Philly cheesesteak sliders are a miniature, mouth-watering take on the beloved classic sandwich, offering all the rich, savory flavors in a more manageable, snackable form. These sliders combine tender, flavorful beef, gooey melted cheese, and soft, pillowy buns, all packed into delicious, bite-sized portions. The magic, however, isn’t just in the sandwich itself but in the sides that complement it. Whether you’re hosting a lively party, preparing a comforting dinner for family, or simply making a casual weekend meal, pairing these sliders with the right accompaniments is essential for creating a truly memorable and well-rounded dining experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the best side dishes and flavors that complement Philly cheesesteak sliders perfectly. From classic crispy fries to fresh, vibrant salads and unique options like savory pierogis, this article will explore a wide range of sides to elevate your meal. Plus, we’ll share healthier alternatives and answer common questions, helping you serve up the ultimate slider feast that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
Classic Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak Sliders
When thinking of sides for Philly cheesesteak sliders, classic pairings often come to mind. These sides are tried-and-true favorites that work well with the rich, savory flavors of the sliders, providing balance and texture. Whether crispy, crunchy, or creamy, these dishes enhance the experience.
- French Fries: The quintessential side for Philly cheesesteak sliders, crispy golden fries are hard to beat. Opt for regular fries for a classic experience, or elevate the dish with loaded fries topped with cheese, bacon bits, and green onions. Sweet potato fries offer a slightly healthier option while adding a sweet contrast to the rich flavors of the sliders.
- Onion Rings: Crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, onion rings are a perfect match for the cheesy and savory sliders. The sweetness of the onions, coupled with their crispy coating, balances the rich flavors of beef and cheese. Serve them with a zesty dipping sauce or garlic aioli for an extra kick.
- Pickles and Pickled Vegetables: A sharp and tangy pickle is a must-have side for Philly cheesesteak sliders. The acidity cuts through the richness of the sandwich, adding a refreshing bite. You can also explore different types of pickled vegetables, like pickled carrots or radishes.
- Potato Chips: For a lighter, crunchy side, seasoned potato chips are an excellent choice. Whether you prefer BBQ-flavored chips, sea salt and vinegar, or classic plain, the crispy texture pairs well with the soft sliders, offering a contrast that enhances the meal.
Fresh and Light Side Options for Balance
Balancing the richness of Philly cheesesteak sliders with fresh, lighter sides can provide a refreshing contrast and help round out the meal. These sides add a healthy and flavorful touch while complementing the main dish.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, vinegar-based coleslaw brings a much-needed brightness to the plate. The crunchy cabbage and sharp dressing offer a textural contrast to the sliders, helping to cut through the heaviness of the beef and cheese. For a creamier option, you can make a mayo-based slaw, but the vinegar slaw is preferred for its refreshing qualities.
- Green Salad with Vinaigrette: For a healthier option, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can be the perfect side. The acidity of the vinaigrette pairs well with the cheesesteak sliders, cutting through the richness of the meat. Add toppings like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and radishes to create texture and color.
- Roasted Vegetables: Lightly roasted or grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, or broccoli offer a healthy, delicious alternative to heavier sides. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, while their slight smokiness complements the savory flavors of the cheesesteak sliders. Roasted vegetables not only provide balance but also add color and variety to your plate.
For a more filling, flavorful vegetable option, check out this guide to green spaghetti to explore creative veggie ideas that work beautifully alongside Philly cheesesteak sliders.
Hearty and Comforting Side Dishes
If you want to keep things hearty and comforting, there are plenty of sides that add even more indulgence to your meal. These are perfect for when you want to dive into a truly rich and satisfying eating experience.
- Mac and Cheese: No comfort food list is complete without mac and cheese. The creamy, cheesy pasta pairs incredibly well with the Philly cheesesteak sliders, enhancing the cheese factor in a delightful way. For extra flavor, top your mac and cheese with crispy breadcrumbs or add in ingredients like jalapeños or caramelized onions.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans are an unexpected yet perfect pairing for cheesesteak sliders. The smoky, sweet flavor of the beans balances the salty, savory meat, and cheese of the sliders, adding a rich, robust element to the meal. Beans also provide a hearty, filling side, making them a great option for big eaters.
