51 Fall Side Dishes That Steal the Show at Every Dinner

I’ve always believed that side dishes are where you can really have fun in the kitchen, especially in fall when the produce is so good it barely needs any help. These 19 recipes have become my go-to sides for everything from weeknight dinners to Thanksgiving prep, and I love how versatile they are. Some are easy enough to throw together on a random Tuesday, others are fancy enough for hosting, and a few have actually gotten more compliments than the main course they were meant to accompany. They showcase all those beautiful autumn vegetables and flavors I wait for all year, they mostly come together in one pan or dish, and they’re the kind of sides that make people ask for the recipe before they’ve even finished eating.

A close-up of cooked Mexican rice with a wooden spoon, garnished with chopped parsley. — Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

French Onion Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with a golden-brown breadcrumb crust and garnished with fresh herbs. — French Onion Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Few dishes are as comforting on a brisk fall day as French Onion Casserole. This flavorful side has a rich, cozy nature, making it a perfect match for other fall favorites. Its warmth and depth turn even simple meals into lovely feasts. Add it to your spread to create an inviting and homely experience.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Casserole

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce. — Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Classic favorites are often the most requested at gatherings, and Mac and Cheese is undeniably one of them. Its creamy goodness is a family favorite that feels even better during the fall season. This side dish complements almost any main and always leaves guests wanting more.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Chili Relleno Casserole

A slice of lasagna with beef, mushrooms, cheese, and vegetables being lifted from a baking dish. — Chili Relleno Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bring a little spice to your fall table with Chili Relleno Casserole, a dish full of bold flavors that’s perfect for chilly days. This casserole provides a little heat and plenty of satisfaction to pair with cozy seasonal dinners. It’s hearty enough to keep everyone coming back for seconds while being easy to prepare. Perfect for warming up your fall menu.
Get the Recipe: Chili Relleno Casserole

Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

Close-up of a dish featuring glazed carrots garnished with chopped herbs, served in a white bowl. — Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Fall is the season for warmth and sweetness to mingle on your plate. Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe brings tender carrots coated in just the right amount of richness to your meals. Perfect for autumn holidays or casual get-togethers, it’s a trusted side dish. Enjoy them alongside other fall favorites.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

Million Dollar Casserole

A serving spoon lifts a portion of creamy, baked casserole with a crunchy topping, revealing melted cheese. — Million Dollar Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For indulgent meals that gather big crowds, look no further. Million Dollar Casserole blends comforting richness into a baked dish that fits the season perfectly. This is a show-stopping side for large autumn gatherings. Its appeal makes it a premium choice for creating memorable dining moments.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Casserole

Creamed Spinach

A bowl of creamy spinach topped with grated cheese, being stirred with a spoon. — Creamed Spinach. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

With its smooth texture and full flavors, Creamed Spinach is a winning complement to any fall meal. It’s an excellent way to include greens on the table without taking attention away from other seasonal favorites. This simple yet crowd-pleasing dish balances heavier options beautifully. Serve it for a touch of warmth at family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach

Gnocchi

Fall is a great time to feature hearty, filling dishes that offer homemade flair. Gnocchi brings soft, pillowy bites that pair perfectly with seasonal sauces and roasted fall vegetables. Guests appreciate its simplicity yet satisfying portion size. A versatile yet dependable side for autumn dinners.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

Easy Cornbread Casserole

A portion of a cheesy, golden-brown savory cornbread casserole is being lifted from the dish, showing its flaky crust and gooey cheese filling. — Easy Cornbread Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Comforting dishes make autumn meals even better, and this one checks all the boxes. Easy Cornbread Casserole blends familiar flavors into a warm, baked perfection for gatherings. It’s a great choice for pairing with soups, stews, or even roasted vegetables. Dependable enough for holidays or casual nights alike.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole

Funeral Potatoes

Warm casseroles like Funeral Potatoes are ideal for creating a comforting fall spread. Known for their irresistible richness, they complement roasted meats and hearty dishes effortlessly. Perfect for serving at gatherings or family dinners, they bring warmth and familiarity to the table.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

