Applebee’s Sides Menu 2026: Prices, Calories & the Full Guide
Every side dish, current price, calorie count, pairing tip, and healthy swap — all in one place.
2026 Sides Guide- Updated Menu ✓
- Verified Pricing ✓
- Nutrition Included ✓
Sides, at a Glance
Applebee’s Sides menu, the full picture at a glance.
Ever sat down at Applebee’s, ordered your main, and then stared at the sides menu completely lost? You’re not alone. The sides section is one of the most overlooked parts of the Applebee’s menu, yet it can make or break your whole meal.
Whether you’re trying to pick a low-calorie option, find the best comfort pairing for your ribs, or just figure out if the waffle fries are worth the upgrade, this guide covers it all. Here’s the most complete, up-to-date breakdown of the Applebee’s Sides Menu, with current prices, calorie counts, nutrition notes, and honest recommendations. For the details of the whole menu, visit the home page.
Prices vary slightly by location and ordering method, but everything here reflects current national averages.
Direct Answer
Applebee’s sides menu includes Basket Fries ($3.99 / 640 cal), Garlic Mashed Potatoes ($1.99 / 260 cal), 4-Cheese Mac & Cheese ($4.49 / 390 cal), Onion Rings ($4.99 / 560 cal), Seasoned Broccoli ($1.99 / 100 cal), Garlicky Green Beans ($1.99 / 150 cal), Waffle Fries ($6.49 / 360 cal), House Side Salad ($5.49 / 140 cal), Caesar Side Salad ($5.49 / 230 cal), Chicken Tortilla Soup ($5.99 / 280 cal), and French Onion Soup ($6.49 / 370 cal). Most combo entrées at Applebee’s include two classic sides.
Key Takeaways
Basket Fries are the most ordered side, crispy, salty, and crowd-pleasing at 640 cal.
Seasoned Broccoli at just 100 cal is the top pick for calorie-conscious diners.
4-Cheese Mac & Cheese is the fan-favorite comfort side, especially popular with kids and rib orders.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes at $1.99 offer the best value: creamy, filling, and pairs with almost anything.
Side Salads are the best upgrade when you want freshness, opt for light dressing to keep calories low.
Soups (Chicken Tortilla & French Onion) work best as starters or lighter meal add-ons.
Classic Applebee’s Side Dishes: What You Need to Know
These are the sides that come with most Applebee’s combo entrées by default. They’re reliable, widely loved, and work well with nearly everything on the menu.
Basket Fries
Golden, salted, and consistently crispy. These classic fries are the top-ordered side at Applebee’s for a reason. They hold up well with dipping sauces, pair perfectly with burgers and sandwiches, and satisfy that craving for something salty and crunchy. The basket portion is generous.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, buttery, and loaded with roasted garlic flavor. This is the best-value side on the entire Applebee’s menu. At $1.99, you’re getting a genuinely satisfying comfort side that works beautifully with steaks, ribs, and grilled chicken. The garlic is noticeable without being overpowering.
Breadstick
A soft-baked breadstick brushed with garlic butter and a touch of Parmesan. It’s the most affordable side on the menu and an underrated choice. Works great alongside pasta dishes and soups. At $1.29, it’s an easy add-on that adds value without adding much to your bill.
Vegetable Sides at Applebee’s: Better Than You Think
Applebee’s vegetable sides often get overlooked, but they’re actually some of the most interesting options on the menu. They’re also where the best low-calorie choices live.
Seasoned Broccoli
Steamed broccoli tossed with butter and herbs. At 100 calories and $1.99, this is the best value health-focused side on the entire Applebee’s menu. The florets are cooked to tender-crisp, not mushy.
Garlicky Green Beans
Steamed green beans sautéed with garlic and light seasoning. The garlic comes through cleanly and the beans have a good snap to them. One of the most satisfying light sides on the menu.
Homestyle Cheezy Broccoli
Fresh broccoli florets topped with a warm, creamy cheddar cheese sauce. A great middle-ground option, you still get vegetables, but with enough richness to feel indulgent.
Applebee’s Side Salads & Soups: Full Details
Both the side salads and soups work well as starter-style add-ons or as lighter side choices when your entrée is already rich and heavy.
House Side Salad
Mixed greens, diced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and your choice of dressing. The base salad itself is only 140 calories, smart dressing selection can keep this well under 250 cal total.
