Oh, the allure of french fries! But let's not forget the unsung heroes of the fast food menu—the inventive and mouth-watering side dishes that often steal the show.
From modern takes on timeless classics to innovative creations that satisfy your culinary curiosity, fast food sides are a realm of delicious exploration. They're not just accompaniments; they're stars in their own right.
Enjoys editors, along with a group of fast food aficionados, have scoured menus across the nation to bring you the top selections in this tasty category—far beyond mere fries. Our readers have cast their votes, and the results are in.
Here are the 9 best fast food sides that truly complement and elevate any meal.
No. 9: Tempura Green Beans - The Habit Burger Grill
Who would have thought green beans could be so enticing? The Habit Burger Grill's tempura green beans are a culinary masterpiece, offering a perfect balance between crunchy tempura batter and the fresh snap of green beans, complemented with a side of ranch sauce.
An unconventional but delightful pairing with charbroiled burgers.
No. 8: Mozzarella Sticks - Arby's
A symphony of crunch and melt, Arby's mozzarella sticks offer that delightful combination of golden-brown crispiness and stringy, melted cheese, with a marinara sauce adding the perfect tangy note.
Ideal as a standalone treat or an enhancement to their famous roast beef.
No. 7: Fried Pickles - Zaxby's
Embracing the allure of crunch and tang, Zaxby's fried pickles have become a sought-after treat.
Coated and fried to perfection, served with a side of ranch, these pickles are more than a mere side; they're a culinary adventure that pairs exceptionally well with the chain's chicken offerings.
No. 6: Onion Rings - Jack in the Box
Savory and generously sized, Jack in the Box's onion rings are a hit with those craving that unique blend of sweet onion and crispy, seasoned coating.
A perfect side for any meal, offering taste and texture that delight.
No. 5: Tots - Sonic Drive-In
Reminiscent of childhood yet entirely satisfying for adults, Sonic Drive-In's tots offer a perfect blend of crispiness and soft, flavorful potato.
Customize them with an array of topping choices, and you have a side that shines all on its own.
No. 4: Mac and Cheese - Chick-fil-A
Comfort food at its finest, Chick-fil-A's mac and cheese is a sumptuous blend of multiple cheeses, baked to perfection with a crisp top layer.
The rich, creamy texture is a homey addition to any meal.
No. 3: Chili - Wendy's
Wendy's chili is no ordinary side dish. Made with fresh, never-frozen beef, this hearty and flavorful bowl of warmth can stand alone or perfectly complement a baked potato, offering a satisfying and nourishing meal experience.
No. 2: Wisconsin Cheese Curds - Culver's
A celebration of Wisconsin's cheese heritage, Culver's cheese curds are a delightful treat.
With a golden exterior and a soft, gooey cheese center, they offer a taste of regional tradition that is both satisfying and memorable.
No. 1: Fried Okra - Golden Chick
A quintessential Southern delight, the fried okra at Golden Chick is a taste sensation.
The ideal balance between a crunchy coating and the soft, flavorful interior of the okra creates a side dish that's not just good but famously good.
