Need a side dish that delivers? These 33 recipes have you covered. They’re built for hungry guests, picky eaters, and anyone who appreciates a dish that holds its own. Whether you’re hosting or just trying to keep the peace at dinner, these sides are here to win over the table. Forget leftovers—these dishes make “just one more scoop” a recurring theme. Your kitchen might need a traffic light.
Grilled Elote Corn Ribs
Grilled Elote Corn Ribs bring bold, smoky flavor to the table, perfect for upgrading any meal. These ribs are easy to grab and even harder to share, thanks to their irresistible texture. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a backyard barbecue, this side dish always earns a second helping. Just make sure to prepare enough, because they’re always the first thing gone.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs
Mexican Rice
Whether paired with hearty mains or enjoyed on its own, Mexican Rice is the versatile side everyone reaches for. Its vibrant flavor and fluffy texture make it a consistent crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Great for busy weeknights or meal prep, it’s reliable, satisfying, and never overstays its welcome. Don’t be surprised when guests ask for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice
Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
When crispy edges and fluffy centers collide, you get Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes that people can’t stop eating. This dish combines convenience with flavor, perfect for quick dinners or parties. They’re great alongside mains or even as a snack on their own. Expect clean plates and plenty of requests for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Fasolakia Lathera
The slow-cooked goodness of Fasolakia Lathera makes it a standout side that’s packed with Mediterranean flair. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this dish is a hit for any occasion. Its rich, comforting texture pairs perfectly with nearly any main course. Prepare for empty bowls and a satisfied table every time.
Get the Recipe: Fasolakia Lathera
Grilled Vegetables
Sometimes simplicity wins, and Grilled Vegetables prove it by disappearing faster than expected. Their smoky, charred edges add depth to any spread without competing for attention. They’re the perfect partner for grilled mains or a fresh addition to salads. Whether hosting or meal prepping, they bring versatility and flavor every time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables
Parisian Potatoes
Elegant but easy, Parisian Potatoes strike the perfect balance between texture and taste. These buttery morsels add a touch of sophistication to any table without being fussy. Ideal for celebrations or weeknight meals, they’re versatile enough to pair with a range of mains. Don’t expect leftovers—these always steal the show.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Thick, hearty, and full of flavor, Grilled Cauliflower Steaks transform a simple vegetable into a show-stopping side. Their smoky char and tender texture make them a hit with everyone at the table. Perfect as a standalone or paired with sauces, they hold their own in any meal lineup. Even skeptics will be back for more.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Don’t toss the greens—Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta makes them the centerpiece. Their tender texture and savory kick bring a unique twist to any side dish rotation. Whether served alongside hearty mains or lighter fare, this dish adds something special to the plate. They’re as nutritious as they are satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
Creamy meets crunchy in Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad, a side that’s anything but ordinary. Its smoky undertones and balanced texture make it a must-try for picnics or family dinners. This dish seamlessly pairs with mains or holds its own as a light lunch. Once it’s served, it’s gone in no time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Light yet satisfying, Mediterranean Couscous Salad brings fresh flavors to your table with minimal effort. Its blend of textures and vibrant ingredients make it perfect for potlucks or weekday dinners. Great on its own or alongside mains, it never feels out of place. Bonus: it tastes just as good the next day.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Quick Smoked Tomatoes
Bold, smoky, and bursting with flavor, Quick Smoked Tomatoes are an unexpected star in the side dish lineup. Perfect for topping salads or accompanying mains, they add depth to every bite. Their rich, slightly tangy profile makes them incredibly versatile and undeniably addictive. Keep extra on hand—they disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Quick Smoked Tomatoes
Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Once served, it’s guaranteed to leave plates spotless. Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes takes a classic dish and gives it an elevated twist. Fresh and hearty, this salad is the perfect accompaniment to any spread or works well as a standalone side. Its unique smoky profile sets it apart from the rest.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
Sweet meets savory in Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze, a side dish with a tropical twist. Its caramelized exterior and tangy glaze bring bold flavors that balance any main course. Whether served at barbecues or special occasions, it’s always a crowd favorite. Just don’t expect any leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
Buttery and perfectly portioned, Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits are the ultimate side for any occasion. Their light, layered texture pairs well with hearty dishes or serves as a snack on their own. These bite-sized biscuits deliver a big flavor without overcomplicating the meal. Make extra—they disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
A smoky twist on a classic, Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob takes summer grilling to the next level. Its charred exterior and tender kernels create a perfect balance of texture and flavor. This side works great at cookouts or casual dinners, making it a crowd favorite every time. Just watch the hands reach for more.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
Cucumber Salad with Feta
Refreshing yet rich, Cucumber Salad with Feta combines creamy and crisp elements in one side dish. Its light profile makes it the perfect companion for heavier mains or as a refreshing break during meals. Great for potlucks or meal prep, it’s a versatile choice that works in any setting.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta
Grilled Ratatouille