Caesar Side Salad
Crisp romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, shredded Parmesan, and seasoned croutons. The Caesar dressing is the calorie driver here, ask for it on the side and use about half to keep it lighter.
Chicken Tortilla Soup
A spiced broth loaded with shredded chicken, corn, black beans, tortilla strips, and melted cheese. More of a starter than a traditional side, hearty, warm, and genuinely flavorful.
French Onion Soup
Caramelized onions slow-cooked in beef broth, topped with a toasted crouton and a thick layer of melted Swiss cheese. The most indulgent soup option and the most expensive side on the menu.
Healthiest Applebee’s Sides: Low-Calorie Options Ranked
If you’re watching your calories, macros, or just trying to balance out a heavier entrée, these are the smartest side choices at Applebee’s in 2026.
| Rank | Side | Calories | Price | Why It’s a Smart Pick |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Seasoned Broccoli | 100 cal | $1.99 | Lowest calories on the menu, fiber-rich, genuinely seasoned |
| #2 | Garlicky Green Beans | 150 cal | $1.99 | Great flavor, low fat, high satisfaction for calories |
| #3 | House Side Salad (light dressing) | ~180 cal | $5.49 | Fresh, filling, customizable, dress lightly for best results |
| #4 | Breadstick | 180 cal | $1.29 | Satisfying carb at modest calorie cost, best single-item value |
| #5 | Garlic Mashed Potatoes | 260 cal | $1.99 | Filling comfort side that keeps calories moderate |
Applebee’s Side Pairing Guide: What Goes With What
Choosing the wrong side can clash with your entrée’s flavor profile. Here’s how to think about pairing Applebee’s sides with their most popular menu categories.
🥩 Steaks & Ribs
Rich, savory cuts need creamy or fresh contrast. Mashed potatoes absorb the steak jus beautifully. A Caesar salad adds crunch and brightness.
🍔 Burgers & Sandwiches
Classic American pairing. Waffle Fries are the upgrade pick for better texture and dipping surface. Onion Rings for maximum crunch and drama on the table.
🍗 Chicken Dishes
Grilled chicken goes well with vegetables to keep things light. Fried tenders pair brilliantly with the Mac & Cheese for a comfort-food combo.
🐟 Seafood
Lighter sides complement seafood better than heavy fried options. The broccoli adds color and nutrients. Mashed potatoes work if you ordered the Cajun Salmon.
🌮 Tex-Mex & Wraps
Tex-Mex items already have bold flavors, a simple fry or fresh salad balances without competing. The Chicken Tortilla Soup deepens the theme.
👦 Kids Meals
Kids love the Mac & Cheese. Fries are always a crowd-pleaser. Broccoli is the parent-approved pick that kids surprisingly tend to accept because it’s well-seasoned.
Applebee’s Sides: Full Comparison by Price, Calories & Value
Use this comparison to find the side that best fits your calorie goals, budget, and flavor preferences at a glance.
| Side | Price | Calories | Cal/$ Ratio | Indulgence | Diet-Friendly | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basket Fries | $3.99 | 640 | 160 cal/$ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | No | Best crowd-pleaser |
| Garlic Mashed Potatoes | $1.99 | 260 | 130 cal/$ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Moderate | Best value pick |
| Seasoned Broccoli | $1.99 | 100 | 50 cal/$ | ⭐ | ✅ Yes | Best healthy pick |
| Garlicky Green Beans | $1.99 | 150 | 75 cal/$ | ⭐⭐ | ✅ Yes | Most underrated |
| 4-Cheese Mac & Cheese | $4.49 | 390 | 87 cal/$ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | No | Best comfort side |
| Onion Rings | $4.99 | 560 | 112 cal/$ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | No | Best premium splurge |
| Waffle Fries | $6.49 | 360 | 55 cal/$ | ⭐⭐⭐ | No | Best fry upgrade |
| House Side Salad | $5.49 | 140 | 25 cal/$ | ⭐ | ✅ Yes | Best fresh/light side |
| French Onion Soup | $6.49 | 370 | 57 cal/$ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | No | Best winter warmer |
Applebee’s Sides Key Facts & Numbers
Visual Guide: Applebee’s Sides at a Glance
🥦 Under 200 Cal
- Seasoned Broccoli — 100 cal
- House Side Salad — 140 cal
- Garlicky Green Beans — 150 cal
- Breadstick — 180 cal
🥔 200–400 Cal
- Homestyle Cheezy Broccoli — 220 cal
- Caesar Side Salad — 230 cal
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes — 260 cal
- Chicken Tortilla Soup — 280 cal
- Waffle Fries — 360 cal
- French Onion Soup — 370 cal
- 4-Cheese Mac & Cheese — 390 cal
🍟 400+ Cal
- Loaded Mashed Potatoes — 440 cal
- Onion Rings — 560 cal
- Basket Fries — 640 cal
Applebee’s Sides Allergen & Dietary Guide
If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, knowing which sides are safe is critical. Here’s a practical overview. Always confirm directly with your local Applebee’s, as recipes can vary between franchise locations.
| Side | Gluten | Dairy | Egg | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seasoned Broccoli | ✅ Free | ⚠️ Butter | ✅ Free | Request no butter for dairy-free |
| Garlicky Green Beans | ✅ Free | ✅ Free | ✅ Free | One of the cleanest sides allergen-wise |
| Garlic Mashed Potatoes | ✅ Free | ⚠️ Butter/Cream | ✅ Free | Contains dairy — avoid if lactose intolerant |
| Basket Fries | ⚠️ Shared fryer | ✅ Free | ✅ Free | Cross-contact risk with gluten items in fryer |
| Onion Rings | ❌ Contains | ✅ Free | ⚠️ May contain | Beer batter contains wheat and gluten |
| 4-Cheese Mac & Cheese | ❌ Contains | ❌ Contains | ✅ Free | Not suitable for gluten or dairy restrictions |
| Caesar Side Salad | ⚠️ Croutons | ⚠️ Parmesan | ⚠️ Dressing | Request no croutons for GF; dressing contains egg |
| House Side Salad | ⚠️ Croutons | ⚠️ Cheese | ✅ Free (base) | Request no croutons or cheese for cleaner options |
⚠️ Important: Applebee’s kitchens are not allergen-free environments. Cross-contact between shared fryers and prep surfaces is possible. If you have a severe allergy, always speak directly with a manager before ordering.
Expert Tips for Ordering Applebee’s Sides
Ask About the Premium Upgrade Cost First
When you order an entrée that comes with two sides, switching from Basket Fries to Onion Rings or Waffle Fries may come with an upcharge. Ask before you substitute so there’s no surprise on the bill.
Order Dressings on the Side
For both the House Side Salad and Caesar Side Salad, requesting dressing on the side gives you full control over calories. A light vinaigrette drizzle keeps the House Salad under 200 calories total.
The $1.99 Sides Are Hidden Gems
Seasoned Broccoli, Garlicky Green Beans, and Garlic Mashed Potatoes deliver excellent value relative to their price. If you’re eating light or on a budget, stack two of these as your included sides.
Use the App for Delivery Customization
When ordering delivery, add sauce requests and side customizations manually in the special instructions. Delivery sides often arrive without sauces unless you specify them at the time of ordering.
Check If Sides Are Part of Your Deal
The 2 for $25 Meal Deal includes sides with most entrées. If your entrée already comes with two sides, ordering a third side separately is when costs add up.
Ask About Regional Happy Hour Specials
Some Applebee’s locations offer Onion Rings or Waffle Fries at a discount during happy hour, depending on the region. It’s worth asking your server.
Common Mistakes People Make When Ordering Applebee’s Sides
❌ Mistake 1: Defaulting to Fries Without Thinking. Basket Fries are 640 calories. If your entrée is already over 800 cal, that’s a 1,400+ calorie meal before drinks. Consider Seasoned Broccoli or Garlicky Green Beans for real balance, both are just $1.99.
❌ Mistake 2: Not Asking About Included Sides. Most Applebee’s steak, chicken, and rib entrées include two sides. Many guests order additional sides thinking they need to, they don’t. Check your menu description first.
❌ Mistake 3: Ignoring Allergen Information. Sides like the Caesar Salad (egg in dressing, gluten in croutons) and Onion Rings (wheat in batter) contain allergens that aren’t obvious from the menu name.
❌ Mistake 4: Overlooking the Soups as Sides. Chicken Tortilla Soup and French Onion Soup both appear in the sides menu but most guests don’t think to order them as their included side choice.
❌ Mistake 5: Paying for Sides You Could Have Included. Ordering a side à la carte when it could have been included in your entrée combo is one of the most common ways to overspend. The 2 for $25 deal, rib platters, and steak entrées almost always include two sides, use them.
📌 Article Summary
- Applebee’s offers 14+ side dishes across classic, premium, vegetable, salad, and soup categories
- Side prices range from $1.29 to $6.49 depending on item and location
- Calorie counts span from 100 calories (Seasoned Broccoli) to 640 calories (Basket Fries)
- Most entrées, especially steaks, ribs, and chicken, come with two classic sides included
- Premium upgrades like Onion Rings and Waffle Fries may carry a small surcharge
- The healthiest picks are Seasoned Broccoli, Garlicky Green Beans, and House Side Salad with light dressing
Frequently Asked Questions
What sides does Applebee’s have in 2026?+
Applebee’s sides menu in 2026 includes Basket Fries, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Loaded Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Seasoned Broccoli, Garlicky Green Beans, Homestyle Cheezy Broccoli, 4-Cheese Mac & Cheese, Onion Rings, Waffle Fries, Breadstick, House Side Salad, Caesar Side Salad, Chicken Tortilla Soup, and French Onion Soup.
How much do Applebee’s sides cost in 2026?+
Applebee’s sides range from $1.29 (Breadstick) to $6.49 (Waffle Fries or French Onion Soup) as of 2026 national averages. Classic sides like Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Seasoned Broccoli run $1.99 each, while premium options like Onion Rings cost $4.99.
What is the healthiest side at Applebee’s?+
Seasoned Broccoli is the healthiest Applebee’s side at just 100 calories and $1.99. Garlicky Green Beans (150 cal) and House Side Salad with light dressing (approximately 180 cal) are also excellent low-calorie picks.
Do Applebee’s entrées come with sides included?+
Yes. Most Applebee’s combo entrées, including steaks, ribs, chicken dishes, and seafood, come with two classic sides included in the price. Premium side upgrades like Onion Rings or Waffle Fries may carry a small extra charge.
Can I get Applebee’s sides for delivery?+
Yes. All major Applebee’s sides are available for delivery through the Applebee’s app and third-party platforms including DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub. Sauce selections may need to be added manually in special instructions.
What is the most popular side at Applebee’s?+
Basket Fries are the most frequently ordered side at Applebee’s. The 4-Cheese Mac & Cheese is the most talked-about signature side, and Garlic Mashed Potatoes are the most popular classic included side.
Are Applebee’s sides gluten-free?+
Some sides like Seasoned Broccoli and Garlicky Green Beans are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible in shared kitchen environments. Onion Rings contain wheat in the batter, and Caesar Salad contains gluten from croutons (request without).
What Applebee’s sides are best for kids?+
Kid-friendly Applebee’s sides include Basket Fries, 4-Cheese Mac & Cheese, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, and Seasoned Broccoli. The 4-Cheese Mac & Cheese is especially popular with children.
Can I customize Applebee’s side dishes?+
Yes. You can request extra cheese or bacon on mashed potatoes, add toppings to salads, choose dressing on the side, or request sauces separately. Some customizations may carry an additional charge.
Are Applebee’s waffle fries worth the extra cost?+
Waffle Fries at $6.49 are more expensive than Basket Fries ($3.99), but they’re lower in calories (360 vs. 640) and offer a better dipping experience. If price is the priority, stick with Basket Fries.
Conclusion: Which Applebee’s Side Should You Order?
The Applebee’s Sides Menu in 2026 is more varied than most people realize. There are real options across every goal: budget-friendly, calorie-conscious, indulgent comfort food, and fresh lighter picks.
Here’s the short version of everything covered:
- Best overall value: Garlic Mashed Potatoes at $1.99, creamy, filling, and pairs with everything
- Best for health: Seasoned Broccoli at 100 calories, $1.99, no contest
- Best comfort side: 4-Cheese Mac & Cheese, rich, cheesy, and genuinely good
- Best fry experience: Waffle Fries for texture and fewer calories, Basket Fries for pure classic satisfaction
- Most underrated pick: Garlicky Green Beans, flavorful, light, and $1.99
- Best splurge: French Onion Soup, warm and indulgent alongside your entrée
One last tip: if your entrée already includes two sides, use that to your advantage. Pick one indulgent side you love and one lighter vegetable side to balance your plate.
📍 Ready to Order? Use the Applebee’s app to check your nearest location’s current menu, confirm pricing, and customize your sides before you head out. Prices and item availability can vary by franchise location.