What to Eat With Fish Sticks: 7 Easy Sides in 2025

Fish sticks have long been a freezer staple – and for good reason. They're crispy, comforting, and quick to prepare, making them a go-to option for busy weeknights, picky eaters, and nostalgic adults alike. Fish sticks offer a satisfying crunch with tender white fish inside, all without the hassle of deep-frying or prepping from scratch.

But while fish sticks are easy, figuring out what to serve with them can feel repetitive. Fries and ketchup are classics. But there’s a whole world of simple, flavorful sides that can turn this humble dish into a balanced and exciting meal. From creamy mac & cheese to fresh slaw or zesty veggie rice, there’s something for every taste and time limit.

In this article, we’re rounding up easy, crowd-pleasing recipes. These all pair perfectly with fish sticks. Whether you’re after something kid-friendly, health-conscious, or just new-to-you, keep reading for side dishes that are just as effortless as they are delicious.

All the recipes on this page are carefully crafted by our team, including our in-house nutritionist, who also calculates the nutritional information provided. While we strive for accuracy, please note that actual values may vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods. 

1. Mac & Cheese 

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Cook the macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain.

2. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.

3. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring until smooth. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

4. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted.

5. Add the cooked pasta and stir until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Overview 🔍

Mac & cheese is a cozy, creamy option. It’s made for dipping fish sticks into or serving alongside for a nostalgic, satisfying plate. The smooth cheese sauce complements the crispy coating of fish sticks without overpowering them.

You can easily switch up the flavor, too. Try mixing cheddar with mozzarella or a sharp cheese like Gruyère. For a veggie boost, stir in steamed broccoli or peas. Want to make it lighter? Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese. Serve with a side of greens or slaw to balance out the richness and round out the meal.

2. Baked Sweet Potato Fries 

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

2. Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into thin sticks or wedges.

3. Toss with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Spread in a single layer on the tray – don’t overcrowd!

5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and golden at the edges.

Overview 🔍

Sweet potato fries are a delicious alternative to regular potato fries. They bake up with crisp edges and soft centers – no frying, no fuss. Their slightly sweet flavor pairs perfectly with salty, crunchy fish sticks and works well with ketchup, aioli, or a spiced mayo dip.

Feel free to tweak the seasoning. You can try cayenne for heat, rosemary for a savory twist, or cinnamon for something more kid-friendly. If you want to save time, you can use frozen sweet potato fries and just season them before baking. Serve with a green salad or corn for a simple, balanced meal.

3. Classic Cabbage Coleslaw 

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbages and grated carrot.

2. In a smaller bowl, whisk together mayo, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.

3. Pour the dressing over the veggies and toss well to coat.

4. Chill for 10 minutes before serving if you have time. This helps the flavors meld.

Overview 🔍

Coleslaw brings a crisp, creamy contrast to fish sticks that’s hard to beat. It’s cool, fresh, and cuts through the richness of the breadcrumb coating beautifully. The mix of white and red cabbage with sweet carrot also adds color and crunch to your plate.

This slaw is endlessly flexible, too. Try swapping in Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing, or add celery seed, mustard, or a squeeze of lemon for a tangy twist. You can prep it in advance, and it only gets better after a little time in the fridge. Pair it with roasted potatoes or rice for a complete, fuss-free dinner.

4. Creamy Potato Salad

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Boil the potatoes in salted water for 12-15 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayo, mustard, and vinegar or lemon juice.

3. Add the cooled potatoes, red pepper, and onion to the bowl. Toss gently to coat.

4. Season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with herbs if using. Serve warm or chilled.

Overview 🔍

Creamy potato salad is a classic that never fails. Plus, it pairs beautifully with fish sticks. The creaminess from the mayo, the tang from the mustard and vinegar, and a bit of crunch from the red bell pepper and onion make every bite satisfying. It’s hearty enough to round out the meal but still cool and refreshing next to hot, crispy fish.

You can lighten this up with half mayo and half plain yogurt, or try adding chopped pickles or celery for extra texture. It’s a great make-ahead side too, and travels well if you’re packing lunchboxes or planning a casual get-together. Add a handful of greens or a slice of lemony cucumber on the side for a full plate.

5. Mashed Potato & Mushy Peas 

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Boil the potatoes in salted water for 12-15 minutes until soft. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.

2. While the potatoes cook, simmer the peas in water for 3-5 minutes until tender. Drain and blend roughly with butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. (You can use a stick blender or mash by hand for a chunkier texture.)

3. Serve warm, side by side, with fish sticks on top or alongside.

Overview 🔍

This cozy combo is perfect if you’re craving something hearty and homey. The buttery mash and sweet, vibrant peas bring a classic British fish-and-chip shop vibe to fish sticks. It’s especially great for colder months or when you want something that sticks to your ribs.

You can customize this with cream cheese or sour cream in the mash for extra richness, or try mint or garlic in the peas for a fresh twist. For a lighter version, skip the butter and use olive oil instead. Add a squeeze of lemon over the whole plate to brighten it up, or serve with a simple salad for balance.

6. Veggie Fried Rice 

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Heat the oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until just set, then remove and set aside.

2. In the same pan, add a touch more oil if needed and sauté the vegetables for 2-3 minutes until just tender.

3. Add the cooked rice and stir well, breaking up any clumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes, letting it get slightly crispy in spots.

4. Stir in the soy sauce, scrambled egg, and spring onions. Season with salt, pepper, and any extras like garlic or ginger. 

Overview 🔍

Veggie fried rice is a speedy, satisfying side that adds a flavorful punch to fish sticks. It’s savory, colorful, and full of texture. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in more vegetables. The soy sauce gives it a salty umami note that pairs nicely with the crunchy fish.

You can mix this up with whatever you have on hand. Try using leftover rice, chopped greens, tofu, or even a splash of sriracha for heat. To make it gluten-free, just use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Add cucumber salad or a fried egg on top for a quick, balanced plate.

7. Oven Roasted Mixed Veg

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

2. Add all chopped veg and potatoes to a large bowl. Toss with olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper.

3. Spread evenly on the tray. Don’t crowd it too much or it won’t crisp.

4. Roast for 30-35 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until everything is golden and tender.

Overview 🔍

Roasted vegetables are a no-fuss, flavorful way to round out a plate of fish sticks. Adding potato makes it a more satisfying, complete meal. The mix of textures (crispy edges, soft centers) and the caramelized sweetness from roasting bring out the best in every veg.

Use whatever you have to hand. Sweet potato, carrots, or Brussels sprouts all work well here. For extra zing, squeeze over lemon juice before serving or add a spoonful of pesto on top. If you're short on time, use pre-chopped veg. Pair with a simple dip or side salad and you've got a stress-free dinner that feels fresh and homemade.

FAQ

What to serve with frozen fish sticks?

Serve frozen fish sticks with sides that add flavor and nutrition, like roasted mixed vegetables or a fresh salad. Add some potatoes or rice for a more filling plate. Use what’s in your fridge, as this is a flexible meal. Roasting veggies brings out their sweetness and adds color and crunch.

What are good things to dip fish sticks in?

You can dip fish sticks in anything from tartar sauce to spicy mayo or ketchup. I often serve mine with creamy coleslaw, which doubles as a dip and a side. Yogurt-based sauces or herby aioli also work well.

Are fish sticks a healthy snack?

Fish sticks are easy and convenient, but best in moderation. Look for baked versions and pair them with wholesome sides. Try swapping regular fries for baked sweet potato fries to lighten things up while keeping that satisfying crunch.

What to serve with fish sticks for kids?

Mac & cheese is always a hit with kids. It’s creamy, comforting, and easy to eat. Add carrot sticks or peas on the side for balance. Keep the flavors familiar and the textures soft to make it kid-friendly.

How to make fish sticks better?

Mix up your sides to keep things interesting. I like pairing fish sticks with creamy potato salad or veggie fried rice for something a little different. A squeeze of lemon and a good dip can also make a big difference.