Make Your Sides Stand Out With 17 Irresistible Recipes
Side dishes should do more than just sit there. These 17 recipes make sure yours stand out with bold flavors, great textures, and a little something extra. They work with anything you’re serving, but they might just steal the spotlight. No one will ask, “Is there more of the main course?”
Baked Rice
For those seeking something easy yet fulfilling, Baked Rice hits the spot. With its soft, fluffy consistency, it complements almost any dish wonderfully. Just let the oven work its magic and prepare to be pleased with the outcome. This side dish stands out for its simplicity and reliability.
Get the Recipe: Baked Rice
Bread Stuffing
Transform your meal into a comforting experience with Bread Stuffing. Its combination of a soft, moist interior under a slightly crisp top makes every bite a joy. Ideal for adding a homestyle touch to special dinners, it’s a go-to for making any meal feel like a feast.
Get the Recipe: Bread Stuffing
Easy Chow Mein
When dinner needs a lively kick, Easy Chow Mein offers a solution. This side is both snappy to prepare and fun to eat, bringing a bit of texture to your plate. Its stir-fried crunch makes it an excellent companion to a variety of main courses, fulfilling the need for a quick, tasty addition.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein
Dauphinoise Potatoes
Introduce some indulgence to your table with Dauphinoise Potatoes. Rich and creamy, this dish features a beautiful golden crust that’s hard to resist. Designed to complement both meat and plant-based dishes, it epitomizes comfort food at its finest.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes
Best Zucchini Bread
Any time of day is the right time for a slice of Best Zucchini Bread. Light and moist, it transcends its role as a mere accompaniment to become a staple at breakfast, snack times, or alongside your main dish. Its versatility and crowd-pleasing nature make it a constant favorite.
Get the Recipe: Best Zucchini Bread
Copycat Chipotle Black Beans
Bring some restaurant flair to your meals with Copycat Chipotle Black Beans. Perfectly cooked to a wonderfully balanced texture, these beans pair excellently with a variety of dishes. Whether included in a main or served on the side, they’re a robust and wholesome choice.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Black Beans
Cobb Salad
Freshen up your meal options with a vibrant Cobb Salad. Packed full of diverse tastes and textures, each forkful offers an explosion of flavor. This salad is substantial enough to stand alone but shines as a side, making it ideal for those seeking something hearty and refreshing.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad
Dinner Rolls
Nothing complements a meal quite like freshly baked Dinner Rolls. Their lightness, slight sweetness, and soft texture make them perfect for soaking up sauces or enjoying with a bit of butter. These rolls promise to be a beloved addition to any dining occasion.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls
Antipasto Salad
Kick-start your meal with the lively flavors of Antipasto Salad. This tangy and crisp salad draws inspiration from Italian cuisine, anchoring any meal with its robust taste. Whether served as a starter or along with your main course, it’s guaranteed to add excitement to your table.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad
Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa
Add a pop of color and flavor with Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa. This side dish strikes an appealing balance between sweetness and bite, making it an excellent addition to tacos or as a standalone dip. Its vibrant taste and versatility often steal the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa
Asparagus Casserole
Upgrade your dining experience with the understated elegance of Asparagus Casserole. Rich, creamy, and topped with a crust, it’s perfect for both special occasions and everyday meals. This dish effortlessly adds a touch of sophistication to your table.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole
Baked Potato
Enjoy the ultimate in comfort food with a perfectly Baked Potato. Its fluffy interior and crispy skin form the ideal base for a variety of toppings. This versatile and straightforward dish promises satisfaction with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato
Broccoli Casserole
Turn to Broccoli Casserole for a comforting side that pairs creamy and crunchy textures splendidly. It’s designed to be a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that comforting goodness is just a spoonful away. A perfect choice for anyone looking to warm up their mealtime.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole
Baked Sweet Potato
Baked Sweet Potato offers a simple twist on a classic side. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any meal needing a little extra. The soft, creamy inside contrasts beautifully with a slightly crisp outer layer. You won’t believe how satisfying this dish can be without all the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Turning a classic comfort dish into something a bit more nutritious might seem like a tall order, but Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese manages beautifully. It creates a creamy texture that’s both indulgent and wholesome. You’ll be surprised at how much everyone enjoys this unique take.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Cilantro Lime Rice
Cilantro Lime Rice is a game changer for anyone looking to kick up their rice game. This combo breathes new life into a familiar staple, adding a fresh, vibrant twist. It’s amazing how a few simple tweaks can transform the ordinary into something extraordinary. Get ready for this side to steal the spotlight on your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice
Crunchy Onion Rings
If you’ve got a thing for snacks with a crunch, then Crunchy Onion Rings are your go-to. This homemade version upgrades a fast-food favorite to new heights. The perfect combination of crispy exterior and soft interior makes them irresistibly fun to munch on. They’re the kind of treat that gets everyone excited, every time.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings
