I still remember the first time I cooked a club steak. The rich, juicy flavor was absolutely perfect, but something was missing—the right side dish to complete the meal.
If you’ve ever wondered what to eat with club steak, you’re in the right place! The right side dish enhances the flavors of your steak, adding texture and balance to every bite. Whether you want classic steakhouse sides, fresh and light options, or low-carb alternatives, I’ve got you covered.
If you’re new to the club; it’s a flavorful cut from the short loin that’s tender yet meaty—a great alternative to ribeye or New York strip.
Now, let’s dive into the best side dishes to serve with!
What you will find in this article:
What is Club Steak?
A club steak is a boneless cut from the short loin of the cow, similar to a New York strip but often slightly smaller and more marbled.
✔ Tender and flavorful like a ribeye, but leaner.
✔ Perfect for grilling, pan-searing, or broiling.
✔ Quick cooking time makes it a great weeknight steak option.
No matter how you cook it, pairing your steak with the right side dishes can take it to the next level. And don’t forget—proper storage is key! Learn how to store and reheat steak safely at this food safety guide.
The History of Club Steak
Did you know that this steak has been enjoyed for over a century and has ties to some of the most prestigious steakhouses in the world?
The term “club steak” comes from exclusive gentlemen’s clubs and fine dining establishments in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In these clubs, high-quality steaks were served to elite guests who appreciated premium cuts of beef. The club steak, being tender and full of flavor, quickly became a favorite among diners looking for a high-end yet slightly smaller alternative to the porterhouse or T-bone steak.
For more steak dinner inspiration, visit my recipe for beef steak!
Where Does it Come From?
A club steak is cut from the short loin of the cow, the same area where the New York strip and porterhouse steaks come from. However, unlike a porterhouse or T-bone, a club steak contains only the strip loin section—meaning it has all the tenderness and flavor without the bone or filet.
How Did it Become Popular?
✔ In the 1920s-1950s, club steaks were a signature dish at upscale restaurants and private clubs, known for their rich flavor and quick cooking time.
✔ By the 1970s, as grilling culture grew in America, more people started cooking club steaks at home, appreciating their balance between tenderness and affordability.
✔ Today, club steak remains a hidden gem among steak lovers, often overshadowed by ribeye and New York strip—but still offering an incredible eating experience!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
🥩 Calories: ~450 (without sides)
💪 Protein: 40g
🔥 Fat: 25g
🥗 Carbs: Varies depending on the side dish
What to Eat with Club Steak?.. Best Side Dishes
Here are the top side dishes to serve with steak, whether you want something hearty, fresh, or low-carb.
Classic Steakhouse Sides
You can’t go wrong with traditional steakhouse sides that add richness and depth to your meal.
✔ Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Buttery, creamy, and smooth, these are a must with steak.
✔ Baked Potatoes – Load them with sour cream, cheese, and chives for the ultimate indulgence.
✔ Creamed Spinach – The creamy texture pairs beautifully with a juicy, seared steak.
✔ Steakhouse Mac & Cheese – Ultra-cheesy, baked until golden and crispy on top.
For more inspiration, you can also explore mastering sauce recipes for beef to complement these sides.
Fresh & Light Side Dishes
If you want to balance out the richness of steak, these fresh and vibrant sides are perfect!
✔ Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette – The peppery arugula and zesty lemon dressing contrast beautifully with the meaty flavor of steak.
✔ Grilled Asparagus with Garlic Butter – Adds freshness and a slight crunch.
✔ Tomato & Feta Salad – Juicy tomatoes, salty feta, and balsamic glaze make this a refreshing pairing.
Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Sides
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, these sides keep the meal light without sacrificing flavor!
✔ Cauliflower Mash – A creamy, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.
✔ Zucchini Noodles (“Zoodles”) – Light and fresh, perfect with a drizzle of olive oil and parmesan.
✔ Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon – Smoky, crispy, and full of bold flavors.
International-Inspired Sides
Take your steak dinner to another level with these flavorful, globally inspired sides!
✔ Mexican-Style Grilled Corn (“Elote”) – Charred corn topped with spicy, creamy sauce.
✔ French Dauphinoise Potatoes – Thinly sliced potatoes, baked in a rich, garlicky cream sauce.
✔ Garlic Butter Mushrooms – Earthy, garlicky mushrooms bring depth and umami to your steak.
Sauces & Seasonings to Elevate Club Steak
Best Sauces
✔ Classic Peppercorn Sauce – Creamy with a bold, peppery kick.
✔ Garlic Herb Butter – Melts beautifully over a hot steak.
✔ Chimichurri Sauce – A fresh, herby sauce with a bright, tangy flavor.
Best Seasonings
✔ Simple Salt & Pepper – Let the steak shine on its own.
✔ Steakhouse Dry Rub – A mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
✔ Coffee-Rubbed Steak – Adds a deep, rich, smoky flavor.
How to Store & Reheat Club Steak and Sides
✔ Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
✔ Freezer: Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
✔ Reheating: Use an oven at 275°F or a skillet on low heat to keep the steak juicy.
Expert Tips for the Best Steak Meal
⭐ Rest the steak before slicing – This keeps the juices inside!
⭐ Pair the side dish based on your steak seasoning – A rich sauce pairs well with lighter sides, and vice versa.
⭐ Add a fresh element – A salad or grilled veggies balance out the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the best potato dish to serve with club steak?
Mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, and crispy fries are all great choices!
Can I serve steak without carbs?
Absolutely! Try roasted vegetables, fresh salads, or cauliflower mash.
What’s the best way to cook club steak?
Grilling and pan-searing work best for a flavorful crust and juicy interior.
What’s the best wine pairing for club steak?
A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec pairs perfectly.
Final Thoughts: My Favorite Pairings for Club Steak
Every time I make club steak, I love mixing and matching different sides to create a perfectly balanced meal. Whether I’m in the mood for classic mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or a low-carb alternative, there’s always a side that makes the steak shine.
If you try one of these pairings, I’d love to hear about it!