A smoky take on a classic, Grilled Ratatouille blends charred vegetables into a harmonious side dish. Perfect for bringing bold flavors to casual dinners or more formal occasions, it’s endlessly versatile. Great hot or cold, it pairs seamlessly with mains or works as a light stand-alone dish.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Everyone’s favorite side is now in your kitchen. Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots bring homestyle flavor without the drive to the restaurant. Tender and packed with a sweet-savory balance, this dish complements virtually any meal. Perfect for weeknights or Sunday dinners, it’s both nostalgic and practical.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Easy Mexican Rice
Easy Mexican Rice is the perfect go-to side for any occasion, offering a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal. Its light, fluffy texture pairs beautifully with everything from grilled meats to vegetarian dishes. Whether served at a fiesta or as part of a weeknight dinner, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Expect empty bowls and satisfied appetites.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mexican Rice
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor, Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots are a perfect side that everyone will be fighting over. These tots deliver a satisfying crunch with a rich, savory finish that makes them a fun and irresistible addition to any meal. Whether at a party or family dinner, these will never last long. Be prepared to make more.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
Whether served at a spring gathering or a weeknight meal, it’s guaranteed to impress. It’s the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes brings fresh flavors and vibrant colors to the table, making it perfect for any season. It’s a light and crisp option that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or serves as a stand-alone dish.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
No meal is complete without a comforting side, and Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole is just the thing to make everyone feel at home. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, this casserole is perfect for special occasions or family dinners. It’s the type of side that fills the table with warmth and has everyone asking for seconds. Prepare for plates to be wiped clean.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Sauteed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Full of flavor and packed with nutrients, Sauteed Beet Greens with Pancetta takes ordinary greens to a whole new level. The savory pancetta pairs perfectly with the tender greens, creating a satisfying side that’s ideal for any meal. This dish adds a pop of color and flavor to your spread. It’s sure to become a regular at your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Sauteed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Smoked Cauliflower
Smoky, tender, and packed with flavor, Smoked Cauliflower is a side dish that turns a humble vegetable into a standout. Whether grilled or smoked, its rich, savory taste makes it a perfect accompaniment to any main course. Ideal for those seeking a lighter yet flavorful side, it won’t last long on the plate. Don’t be surprised when guests come back for more.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cauliflower
Classic Mac and Cheese
When comfort food is what you need, Classic Mac and Cheese has got you covered. Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, this side dish is guaranteed to satisfy every time. Whether serving it alongside your favorite main or as the star of the show, this dish never disappoints. It’s the perfect choice for family dinners and gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Classic Mac and Cheese
Grilled Asparagus
Its crisp texture and natural sweetness make it a side dish everyone will fight over. Grilled Asparagus takes this classic vegetable to new heights with a smoky, charred flavor that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Quick to prepare and easy to serve, it’s perfect for any occasion, from casual barbecues to holiday dinners. Make extra—you’ll need it.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus
Turkey Fried Rice
For a creative twist on a classic, Turkey Fried Rice is a flavorful side that’s sure to satisfy. Packed with hearty turkey and veggies, it’s a quick and easy dish that can be served with just about anything. Whether you’re using leftover turkey or making a fresh batch, this dish adds substance and flavor. Your guests will be coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Fried Rice
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp offers a refreshing mix of flavors, with tender shrimp and bright, herby elements combining to create a vibrant side. It’s ideal for summer gatherings or casual dinners where you want a dish that’s light but still full of flavor. This salad pairs beautifully with grilled mains or can stand on its own. Expect bowls to come back empty.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
Light, fresh, and packed with flavor, Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill is a side dish that brings a burst of freshness to any meal. Its tangy citrus and herb-infused profile makes it perfect for pairing with grilled meats or rich main dishes. It’s a healthy, flavorful option that won’t stay on the plate for long. Your guests will love it.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
Ukrainian Potatoes
Prepare for your guests to ask for seconds. Ukrainian Potatoes are a simple yet satisfying side that perfectly complements a wide variety of main dishes. With a slightly crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior, they are a hit every time. Great for weeknight dinners or special occasions, they hold up to sauces and pair well with meats.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Nutty, rich, and satisfying, Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds bring a luxurious twist to a classic side. The nutty almonds and savory brown butter take these sprouts to the next level, making them a hit at every meal. Whether served for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, they’re always the first dish to go. Prepare to make more.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Creamy Spinach Orzo
Once it’s on the table, the bowls will be empty in no time. Creamy Spinach Orzo is the perfect side for those looking for a dish that’s both rich and comforting. Its creamy texture and earthy spinach make it an ideal pairing with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. This side dish stands out with its velvety sauce and satisfying consistency.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Orzo
Bacon Fried Corn
This dish is quick to prepare and is guaranteed to be gone in minutes. Bacon Fried Corn brings the savory goodness of bacon together with the sweetness of corn, making it a side dish that’s hard to resist. Perfect for summer cookouts or holiday spreads, it adds a satisfying crunch and smoky flavor. Don’t plan on leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn