The Real Stars Of Dinner? 21 Sides That Deserve The Attention

ByMandy

Let’s be real—sometimes the side dish is the only reason anyone shows up. These 21 sides aren’t here to support, they’re here to lead with zero apologies. You’ll keep telling yourself it’s “just a little scoop,” then blink and it’s half your plate. Nobody’s judging, just don’t act surprised when they disappear first.

Close-up of Mexican Street Corn on the cob topped with creamy sauce, crumbled cheese, chili powder, and chopped cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Focaccia Bread

Slices of focaccia bread topped with rosemary and flaky salt, arranged on brown parchment paper.
Focaccia Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Looking for a side that steals the show? Focaccia Bread brings the perfect balance of crispy and soft. It’s easy to make and complements just about any main dish. This bread will quickly become your go-to for every meal.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

A bowl of mixed salad with grilled shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing.
Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Need a salad that’s more than just greens? Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing is packed with flavor and texture. It’s not your average side, making any dinner feel extra special. Plus, it’s refreshing without being boring.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

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.

Baked Rice is the side that’ll surprise you with how simple yet amazing it is. It’s fluffy, easy to make, and pairs well with pretty much anything. Whether you’re looking for something to complement your protein or add variety to your plate, this is it. Don’t underestimate the power of this humble side.
Get the Recipe: Baked Rice

Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, grated cheese, and dressing.
Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

You can’t go wrong with a classic like Caesar Salad. It’s got the crunch, the flavor, and the creamy dressing that make it stand out. This side has been around for a reason – it’s simply delicious. Serve it alongside anything for a touch of elegance.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad

Cheese Grits

Creamy polenta in a skillet, topped with chopped herbs and black pepper, and stirred with a wooden spoon.
Cheese Grits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Craving something rich and comforting? Cheese Grits are creamy, cheesy, and ridiculously easy to make. This dish has that perfect balance of smooth texture and hearty comfort. It’s a side that’s sure to fill you up and keep you satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Grits

Bread Stuffing

A close-up of a casserole dish filled with stuffing made of bread cubes, cranberries, chopped herbs, and celery.
Bread Stuffing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bread Stuffing is the ultimate side when you want something filling and comforting. It’s a classic choice that upgrades any meal, especially when you’re feeding a crowd. Simple to make, but always a crowd-pleaser. Every bite is packed with that homey, satisfying feeling.
Get the Recipe: Bread Stuffing

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.

This salad brings all the bold, savory flavors in one easy-to-make side. It’s full of variety, with every bite offering a new texture or flavor to enjoy. Antipasto Salad works great alongside just about anything. It’s light yet packs a punch, making it a must-have.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Baked Potato

Baked potatoes on a serving dish with sour cream and fresh parsley.
Baked Potato. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who doesn’t love a good Baked Potato as a side? This simple yet fulfilling dish has endless possibilities for toppings, so you can customize it just how you like. It’s filling and easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy nights. You’ll never go wrong with a classic like this.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato

Bacon Wrapped Smokies

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish.
Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bacon Wrapped Smokies are the bite-sized snack that steals the spotlight every time. These little guys are smoky, savory, and the perfect balance of crispy bacon with a juicy center. They’re ridiculously easy to make but always impress. Serve them as a side, and watch them disappear in seconds.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Broccoli Casserole

Someone serving broccoli casserole.
Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re looking for a side that’s both hearty and healthy, Broccoli Casserole has got you covered. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with veggies, so you can feel good about serving it. This casserole is both comforting and delicious, making it a favorite. Perfect for when you need a side that’s a little more filling.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Funeral Potatoes

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.
Funeral Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Don’t let the name fool you, Funeral Potatoes are the life of the party. This cheesy, crispy casserole has the perfect mix of flavors and textures. It’s a crowd favorite, especially when you’re feeding a lot of hungry people. Expect seconds, maybe even thirds, every time.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Cilantro Lime Rice

Chipotle rice in a bowl with sliced lime and spoons.
Cilantro Lime Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you need a side to go with almost anything, Cilantro Lime Rice is a winner. It adds a fresh, zesty touch to any meal. Easy to make and perfectly balanced, it’s the side dish that’s never out of place. Plus, it works with pretty much anything you throw at it.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

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.

Hot Honey Chicken Salad is here to spice things up. With the perfect mix of sweet and heat, this salad takes a classic up a notch. It’s got a little something for everyone, whether you like it hot or not. A crunchy, juicy bite every time.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Asparagus Casserole

Cheesy asparagus casserole on a plate with a fork.
Asparagus Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Looking for something filling yet simple? Asparagus Casserole brings that comfort you crave without a lot of fuss. It’s easy to prep, and everyone will be asking for more. The balance of flavors will have you hooked after just one bite.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Italian Pasta with Salami is perfect for those who want a quick but hearty side. It’s a mix of flavors that just works every time. Whether you’re serving it with something heavy or light, it’s sure to be a hit. It’s easy to make, so no need to overthink it.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

A casserole dish with zucchini and cheese on it.
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You might not expect much from Cheesy Zucchini Casserole, but it’ll surprise you. It’s got that rich, cheesy layer that’s impossible to resist. Great as a side or even a light meal on its own. Plus, it’s a perfect way to sneak in some veggies.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Cobb Salad

A close-up of a Cobb salad featuring sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, boiled eggs, red onion, bacon bits, and blue cheese crumbles on a bed of lettuce.
Cobb Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cobb Salad is the salad that’s packed with everything you need. It’s hearty, fulfilling, and doesn’t leave you hungry. Perfect for those days when you want something filling, but still want to keep it fresh. No one’s leaving the table disappointed.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Chipotle black beans cooked and in a serving bowl.
Copycat Chipotle Black Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you love those black beans from Chipotle, you’ll love this version at home. Copycat Chipotle Black Beans bring the same bold flavors with a homemade touch. They’re rich and simple, perfect for any meal. You can make a batch and have it ready for whatever you’ve got planned.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Buffalo Chicken Dip

A hand dips a tortilla chip into a cheesy baked dish topped with sliced green onions.
Buffalo Chicken Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Buffalo Chicken Dip has that perfect mix of spicy and creamy. It’s the kind of side you can’t stop dipping into. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something hearty, it fits the bill. Everyone’s going to love it, and you’ll have leftovers to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

A bowl of Thai jasmine rice and chili peppers.
Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This dish is that side you never knew you needed. It’s light, fluffy, and pairs with just about anything. Simple to make, and always turns out perfect. Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice adds a nice texture and goes well with any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Mexican Street Corn

Close-up of Mexican Street Corn on the cob topped with creamy sauce, crumbled cheese, chili powder, and chopped cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mexican Street Corn is a twist on a classic that’ll steal the show. It’s crunchy, creamy, and a little smoky – the perfect side dish. Whether you’re serving it with tacos or just enjoying it on its own, it’s sure to impress. It’s the kind of side that’ll have people talking.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn

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