A white dish with roasted root vegetables, including carrots, parsnips, red onions, and sweet potatoes, garnished with fresh dill and thyme. — Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Seasonal vegetables take center stage with Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables, making it an autumn must-have. This colorful dish is a great way to showcase fall’s bountiful produce and add richness to your meal. With just the right balance of texture and flavor, they’re easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Mashed Potatoes

No fall gathering is complete without Mashed Potatoes, a staple that pairs perfectly with nearly everything. Their creamy texture and warmth are comforting when the temperatures drop. This classic dish is loved for its versatility and timeless character. Whether hosting or sharing, they’ll always make a memorable addition to your table.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes

Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta

A white dish filled with cooked fusilli pasta, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, with a silver fork resting inside. — Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Adding some modern twist keeps fall meals fun. Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta takes creamy pasta to the next level, creating a buzz-worthy option for gatherings during cooler months. It’s ideal for small groups or sharing during casual nights. Fall recipes like this spark excitement.
Get the Recipe: Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta

Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Roasted cauliflower head cut in half, garnished with chopped parsley, on a white plate. — Roasted Whole Cauliflower. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm roasted dishes are a staple this season for their simplicity and charm. Roasted Whole Cauliflower offers a mild yet hearty addition to your dinner spread. Its carved presentation makes it a standout side for autumn gatherings. Perfect to pair with friendly group meals and seasonal flavors.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Crunchy Onion Rings

A close-up of crispy, golden-brown onion rings sprinkled with chopped parsley and black pepper on a white parchment-lined surface captures perfection in every bite. — Crunchy Onion Rings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

As the temperatures grow cooler, crispy Crunchy Onion Rings can round out any fall menu. These golden treats add lovely texture and flavor that pairs incredibly well with rich seasonal dishes. Perfect for snacking or serving as a side, they’re a crowd-pleasing favorite for all ages. Bring them to your next gathering for smiles all around.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

Cabbage Casserole

A close-up of a baked casserole dish filled with creamy cabbage gratin, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust, with a serving spoon partially visible. — Cabbage Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

For hearty simplicity, Cabbage Casserole is a standout dish on your fall table. The comforting flavors paired with its fulfilling texture make it work as a great side to seasonal favorites. It’s easy to prepare and packed full of flavors your guests will be asking for. This classic recipe is perfect for family dinners during crisp autumn evenings.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Casserole

Egg Fried Rice

Oval dish filled with fried rice garnished with chopped green onions. — Egg Fried Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm up chilly fall nights with Egg Fried Rice as a quick and versatile side dish. It pairs seamlessly with any main, offering rich comfort with its balanced textures. Ideal for smaller gatherings, its comforting nature works for nearly any fall occasion. Add this simple yet popular dish to your table for an easy win.
Get the Recipe: Egg Fried Rice

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Close-up of a flavorful chicken salad with diced chicken, green onions, chopped pecans, and raisins, all served on a bed of fresh spinach leaves. — Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Enjoy the quintessential fall flavors with Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. This dish feels right at home in the season of cozy textures and nutty bites. It’s a crowd-pleaser that provides the perfect balance to heavier servings at your Autumn gatherings. Serve this protein-packed salad to keep everyone happy, full, and ready for dessert.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Hot Honey Chicken Salad

A honey hot chicken salad with succulent fried chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese crumbles, cucumber slices, and mixed greens, all topped with a creamy dressing. — Hot Honey Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Packed with bold fall flavors, Hot Honey Chicken Salad adds a lovely contrast to any table. Perfect for gatherings, this dish balances heat with just the right touch of sweetness. It’s a great choice for those seeking something fun yet packable for holiday events. Guests won’t leave the party without asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Sautéed Kale

