The best sides for Onion Rings are BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches, Classic Cheeseburgers, Grilled Chicken Wings, Loaded Chili Dogs, and Sloppy Joes.
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches pairs well because it adds heat that rounds out the plate.
For a lighter option, try Sloppy Joes. Sloppy Joes is a lighter option if you want something less heavy on the table.
Ah, onion rings - the crispy, golden sidekick we never knew we needed. Who can resist that perfect crunch combined with a soft onion inside?
We've all had those moments where we find ourselves ordering them instead of fries.
They transform any meal into something special. Pair that with your favorite burger, and it feels like an instant party.
Remember that one time you decided to make them at home?
What a mess of flour and breadcrumbs! But the results?
Totally worth it.
Top 15 Side Dishes for Onion Rings
Here are our favorite accompaniments to onion rings, some classic and some with a twist - and onion dip side ideas for parties:
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor | Difficulty | Time |
| BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches | Pulled pork, BBQ sauce, buns | Smoky, sweet | Medium | 6 hrs (slow-cooked) |
| Classic Cheeseburgers | Ground beef, cheese, buns | Savory, cheesy | Easy | 20 mins |
| Grilled Chicken Wings | Chicken wings, BBQ sauce, spices | Spicy, smoky | Medium | 30 mins |
| Loaded Chili Dogs | Hot dogs, chili, cheese, onions | Savory, spicy | Medium | 30 mins |
| Sloppy Joes | Ground beef, tomato sauce, buns | Savory, tangy | Easy | 20 mins |
| Steak Frites | Steak, potatoes, herbs | Savory, crispy | Medium | 40 mins |
| Battered Fish Tacos | Fish fillets, batter, tortillas | Crispy, tangy | Medium | 30 mins |
| Mac and Cheese | Pasta, cheese, milk, butter | Cheesy, creamy | Medium | 40 mins |
| Coleslaw | Cabbage, carrots, vinegar | Tangy, crunchy | Easy | 15 mins |
| Grilled Portobello Mushrooms | Portobello mushrooms, balsamic, herbs | Umami, savory | Easy | 15 mins |
| Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders | Chicken, buffalo sauce, buns | Spicy, savory | Medium | 30 mins |
| Philly Cheesesteak | Beef, cheese, onions, peppers | Savory, cheesy | Medium | 25 mins |
| Beer-Battered Shrimp | Shrimp, beer batter, spices | Crispy, savory | Medium | 25 mins |
| Ranch Dip | Ranch seasoning, mayo, sour cream | Creamy, tangy | Easy | 10 mins |
| Caesar Salad | Romaine, Caesar dressing, croutons | Fresh, savory | Easy | 15 mins |
These side dishes are designed to go with the crispy, savory flavors of onion rings, with a variety of hearty, tangy, and classic options that pair well with this popular appetizer.
1 - BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
First, let's talk BBQ pulled pork sandwiches. They're messy, juicy, and just plain awesome.
We love how tender the pork gets after slow cooking.
Slap it between some soft bread and you've got a major win.
Pro tip: use a mix of BBQ sauces for complexity - or see BBQ tofu side suggestions that shine.
We've all had that smoky flavor that just lingers in the best way. Pair with onion rings for crunch perfection.
2 - Classic Cheeseburgers
Who doesn't love a classic cheeseburger? It's the ultimate comfort food.
We can't resist that juicy patty, melted cheese, and all the toppings piled high.
Pro tip: Toast those buns! It makes a difference.
Don't skip on the condiments. A mix of ketchup, mustard, and maybe some spicy mayo gives it personality.
We often go for pickles and onions for that extra crunch.
Pair your burger with onion rings for the perfect bite!
3 - Grilled Chicken Wings
Grilled chicken wings are a must-try for any food lover - also consider grilled swordfish side ideas for a seafood alternative.
We love experimenting with different sauces. From classic buffalo to sweet BBQ, there's a flavor for everyone.
Crispy skin is non-negotiable. A quick grill over high heat does the trick.
Don't forget to marinate beforehand; it makes all the difference. Carve out time for some serious munching with friends.
Those wings will disappear fast!
Perfectly paired with onion rings, the crunch goes with the tender meat. It's comfort food at its finest.
4 - Loaded Chili Dogs
Loaded chili dogs are a blast - and pair nicely with loaded baked potato side pairings.
They combine juicy hot dogs with rich chili and all the fixings. We love piling on cheese, onions, and jalapeños.
It's the ultimate messy delight. Just grab some napkins-things can get wild!
We think a smoky flavor enhances this dish. Keep the chili thick for a filling bite.
Don't skimp on the toppings; they make all the difference. The crunch from fresh ingredients adds texture to each bite.
5 - Sloppy Joes
Next. Sloppy joes are a classic comfort food that we all need in our lives.
They're just messy sandwiches filled with seasoned ground beef and gravy.
We love piling on the flavors with various spices. A toasted bun makes everything better.
We often add pickles for crunch and sweetness. This dish is easy to whip up for a crowd.
Leftovers? They heat up nicely!
Sloppy joes are perfect for easy weeknight dinners or game day snacks.
For an unexpected contrast, serve with Trader Joe's scallion pancake side ideas to add a crispy, savory element.
6 - Steak Frites
Steak frites are a classic French dish that we all need to try - or swap in steak bites side suggestions for a faster, shareable option.
