19 Side Recipes To Make Sure Your Dinner Guests Leave Happy

ByMandy

Side dishes are an easy way to bring more depth to a meal. These 19 recipes offer options that pair well with different flavors and textures, making every bite more enjoyable. Whether the goal is to keep things simple or add something a little extra, these dishes help complete the spread.

An oven dish with baked dauphinoise potatoes in it.
Dauphinoise Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Corn Casserole

Corn casserole in a casserole dish with a portion removed.
Corn Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A dish like Corn Casserole brings comfort to any dinner table with its creamy texture. It blends seamlessly with any main dish, ensuring a harmonious meal experience. Simple to prepare, it’s a reliable choice for impressing guests. Your friends will leave wondering when they can come back for more.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Southern Mash

Mashed potatoes on a white plate.
Southern Mash. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Southern Mash is more than just a side; it’s a testament to the power of well-prepped potatoes. Its smooth, inviting consistency pairs well with anything from grilled meats to vegetable stews. Easy to whip up, it makes any dinner feel like a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

A close-up image of honey chipotle seasoned roasted potatoes garnished with parsley, served alongside grilled steak and lettuce.
Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing says hearty meal like Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes. The unique blend of sweet and spicy transforms humble potato makes this dish a standout. Ideal for those looking to offer something a bit different at their dinner. Everyone at the table will appreciate this flavorful twist.
Get the Recipe: Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

Wild Rice Casserole

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Wild Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Wild Rice Casserole is a celebration of texture and taste in one dish. It effortlessly accompanies various mains, adding a nutritious punch to your dinner spread. Its ease of preparation makes it a go-to for any host. This casserole will have your guests feeling both nourished and satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy potato casserole in a white dish with a fork.
Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You’re serving tradition with a side of creamy indulgence with Scalloped Potatoes. This dish pairs beautifully with both meat and vegetarian mains, making it incredibly versatile. Quick to assemble and always a hit, it leaves a lasting impression. Your dinner guests will leave full and happy, guaranteed.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Cheesy cauliflower casserole in a white dish with spoons.
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a lighter take that doesn’t skimp on flavor, Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a must-try. It’s a fantastic way to sneak more vegetables into your meal while still appealing to all ages. With its cheesy goodness, it’s bound to become a new favorite. Guests will appreciate this delicious twist on comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower 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.

Despite the name, Funeral Potatoes are a life-of-the-party kind of dish. This comforting casserole is always a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that no plate is left uncleaned. Its richness and warmth make it perfect for any gathering. Leaving guests feeling content and taken care of is this dish’s specialty.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Garlic Bread

Slices of garlic bread topped with chopped parsley and sea salt sit enticingly on a wooden board, accompanied by a small bowl of salt and fresh cloves of garlic.
Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

No dinner is complete without a side of Garlic Bread. Its crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior make it the ideal companion to any meal. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare. This simple addition promises to round out your dinner with a universally loved classic.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Cowboy Casserole

Close-up of a cowboy casserole in a white dish, showing layers of ground meat and vegetables topped with a golden-brown mashed potato crust, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cowboy Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bringing a bit of the Wild West to your table, Cowboy Casserole is as robust and fulfilling as it sounds. It’s a hearty option that complements any meal, ensuring no one leaves the table hungry. Perfect for a casual dinner with friends, it adds an element of fun to the menu.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy 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.

A classic like Mac and Cheese needs no introduction. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings back fond memories and creates new ones. Effortlessly creamy, it’s loved by guests of all ages. Serving this is a surefire way to ensure everyone leaves with a smile.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Easy Tater Tot Casserole

A serving of tater tot casserole on a spoon.
Easy Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you need a dish that’s both comforting and easy to make, Easy Tater Tot Casserole is your go-to. It’s a crowd-pleaser that fills the room with anticipation as it comes out of the oven. Ideal for a casual dinner, it keeps the vibe relaxed and joyful. This is one dish that promises a fun and satisfying dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole

Best Zucchini Bread

Sliced zucchini bread on a white surface, showing a moist interior with visible green flecks of zucchini.
Best Zucchini Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweeten up your side offerings with Best Zucchini Bread. Its moist texture and subtle sweetness make it a versatile companion to any meal. It’s a pleasant surprise for those who might not expect a sweet touch to their dinner. This bread will have your guests leaving chatter about their new favorite treat.
Get the Recipe: Best Zucchini Bread

Tuna Noodle Casserole

A baking dish filled with golden-brown baked tuna noodle casserole, topped with breadcrumbs and garnished with chopped parsley.
Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a nostalgic nod that packs a punch of flavor, Tuna Noodle Casserole hits all the right notes. It brings an ocean of flavor to the table, complementing more traditional sides with its hearty profile. It’s a dish that invites stories of childhood dinners while creating new memories.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Slices of cucumber tossed in spicy Korean dressing.
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re aiming to add a little excitement, Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad is a thrilling choice. Its crisp freshness and lively flavors awaken the palate. It’s an adventurous side that pairs well with both light and hearty mains. Guests will be intrigued and treated by its unique taste.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Hasselback Potatoes

Roasted hasselback potatoes on a baking sheet with parmesan.
Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Transform ordinary potatoes into a stunning side with Hasselback Potatoes. Their crisp edges and tender centers are visually impressive and taste fantastic. They bring an element of sophistication to any casual meal. Guests will certainly be charmed by this dish’s elegance and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

Cilantro Lime Rice

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

Cilantro Lime Rice infuses your dinner with a burst of freshness. Its light and fluffy texture makes it an excellent base for a variety of dishes. Effortless to prepare, it’s a subtle way to introduce a global flair. This rice promises to be a refreshing complement to your meal, leaving guests pleased and content.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Comfort in a dish is best described by Hashbrown Casserole. Its creamy interior and crispy top layer make each bite a treat. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it pairs well with almost anything. Guests will leave feeling satisfied and cozy, with memories of a meal well enjoyed.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Close-up of a delightful broccoli salad with crispy bacon, sunflower seeds, and a creamy dressing. Mixed ingredients are visible in detail, showcasing the vibrant textures and colors of this fresh broccoli salad.
Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Adding a fresh element to your spread, Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing breaks up the richness of other dishes. Its crispness and vibrant colors add visual appeal to your table. Easy to toss together, it offers a refreshing counterpoint. This salad ensures a light and satisfying experience for your guests.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Dauphinoise Potatoes

An oven dish with baked dauphinoise potatoes in it.
Dauphinoise Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a touch of French elegance on your dinner table, Dauphinoise Potatoes offer creamy layers of goodness. They are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. Preparing this dish adds a touch of gourmet flair to your meal, impressing guests with both your cooking and your style.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

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