Introduction
We’ve all been there. The flickering glow of the drive-thru menu board, the rumble of anticipation in your stomach, and the agonizing decision: which burger to choose? But let’s be honest, the *real* decision, the one that can truly elevate your fast food experience, lies in the realm of the side dish. Beyond the patties and the sesame seed buns, there’s a world of crispy, savory, and sometimes surprisingly sophisticated fast food side options just waiting to be explored. Did you know that Americans collectively spend billions of dollars each year on fast food sides? It’s a testament to their importance and a clear indication that they deserve more than just a passing glance.
Fast food has become an undeniable part of modern life. It’s quick, convenient, and often a welcome treat. But a truly memorable fast food experience isn’t just about the main course; it’s about the synergy between the burger, the beverage, and, crucially, the side. This article isn’t about dismissing the burger; it’s about celebrating the unsung heroes of the fast food world. We’re talking about those tantalizing extras that can transform a simple meal into a moment of pure, unadulterated satisfaction.
Therefore, get ready to abandon your preconceived notions and prepare your taste buds for a journey of discovery. This article aims to definitively rank the best fast food sides available today. This ranking will be meticulously curated based on a combination of factors including taste, value, uniqueness, and overall satisfaction. We’ll unearth hidden gems, revisit perennial favorites, and hopefully, inspire you to broaden your fast food side horizons.
Criteria for Judging Delicious Fast Food Sides
Before we dive into the rankings, it’s important to understand the criteria we used to evaluate these culinary companions. After all, taste is subjective, but a good side dish should offer more than just a fleeting moment of enjoyment. Our goal was to find the best fast food sides which offer consistent quality, value and an overall appeal to a wide range of fast food fans.
- The All-Important Taste and Flavor: At the heart of every great side dish lies incredible flavor. This isn’t just about being salty or sweet; it’s about a well-balanced flavor profile, satisfying textures, and an overall deliciousness that leaves you wanting more. We’re looking for sides that tantalize the taste buds, offer a satisfying crunch, or provide a comforting melt-in-your-mouth sensation. Does the seasoning complement the main dish? Is there a hint of spice, herbs, or other unique flavors that elevate the experience? These are the questions we asked.
- Value: More Than Just a Cheap Snack: In the world of fast food, value is king. A great side shouldn’t just taste good; it should also represent a reasonable price point for the portion size offered. We considered whether the side provides a satisfying amount of food for the money. Is it a small, overpriced portion or a generous serving that feels like a steal? We looked for sides that deliver both quality and quantity.
- Uniqueness and Originality: Stand Out from the Crowd: In a world of countless fries and onion rings, a side dish that dares to be different truly stands out. We prized sides that offer something unique or unexpected. Maybe it’s an unusual flavor combination, a creative twist on a classic, or a regional specialty that you can’t find anywhere else. The fast food industry is sometimes predictable, so we rewarded innovation.
- Widespread Availability: Accessible Deliciousness: A fantastic side is no good if you can’t actually get it. We generally favored sides that are available at a large number of locations across the country. Limited-time offers and regional specialties were considered, but the focus was on sides that most people can easily access. After all, what good is a recommendation if you can’t act on it?
- Complementary Qualities: The Perfect Pair: A truly exceptional side dish complements the main course, enhancing the overall meal experience. It shouldn’t overpower the main dish, but instead, provides a counterpoint of flavor and texture. Does it pair well with burgers, chicken, fish, or other popular fast food options? Does it offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main course? We paid close attention to how well each side worked as part of a complete meal.
The Best Fast Food Side Dishes: A Detailed Look
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: the best fast food sides available today. We’ve broken these down into categories for easier browsing, exploring everything from classic fries to more adventurous options.
The Reigning Champions: Classic French Fries
No discussion of fast food sides would be complete without acknowledging the humble yet mighty French fry. But not all fries are created equal.
McDonald’s Fries
A timeless classic. McDonald’s fries are legendary for their thin, crispy texture, their perfectly balanced saltiness, and their addictive quality. They’re cooked in a blend of vegetable oils and seasoned with a precise amount of salt that somehow manages to be both satisfying and craveable. The potential drawback is that they can be less enjoyable if they are not hot and fresh. They pair perfectly with a Big Mac or a Quarter Pounder, and even stand alone as a simple snack.
Arby’s Curly Fries
These aren’t just fries; they’re a culinary adventure. Arby’s Curly Fries offer a fun, whimsical shape and a distinctive, slightly seasoned flavor that sets them apart from the standard fry. They are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, providing a satisfying textural contrast. The seasoning is subtle but adds a depth of flavor that makes them incredibly addictive. However, the seasoning can sometimes be uneven. They are the perfect complement to an Arby’s Beef ‘n Cheddar or a classic roast beef sandwich.
Five Guys Fries
For those who prefer a more rustic, hand-cut style, Five Guys fries are a must-try. These fries are made from fresh potatoes and cooked in peanut oil, resulting in a hearty, flavorful fry with a slightly crispy exterior and a soft, potatoey interior. The generous portions and the option to add Cajun seasoning make them a standout. However, the fries can sometimes be greasy due to the cooking method. They pair exceptionally well with a Five Guys burger piled high with toppings.
Beyond the Potato: Diversifying the Side Dish Selection
Sometimes, you crave something beyond the standard French fry. Luckily, many fast food chains offer unique and delicious potato alternatives.
Tater Tots (Various Chains)
These bite-sized potato nuggets are a childhood favorite that still holds up today. Tater tots offer a satisfying crunch and a comforting, potatoey flavor. They’re easy to eat, fun to share, and surprisingly versatile. The quality of the tots can vary depending on the chain, but when they’re good, they’re really good. They pair well with a variety of fast food options, from burgers to chicken sandwiches.
Potato Wedges (Various Chains)
For a heartier potato experience, consider potato wedges. These thick-cut wedges offer a satisfyingly soft interior and a crispy, seasoned exterior. They’re often seasoned with herbs, spices, or a blend of both. The seasoning is what really sets these apart. However, potato wedges can sometimes be undercooked. They make a great side to fried chicken.
Rings of Deliciousness: The Onion Ring Contenders
The onion ring is another fast food staple, offering a crispy, savory alternative to fries.
Burger King Onion Rings
A classic choice, Burger King’s onion rings are known for their crispy breading and sweet onion flavor. The batter is usually light and airy, providing a satisfying crunch without being too heavy. Burger King’s onion rings can sometimes be a little greasy. They are best paired with a Whopper or a chicken sandwich.
Sonic Onion Rings
Known for its drive-in experience, Sonic offers onion rings that are somewhat thick-cut. The onion flavor is quite pronounced, and the rings are typically fried to a golden brown. These are crispy and flavorful. The larger size can sometimes make them a little unwieldy to eat. They go well with a corn dog or a burger.
A Touch of Green (or Yellow): Corn and Vegetable Sides
While fast food is often associated with less-than-healthy choices, some chains offer vegetable-based sides that can add a bit of balance to your meal.
KFC Corn on the Cob
A simple yet satisfying side, KFC’s corn on the cob offers a touch of sweetness and a welcome contrast to the richness of the fried chicken. It’s typically steamed or boiled and served with butter. It can sometimes be a little bland. It is the perfect accompaniment to a KFC bucket.
Sweet Endings: Dessert Side Dishes
Sometimes, you need a little something sweet to complete your fast food experience.
McDonald’s Apple Pie
This handheld pie features a warm, spiced apple filling encased in a crispy, golden-brown crust. It’s a classic for a reason. The filling is sweet and tangy. However, the pie can sometimes be too hot to eat right away. It’s the perfect sweet treat to follow a burger and fries.
Honorable Mentions in the Fast Food Side Category
These sides didn’t quite make the main list, but they are still worth considering if you’re looking for something a little different:
- Popeyes Cajun Fries: These fries are seasoned with a blend of Cajun spices, giving them a spicy kick that sets them apart from the standard fry.
- Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries: The unique shape and slightly sweet flavor make these fries a popular choice.
- Wendy’s Chili: While technically a soup, Wendy’s chili makes a hearty and satisfying side dish.
Trends in Fast Food Side Options
The fast food industry is constantly evolving, and that includes the side dish offerings. Some current trends include:
- The Rise of Spicy Sides: More and more fast food chains are offering sides with a kick, from spicy fries to fiery onion rings.
- Experimentation with Flavor Combinations: Restaurants are experimenting with unique and unexpected flavor combinations in their side dishes, such as sweet and savory fries or spicy and tangy slaws.
- Limited-Time Offers and Seasonal Sides: Fast food chains are increasingly using limited-time offers and seasonal sides to generate excitement and attract new customers.
Conclusion: The Side Dish Deserves Recognition
The humble side dish often gets overlooked in the fast food world, but it plays a crucial role in the overall meal experience. From classic fries to innovative vegetable sides, there’s a world of delicious options just waiting to be discovered. We hope this article has inspired you to explore the world of fast food sides and to appreciate the unsung heroes of the fast food menu. So, what are your favorite fast food sides? Let us know in the comments! The delicious world of fast food sides deserves recognition. Go on and experience it!