Add some green to your fall plate with the robust and earthy Sautéed Kale. This simple dish is full of flavor and pairs beautifully with hearty seasonal meals. Its warm and lovely nature makes it a go-to side dish in cooler months. Whether for holidays or weeknight dinners, it will easily charm your guests.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Kale

Butternut Squash Risotto

A bowl of risotto topped with roasted pumpkin pieces, grated cheese, and fresh parsley, with a checkered napkin and herbs nearby. — Butternut Squash Risotto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Comfort food doesn’t get better in autumn than Butternut Squash Risotto, a rich dish full of seasonal magic. Its creamy, bold flavors make it perfect for pairing with fall’s heartier meals. Great for bringing a touch of elegance to casual dinners or holiday spreads. This dish is sure to find a permanent spot in your seasonal recipe book.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Risotto

Potato Casserole

This dish is the perfect warm companion to crisp fall evenings. Potato Casserole is a creamy and hearty option that pairs effortlessly with autumn meals. Families love its comforting texture as a filling side dish. It’s never failed to bring warmth to any fall gathering.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole

Asian Cucumber Salad Jar

A glass jar filled with sliced cucumbers, red onions, and herbs in pickling liquid, with two metal forks placed inside. — Asian Cucumber Salad Jar. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Looking for a light and crisp fall side that’s easy to serve? Asian Cucumber Salad Jar fits the bill, offering a refreshing flavor that complements heavier dishes perfectly. The convenient jar presentation makes it ideal for gatherings or busy evenings. Its unique profile easily captures attention amidst traditional fall recipes.
Get the Recipe: Asian Cucumber Salad Jar

Taco Pasta Salad

A bowl of fusilli pasta mixed with ground beef, black beans, chopped tomatoes, and herbs, garnished with lime wedges. — Taco Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cooler days are great for bringing bold flavors together. Taco Pasta Salad is a fantastic fusion of lively spices and tender pasta, ideal for fall get-togethers. It’s a fresh yet hearty choice that keeps guests coming back for more. Perfect for outdoor autumn potlucks or tailgating.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

Sweet Potato Wedges

Serving something cozy yet simple makes the season taste better. Sweet Potato Wedges are baked to perfection and easy to serve at any fall event. This dish brings lovely warmth with every bite. It has become a common choice for casual autumn meals or festive celebrations alike.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Wedges

Tuna Noodle Casserole

A classic that feels just right for cooler months. Tuna Noodle Casserole is nostalgic and comforting, offering a simple solution for busy fall evenings. It’s a crowd favorite at family tables with its richness. A dependable go-to when hosting loved ones during the season.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole

Southern Cornbread

Close-up of two stacked pieces of cornbread with melted butter on top, showcasing a golden-brown crust and moist, crumbly texture. — Southern Cornbread. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Autumn gatherings aren’t complete without something timeless. Southern Cornbread delivers warm and lightly textured bites that complement hearty fall meals. It’s well-loved for its versatility in pairing with seasonal dishes. Guests often request seconds, making it essential for group dinners.
Get the Recipe: Southern Cornbread

Twice Baked Potatoes

Fall side dishes need to be memorable, and this one steps up every time. Twice Baked Potatoes bring layers of creamy goodness that transform any autumn spread. Their rich appeal makes them a centerpiece-worthy addition to your table. Family and friends agree it’s a tried-and-true favorite.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy macaroni and cheese dish with visible black pepper seasoning. — Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Adding creativity to fall sides keeps meals interesting. Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese combines comforting pasta with a seasonal twist that feels completely fitting. It’s a balanced mix of creamy and hearty, perfect for both kids and adults around the table. This dish shines as a seasonal star.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Baked Rice

A close-up of a bowl of oven-baked fried rice mixed with colorful vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, and scallions, with a spoon resting inside. — Baked Rice. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Seasonal meals often call for reliability alongside rich flavors. Baked Rice provides a warm and filling base to complement your fall feast. Its simplicity contrasts beautifully with intricate autumn dishes. It’s a must-try side that rarely disappoints when shared with loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Baked Rice

