• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Home
  • Recipes
    • Dinner
    • Breakfast
    • Salads
    • Desserts
    • Drinks
  • Kitchen Help
    • Side Dishes
    • Substitutes
    • Taste Guides
    • Shelf Life
  • About
    • About Us
    • Contact Us

EpicureDelight

menu icon
go to homepage
  • Flavor
  • Substitutes
  • Storage
  • Side Dish
  • Recipes
  • About Us
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Flavor
  • Substitutes
  • Storage
  • Side Dish
  • Recipes
  • About Us
×
Home - Sides

Latest Updated: Feb 18, 2026 by Carrie Boyd

What to Serve with Tater Tots? 10 BEST Options

Jump to Recipe

Are you planning to serve some tasty tater tots, but not sure what to accompany them?

If that is the case, then get ready for a fantastic ride!

We'll also offer some delicious recipes so you can make your own condiments and combos at home.

As an all-American classic dish, tater tots are a guaranteed crowd favorite.

So let's look into our list of 10 super options of what side dishes complements it perfectly!

Page Contents

Toggle
  • 10 Popular Sides to Enjoy with Tater Tots
    • 1. Roasted Vegetables
    • 2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
    • 3. Corn on the Cob
    • 4. Baked Beans
    • 5. Macaroni and Cheese
    • 6. Salad
    • 7. Grilled Chicken
    • 8. Steak Fries
    • 9. Sweet Potato Fries
    • 10. Onion Rings
  • Complementary Dishes for Tater Tots
  • What to Serve with Tater Tots? 10 BEST Options
    • Method 
    • Tried this recipe?

10 Popular Sides to Enjoy with Tater Tots

1. Roasted Vegetables

-

If you're looking for a delicious and easy side dish, roasted vegetables are the way to go.

Roasting vegetables is a great way to bring out their natural sweetness and flavor.

Plus, they pair well with just about anything.

There are endless possibilities when it comes to roasted vegetables.

You can roast just about any vegetable you can think of, from carrots and potatoes to Brussels sprouts and squash.

The options are truly endless. One of the best things about roasted vegetables is that they're so versatile.

They can be served as a side dish or used as an ingredient in another dish.

For example, roasted veggies make a good addition to salads, pastas, pizzas, and more.

If you're looking to improve your roasted vegetables, there are a few things you can do.

First, try roasting them with some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.

This will give them an extra boost of flavor.

Another great way to improve roasted vegetables is to add some cheese before serving.

A sprinkle of Parmesan or goat cheese would be perfect.

2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

-

Tater tots are great. They're crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

But what do you serve with them? Garlic mashed potatoes are the perfect side dish for tater tots.

The taste and texture of garlic mashed potatoes are amazing.

The potatoes are soft and fluffy, and the garlic adds a delicious flavor that goes well with the crispy tater tots.

Plus, the tips below will help you improve this dish so that it's even more amazing.

  • Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the best flavor and texture.
  • Be sure to use fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
  • Mash the potatoes by hand for a rustic look and feel.
  • Use milk and butter for a richer flavor and creamier texture.

3. Corn on the Cob

-

There's nothing quite like fresh corn on the cob.

It's sweet, juicy, and a summertime staple. But sometimes, it can be a little bland.

That's why we've put together some tips on how to make your corn on the cob even better.

For starters, try adding some butter, salt, and pepper to your corn before you eat it.

This will help bring out the flavor and make it more enjoyable.

You could also try adding other spices like chili powder or cumin.

If you're looking for something a little sweeter, you could try drizzling some honey on top of your corn.

Another great way to improve your corn on the cob is by pairing it with other dishes.

Grilled meats, salads, and salsas are all great options.

4. Baked Beans

-

Baked beans are a classic side dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of main courses.

These beans are typically made with navy or great northern beans and are slow-cooked with a sweet and savory sauce.

Baked beans are known for their rich, hearty flavor and their creamy texture.

There are a few tips you can follow to improve your baked beans dish.

First, try cooking your beans with a variety of different herbs and spices.

This will give the dish more depth of flavor.

You can also add in some chopped bacon or ham for an extra smoky flavor.

Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with different types of beans.

Try using black beans or kidney beans for a change of pace.

5. Macaroni and Cheese

-

Macaroni and cheese is a classic American dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

This dish is usually made with elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, and milk.

The taste of this dish is rich and creamy, and the texture is smooth and comforting.

There are many ways to improve this dish and make it even more delicious.

One way is to add some extra spices to the cheese sauce.

Another way is to use a variety of different cheeses in the dish, such as Gruyere, Gouda, or Swiss.

You could also add in some chopped bacon or sausage for an extra savory flavor.

With a few simple tips, you can take this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

6. Salad

-

Sure, you can serve tater tots with a salad.

But why stop there? There are so many ways to improve this dish and make it even more delicious.

Here are some tips:

  • Add some protein: grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak would be great additions to this dish.
  • Make it a bit more substantial by adding some grains: quinoa, farro, or even rice would be delicious.
  • Use a variety of greens: mix it up with spinach, arugula, or kale.
  • Add some fruit: diced apples, pears, or grapes would be a great way to add sweetness and contrast to the savory tater tots.
  • Get creative with your dressing: balsamic vinegar, ranch dressing, or even a simple vinaigrette would be delicious.
  • Top it off with some cheese: crumbled blue cheese, shredded Parmesan, or even goat cheese would be a great addition.

7. Grilled Chicken

-

Who doesn't love chicken? And when it's grilled to perfection, it's even better.

Grilled chicken is a great option to serve with tater tots.

The taste and texture of the chicken pairs well with the crispy potatoes.

There are a few things you can do to improve this dish.

First, marinate your chicken in a flavorful sauce or rub.

This will help to add some extra flavor to the dish.

Another option is to grill your chicken over charcoal for that added smoky flavor.

Or, if you're feeling really adventurous, try grilling your chicken in a pineapple.

The sweetness of the fruit will go with the savory flavors of the chicken perfectly.

8. Steak Fries

-

There are few things more satisfying than a big plate of crispy, salty fries.

Whether you like them thin and crispy or thick and fluffy, steak fries are the perfect accompaniment to any meal.

Here are some tips on how to make the perfect steak fries.

The first step is to choose the right potato.

For steak fries, you want a starchy potato like a Russet or Idaho potato.

These potatoes will give you the perfect balance of crispiness and fluffiness.

Avoid waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds or new potatoes, as they won't hold up as well when fried.

Next, you'll need to cut your potatoes into fry-sized pieces.

If you're using Russet potatoes, you'll want to cut them into about ½-inch thick slices.

If you're using Idaho potatoes, aim for ¾-inch thick slices.

Once your potatoes are cut, it's time to start frying.

To get the perfect texture, you'll need to fry your steak fries twice.

First, fry them at a lower temperature until they are cooked through but not yet browned.

Then, raise the temperature of the oil and fry them again until they are golden brown and crispy.

Finally, season your fries with salt and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

9. Sweet Potato Fries

-

Who doesn't love sweet potato fries? They're the perfect combination of sweet and savory, and they go with just about everything.

But if you're looking to improve your sweet potato fry game, here are a few tips.

First, make sure you get the right kind of sweet potato.

You want one that is firm, not too starchy, and has a good amount of natural sugar.

This will help ensure that your fries are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Next, cut your potatoes into even slices.

This will help them cook evenly and prevent them from burning.

Finally, toss your sweet potato fries in a little bit of oil before cooking.

This will help them get nice and crispy.

Now all that's left to do is enjoy.

10. Onion Rings

-

Onion rings are a classic side dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of main courses.

They are crispy, savory and full of flavor.

While you can certainly enjoy them as is, there are a few ways to improve this dish and make it even more enjoyable.

One way to do this is by adding different seasonings to the batter.

This can include things like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika or even cayenne pepper.

Another way to add flavor is by dipping the onion rings in a sauce or dressing before cooking them.

This could be anything from a BBQ sauce to ranch dressing.

Another way to change up your onion rings is by using different types of onions.

While most people use white or yellow onions, you could also try red onions for a bit of sweetness or even green onions for a more pungent flavor.

Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with the size of your onion rings.

You can cut them thick or thin, depending on your preference.

Just keep in mind that thicker onion rings will take longer to cook through.

