Potatoes are the ultimate sidekick—they’re versatile, comforting, and work with just about anything. Whether they’re mashed, roasted, or fried, potatoes can elevate any main dish. If you’re wondering what entrees pair perfectly with your favorite potato sides, here are 15 ideas that will make your meals unforgettable.
1. Grilled Ribeye Steak
A juicy ribeye steak and a side of creamy mashed potatoes are a match made in heaven. The richness of the steak pairs beautifully with the buttery texture of the potatoes. Add a drizzle of gravy or a pat of herb butter to tie it all together.
2. Roast Chicken
Roast chicken is a classic that goes perfectly with roasted potatoes. Crispy, golden-brown potatoes seasoned with garlic and rosemary complement the savory flavor of the chicken. It’s a simple yet hearty combo that always hits the spot.
3. Baked Salmon
Baked salmon is light, flaky, and packed with flavor. Pair it with herbed potato wedges or garlic mashed potatoes for a meal that’s healthy and satisfying. The creaminess of the potatoes balances out the richness of the salmon.
4. Beef Bourguignon
This French classic is slow-cooked beef in a rich red wine sauce. Serve it over a bed of mashed potatoes to soak up all the delicious gravy. The tender beef and creamy potatoes are a comforting combination that’s hard to beat.
5. Pork Chops
Whether they’re pan-seared or baked, pork chops pair beautifully with potato salad. The creamy potatoes add a touch of indulgence to this classic entree. A side of green beans completes the plate.
6. Fried Chicken
Crispy, golden fried chicken is the ultimate comfort food, especially when served with fluffy mashed potatoes and gravy. The crunchy chicken and smooth, buttery potatoes make for a perfect texture and flavor balance.
7. Meatloaf
Meatloaf and mashed potatoes are a timeless duo. The savory, hearty meatloaf pairs perfectly with smooth, buttery potatoes, especially when topped with a rich tomato or mushroom gravy. It’s a meal that feels like a warm hug.
8. Grilled Lamb Chops
Lamb chops are tender, flavorful, and perfect with roasted fingerling potatoes. Add a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme to the potatoes to bring out the earthy flavors of the lamb. It’s an elegant yet simple pairing.
9. Seared Tuna Steaks
Seared tuna steaks are light and flavorful, and they pair surprisingly well with crispy roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes. The potatoes provide a hearty base that complements the freshness of the tuna.
10. BBQ Ribs
Sticky, smoky barbecue ribs and a side of potato salad are a backyard barbecue staple. The creamy, tangy potato salad balances the sweetness of the barbecue sauce for a combo that screams summer cookout.
11. Shepherd’s Pie
This one’s a potato lover’s dream! Shepherd’s pie features a savory meat and vegetable filling topped with a layer of mashed potatoes. It’s technically all-in-one, but you can always add a side of crispy potato wedges for extra indulgence.
12. Cod Fillets
Crispy or pan-seared cod fillets pair beautifully with buttery mashed potatoes or oven-roasted potatoes. Add a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of parsley for a light, flavorful meal that feels restaurant-worthy.
13. Braised Short Ribs
Tender, fall-off-the-bone short ribs in a rich sauce pair perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes. The potatoes soak up all that savory, flavorful gravy, making every bite pure comfort food bliss.
14. Veggie Burgers
Veggie burgers and sweet potato fries are a match made in plant-based heaven. The sweetness of the fries complements the savory flavors of the burger, and a little ketchup or aioli on the side makes it even better.
15. Turkey and Gravy
Thanksgiving dinner isn’t complete without turkey and mashed potatoes. The creamy potatoes and rich, savory gravy are the perfect partners for tender slices of turkey. Add a side of cranberry sauce for that classic holiday vibe.
The Perfect Pairing
Potato sides are like the ultimate plus-one—they make any entree shine. From mashed and roasted to fried and scalloped, there’s a potato dish to complement every main course.
