Hot dogs and hamburgers are classic American foods that are perfect for any backyard BBQ, picnic, or family gathering. While they are delicious on their own, serving them with the right sides can take your meal to the next level.
Whether you prefer traditional sides like potato salad and baked beans or want to switch things up with a unique twist on coleslaw or mac and cheese, there are endless options to complement your hot dogs and hamburgers. So, let’s explore some tasty ideas to make your next BBQ a hit!
Hot dogs and hamburgers are classic American dishes that are perfect for outdoor barbecues and picnics. When it comes to sides, there are several options that can complement these dishes. For hot dogs, you can serve toppings like ketchup, mustard, relish, onions, and cheese. For hamburgers, you can add lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayonnaise. Other popular sides include potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans, chips, and corn on the cob. Don’t forget the drinks and desserts to complete your meal!
What To Serve With Hot Dogs And Hamburgers?
Hot dogs and hamburgers are classic American staples that are perfect for summer cookouts, picnics, and barbecues. While these foods are delicious on their own, serving them with the right sides and condiments can elevate the entire meal. In this article, we’ll explore the best sides and toppings to serve with hot dogs and hamburgers.
1. Classic Condiments
The first thing that comes to mind when we think of hot dogs and hamburgers is ketchup, mustard, and relish. These classic condiments are a must-have when serving hot dogs or hamburgers. However, you can also experiment with different types of mustard, such as spicy brown or honey mustard, to add some extra flavor.
For a healthier option, you can also serve your hot dogs and hamburgers with avocado or guacamole instead of traditional condiments. Avocado is delicious and nutritious, and it adds a creamy texture to your meal.
2. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are the perfect side dish to serve with hot dogs and hamburgers. You can grill vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and eggplant. Grilled vegetables are healthy, flavorful, and add some color to your meal.
You can also experiment with different marinades to add some extra flavor to your vegetables. For example, you can marinate your vegetables in balsamic vinegar or soy sauce.
3. Baked Beans
Baked beans are a classic side dish that pairs well with hot dogs and hamburgers. You can make your own baked beans using canned beans, molasses, brown sugar, and bacon. Baked beans are sweet, savory, and filling, making them the perfect complement to your hot dogs and hamburgers.
4. Potato Salad
Potato salad is another classic side dish that is perfect for summer cookouts. You can make your own potato salad using boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings. Potato salad is creamy, tangy, and filling, and it pairs well with hot dogs and hamburgers.
5. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a refreshing side dish that pairs well with hot dogs and hamburgers. You can make your own coleslaw using shredded cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, vinegar, and seasonings. Coleslaw is crunchy, tangy, and adds some much-needed freshness to your meal.
6. Corn On The Cob
Corn on the cob is a classic summer side dish that pairs well with hot dogs and hamburgers. You can grill or boil your corn on the cob and serve it with butter, salt, and pepper. Corn on the cob is sweet, juicy, and adds some extra texture to your meal.
7. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to traditional french fries, and they pair well with hot dogs and hamburgers. You can make your own sweet potato fries by slicing sweet potatoes and baking them in the oven. Sweet potato fries are sweet, crispy, and delicious.
8. Watermelon
Watermelon is a refreshing summer fruit that is perfect for serving with hot dogs and hamburgers. You can slice your watermelon and serve it as a side dish, or you can make a watermelon salad with feta cheese, mint, and balsamic vinegar. Watermelon is sweet, juicy, and adds some much-needed hydration to your meal.
9. Macaroni And Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that pairs well with hot dogs and hamburgers. You can make your own macaroni and cheese using elbow macaroni, cheese, milk, and seasonings. Macaroni and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and filling, making it the perfect side dish for your cookout.
10. Fruit Salad
Fruit salad is a healthy and refreshing side dish that pairs well with hot dogs and hamburgers. You can make your own fruit salad using a variety of fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, and pineapple. Fruit salad is sweet, juicy, and adds some extra nutrition to your meal.
In conclusion, serving the right sides and toppings with hot dogs and hamburgers can elevate your entire meal. From classic condiments to grilled vegetables, there are plenty of options to choose from. Experiment with different side dishes and toppings to find your perfect combination.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re planning a cookout, hot dogs and hamburgers are likely on your menu. But what should you serve with them? Here are some frequently asked questions about what to serve with hot dogs and hamburgers.
What are some classic side dishes to serve with hot dogs and hamburgers?
Classic side dishes for hot dogs and hamburgers include potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans, and corn on the cob. These dishes are all easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, which makes them perfect for a cookout or picnic. For a healthier option, consider serving a green salad or grilled vegetables alongside your hot dogs and hamburgers.
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, try serving sweet potato fries or roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus. These dishes add a touch of sophistication to your cookout and are sure to impress your guests.
What drinks should I serve with hot dogs and hamburgers?
For a classic cookout experience, serve soda or iced tea alongside your hot dogs and hamburgers. If you’re looking for something a little more adult, consider serving beer or wine. Light beers like lagers and pilsners pair well with hot dogs and hamburgers, while red wines like merlot and cabernet sauvignon pair well with hamburgers.
For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving lemonade or fruit punch. These drinks are refreshing and perfect for a hot summer day.
What condiments should I offer with hot dogs and hamburgers?
Classic condiments for hot dogs and hamburgers include ketchup, mustard, relish, and mayonnaise. You can also offer toppings like cheese, onions, and pickles. For a gourmet twist, consider offering specialty condiments like aioli, barbecue sauce, or hot sauce.
Make sure to offer a variety of condiments so that your guests can customize their hot dogs and hamburgers to their liking. You can set up a condiment station with bowls and spoons for easy access.
What dessert should I serve with hot dogs and hamburgers?
For a classic cookout dessert, serve s’mores. You can set up a s’mores station with graham crackers, chocolate bars, and marshmallows. Your guests can roast their marshmallows over the grill or a campfire and assemble their own s’mores.
If you’re looking for something a little more sophisticated, consider serving grilled fruit like peaches or pineapple. You can grill the fruit alongside your hot dogs and hamburgers and serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.
How can I make my hot dogs and hamburgers stand out?
To make your hot dogs and hamburgers stand out, consider offering unique toppings like avocado, bacon, or chili. You can also serve your hot dogs and hamburgers on specialty buns like pretzel buns or brioche buns.
Another way to make your hot dogs and hamburgers stand out is to offer a variety of meats. You can offer chicken or turkey burgers in addition to beef burgers, or serve hot dogs made from different meats like chicken or pork. This adds variety to your cookout and ensures that there is something for everyone.
In conclusion, hot dogs and hamburgers are classic American summer staples that are perfect for backyard BBQs, picnics, and outdoor gatherings. While they are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right sides and toppings can take them to the next level.
Firstly, opt for traditional sides like potato chips, coleslaw, and baked beans to complement the savory flavors of the hot dogs and burgers. For a healthier option, try grilled vegetables or a simple salad. Don’t forget to add some condiments like ketchup, mustard, relish, and onions to enhance the taste.
Secondly, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try pairing hot dogs and hamburgers with unique sides like mac and cheese, corn on the cob, or even grilled pineapple. These unexpected combinations will surprise and delight your guests.
Lastly, don’t forget to consider the drinks. Serve ice-cold lemonade, iced tea, or beer to keep your guests refreshed and hydrated. With the right sides and drinks, your hot dog and hamburger BBQ will be a hit.