We love the simplicity of this dish - it's all about quality ingredients. A good cut of meat, some salt and pepper, and you're set.
Oh, those fries! So crispy on the outside and fluffy inside.
In our opinion, they go well with onion rings for double crunch power.
This is an easy dinner to whip up at home; give it a try!
7 - Battered Fish Tacos
Battered fish tacos are always a fun choice for a snack or meal. Crispy fish combined with soft tortillas creates an awesome texture.
We love loading them up with fresh veggies and tasty sauces. Salsa and slaw add extra crunch and zing.
A good batter holds the flavor in while keeping it light - and pairs well with beer-battered fish side ideas.
Skip the frozen stuff. Fresh fish really takes these tacos to the next level.
Trust us, it's worth it.
8 - Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is that cozy dish we can all get behind. It's creamy, cheesy, and downright comforting.
We love how easy it is to whip up a batch. Just combine pasta, cheese, and some milk.
Add a breadcrumb topping for crunch.
Pasta choice matters; go for shapes that catch the cheese sauce nicely.
Leftovers taste even better the next day. Don't forget to experiment with different cheeses for fun flavours.
For more heat and depth, pair mac and cheese with chili mac side pairings to balance creaminess with spice.
9 - Coleslaw
Coleslaw is that crunchy salad we all need on our plates.
We love the mix of crisp cabbage and creamy dressing.
It adds freshness to any meal. Addins like carrots, onions, or even apples can spice things up.
Make it ahead of time for the best flavor. The longer it sits, the tastier it becomes.
Keeping it chilled is key for that crisp bite.
Use leftover coleslaw as a topping for sandwiches or tacos. It's a sneaky way to add some green!
10 - Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Grilled portobello mushrooms are a real treat. They're filling and packed with flavor.
We love how they can easily replace meat in a dish.
A quick brush of olive oil before grilling is a must. Don't skip adding salt and pepper-that makes a difference.
These guys can soak up your favorite marinades too. We often throw them on burgers or alongside some veggies.
Don't forget to remove the gills if you want a milder taste. They're best fresh off the grill. Enjoy!
11 - Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Spicy buffalo chicken sliders are a must-try. They pack heat and flavour in every bite.
We love how they balance the crispy bread with juicy chicken.
Add extra toppings like pickles for crunch or mayo for creaminess. Don't skip toasting the slider buns; it makes a difference.
These sliders are a hit at parties or game days.
Use leftover chicken for easy meal prep. They heat up great for later.
Serve with onion rings, and you've got a winning combo that pleases everyone!
12 - Philly Cheesesteak
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Philly cheesesteak is sheer magic. It's all about that tender beef and melty cheese combo.
We go for ribeye because it shreds nicely.
Grilled onions just add to the flavour explosion. Don't forget the hoagie roll; it's key for that perfect bite.
We sometimes spice it up with peppers or mushrooms.
Reheating leftovers? Use the oven instead of the microwave.
They taste much better that way. It's a quick fix that keeps things tasty.
13 - Beer-Battered Shrimp
Beer-battered shrimp are the real MVPs at any gathering. They're crispy, crunchy, and just downright fun to munch on.
The batter is what makes them shine. Using a light beer gives it that extra flair.
We suggest keeping the shrimp dry before dipping for better adhesion.
Frying them quickly ensures they stay juicy inside. Pair with a zesty dip for an awesome kick.
Reheating? Use an oven for that fresh-out-of-the-fryer vibe.
These guys never disappoint!
14 - Ranch Dip
Ranch dip is a must-have for any snack table. It's creamy and packed with flavour.
We love how it goes well with veggies and chips. No one can resist a good scoop.
Our go-to recipe uses ranch seasoning mixed with sour cream and mayo. It's quick and easy.
We like adding a splash of lemon juice for an extra zing.
Make it ahead of time for the best taste. Leaving it in the fridge lets the flavours blend.
15 - Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is that go-to side we all need. It's crunchy, creamy, and packed with flavor.
Fresh romaine lettuce is a must; it keeps things crisp. Toss in a good amount of parmesan for that cheesy kick.
Don't skip the croutons; they add the perfect crunch. We love using homemade ones for extra flavor.
A hint of lemon juice can brighten things up. Caesar dressing really ties it all together.
We often experiment with different dressings for fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches is the most popular choice because it goes with the flavors and textures of Onion Rings without overpowering the plate. Most home cooks pick this because it adds contrast and rounds out the meal.
A leafy green or fiber-rich vegetable balances the meal best. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches is a good pick for adding color and nutrients.
Pairing a protein-heavy main with a lighter vegetable side keeps the meal from feeling too heavy.
A good side dish either contrasts or goes with the dominant flavor. If the main is rich and savory, something with acidity or crunch balances the plate without competing.
Can side dishes be swapped based on dietary needs?
Yes.
Most classic pairings have easy swaps - substitute roasted vegetables for grain sides, or use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a lower-carb option.
Classic soup pairings include French Onion Soup side ideas for richer menus, and pantry shortcuts like onion powder substitute options can save the day when seasoning runs low.
Andrew Gray is a passionate food writer and recipe creator who built Gusto Meadow to celebrate delicious, approachable cooking. With years of experience in restaurants and catering, he brings a grounded, real-world understanding of flavors, technique, and what truly works in a home kitchen.
At Gusto Meadow, Andrew focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple methods that anyone can follow. His goal is to make cooking feel fun, doable, and rewarding — whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or exploring something new.