Fries are fun, but these sides? They bring a mix of fresh ideas and unbeatable appeal, making everyone at the table stop mid-bite and ask why you’ve been hiding these options. Easy enough to whip up on a busy day but impressive enough for a special occasion, they’ll leave fries feeling like a runner-up. This isn’t just a lineup of sides—it’s a total game-changer for your meals.
Mexican Rice
Few sides can turn an ordinary meal into something memorable quite like Mexican Rice, with its bold flavors and rewarding texture. It’s the kind of dish that not only complements your main course but could almost steal the spotlight. A perfect balance of heartiness and simplicity keeps everyone at the table asking for more. Once this hits the plate, fries won’t even be in the conversation.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice
Sautéed Beet Greens With Pancetta
It’s rare to find a side dish that feels both fancy and approachable, but Sautéed Beet Greens With Pancetta manages to hit that sweet spot. With layers of flavor that surprise in every bite, this dish holds its own as more than just a supporting player. It’s a refreshing change that makes eating greens feel like a treat, not a chore. Fries start looking like yesterday’s news when this shows up.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens With Pancetta
Parisian Potatoes
Elegant yet deliciously simple, Parisian Potatoes bring a rich, golden finish to any plate they grace. Their perfectly crisp edges and soft interior make them irresistible, turning an everyday dinner into a standout moment. They’re versatile enough to pair with almost anything while still feeling special enough for guests. If fries had feelings, they’d be jealous.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes
Classic Mac And Cheese
The ultimate comfort side, Classic Mac And Cheese has a way of pleasing even the pickiest eaters at the table. Its creamy texture and bold flavor feel like a warm hug in every bite, making it hard to stop at just one serving. This dish doesn’t just complement your meal; it upgrades the entire dining experience. Honestly, fries could never compete with this level of nostalgia and satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Classic Mac And Cheese
Asparagus Salad With Lemon And Parmesan
There’s something refreshing about a dish that’s as light and flavorful as Asparagus Salad With Lemon And Parmesan. It adds a pop of brightness to the meal without overpowering the main event, making it the perfect balance on your plate. Every bite feels like a little celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors. Fries might be easier, but they can’t bring this kind of finesse to the table.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Salad With Lemon And Parmesan
Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
Few things can rival the irresistible charm of Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits, with their buttery layers and cheesy goodness. They’re the kind of side that disappears faster than you can say, “pass the breadbasket.” Whether you’re soaking up gravy or enjoying them solo, they always deliver in a big way. Fries might want to take notes because this is how you win over a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
Spring Salad With Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
Light but filling, Spring Salad With Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes checks all the boxes when it comes to a well-rounded side dish. It brings texture, flavor, and a hint of freshness that feels like a breath of fresh air on your plate. It’s a great way to make your meal feel a little more complete without overpowering the main course. Let’s be honest, fries aren’t even in the same league here.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad With Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Sweet, tender, and surprisingly addictive, Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots are proof that simplicity is sometimes the best choice. They bring a subtle sweetness that complements any main dish beautifully, making them a favorite for kids and adults alike. This side has a way of standing out without being fussy or overcomplicated. After one bite, fries will feel like an afterthought.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Turkey Fried Rice
A little hearty, a little comforting, Turkey Fried Rice brings just the right amount of flavor to the table to make everyone take notice. It’s the kind of side that works just as well for a casual dinner as it does for a special occasion. This dish has a way of making everything feel more complete without trying too hard. If you’re still reaching for fries, you’re missing out.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Fried Rice
Classic Caprese Salad
Light, fresh, and undeniably classic, Classic Caprese Salad has a way of making every meal feel a little more refined. It’s the perfect balance of refreshing and rewarding, bringing a touch of elegance without being fussy. This side is ideal for pairing with heavier mains, adding just the right contrast to the meal. Fries don’t stand a chance when this beauty is on the table.
Get the Recipe: Classic Caprese Salad
Southern Style Pickled Shrimp
Bold and tangy, Southern Style Pickled Shrimp delivers an unexpected twist that livens up the whole meal. It’s one of those sides that feels like a treat, bringing a unique flavor without overshadowing the main dish. Perfect for shaking things up at dinner, this dish has a way of leaving everyone curious for more. Fries might as well sit this one out.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots are an instant crowd-pleaser. They combine everything you love in a side dish with a fun twist that keeps you coming back for more. This is comfort food at its finest, with just the right amount of indulgence to make you forget all about fries. It’s hard to imagine a better pairing for your favorite mains.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Steakhouse Creamed Spinach
Rich, creamy, and full of flavor, Steakhouse Creamed Spinach takes an ordinary side to extraordinary heights. It’s the kind of dish that feels luxurious without being overly complicated, making it a perfect addition to any meal. This one stands out in the best way possible, proving that greens can be just as exciting as any other side. Fries can’t even come close to the level of satisfaction this delivers.
Get the Recipe: Steakhouse Creamed Spinach
Cucumber Salad With Feta
Crisp, cool, and packed with flavor, Cucumber Salad With Feta offers a refreshing change of pace from heavier sides. It’s a great choice for balancing out rich dishes, adding a bright and lively element to your meal. This dish proves that simple can be incredibly rewarding when done right. You’ll forget fries were even an option once you’ve had this.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad With Feta
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Creamy and comforting, Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole is like a warm hug from the past that never goes out of style. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for everything from family dinners to holiday feasts. This dish manages to combine nostalgia and satisfaction in every bite. Fries simply can’t compete with this level of timeless goodness.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Cauliflower With Lemon And Dill
Light yet hearty, Cauliflower With Lemon And Dill brings a subtle elegance to the table that works with almost any meal. It’s the kind of side dish that adds variety without overshadowing the main course, making it endlessly versatile. The flavors here feel refreshing and balanced, offering a break from heavier options. Fries wouldn’t even dare try to take the spotlight from this one.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower With Lemon And Dill
Greek Green Beans
Robust and flavorful, Greek Green Beans are the perfect side for those who like their veggies with a little something extra. They hold their own on any plate, adding a touch of flair without being overly complicated. This dish is a fantastic way to bring something special to the table without too much effort. Fries feel like a distant memory once these show up.
Get the Recipe: Greek Green Beans