29 Side Recipes Because No One Ever Complained About Too Many Options

Whoever said there could be too many side options? With 29 choices, your guests won’t be stuck staring at a single bland plate. From classic picks to exciting surprises, there’s enough variety to keep everyone happy. After all, it’s not about having too many, it’s about having fun.

Focaccia Bread

Sometimes, all you need is something simple to turn a meal around. Imagine pulling apart a piece of bread, warm and aromatic, right out of the oven. Focaccia Bread is that touch of joy, perfect to dip in soup or just enjoy on its own. It’s about the joy of baking and sharing, bringing people together around the table.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

Dauphinoise Potatoes

There’s something comforting about a dish that combines potatoes in a creamy, rich sauce. Dauphinoise Potatoes take this comfort to a new level, layering thinly sliced spuds in a dish that’s always a hit. It’s a side that turns a simple dinner into something special.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Mac and Cheese

Let’s face it, Who can resist the classic comfort of cheesy, creamy pasta? Mac and Cheese is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, easy to make and even easier to devour. It’s the backbone of family dinners, barbecue sides, and late-night snacks. A dish that brings back memories and creates new ones with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

In the quest for something warm and hearty, don’t overlook Cauliflower’s potential. Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole transforms this humble veggie into a star, with cheese binding everything together into a comforting bake. It’s a great way to sneak more vegetables onto the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Buffalo Chicken Salad

When you’re craving something spicy but want to keep things light, Buffalo Chicken Salad hits the spot. It’s a zingy, flavorful mix that combines the kick of buffalo sauce with the freshness of greens. Perfect for when you want a substantial salad that packs a punch.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Salad

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Sometimes, it’s the simple sides that make a meal truly memorable. Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice with its distinct aroma and tender grains, is more than just an accompaniment. It’s about bringing a piece of Thailand to your dinner table, a foundation for a variety of dishes.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Need a vibrant, crunchy side that’s ready in a snap? Red Cabbage Coleslaw is your go-to, offering a colorful addition to any plate. It’s not just about the aesthetics; it’s a fresh, tangy complement that balances richer dishes beautifully. A testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create something delicious.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

There’s a world of flavor waiting in a simple pot of Jamaican Red Beans and Rice. This dish is a journey to the Caribbean, blending spices and textures into a comforting bowl. It’s the sort of side that steals the show, making you wonder if it’s really just a side. Versatile and vibrant, it brings a soulful warmth to the table.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Crunchy Onion Rings

For those times when only the crunchiest, most pleasing bite will do, Crunchy Onion Rings are there. This is about indulging in that perfect golden crust, a contrast to the soft, sweet onion inside. They’re not just a side; they’re an event, making any meal feel like a mini celebration. Great for sharing, but you might not want to.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

Yellow Squash Casserole

Ever look for a way to make vegetables the star of the show? Yellow Squash Casserole does just that, turning humble ingredients into a creamy, comforting bake. This dish is a cozy hug in casserole form, proving that comfort can be found in the most surprising places.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Squash Casserole

Italian Pasta with Salami

Imagine a side that combines pasta’s heartiness with salami’s rich flavor. Italian Pasta with Salami is a dish that marries simplicity with indulgence, perfect for when you want a little of both. It’s like a trip to Italy but without the airfare, bringing a taste of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. A bit of comfort, a bit of luxury, all in one bowl.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Eggplant Casserole

If you’re after something hearty yet meat-free, Eggplant Casserole answers the call. This dish layers flavors and textures into something truly special, a testament to the humble eggplant’s potential. It’s a comforting, nourishing option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Funeral Potatoes

Don’t let the name fool you; Funeral Potatoes are all about bringing comfort and joy. This side dish is creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible, a guaranteed hit at any gathering. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients to bring people together in times of joy and sorrow alike.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Vegetable Fritters

Craving something crispy on the outside, tender on the inside? Vegetable Fritters are your answer, a delicious way to enjoy a variety of veggies. They’re the perfect blend of texture and flavor, a versatile side that pairs well with just about anything. Ideal for those looking to add a bit of excitement to their veggie intake.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fritters

Garlic Bread

Is there anything more welcoming than the aroma of Garlic Bread straight out of the oven? This side is all about the joy of sharing, tearing off a piece and passing it around the table. It turns any meal into a feast with its buttery, garlicky goodness. A universal favorite because really, who can say no to garlic bread?
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Macaroni Salad

For picnics, potlucks, and everything in between, Macaroni Salad is the go-to. It’s a classic, creamy dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Easy to whip up and even easier to customize to your liking. It stands as a testament to the power of pasta to bring people together, no matter the occasion.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Cheese Grits

Sometimes, all you need is a bowl of comfort, and Cheese Grits are here to provide just that. It’s a Southern classic, where creamy meets cheesy in the best way possible. Ideal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, proving that some dishes can truly do it all. It’s the kind of side that reminds you of home, no matter where you are.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Grits

Seven Layer Salad

When you layer flavors and textures, something magical happens. Seven Layer Salad is a testament to this magic, offering a vibrant mix of ingredients that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. It’s a party in a bowl, meant to be shared and savored. This dish proves that salads can be the star of the show.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

For those who love to add a twist to the traditional, Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is a game-changer. This dish combines the creamy richness of the classic with a hint of sweetness and nutrition. It’s a comforting blend that makes you feel good about indulging.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

When you’re looking for a hands-off side that’s packed with flavor, Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables are the answer. This dish celebrates the earthy goodness of roots, turning them golden and delicious with minimal effort. It’s a testament to the beauty of simplicity, letting the natural flavors shine.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Wild Rice Casserole

Dig into the comforting embrace of Wild Rice Casserole, a dish that brings texture and flavor in spades. It’s a warm welcome on any table, combining hearty rice with a mix that’s bound to please. This casserole is your go-to for a side that’s both comforting and slightly upscale.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

Sourdough Bread

In the world of bread, Sourdough Bread holds a special place. It’s all about the process, the anticipation of that perfect crust and tangy crumb. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or simply a bread lover, this is a journey worth taking. Sourdough isn’t just bread; it’s a labor of love, a testament to the craft of baking.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bread

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Looking to add a bit of kick to your meal? Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad does just that, blending crisp cucumbers with a spicy dressing that’s sure to awaken your senses. It’s a refreshing side, perfect for balancing out heavier dishes. This salad is a quick trip to Korea, promising a punch of flavor with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

Let’s talk about a side that’s crisp, delicious, and surprisingly simple. Crispy Air Fryer Bacon takes the hassle out of cooking bacon, giving you perfect results with minimal cleanup. It’s about enjoying the little things, like the crunch of perfectly cooked bacon without a stovetop splatter.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

Sweet Potato Fries

Who doesn’t love a sweet twist on a classic favorite? Sweet Potato Fries are just that, offering a sweet, crispy alternative to regular fries. They’re the perfect balance of fluffy and crispy, a side that’s hard to stop eating. A great way to bring a pop of color and a hint of sweetness to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries

Dense Bean Salad

For a hearty, no-fuss option, Dense Bean Salad is spot on. It packs a nutritious punch, combining various beans for a texture and flavor medley. The kind of side that keeps you full and satisfied, proving that salads can be both hearty and healthy. Ideal for those days when you want something light yet fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

Crispy Shallots

If you’re looking to add a crunch and a burst of flavor, Crispy Shallots are your answer. These little gems are perfect for topping just about anything, turning the ordinary into something extraordinary. They’re a small touch that can make a big difference, perfect for when you want to add a bit of gourmet feel to your meals.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shallots

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Sometimes, you need a side that doubles as a conversation starter, and Buffalo Chicken Dip is just that. It’s spicy, creamy, and utterly addictive, perfect for dipping during game days or gatherings. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, promising to keep everyone coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Scalloped Potatoes

There’s something about Scalloped Potatoes that screams comfort food. This dish is all about layers of thinly sliced potatoes enveloped in a creamy sauce and baked to perfection. It’s a classic side that’s always welcome on the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes