special gathering, or a casual weeknight meal, these sides will make your baked potatoes unforgettable. From fresh salads to hearty proteins, these sides work to create the perfect balance on your plate.
The Secret to Perfect Baked Potatoes
Before diving into the side dishes, let’s briefly touch on how to bake the perfect potato. A flawless side dishes for baked potatoes has a crispy skin and a fluffy interior, making it the ideal foundation for whatever toppings or side dishes you plan to serve with it.
- Prepping the Potato: Start by scrubbing the potatoes to clean them, then pierce them with a fork to allow steam to escape. For an extra crispy skin, rub the outside with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Baking the Potato: Bake at 400°F for about 60 minutes, depending on the size. You’ll know the potato is done when you can easily insert a fork into the center. For a quicker option, use a microwave on high for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Now that you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to look at the best side dishes to serve with your baked potatoes.
1. Grilled Steak: A Classic Combination
Pairing baked potatoes with a hearty protein like grilled steak creates a perfect meal for steak lovers. This classic American combination is often seen in steakhouses across the U.S., where the rich, meaty flavors of the steak balance the light, fluffy potato.
- Why It Works: The richness of the steak provides a satisfying contrast to the neutral flavor of the potato. Add some butter or sour cream on the potato, and you have a hearty, filling meal.
- Best Cut to Pair: Ribeye, sirloin, or New York strip steaks, grilled to your preferred doneness, are perfect choices.
This combination is a hit at barbecues or family dinners where hearty, protein-packed meals are appreciated.
2. Broccoli and Cheese: Healthy and Delicious
One of the healthiest and most popular sides for baked potatoes is steamed broccoli topped with melted cheese. This combination brings a fresh, nutritious element to the meal while still indulging in the cheesy goodness that many people crave.
- Why It Works: The broccoli adds color, crunch, and fiber to the meal, while the melted cheese complements the starchy potato with creamy richness.
- How to Serve: Steam broccoli until tender, then melt cheddar cheese over it before spooning it onto the potato or serving it alongside.
This classic combo is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something tasty but still balanced and nutritious.
3. Barbecue Chicken: Tangy and Smoky
Barbecue chicken pairs exceptionally well with baked potatoes, especially when you’re craving something smoky, tangy, and filling. The sweetness of the BBQ sauce contrasts beautifully with the simplicity of the baked potato, making this a crowd-pleaser.
- Why It Works: The sweet and tangy flavors of the barbecue sauce elevate the mild taste of the potato. Whether you use chicken thighs or breasts, this pairing is always a winner.
- How to Serve: Serve grilled or shredded BBQ chicken on the side or even pile it directly on top of the potato for a deliciously messy, satisfying meal.
This combination is ideal for summer cookouts or casual family dinners when you’re in the mood for comfort food.
4. Sautéed Mushrooms: Earthy and Savory
Mushrooms are a fantastic side dish for baked potatoes, especially when sautéed with garlic and butter. Sautéed mushrooms bring an earthy, rich flavor to the meal that pairs well with the creamy texture of a baked potato.
- Why It Works: Mushrooms add depth to the meal. Their savory flavor combined with butter and garlic enhances the mildness of the potato, making each bite more flavorful.
- How to Serve: Sauté mushrooms with garlic, olive oil, and a splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar for an added layer of flavor.
Serve this side for a special dinner, as it gives your baked potato a more gourmet touch.
5. Coleslaw: Crisp and Tangy
When you’re looking for something cool and crunchy to complement your warm baked potato, coleslaw is an excellent choice. The tangy dressing of coleslaw cuts through the richness of the potato, providing a fresh balance to your meal.
- Why It Works: The creamy or vinegar-based dressing provides acidity and crunch that pairs well with the soft, fluffy potato.
- How to Serve: Opt for either a creamy mayo-based coleslaw or a lighter vinegar-based one, depending on your preference.
Coleslaw is an especially good side dish for BBQ dinners, picnics, or potlucks.
6. Chili: Spicy and Comforting
For a heartier, more comforting meal, topping your baked potato with chili adds flavor, texture, and a bit of heat. Whether you prefer a traditional beef chili or a vegetarian version, this combination is guaranteed to fill you up.
