18 Crowd-Pleasing Side Dishes

Nothing beats biting into a juicy, cheesy Philly cheesesteak sandwich. That perfect combination of thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and soft roll is iconic for a reason. But let's be honest – the right side dish can take your cheesesteak experience from great to unforgettable.

Whether you're making homemade cheesesteaks or grabbing takeout from your favorite spot, pairing it with the perfect sides makes all the difference. In this guide, we'll explore the 15 best side dishes for Philly cheesesteak sandwiches – complete with preparation times and approximate nutritional information per typical serving – that balance flavors, textures, and satisfaction.

Why Side Dishes Matter for Philly Cheesesteak

Philly cheesesteaks are rich, savory, and indulgent. The best sides cut through that richness with crispiness, freshness, or tanginess. They add variety and make your meal feel complete.

From classic pub-style options to healthier alternatives, these sides complement the bold flavors of steak, cheese, onions, and peppers without overpowering them.

The 15 Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches

1. Classic French Fries (Preparation time: 20-30 minutes)

No list of cheesesteak sides would be complete without french fries. Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside – they're the ultimate comfort food pairing. Dip them in cheese sauce for extra indulgence.

Approximate nutrition per medium serving (about 100g): 312 calories, 15g fat, 41g carbs, 3g protein

Season with salt or Old Bay for a Philly twist. Waffle fries or curly fries add fun texture variety.

2. Creamy Coleslaw (Preparation time: 10-15 minutes)

Coleslaw brings cool, crunchy contrast to the hot, cheesy sandwich. The creamy dressing and tangy vinegar cut through the richness perfectly.

Approximate nutrition per 1/2 cup serving: 120-150 calories, 10-15g fat, 10-15g carbs, 1g protein

Make it homemade with cabbage, carrots, and mayo-based dressing for the freshest flavor.

3. Crispy Onion Rings (Preparation time: 15-25 minutes)

Onion rings echo the onions in your cheesesteak while adding deep-fried crunch. Their sweet-savory flavor pairs beautifully with steak and cheese.

Approximate nutrition per serving (6-8 rings): 300-400 calories, 20g fat, 40g carbs, 5g protein

Beer-battered versions add extra flavor depth. Serve with ranch or ketchup for dipping.

4. Potato Salad (Preparation time: 30-45 minutes, including boiling)

Creamy potato salad offers a cool, hearty side that complements the sandwich's warmth. Mustard or mayo-based versions both work well.

Approximate nutrition per 1 cup serving: 350-360 calories, 20g fat, 30g carbs, 7g protein

Add bacon bits or herbs for extra flavor that ties into the cheesesteak's savoriness.

5. Dill Pickles (Preparation time: 5 minutes to serve; homemade quick pickles: 15 minutes active + chilling)

Tangy pickles provide the perfect acidic bite to balance the rich cheesesteak. Their crunch adds great texture contrast.

Approximate nutrition per spear: 5 calories, 0g fat, 1g carbs, 0g protein

Serve whole spears or sliced chips on the side for easy eating.

6. Mac and Cheese (Preparation time: 30-45 minutes)

Creamy mac and cheese doubles down on the cheese factor while adding comforting carbs. It's indulgent but irresistible.

Approximate nutrition per 1 cup serving: 350-400 calories, 15-20g fat, 40g carbs, 15g protein

Baked versions with breadcrumb topping add welcome crunch.

7. Fresh Garden Salad (Preparation time: 10-15 minutes)

A simple garden salad brings freshness and lightness to balance the heavy sandwich. Mixed greens with tomatoes and cucumbers work great.

Approximate nutrition per serving (with light dressing): 50-100 calories, 5g fat, 10g carbs, 2g protein

Keep dressing light – vinaigrette rather than creamy – to avoid overwhelming flavors.

8. Sweet Potato Fries (Preparation time: 30-45 minutes)

Sweet potato fries offer a healthier twist on classic fries with natural sweetness that complements the savory steak.

Approximate nutrition per serving: 150-200 calories, 8g fat, 30g carbs, 2g protein

Season with cinnamon or smoked paprika for extra flavor dimension.

9. Garlic Bread (Preparation time: 15-20 minutes)

Buttery garlic bread adds carb-on-carb comfort while the garlic enhances the sandwich's flavors.

Approximate nutrition per slice: 150-200 calories, 8g fat, 20g carbs, 4g protein

Use cheesy garlic bread to really lean into the cheese theme.

10. Roasted Vegetables (Preparation time: 30-45 minutes)

Roasted veggies like broccoli, carrots, and peppers add nutrition and caramelized sweetness.

Approximate nutrition per 1 cup serving: 80-120 calories, 5g fat, 15g carbs, 3g protein

They echo the peppers often found in cheesesteaks while providing healthy balance.

11. Loaded Cheese Fries (Preparation time: 25-35 minutes)

Take regular fries to the next level with cheese, bacon, and green onions for ultimate indulgence.

Approximate nutrition per serving: 600-1000 calories, 40g fat, 60g carbs, 20g protein

Perfect when you're really going all-out on comfort food.

12. Caesar Salad (Preparation time: 15-20 minutes)

The creamy dressing and parmesan in Caesar salad complement the cheesesteak's cheese while romaine adds crunch.

Approximate nutrition per serving (no chicken): 300-400 calories, 25g fat, 15g carbs, 10g protein

Add grilled chicken for extra protein if desired.

13. Baked Beans (Preparation time: 1-2 hours, or quicker with canned)

Sweet and smoky baked beans provide hearty contrast and barbecue vibes that pair well with steak.

Approximate nutrition per 1/2 cup serving: 190 calories, 1g fat, 40g carbs, 10g protein

They're especially great for outdoor or game day cheesesteak meals.

14. Chips and Dip (Preparation time: 5-10 minutes)

Simple potato chips with onion dip or guacamole offer easy, crunchy contrast.

Approximate nutrition per serving (chips + dip): 300-450 calories, 25g fat, 40g carbs, 5g protein

Keep it casual and crowd-pleasing for parties.

15. Fresh Fruit Salad (Preparation time: 10-15 minutes)

End on a refreshing note with fruit salad. The natural sweetness cleanses the palate after rich bites.

Approximate nutrition per 1 cup serving: 70-100 calories, 0g fat, 20g carbs, 1g protein

Berries, melon, and citrus work particularly well.

How to Choose the Perfect Side Dish

Consider your mood: Want classic comfort? Go fries or onion rings. Feeling healthier? Choose salad or roasted veggies. Feeding a crowd? Mix several options. Preparation times range from quick 10-minute salads to longer bakes, so plan accordingly. Nutritional info can vary based on recipes and portions—use these as guides.

Texture balance is key – pair the soft sandwich with crunchy sides like fries or coleslaw.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Cheesesteak Game

The perfect side dish transforms a good Philly cheesesteak into an amazing meal. With these 15 options – including preparation times and nutritional breakdowns – whether you stick with classics like french fries and coleslaw or branch out to roasted vegetables and fruit salad, you have plenty of delicious choices.

Next time you make or order cheesesteaks, try one (or more!) of these sides. Your taste buds will thank you!