Whether you're looking for a classic side dish or something with a bit more flavor, these tips will help you take your onion rings to the next level.

Complementary Dishes for Tater Tots

In conclusion, there are many great options for dishes to serve with tater tots.

Tater tots are a flexible dish that can be served as a side or a main.

They are also a great option for a party or potluck.

I hope this blog post has been helpful in deciding what to serve with tater tots.

If you are looking for more great ideas, be sure to check out our recipe book.

Save for Later!

What to Serve with Tater Tots? 10 BEST Options

5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Sides
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1. Roasted Vegetables
  • 2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
  • 3. Corn on the Cob
  • 4. Baked Beans
  • 5. Macaroni and Cheese
  • 6. Salad
  • 7. Grilled Chicken
  • 8. Steak Fries
  • 9. Sweet Potato Fries
  • 10. Onion Rings

Method
 

  1. Select your favorite sides from the list above.
  2. Prepare the side dish according to the recipe instructions.
  3. If you're short on time, some of these can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
  4. Serve and enjoy!

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

More From EpicureDelight

The Complete Side Dish Guide - your complete resource for this topic.

Browse all side dish pairings →
Frequently Asked Questions
Which sides complement Tater Tots best?

The best sides for Tater Tots create a complete plate - balance the protein with something starchy, something green, and something with a little acidity for brightness.

What flavors should the side dish bring out when serving Tater Tots?

Great sides should go with the main - bring brightness with lemon or vinegar, add texture contrast, and keep the seasoning cohesive across the whole plate.

What works best for a simple weeknight dinner?

For weeknights, keep it to one pan - sheet pan vegetables or a quick grain cook alongside the main and means less cleanup.

Can the side be served at room temperature for entertaining?

Most roasted vegetables, grain salads, and slaw-style sides travel and sit at room temperature beautifully, making them ideal for buffet-style entertaining.

Carrie Boyd

Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.

As the Editor in Chief of EpicureDelight, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.

A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!

More Sides

  • 20 Keto Side Dish Recipes with Butter and Herbs | EpicureDelight
    20 Keto Side Dish Recipes with Butter and Herbs
  • 20 Side Dishes That Reheat Well for Easy Meal Prep | EpicureDelight
    20 Side Dishes That Reheat Well for Easy Meal Prep
  • 20 Skillet Side Dishes That Cook in Minutes | EpicureDelight
    20 Skillet Side Dishes That Cook in Minutes
  • 20 Air Fryer Veggie Side Recipes Roasting Like the Oven

Primary Sidebar

Carrie Boyd — recipe developer at EpicureDelight

Hi, I'm Carrie!

Home Cook · Recipe Developer · Taste Nerd

I write about weeknight dinners that actually work, ingredient swaps that save grocery runs, and what foods really taste like — no fluff, just honest kitchen notes.

1,300+ Articles
15+ Years
290+ Taste Tests
More About Me →

Trusted by 5,000+ Readers

Simple Recipes, Sent Weekly

One email a week — dinner ideas, smart swaps, and storage tips. No spam.

Get the Newsletter →

How We Work

  • ✓Every recipe kitchen-tested before it goes live
  • ✓Taste profiles from real side-by-side comparisons
  • ✓Shelf life data cross-checked with USDA guidelines
  • ✓Updated regularly with seasonal refreshes

As Seen On

BuzzFeed

KITCHN

Bon Appétit

REAL SIMPLE

Epicurious

Popular Dinners

  • Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe
  • slow cooker chicken chili1
    Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Recipe
  • One Pot Chicken Mushroom Rice2
    One Pot Chicken Mushroom Rice Recipe
  • Mexican Shredded Beef

Browse Topics

  • Dinner Recipes316
  • Taste Guides290
  • Shelf Life197
  • Side Dishes191
  • Substitutes93
  • Breakfast63

Footer

↑ Back to Top

EpicureDelight

Tested recipes, real substitutes, and practical kitchen tips — written by home cooks who actually cook.

Explore

  • Recipe Index
  • Side Dishes
  • Substitutes
  • Taste Guides

About

  • About Us
  • Contact
  • Work With Us
  • Newsletter

Legal

  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclaimer
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Accessibility

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

© 2026 EpicureDelight · Built on the Feast Plugin

Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required