- Why It Works: The warmth and spice of the chili provide a rich, hearty contrast to the potato. The textures of beans, ground beef (or veggies), and a spicy tomato-based sauce make each bite more exciting.
- How to Serve: Serve the chili alongside or pour it over the potato, then add shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions for the full experience.
This combo is perfect for cold-weather meals or game-day dinners when you need something hearty and filling.
7. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and Flavorful
A side of garlic bread provides a wonderful crunch and garlic kick to your baked potato meal. The crispy texture of the bread complements the soft potato perfectly, creating a satisfying contrast in every bite.
- Why It Works: The butter and garlic in the bread provide an extra layer of flavor that enhances the neutral, comforting taste of the potato.
- How to Serve: Grill or bake slices of Italian bread topped with garlic butter, parsley, and a sprinkle of parmesan.
This side is ideal for serving alongside baked potatoes during pasta nights or hearty Italian-themed dinners.
8. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful and Nutritious
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and creates a slightly caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with the mildness of baked potatoes. Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini add both color and nutrition to the plate.
- Why It Works: The crispy, slightly sweet roasted vegetables offer a nice textural contrast to the softness of the baked potato.
- How to Serve: Drizzle vegetables with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs, then roast them until golden.
This side dish is perfect for when you’re looking to add more vegetables to your meal without sacrificing flavor.
9. Baked Beans: Sweet and Savory
For a more traditional pairing, baked beans offer a sweet, savory option that goes beautifully with baked potatoes. The rich, smoky sauce of the beans works well with the neutral flavor of the potato, creating a comforting and filling dish.
- Why It Works: The smoky sweetness of baked beans complements the potato’s fluffy interior. This combination offers plenty of flavor and richness.
- How to Serve: Spoon baked beans on the side of your potato or pour them on top for extra flavor.
Baked beans are perfect for casual gatherings, barbecues, or weeknight dinners when you need something easy and delicious.
10. Creamed Spinach: Rich and Creamy
For a more elegant touch, serve creamed spinach alongside your baked potatoes. This rich, garlicky dish provides a luxurious creamy element that enhances the natural starchiness of the potato.
- Why It Works: The creamy spinach adds moisture and depth to the meal, while the mild garlic and cheese notes bring a flavorful punch.
- How to Serve: Prepare your spinach with cream, garlic, and parmesan for a velvety smooth side dish that pairs perfectly with baked potatoes.
This side dish works well for special occasions or holiday meals when you want a touch of indulgence.
11. Grilled Salmon: Light and Flavorful
For a healthier, more sophisticated option, pair your baked potato with grilled salmon. The lightness of the fish combined with the creamy potato creates a delicious yet balanced meal.
- Why It Works: The buttery, tender salmon adds a light but satisfying protein to your plate, balancing the starchiness of the potato.
- How to Serve: Grill your salmon with lemon, olive oil, and fresh herbs for a fresh, bright flavor.
This pairing is perfect for a healthy dinner or a special occasion meal when you want to keep things light but flavorful.
12. Caesar Salad: Crisp and Savory
Sometimes, all a baked potato needs is a fresh, crunchy Caesar salad on the side. The savory parmesan, crisp romaine lettuce, and creamy Caesar dressing add freshness and contrast to the meal.
- Why It Works: The crisp texture and bold flavors of a Caesar salad cut through the softness of the potato, making each bite refreshing and exciting.
- How to Serve: Prepare a traditional Caesar salad with romaine, croutons, and plenty of parmesan, then toss it with a tangy Caesar dressing.
This side dish works perfectly for lunch or light dinner when you want something simple yet satisfying.
Conclusion: Perfect Sides for the Perfect Baked Potatoes
The next time you’re planning a meal featuring baked potatoes, consider these delicious and versatile side dishes to elevate your experience. Whether you want something rich like chili or grilled steak, or lighter fare like broccoli or Caesar salad, there’s a perfect side dish for any occasion. Baked potatoes are an American classic, and pairing them with the right sides can take them from simple to sensational. So, grab your favorite toppings, cook up one of these sides, and enjoy the ultimate baked potato meal!