18 Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Italian Beef Sandwiches

Italian beef sandwiches are an iconic Chicago specialty, featuring tender roast beef simmered in spices and served soaked in au jus on a crusty Italian roll. These juicy, messy sandwiches are delicious, but what should you serve alongside them?

Here are 18 tasty side dish ideas to complement Italian beef sandwiches for a complete meal:

Veggie Sides

• Roasted vegetables – Roast a medley of vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, peppers, onions, carrots, etc.

• Sauteed greens – Saute spinach, kale, chard, etc. with garlic and olive oil.

• Grilled vegetables – Try grilled asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, etc.

• Tomato salad – Fresh tomatoes with balsamic, olive oil, and basil.

Starchy Sides

• Garlic bread – Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter.

• Polenta – Creamy soft polenta.

• Potatoes – Roasted, mashed, home fries, etc.

• Pasta salad – Bowtie, rotini, orzo, etc. with fresh veggies.

• Rice pilaf – Herby rice mixes like rice pilaf or wild rice.

Salad Sides

• Garden salad – Mixed greens with vegetables and dressing.

• Caesar salad – Romaine lettuce, parmesan, croutons.

• Greek salad – Tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta.

• Kale and apple salad – With cinnamon vinaigrette.

• Strawberry spinach salad – With toasted almonds.

Other Sides

• Hummus and pita – For dipping.

• Baked mac and cheese – Ooey-gooey and cheesy.

• Chili – Hearty beef or turkey chili.

• Minestrone soup – With lots of vegetables.

• Bruschetta – Toasted bread with tomato and basil.

With so many easy and delicious options, you’ll never get bored pairing sides with your favorite Italian beef sandwiches! The bold flavors of the roast beef and giardiniera pair perfectly with fresh vegetable dishes, starchy sides, and crisp salads.