Italian Beef Sandwiches, a classic and mouthwatering staple of Chicago cuisine, are known for their tender, flavorful beef, savory jus, and crusty bread.

While these delicious sandwiches can be satisfying on their own, they can become a full and unforgettable meal when served with the perfect side dishes.

To help you create the perfect meal, here are 20 side dish ideas that pair wonderfully with Italian Beef.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with Italian beef sandwiches are French fries, coleslaw, grilled vegetables, Caprese salad, blooming onion, stuffed mushrooms, cheeseburger macaroni, Tabasco, tomato bruschetta, honey glazed carrots, crispy green beans, wedge salad, zucchini fritters, cauliflower pizza bowl, and potato salad.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. French Fries

French fries are a classic and beloved side dish. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they are the perfect complement to Italian beef sandwiches. Serve them plain with a sprinkle of salt or get creative with seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.

2. Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a refreshing and tangy addition to the rich sandwiches. Made with shredded cabbage and carrots in a creamy dressing, it provides a crunchy and cool contrast. Its light and slightly acidic flavor profile helps to balance the heaviness of the beef.

3. Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables are a healthy and colorful side. Choose a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and onions, grill them until they're tender and slightly charred. Their smoky flavor and tender texture make them an excellent complement to the meaty sandwiches.

4. Caprese Salad

A Caprese salad, with its simple combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze, offers a light and fresh addition to your meal. The salad's simplicity and freshness provide a nice balance to the savory sandwiches.

5. Blooming Onion

A blooming onion is not just a side dish, it's a statement piece for your meal. This large onion is cut to bloom open, battered, and deep-fried to golden perfection. Served with a spicy or tangy dipping sauce, its crunchy texture and bold flavor make it an excellent partner to the soft, savory Italian beef sandwich.

6. Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms can be a sophisticated addition. Fill mushroom caps with a mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, herbs, and garlic, then bake until golden. These bite-sized treats offer a delicious combination of earthy mushrooms and rich, savory filling.

7. Cheeseburger Macaroni

Imagine combining the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the classic flavors of a cheeseburger. This dish is a creamy, cheesy pasta loaded with savory ground beef, diced onions, and a rich blend of cheeses. It’s a hearty and satisfying side that pairs wonderfully with the robust flavors of Italian beef sandwiches.

8. Tabasco

Tabasco sauce offers a quick and easy way to add some heat to your meal. A few drops on your sandwich can elevate the flavors with its sharp, vinegary spice. It's also great for adding a zesty kick to other sides like fries or coleslaw.

9. Shawarma Sauce

Adding a touch of Middle Eastern flair, shawarma sauce, typically a creamy garlic sauce, brings a zesty and garlicky dimension to your meal. Drizzle it over the beef for an extra kick or use it as a delightful dip for your other sides. Its bold and creamy flavor profile is a delightful contrast to the savory beef.

10. Tomato Bruschetta

Tomato bruschetta offers a fresh and light counterbalance to the meaty sandwiches. It's made with toasted slices of bread topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. The bruschetta brings a burst of freshness, making it a perfect palate cleanser between bites of the rich sandwich.

11. Honey Glazed Carrots

These aren’t your ordinary carrots. Glazed in a mix of honey, butter, and a hint of cinnamon, they transform into a sweet, tender, and slightly caramelized treat. The subtle sweetness and soft texture of the carrots provide a lovely complement to the savory, juicy beef in the sandwiches.

12. Strawberry Spinach Salad

This salad combines fresh spinach, sweet strawberries, and nuts, usually dressed in a balsamic vinaigrette. It’s a vibrant, refreshing side that adds a sweet and tangy flavor, along with a crunchy texture to your meal.

13. Onion Rings

Onion rings are another indulgent option. Coated in a crispy batter and fried to golden perfection, they offer a crunchy and flavorful side. The sweet and savory taste of onion rings pairs wonderfully with the richness of the beef.

14. Crispy Green Beans

Crispy green beans, whether fried or oven-roasted with a hint of garlic and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, add a delightful crunch and a pop of color to your meal. Their lightness and earthy flavor are a great balance to the rich and meaty Italian beef sandwiches.

15. Wedge Salad

A classic wedge salad brings a crisp and refreshing element to your meal. With its crunchy iceberg lettuce, creamy blue cheese dressing, and a scattering of toppings like crisp bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy onions, it offers a cool and tangy contrast to the warm, meaty sandwiches.

16. Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus adds a touch of elegance and simplicity. Lightly seasoned and grilled until tender-crisp, asparagus spears offer a smoky, slightly charred flavor that complements the beef's richness. Their slender, tender texture makes them an easy and healthy choice.

17. Zucchini Fritters

Zucchini fritters are a delightful blend of shredded zucchini, flour, eggs, and seasonings, pan-fried until golden and crispy. They bring a unique texture and mild flavor, making them a perfect lighter counterpart to the hearty sandwiches.

18. Cauliflower Pizza Bowl

For a creative twist, try a cauliflower pizza bowl. It’s a blend of cauliflower rice baked with pizza seasonings, topped with marinara sauce, melted cheese, and your choice of toppings like pepperoni or veggies. This dish offers a low-carb, flavorful option that pairs well with the richness of Italian beef.

19. Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a hearty, comforting side. Layers of breaded eggplant, marinara sauce, and melted cheese create a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. Its savory depth works well alongside the beef sandwiches, offering a satisfying vegetarian option.

20. Potato Salad

A traditional potato salad, with its creamy texture and mild flavors, is always a crowd-pleaser. Made with boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, and crisp veggies like celery and onion, it’s a comforting addition that complements the savory beef sandwiches.

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