Garlic Knots

There’s no wrong time for bread, especially this time of year. Garlic Knots offer that irresistible autumn comfort with their herby, pillowy bites. They’re practically perfect for pairing with soups, pastas, and casseroles during the fall season. Having them on the table feels just right for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Leek and Potato Soup

A bowl of creamy soup garnished with sautéed green onions and herbs. — Leek and Potato Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Nothing warms up fall nights like a steaming bowl of soup. Leek and Potato Soup is smooth, hearty, and ideal as a starter or side during cooler months. Its cozy texture brings everyone together at dinnertime. Pair it with crusty bread to make your seasonal meals even better.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

Hashbrown Casserole

When hosting during fall, hearty sides are a must. Hashbrown Casserole is an easy crowd-pleaser that gives familiar flavors in every forkful. Its texture and warmth fit seamlessly with other seasonally inspired dishes. You’ll find it’s often the first thing to disappear at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Focaccia Bread

With fall in full swing, breads are a welcome addition to every table. Focaccia Bread creates a great balance of softness and crispness that works alongside soups or roasted dishes. Its handmade appeal feels special during shared autumn meals. Guests often ask for extra slices to take home.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

Beet Salad

A close-up of a salad featuring chopped beets, cucumber, feta cheese, walnuts, and fresh herbs on a white plate. — Beet Salad. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Clean and vibrant dishes like Beet Salad offer a refreshing contrast to fall’s earthy flavors. This colorful dish stands out on the table and provides a perfect light side for heartier meals. Its lovely texture and season-appropriate touch make it perfect for festive gatherings. Serve it as part of a balanced autumn feast that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad

Sweet Potato Cubes

When simplicity meets seasonal charm, the result is satisfying fall flavor. Sweet Potato Cubes hit that sweet spot of being easy to scoop onto plates at gatherings. They work as a dependable side dish for everything from casual dinners to festive celebrations. A softer, cozier option for cooler days.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cubes

Spaghetti Casserole

A serving of cheesy baked spaghetti is being lifted with a utensil. The dish is topped with melted cheese and garnished with herbs. — Spaghetti Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bringing comfort in layers is ideal for fall dinners. Spaghetti Casserole offers a baked twist on a familiar favorite that guests adore during cool months. It’s the ultimate autumn side for pasta lovers craving something warm and lovely. A guaranteed hit for potlucks and family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

A plate of roasted Brussels sprouts topped with pine nuts on parchment paper. — Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Autumn vegetables always find their place at the table, especially this recipe. Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze has that slightly sweet and nutty edge that enhances your fall meals. A reliable addition to seasonal dinners, they work wonderfully alongside hearty main dishes. They’re often a favorite among vegetable sides during this time of year.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Sweet Potato Fritters

Fall deserves sides that stand out, and this dish fits the need. Sweet Potato Fritters bring crispy edges and warm centers to the table in a way that guests enjoy sharing. Light and flavorful, they’re an engaging option for fall spreads. It’s a side dish you’ll find people discussing long after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fritters

Breakfast Potatoes

Cooler mornings create the need for cozy sides that start your day right. Breakfast Potatoes are an ideal choice with their hearty warmth and crisp texture. Fall meals often feel incomplete without them alongside the usual seasonal flavors. Guests will surely appreciate them during weekend brunches.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Potatoes

Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Casserole dish with Brussels sprouts, crispy onions, cheese, and herbs, mixed with a spoon. — Brussels Sprouts Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

With its layered twist on roasted veggies, this dish captures fall perfectly. Brussels Sprouts Casserole provides creamy richness paired with wholesome vegetables. Crowds love its seamless blend of complementary textures and autumn-inspired warmth. Perfect for potlucks or seasonal dinners.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Fluffy Naan Bread

A stack of flatbreads garnished with chopped parsley sits on a cloth, with a white pepper grinder, fresh herbs, a lemon wedge, and a bowl of yellow sauce nearby. — Fluffy Naan Bread. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fall dinners deserve accompaniments that are light yet crowd-friendly. Fluffy Naan Bread is endlessly versatile and works with almost any warm side or main dish. Perfect for enjoying with soups and dips, it’s an essential addition to autumn tables. Families love its easy pairings with seasonal favorites.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Naan Bread

Hamburger Casserole

Combining favorite staples into one dish keeps fall dining simple and meaningful. Hamburger Casserole is a dependable option that brings enjoyable layers together for cooler nights. It’s a dish large groups happily enjoy, complemented by other autumn classics. A go-to for flavorful family meals.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

Sweet Potato Fries

Fall gatherings often lean on fun, casual dishes everyone enjoys. Sweet Potato Fries balance warm comfort with easy presentation for group meals. A lighter side with a seasonal twist, they’re fantastic for evenings filled with laughter. This option is a favorite among both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries

Crack Chicken Casserole

Close-up of a baked apple crumble dessert in a ceramic dish, featuring a golden-brown crumbly topping. — Crack Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Rich and hearty dishes fit the bill perfectly when temperatures drop. Crack Chicken Casserole offers a filling option for autumn dinners with indulgence in every bite. Everyone loves its perfect fit with other seasonal sides on the table. A reliable choice for events needing a substantial dish.
Get the Recipe: Crack Chicken Casserole

Dinner Rolls

Every fall table includes essentials, and rolls always make the cut. Dinner Rolls offer a soft and flavorful addition that fits into festive spreads or weeknight meals. These rolls are versatile, perfectly complementing soups, casseroles, or hearty mains. No seasonal dinner feels complete without them.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Yellow Squash Casserole

Squash casserole being served with a wooden serving spoon. — Yellow Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Transitioning into cooler months calls for dishes that feature harvest favorites. Yellow Squash Casserole is a smooth and baked option that highlights fall produce perfectly. A crowd-friendly side dish that serves well at family gatherings. Seasonal staples like this make fall even more enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Squash Casserole

Honeycrisp Salad

A bowl of mixed greens salad with sliced Honeycrisp apples, walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese. — Honeycrisp Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fall is the perfect time for light, refreshing sides to balance hearty main dishes, and Honeycrisp Salad fits the bill. Packed with seasonal flavors, this salad brings a vibrant touch to your autumn table. The crispness and sweetness make it an instant crowd-favorite. Serve it alongside any meal for a bright pop of flavor during the colder months.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad

Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins

Cornbread muffins topped with sliced jalapeños in white paper liners, arranged on a wooden surface. — Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Cooler weather calls for comforting, flavorful sides, Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins are an excellent choice. These muffins bring a warm combo of subtle sweetness and a little spice, perfect for cozy fall gatherings. Pair them with soups or hearty dishes for a balanced accompaniment.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins

Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers. — Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crisp autumn evenings can be made even better with the robust flavors of Antipasto Salad. This dish brings together bold textures and contrasts that play well with heavier fall mains. It’s ideal for sharing and full of versatility, making it a great go-to side for all seasonal celebrations. Whether it’s served at a family dinner or holiday party, it’s a hit.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Grilled Corn on the Cobb

Four grilled corn cobs topped with crumbled cheese, chopped herbs, and spices are arranged on a white plate. — Grilled Corn on the Cobb. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Autumn evenings are all about smoky, charred goodness, and Grilled Corn on the Cobb delivers that perfectly. The smoky flavor makes this side a hit, complementing rich fall dishes effortlessly. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or adding it to the dinner table, it’s always a crowd favorite. Plus, it brings a classic yet seasonal touch to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn on the Cobb

Mexican Rice

A vibrant yet comforting addition spices up autumn meals. Mexican Rice brings warm flavors to dinner spreads, fitting for both casual and festive events. Its texture and flavor blend effortlessly with seasonal favorites. Whether paired with grilled meats or other dishes, it’s always welcome in the fall lineup.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice