27+ Mouthwetring Italian Beef Side Dish Recipes to Try

Italian beef is a hearty, flavorful dish that often steals the show at the dinner table. However, no dish is complete without the perfect side dish to complement it.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a family meal, choosing the right sides can elevate the overall dining experience.

In this blog post, we will explore 10 Italian beef side dish recipes that are not only delicious but also simple to prepare.

From crisp salads to comforting vegetables and mouthwatering potatoes, these sides will perfectly complement the rich, savory flavors of Italian beef.

Let’s dive into these tasty ideas!

27+ Mouthwetring Italian Beef Side Dish Recipes to Try

Italian beef is a beloved dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, but the right side dish can truly enhance its flavor.

Whether you’re looking for something light and fresh, like a Mediterranean salad, or something warm and hearty, like roasted potatoes, these 10 side dishes will satisfy every taste.

Experiment with these recipes to discover the perfect pairing for your next Italian beef meal, and you’ll create a spread that’s sure to impress.

Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes

This low-carb cauliflower mashed potatoes recipe is the perfect side dish for Italian beef. It delivers the creamy texture you love from mashed potatoes without the carbs. A great option for those following a keto diet or anyone looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
2. Drain and place the cauliflower into a food processor or use a hand masher.
3. Add butter, heavy cream, and minced garlic. Blend until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.
5. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

This cauliflower mashed potato recipe offers a comforting, creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of Italian beef. It’s an easy, keto-friendly side that adds fiber and nutrients to your meal while still satisfying your craving for mashed potatoes.

Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan

A simple, yet flavorful side dish, roasted asparagus with parmesan provides a crisp and savory complement to the juicy Italian beef. This recipe is low in carbs and keto-friendly, with the addition of parmesan bringing out a wonderful umami flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Lemon wedges for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange the asparagus on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly crispy.
5. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese, and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
6. Garnish with lemon wedges, if desired, before serving.

Roasted asparagus with parmesan is a delicious, low-carb side that complements the bold flavors of Italian beef. The crispy edges and savory parmesan cheese create a perfect balance with the tender beef, making this dish a standout on any keto lunch plate.

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Zucchini noodles (or “zoodles”) with pesto offer a refreshing and light alternative to traditional pasta, making them an ideal keto-friendly side for Italian beef. The fresh, garlicky pesto brings out vibrant flavors, and the zucchini noodles provide a satisfying, low-carb base.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
• 1/4 cup homemade or store-bought pesto sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp pine nuts (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still al dente.
2. Stir in the pesto sauce and toss to coat the noodles evenly.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with pine nuts and fresh basil, if desired.

Zucchini noodles with pesto are a perfect keto-friendly side dish that pairs wonderfully with Italian beef. The pesto adds a bold, aromatic flavor while the zucchini noodles provide a satisfying, guilt-free alternative to pasta. This dish is light, refreshing, and full of flavor, making it an excellent choice for a low-carb lunch.

garlic Butter Spinach

Garlic butter spinach is a quick, flavorful side dish that is not only keto-friendly but also rich in vitamins and antioxidants. The combination of buttery goodness and garlic enhances the natural earthiness of spinach, making it a perfect low-carb side for Italian beef.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the spinach in batches, stirring continuously until the spinach wilts down, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper, and stir in lemon juice for a bright, fresh finish (optional).
5. Serve immediately.

Garlic butter spinach is an ideal side dish to balance the richness of Italian beef. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and a healthy, low-carb alternative to heavier sides. This dish brings a burst of freshness and complements the savory beef perfectly, making it a great addition to your keto lunch.

Broccoli with Lemon and Almonds

Broccoli with lemon and almonds is a crisp, zesty, and slightly nutty side dish that complements the deep flavors of Italian beef. The almonds add a nice crunch, while the lemon zest provides a refreshing citrus kick. It’s a great low-carb choice for those looking to keep things light yet satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender but still vibrant green, about 4-5 minutes.
2. While the broccoli is cooking, toast the sliced almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Drain the broccoli and transfer it to a serving dish.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the broccoli and toss with lemon zest.
5. Top with the toasted almonds and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve immediately.

This broccoli dish with lemon and almonds offers a light and refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of Italian beef. The almonds provide a satisfying crunch, and the lemon adds a zesty note that cuts through the richness of the beef, creating a perfectly balanced keto-friendly side dish.

Baked Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Baked Brussels sprouts with bacon are a delicious, savory side dish that brings a perfect blend of smoky, crispy bacon and tender Brussels sprouts. This low-carb option is rich in flavor and pairs wonderfully with Italian beef, offering a hearty, satisfying side for a keto lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Toss the halved Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, if using.
4. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the edges, tossing halfway through.
6. Sprinkle the crispy bacon over the Brussels sprouts before serving.

Conclusion:
Baked Brussels sprouts with bacon are a flavorful and satisfying keto side that pairs excellently with Italian beef. The crispiness from the bacon and the roasted sprouts brings depth of flavor and texture to your meal, making this dish a favorite for any low-carb lunch.

Cheesy Cauliflower Rice

Cheesy cauliflower rice is a keto-friendly side dish that perfectly mimics the texture of traditional rice but without the carbs. The addition of cheese makes it creamy and comforting, while cauliflower provides a healthy base. This side dish is a great match for Italian beef, adding a rich and indulgent element to the meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium cauliflower, grated or processed into rice-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the cauliflower rice and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Cheesy cauliflower rice is a flavorful and creamy alternative to traditional rice, making it a perfect low-carb side for Italian beef. The richness of the cheese paired with the slight crunch of the cauliflower adds texture and depth to the meal, satisfying any cravings while sticking to your keto diet.

Cucumber and Avocado Salad

This refreshing cucumber and avocado salad is light, crisp, and packed with healthy fats, making it an ideal keto side dish. The cool cucumbers pair wonderfully with the creamy avocado and a light vinaigrette, offering a refreshing contrast to the hearty, flavorful Italian beef.

Ingredients:

• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, diced avocado, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and gently toss to combine.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve immediately.

This cucumber and avocado salad is a light and healthy side dish that complements Italian beef perfectly. The crispness of the cucumber and the creaminess of the avocado provide a fresh and satisfying contrast to the rich beef. Plus, it’s a nutrient-packed, low-carb salad that fits seamlessly into a keto lunch.

Roasted Bell Peppers with Feta

Roasted bell peppers with feta is a colorful and flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with Italian beef. The roasted peppers bring a smoky sweetness, while the tangy feta cheese adds a creamy texture and bold flavor. It’s a great low-carb side that enhances the overall dining experience.

Ingredients:

• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), sliced into strips
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the sliced bell peppers with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the peppers on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and slightly charred.
5. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the cheese.
6. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Roasted bell peppers with feta offer a savory and slightly tangy side that enhances the flavors of Italian beef. The sweetness of the peppers combined with the creaminess of the feta provides a delicious balance to the richness of the beef, creating a vibrant and satisfying low-carb dish.

Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach is a decadent, yet low-carb side dish that brings richness and flavor to any meal. The creamy sauce, made with butter, cream, and parmesan, pairs beautifully with Italian beef, providing a satisfying and keto-friendly alternative to traditional cream-based sides. It’s a perfect dish to complement the savory taste of beef.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh nutmeg (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the chopped spinach in batches, stirring until wilted.
3. Reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the parmesan cheese and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg for extra warmth and serve.

Creamed spinach is a luxurious, keto-friendly side that brings a rich, creamy element to your meal. The velvety sauce and the natural flavors of spinach create a perfect pairing with Italian beef, making this side dish a must-have for any low-carb lunch or dinner.

vocado and Tomato Salad

This simple and vibrant avocado and tomato salad is a refreshing side that perfectly balances the richness of Italian beef. With creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette, it provides a burst of fresh flavors and healthy fats, making it a perfect complement to your keto-friendly meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and red onion slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
4. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.

Avocado and tomato salad is a light and flavorful side dish that adds freshness and healthy fats to your meal. The creaminess of the avocado, paired with the sweetness of the tomatoes and the tangy balsamic dressing, creates a perfect contrast to the savory Italian beef. This salad is a delightful, keto-friendly addition to any low-carb lunch or dinner.

Garlic Roasted Mushrooms

Garlic roasted mushrooms are an incredibly flavorful and savory side dish that pairs well with the rich taste of Italian beef. The mushrooms absorb the flavors of garlic and herbs during roasting, creating a tender, umami-rich dish that’s perfect for anyone following a keto or low-carb lifestyle.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cremini or button mushrooms, cleaned and halved
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the halved mushrooms with olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the mushrooms in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and browned, stirring halfway through.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Garlic roasted mushrooms are a simple yet flavorful side dish that enhances the overall meal. The earthy mushrooms, combined with the aromatic garlic and thyme, provide a deep, savory flavor that complements the Italian beef perfectly. This keto-friendly side is easy to prepare and an excellent choice for a low-carb lunch.

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a keto-friendly side that combines the savory flavors of crispy bacon with the freshness of tender asparagus. The bacon adds a smoky richness, while the asparagus remains crisp and vibrant, making this an ideal accompaniment to Italian beef for a satisfying and low-carb lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
• 6 slices of bacon
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of bacon, ensuring the bacon is wrapped tightly around the stem.
3. Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast for 18-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
   Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a flavorful and visually appealing side dish that brings out the best of both the smoky bacon and fresh asparagus. The combination of crispy, savory bacon and tender asparagus complements the richness of Italian beef beautifully. It’s a perfect keto-friendly side for anyone seeking a delicious, low-carb addition to their meal.

Roasted Zucchini with Parmesan

Roasted zucchini with parmesan is a simple yet delicious side that combines the delicate flavor of zucchini with the savory, nutty taste of parmesan. Roasting the zucchini enhances its natural sweetness, while the crispy parmesan topping adds a delightful texture and flavor to complement the Italian beef.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the zucchini slices in olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
3. Arrange the zucchini in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and golden brown.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and crisp up.
6. Serve immediately.

Roasted zucchini with parmesan is a delightful and low-carb side dish that’s quick and easy to prepare. The crispy parmesan coating contrasts beautifully with the tender zucchini, making it a perfect complement to the rich flavors of Italian beef. This dish is a great keto-friendly option that enhances the overall meal with minimal effort.

Cabbage Stir-Fry with Bacon

Cabbage stir-fry with bacon is a flavorful, low-carb side dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. The crisp-tender cabbage pairs perfectly with the smoky, salty bacon, making it a fantastic accompaniment to Italian beef. It’s a simple yet delicious way to add extra vegetables to your keto lunch while keeping things low-carb.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 medium head of cabbage, shredded
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the olive oil and sauté the sliced onion until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, until tender but still slightly crisp.
4. Stir in the crispy bacon, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring to combine.
6. Serve immediately.

Cabbage stir-fry with bacon is a savory and satisfying side dish that complements the flavors of Italian beef perfectly. The combination of tender cabbage, smoky bacon, and a tangy hint from the vinegar brings depth and richness to the meal, all while staying low-carb and keto-friendly. This dish is a great choice for anyone looking for a simple, hearty, and flavorful side.

Note: More recipes are coming soon