Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly grilled steak, its smoky aroma wafting through the air, while your taste buds dance in anticipation of the juicy, savory flavors. Now picture the sides that go with steak, each one a delightful companion, from creamy mashed potatoes to zesty coleslaw, elevating that meaty experience to culinary bliss.
Thinking back to family barbecues, where laughter mingled with the sizzle on the grill, I can still taste Grandma’s buttery corn on the cob alongside perfectly seasoned steak. Those moments remind me how the right sides not only complement but also transform a meal into a cherished memory. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a summer party, these delectable pairings promise an amazing flavor adventure you won’t want to miss.
Why Does Everyone Love sides that go with steak?
Irresistible flavors come together in these sides, elevating your steak to new heights. Garlic Mashed Potatoes are creamy and rich, offering a buttery comfort that perfectly complements meat. Roasted Asparagus adds a crisp, vibrant touch, enhancing both taste and color on your plate. Creamed Spinach brings a luscious, velvety texture that rounds out the meal beautifully. With just 30 minutes of prep and cook time, these dishes are easy to whip up, making them perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner!
sides that go with steak Ingredients
- For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet potatoes (peeled and cubed) – Perfectly creamy and fluffy, these potatoes are a classic complement to any steak.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced) – Adds a rich, aromatic flavor that elevates the dish’s taste.
- 1/2 cup butter (unsalted) – Ensures a luscious texture and buttery richness in every bite.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – Creates a velvety smooth consistency that pairs wonderfully with your steak.
- to taste salt – Enhances all the flavors, making each bite irresistible.
- to taste black pepper – Adds just the right amount of warmth and depth.
- For the Roasted Asparagus
- 1 pound asparagus (trimmed) – Bright and crunchy, asparagus brings a fresh element to your hearty meal.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps achieve that perfect caramelization while adding healthy fats.
- to taste salt – Balances the natural sweetness of the asparagus for a delicious finish.
- to taste black pepper – A dash of heat enhances the savory flavors of this easy side.
- For the Creamed Spinach
- 1 pound fresh spinach (washed) – Packed with nutrients, spinach adds color and vibrancy to your plate.
- 1 cup heavy cream – This rich ingredient gives the dish an indulgent creaminess that’s hard to resist.
- 1 tablespoon butter – Provides extra depth of flavor while enriching the creamed texture.
- 1 clove garlic (minced) – Infuses a delightful aroma that complements both steak and spinach beautifully.
- to taste salt – Essential for bringing out the savory notes in this comforting dish.
- to taste black pepper – A sprinkle adds a subtle kick to round out the flavors perfectly.
Directions: sides that go with steak
1. Boil the potatoes: Place 2 pounds of peeled and cubed russet potatoes in a pot of salted water. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return them to the pot for mashing.
2. Sauté the garlic: In a small saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 4 minced cloves of garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Pour this buttery goodness into the potatoes.
3. Mash the potatoes: Using a potato masher, mix in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, along with salt and black pepper to taste. Blend until smooth and creamy—just how we love our mashed potatoes!
For the Asparagus:
4. Preheat your oven: Set it to 425°F (220°C) so it’s hot and ready for roasting those veggies to perfection.
5. Toss the asparagus: Take 1 pound of trimmed asparagus and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper, tossing until evenly coated.
6. Roast the asparagus: Spread the seasoned asparagus on a baking sheet and roast for about 12-15 minutes until tender and slightly crispy at the tips.
For the Creamed Spinach:
7. Melt the butter: In a pan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté 1 clove of minced garlic until fragrant, around 1-2 minutes.
8. Add the spinach: Toss in 1 pound of washed fresh spinach and cook until it wilts down, which should take just a few minutes.
9. Simmer with cream: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and let it simmer until thickened, stirring occasionally—season with salt and black pepper to taste just before serving.
Optional: Drizzle with a touch more olive oil before serving for an extra flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips
- Perfect Potato Texture: Use russet potatoes for the fluffiest garlic mashed potatoes, and ensure they’re fully tender before mashing to avoid lumps.
- Garlic Balance: Sauté garlic until fragrant but not browned; burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin your delicious sides that go with steak.
- Creamy Consistency: Add heavy cream gradually while mashing; this allows you to control the creaminess and avoid making the potatoes too runny.
- Asparagus Crispness: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet when roasting asparagus; this ensures they roast evenly and develop that delightful crispness.
- Spinach Freshness: Always wash spinach thoroughly to remove grit. If using pre-washed spinach, check for any tough stems before cooking for a smoother texture.
How to Store and Freeze sides that go with steak
- Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Asparagus, and Creamed Spinach in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Creamed Spinach in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Room Temperature: Avoid leaving any of these sides that go with steak at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain freshness and safety.
- Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to mashed potatoes for creaminess and sauté asparagus briefly in olive oil for optimal flavor.
sides that go with steak Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these delightful sides your own with a few simple twists!
- Garlic-Free: Omit the garlic for a milder taste, allowing the creamy texture of the potatoes to shine through. This is perfect for those sensitive to garlic, creating a comforting side that everyone can enjoy.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic boost. A sprinkle of finely chopped herbs enhances the flavor profile, elevating your mashed potatoes into something extraordinary.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese for a rich, savory twist. The melted cheese brings an indulgent creaminess, making each bite feel like a warm hug on a plate.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for some heat. This fiery addition will tantalize your taste buds and transform your traditional mashed potatoes into a bold statement side.
- Vegan-Friendly: Swap butter and heavy cream for olive oil and coconut milk. This plant-based alternative keeps the richness while ensuring it’s dairy-free, making it accessible to everyone at your table.
- Loaded Style: Top with crispy bacon bits, green onions, and sour cream for a loaded version. This hearty option adds texture and flavor layers that will leave your family asking for seconds.
- Sweet Potato Twist: Use sweet potatoes instead of russet for a naturally sweeter flavor. The vibrant orange color not only looks beautiful but also brings added nutrients to your meal.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing sides that go with steak is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights or special occasions. For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes, you can boil the potatoes (2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed) and sauté the garlic (4 cloves minced) in butter (1/2 cup unsalted) up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, and when you’re ready to serve, just mash them together with heavy cream (1/2 cup), salt, and pepper. The Roasted Asparagus can be prepped by trimming the asparagus (1 pound) and tossing it with olive oil (2 tablespoons), salt, and pepper up to 3 days ahead. Simply spread it on a baking sheet and roast for about 12-15 minutes before serving. For the Creamed Spinach, wash and chop the spinach (1 pound) ahead of time, sauté with garlic (1 clove minced) and butter (1 tablespoon), then add heavy cream (1 cup) just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant. By prepping these flavorful sides in advance, you can enjoy a hearty meal without the last-minute rush!
sides that go with steak Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for Garlic Mashed Potatoes?
Russet potatoes are ideal for garlic mashed potatoes due to their high starch content, which creates a creamy and fluffy texture. Make sure to peel and cube them for even cooking.
How can I make my mashed potatoes creamier?
To achieve ultra-creamy mashed potatoes, use heavy cream as we do in this recipe. You could also add more butter if you like a richer flavor! If you prefer a lighter version, consider substituting half-and-half or milk.
Can I store leftover Garlic Mashed Potatoes?
Absolutely! Store your leftover garlic mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore their creamy consistency.
Is it possible to freeze these side dishes?
Yes, you can freeze Garlic Mashed Potatoes! Just be aware that the texture may change slightly. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them into freezer-safe containers. They will keep well for about 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if my Creamed Spinach is too watery?
If your creamed spinach turns out too watery, simply simmer it on low heat for a few extra minutes until it thickens up. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also add a bit more heavy cream or even some grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This delightful collection of sides serves about 4 people, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, so you can enjoy these flavorful dishes without any guilt!
Sides That Go With Steak
Ingredients
Method
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to pot.
- In a small saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add to potatoes.
- Mash the potatoes, adding heavy cream, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 12-15 minutes until tender and slightly crispy.
- In a pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted. Pour in heavy cream and simmer until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
