Side dishes are more than just extras on your plate; they can be the real stars of the meal. It’s all about balancing flavors and textures to complement the main course in unexpected ways. Think about how a side of garlic-infused mashed potatoes or a tangy coleslaw can make everything else taste even better. With 17 side dishes that will make the main course feel inferior, you’re in for a treat that might just become the highlight of your meal!
Au Gratin Potato Stacks
These are a fun upgrade from the usual potato fare. They’re like little golden gifts on your plate, and everyone’s going to want one. Keep these in mind for your next gathering, and be ready to pass along the recipe because your friends will ask. They bring a whole new meaning to comfort food with a fancy twist. Be ready, these might just become your new dinner staple.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks
Texas Corn Succotash
If you want to add a little color and kick to your plate, look no further. It’s the kind of side that gets people talking and plates emptying faster than you’d think. Don’t be surprised if your guests are asking for more before the bowl even makes its way around the table once. This dish is perfect for when you want a touch of the Southwest without leaving your kitchen. It’s all about bold flavors and fresh appeal.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash
Fully Loaded Baked Potato Skins
If you love the toppings on your baked potato, then be ready to celebrate. These little beauties grab the limelight easily and are perfect for any casual get-together. Everyone will be reaching for just one more — they’re that irresistible. Loaded with all the good stuff, they’re like a mini feast in every bite. Don’t be surprised if they disappear from the table in a flash.
Get the Recipe: Fully Loaded Baked Potato Skins
Smoked Asparagus
Give these a try when you want to mix things up a bit. The smoky flavor is a game changer, making even a simple plate look gourmet. They’re the kind of side that suddenly becomes the talk of the table. Remember, it’s all about giving those everyday veggies a chance to stand out. They pair easily with whatever you’re dishing out, so have fun with it.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Asparagus
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Let’s rethink how we do greens. These aren’t your ordinary veggies; they come with a twist that’ll make you dance. Picture serving them up at your next meal and watching everyone reach for seconds. Even the pickiest eaters will give a nod of approval. Keep your main dish simple because with this side, it’s all about letting those veggies shine.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Potato & Green Pea Chowder
Dig into this chowder when you need a little bit of coziness. This one’s a hearty partner to any main dish but has enough charm to stand out on its own. The creamy texture and comforting taste are like a warm blanket on a chilly evening. Think of it as your go-to when you want something satisfying and familiar. Sometimes, simple is exactly what you need.
Get the Recipe: Potato & Green Pea Chowder
Air Fryer Corn on The Cob
This is a modern take on a classic side that’s all about ease and flavor. You’ll be reaching for your trusty kitchen gadget more often once you give these a try. So simple, yet so incredibly satisfying. They just might be the reason you start appreciating technology more at mealtime. It’s hard not to fall for a side that’s this easy and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Corn on The Cob
Smoked Brussels Sprouts
Go ahead and transform those everyday greens into something truly special. These veggies will become a regular request, trust me. Find them charming even the skeptics at your table, and don’t be shocked when they start stealing the show. This is what happens when you add a little smoky magic to your meal. They’re proof that sometimes a little twist can go a long way.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brussels Sprouts
Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic
Step up your potato salad game with this fresh and herbaceous version. It’s not your typical side; it’s something a bit more refined and flavorful. It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t shout for attention but somehow always gets noticed. You’ll see why it quickly becomes a must-have at meals needing a fresh touch. It’s a gentle reminder that even the classics can use a little update now and then.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic
Creamed Corn
This recipe is like a warm embrace in a dish. It’s all about homestyle goodness that’ll have you going back for seconds. It’s the unsung hero of comfort food, rich with flavor in every spoonful. Keep things simple, let the taste do the talking, and watch this classic win hearts. It’s a throwback to the old school favorites we all love.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Smoked Spaghetti Squash
This side is all about bringing a playful and flavorful twist to the table. It’s a surefire hit with guests of all ages, even the little ones. Low in carbs but high in enjoyment, it’ll be a surprise favorite. Talk about bringing some flair to the dinner table. It’s a unique choice when you want to shake up your veggie routine in a delicious way.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Spaghetti Squash
Potato Cheese Bread
Think of this as a comforting carb gem that’s both satisfying and versatile. You’ll be looking for reasons to whip up a batch, whether there’s an occasion or not. It’s one of those recipes that just feels right, making any meal feel a bit more complete. It’s the ultimate combo of cheesy goodness and hearty potatoes in every slice. Expect this one to be a repeat performer at your mealtime gigs.
Get the Recipe: Potato Cheese Bread
Eggless Breakfast Casserole with Sausage
Who says you need eggs to make a standout breakfast-themed side? This casserole has a way of fitting right in, no matter what time of day it is. Expect it to be a real conversation starter at the table. A perfect pick for anyone looking to change up their breakfast game. You might find it stepping into the breakfast spotlight more often than you thought.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Breakfast Casserole with Sausage
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
They’re a testament to how just a bit of grilling can make all the difference. With a hearty and satisfying presence, these veggies are likely to take center stage. They might even have you considering a day without meat now and then. You’ll want to keep these in your back pocket for a simple, yet impressive dish. Remember, sometimes it’s the simplest methods that bring out the best in your food.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Corn Fritters
Here’s a dish that’s going to win over a crowd, no questions asked. They’ve got a way of making it hard to just stop at one, and honestly, why would you want to? Think of these as the ultimate side — playful, tasty, and a total crowd-pleaser. They’re bound to become a go-to for your gatherings. It’s the kind of side that often takes the spotlight, and justifiably so.
Get the Recipe: Corn Fritters
Corned Beef Hash Casserole
Talk about taking breakfast favorites and giving them a dinner-worthy spin. This one’s a heartwarming side that’s sure to fill you up and leave you satisfied. There’s something about the rich, bold flavors that just feels right at the end of the day. Be ready for the requests that will follow because everyone will want this dish again. It’s a little like comfort food got a promotion to the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Corned Beef Hash Casserole
Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes
These potatoes are a shining example of why simple often equals stellar. Each bite is a savory journey you’ll want to take again and again. Expect them to be a hit at any dinner, whether you’re keeping it cozy or going all out. It’s the kind of side that makes you stop and savor every mouthful. With a recipe like this, potatoes are no longer just another side.
Get the Recipe: Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes