Alright, let’s talk about liver and onions. This classic combo might seem intimidating, but it’s actually a hidden treasure in the food universe. We’re all a bit wary of anything that can still be found on Grandma’s dinner table, right?
Surprisingly, liver has a rich flavour that pairs well with a variety of sides. We’ve tried everything from mashed potatoes to green beans and each brings something special to the plate. It’s like building the perfect lunchbox, where every item gets its moment to shine.
If you’re looking for ways to amp up your liver and onions game, we’ve got you covered! Let’s look at the best side dishes that’ll make this meal something to remember.
Top 15 Side Dishes for Liver and Onions
Here are the 15 best sides to serve with your liver and onions:
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor | Difficulty | Time |
| Mashed Potatoes | Potatoes, butter, cream | Creamy, savory | Easy | 30 mins |
| Creamed Spinach | Spinach, cream, garlic | Creamy, savory | Medium | 20 mins |
| Steamed Green Beans | Green beans, butter, garlic | Fresh, savory | Easy | 15 mins |
| Buttered Egg Noodles | Egg noodles, butter, parsley | Buttery, savory | Easy | 15 mins |
| Roasted Root Vegetables | Carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes | Earthy, sweet | Medium | 40 mins |
| Sautéed Mushrooms | Mushrooms, garlic, butter | Earthy, savory | Easy | 20 mins |
| Colcannon | Potatoes, cabbage, butter | Creamy, savory | Medium | 35 mins |
| Glazed Carrots | Carrots, honey, butter | Sweet, buttery | Easy | 25 mins |
| Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts | Brussels sprouts, balsamic vinegar | Tangy, savory | Medium | 30 mins |
| Cornbread | Cornmeal, butter, honey | Sweet, buttery | Medium | 25 mins |
| Braised Red Cabbage | Red cabbage, apple, vinegar | Sweet, tangy | Medium | 45 mins |
| Garlic Butter Asparagus | Asparagus, garlic, butter | Fresh, garlicky | Easy | 15 mins |
| Warm Potato Salad | Potatoes, bacon, mustard | Tangy, savory | Medium | 30 mins |
| Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin | Cauliflower, cheese, cream | Cheesy, creamy | Medium | 40 mins |
| Apple and Fennel Slaw | Apple, fennel, lemon juice | Fresh, tangy | Easy | 15 mins |
These side dishes are crafted to complement the rich, hearty flavors of liver and onions, offering a mix of comforting, earthy, and fresh options.
1 – Mashed Potatoes
Who doesn’t love a buttery pile of mashed potatoes? They just scream comfort. We always go for that creamy fix that can hold its own against liver and onions.
Adding roasted garlic takes it to another level. We highly recommend that little twist. Pair it with gravy for extra flair or keep it simple and let those potatoes shine.
Get ready for fluffy goodness that mops up every bit of sauce on our plate. Seriously, who can resist?
2 – Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is like the fancy cousin at dinner—everyone looks forward to seeing it. This side dish is incredibly smooth and creamy. The spinach retains a slight bite, which is nice.
We like to mix in some seasoning for extra pizazz. A dash of nutmeg? Yes, please. We can’t resist topping it with a little cheese before baking.
This side pairs well with almost any protein. It’s quick and impressively indulgent.
3 – Steamed Green Beans
Green beans—nature’s crunchy little jewels. They’re super versatile and we love how easy they are to prepare. Steam, sauté, or toss them in with garlic for an extra kick.
They pair brilliantly with liver and onions. Plus, a little squeeze of lemon really freshens them up.
We often sprinkle some toasted almonds on top for a nutty crunch. This simple side just works; it’s everyone’s go-to at dinner. No fuss, just straight-up goodness.
4 – Buttered Egg Noodles
Who doesn’t love noodles? Buttered egg noodles are a must-try side dish. They are easy to whip up and super tasty.
We typically cook them until they’re al dente and toss with real butter. It’s that simple.
Add a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of colour. If we’re feeling adventurous, we might throw in some garlic or cheese.
These noodles go well with plenty of mains, including liver and onions. You can’t go wrong with a carb-filled goodness!
5 – Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasted root veggies are like the reliable sidekick at a meal. They hold the goodness of all the fall flavours. Carrots, potatoes, and parsnips come together in a sweet, crispy harmony.
We love to toss them in olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Adding herbs makes them pop. These veggies are easy to prep, then just let the oven do its thing.
They pair well with any protein and bring colour to our plate. We never say no to a veggie that can do that!
6 – Sautéed Mushrooms
Sautéed mushrooms are like nature’s little sponges! They’re super flavourful and can jazz up nearly any dish.
We love tossing them in a hot pan with some butter and garlic. There’s just something magical about that sizzle.
Add a splash of soy sauce, and you’re in umami heaven. These guys soak up every bit of flavour like a charm.
They pair really well with meat or even on top of a veggie burger. Mushrooms instantly give your meal that extra oomph.
7 – Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes with Cabbage)
Is colcannon just mashed potatoes in disguise? Kind of! It’s got the classic creamy potato vibe, plus cabbage for a fun twist.
This dish is a great way to sneak in some greens. We can toss in scallions for an extra kick.
The key? Keep it buttery! You want that rich taste peeking through.
Mix it all together, and you’ve got a side that’s sure to impress. It’s perfect with liver and onions or anything else needing a carb buddy.
8 – Glazed Carrots
Why are glazed carrots like the overachieving students of the veggie world? They’re sweet, shiny, and just plain fun.
These tender beauties get a simple treatment with butter and brown sugar.
We always use fresh carrots for that extra crunch. You can throw in some herbs for flair.
Roasting them really enhances the flavour. Glazed carrots brighten up any plate, grabbing attention with their vibrant colour.
They’re the perfect side for a hearty meal, not to mention super easy to whip up!
9 – Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Ever wonder why Brussels sprouts are having a moment? They’re crispy, tasty, and easier to whip up than you think. Roasting them with balsamic really brings out their flavor.
We start with halved sprouts and toss them in olive oil. Add a healthy glug of balsamic vinegar for zing. A sprinkle of salt and pepper does wonders.
These little guys caramelize beautifully. They turn golden and sweet. Seriously, who knew veggies could be so much fun?
10 – Cornbread
Cornbread is like that comfy sweater we all need. It’s warm, fluffy, and perfect with liver and onions.
We whip it up in no time. Just a few basics: cornmeal, flour, milk, eggs, and butter.
A hint of honey makes it sweet. You can toss in jalapeños for spice if you’re feeling feisty.
It’s like a hug on a plate. Cornbread works with pretty much anything. We usually keep leftovers for breakfast—it’s great with a pat of butter!
11 – Braised Red Cabbage
Braised red cabbage is like the side that always knows how to be a hit at dinner. It’s tangy and mildly sweet, perfect for cutting through rich dishes.
We toss it with vinegar and apples for that delightful contrast.
Prep is easy. Just chop and simmer. Cooking it down creates a tender texture that pairs well with meat.
It keeps well, so leftovers make a fantastic addition to a salad.
And it adds a vibrant pop of color to the plate. Who doesn’t love that?
12 – Garlic Butter Asparagus
Garlic butter asparagus is basically the veggie equivalent of a backstage pass at a concert. It tastes amazing and feels fancy, but it’s really simple.
We usually roast or sauté it for that perfect, tender crunch. And garlic—always a win.
Throw in some lemon zest for brightness. A sprinkle of parmesan at the end? Yes, please.
This dish pairs great with almost anything. We often serve it when we want to impress without trying too hard.
13 – Warm Potato Salad
Warm potato salad is a starchy side that steals the show. It’s comforting and easy to whip up.
We love using freshly boiled potatoes. Toss them in a tangy vinaigrette for that zesty goodness.
Add some diced onions and bacon bits for crunch. It’s a tasty twist on the classic.
Don’t be shy with the herbs; parsley or dill gives it a fresh kick. This dish is always a crowd-pleaser.
Serve it warm or at room temperature—it works both ways.
14 – Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin
Is there anything better than cheese? Cheesy cauliflower gratin takes that comfort to a whole new level. We love how the creamy sauce makes the cauliflower irresistible.
Add your favourite cheese—hello, cheddar! This side dish is super easy to customize.
You can toss in some breadcrumbs for crunch. Fresh herbs also brighten it up nicely.
It’s a solid option when we want to impress, without breaking a sweat. Perfect for pairing with meats, or just eating straight from the dish!
15 – Apple and Fennel Slaw
Apple and fennel slaw is the crisp crunch we crave. It’s fresh and bright, perfect for balancing heavier dishes.
We combine crunchy apples with sliced fennel for delightful flavor. A zesty dressing lifts this side dish even higher.
Great for summer BBQs or holiday feasts. We love adding nuts for extra texture.
Make it ahead of time. This slaw gets better as it chills. Light, healthy, and super easy to whip up.
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