- Loaded Potato Skins: Loaded potato skins are a fun, filling side that combines the best of both worlds: crispy potato skins and gooey cheese. They’re topped with cheddar cheese, sour cream, and green onions. This delicious combination pairs seamlessly with cheesesteak sliders, adding both texture and flavor. Loaded potato skins are especially popular for larger gatherings or game-day meals.
For those planning ahead, you can make these as twice-baked potatoes for even more flavor and convenience. Explore this recipe for twice-baked mashed potatoes for an idea of how to add this perfect side to your menu.
Unique Side Pairings for a Twist
Want to impress your guests or try something a little different? These unique sides add an exciting twist to the traditional cheesesteak slider meal.
- Pierogis: A regional favorite in Philly, pierogis, stuffed dumplings filled with potatoes, cheese, or even meat, bring a comforting, doughy complement to the cheesesteak sliders. Whether boiled or fried, pierogis are a rich, satisfying side that can hold their own next to the flavorful sliders.
- Crispy Potatoes with Aioli: For a more gourmet touch, crispy potatoes served with garlic aioli make a fantastic side dish. The soft interior and crispy exterior of the potatoes paired with the creamy, garlicky aioli create a satisfying contrast that complements the sliders’ bold flavors.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts are an excellent option for those looking for a healthier, yet flavorful side. The caramelization from roasting adds a slight sweetness to the Brussels sprouts, which pairs beautifully with the savory cheesesteak sliders. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can take this dish to the next level.
- Corn on the Cob: Another unique side is grilled or roasted corn on the cob, seasoned with herbs, spices, and a hint of butter. The sweetness of the corn complements the savory sliders, while the slight smokiness from grilling adds depth to the overall meal.
Beverage Pairings
This guide focuses on sides, but it’s important to think about how non-alcoholic drinks can enhance your Philly cheesesteak slider experience.
- Iced Tea: Unsweetened iced tea with lemon is light and refreshing. It cuts through the richness of the sliders without overpowering the flavors. You can check out this refreshing iced tea recipe for a perfect summer beverage.
- Sparkling Water: Bubbly sparkling water, especially with a hint of citrus, is a great pairing. Its refreshing fizz complements the heaviness of the meal.
- Lemonade: Fresh lemonade offers a perfect mix of sweet and tart. It cleanses your palate between bites of the rich and cheesy sliders.
FAQs
The best side dishes for Philly cheesesteak sliders include French fries, onion rings, coleslaw, mac and cheese, baked beans, and loaded potato skins. Each of these sides complements the savory flavors of the sliders, while adding variety in texture and taste.
Absolutely! Pairing Philly cheesesteak sliders with lighter options like roasted vegetables, green salad with vinaigrette, or sweet potato fries can provide a healthier balance to the rich sliders.
To complement a savory meal, light desserts such as cheesecake or chocolate mousse offer a satisfying yet not overly heavy way to end the meal. A simple fruit salad can also be a refreshing and healthy dessert option.
Conclusion
Pairing Philly cheesesteak sliders with the right sides can turn a simple dish into an unforgettable feast. Classic favorites like crispy fries and creamy mac and cheese are always crowd-pleasers. These comforting sides are loved by everyone and add richness to the meal. Unique options like savory pierogis, smoky baked beans, and roasted vegetables bring exciting variety. They offer new flavors and textures that will delight your guests. With so many flavorful choices, the possibilities are endless for creating a well-rounded meal.
Selecting sides that balance and enhance the rich flavors of the sliders will ensure a satisfying experience for everyone at the table. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or hosting a festive gathering, the perfect sides will elevate your Philly cheesesteak sliders into something truly special and crowd-pleasing.