Home » Trending » 31 Side Dishes That Taste Like You Got Them From a Fancy Steakhouse (But Didn’t)

31 Side Dishes That Taste Like You Got Them From a Fancy Steakhouse (But Didn’t)

Who says side dishes have to be boring? With Steakhouse-Style Sides, you can take any meal from “meh” to “wow” in no time. This lineup of 31 recipes will make you look like you’ve got some culinary chops, but really, it’s all about great ingredients and a little bit of kitchen magic. Forget the frozen veggies and try something that feels like a five-star steakhouse experience at home. Trust us, your taste buds—and your ego—will thank you.

Greek Green Beans served on a white rectangular plate.
Greek Green Beans. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Turkey Fried Rice

Top-down shot of Turkey Fried Rice on a black plate.
Turkey Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a twist on a classic, turkey fried rice is your go-to side. It’s a perfect way to use leftovers, but also feels fresh and new every time. Turkey Fried Rice offers a savory balance that complements a wide variety of dishes. It’s simple yet satisfying, making it a great side for both casual dinners and more formal gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Fried Rice

Ukrainian Potatoes

Ukrainian Potatoes on a white plate.
Ukrainian Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This side is hearty and full of flavor without any fuss. Ukrainian Potatoes are a rustic option that pairs well with just about anything. Their texture is perfect, with each bite giving you a bit of comfort and satisfaction. This dish may seem simple, but it’s packed with layers of flavor you’ll keep coming back for.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes

Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

A tray of cheddar bacon loaded tater tots, drizzled with Alfredo sauce, with a hand-picking one up.
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When you’re craving something crispy and savory, these loaded tots step in. Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots bring all the comfort of your favorite pub snack. They’re easy to make but pack a punch in flavor, offering a satisfying combination that feels like it should be served at a five-star restaurant. Perfect for an appetizer or a fun side dish, these tots are the kind of dish you’ll want at every meal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

Easter Table ebook display ad.

Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits

A plate of mini flaky cheese biscuits and a cup of coffee.
Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

If you’re looking for a side dish that feels fancy yet simple, these biscuits fit the bill. Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits have that perfect, buttery crunch with a tender inside. They’re light and airy, making them the ideal companion for nearly any meal. Whether served at a special dinner or alongside comfort food, they add a touch of class without the extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits

Mediterranean Couscous Salad

A plate of Mediterranean Couscous Salad With Smoked Tomatoes topped with parsley.
Mediterranean Couscous Salad. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Light, bright, and full of flavor, this salad is perfect for any occasion. Mediterranean Couscous Salad brings a refreshing take on a traditional side dish with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. It’s great as a side, but hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Full of flavor and texture, this dish pairs perfectly with grilled meats or seafood.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes on a platter.
Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

If you love crispy potatoes, these are a must-try. Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes are golden and perfectly crispy on the outside, with a soft, fluffy inside. This dish adds a satisfying crunch to any meal, making it a favorite at the table. The air fryer makes it easy to cook, but the end result tastes like you spent hours on them.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Mexican Rice

A plate of Mexican rice garnished with chopped green onions and herbs served with a spoon.
Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

For a side that’s both flavorful and versatile, Mexican rice has you covered. Mexican Rice adds a subtle heat and deep flavor that pairs well with anything from tacos to grilled meats. It’s a side that brings warmth to your meal without overpowering it. You’ll find yourself going back for seconds with this one.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice

Smoked Cauliflower

Smoked cauliflower in a skillet on a wooden table.
Smoked Cauliflower. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking for a smoky, savory side, this one fits the bill. Smoked Cauliflower offers a unique twist on traditional roasted veggies with a deep, smoky flavor. It’s a great side dish for any grilled or smoked main dish, adding complexity without overwhelming the plate. Whether you’re grilling or baking, this side steals the show.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cauliflower

Cucumber Salad with Feta

Cucumber and Feta salad in a black bowl.
Cucumber Salad with Feta. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Cool and refreshing, this salad is a great balance to heavier main dishes. Cucumber Salad with Feta brings a fresh, tangy bite with just the right touch of saltiness. It’s the kind of side that feels light but satisfying, perfect for those summer nights or when you need something crisp. It pairs effortlessly with nearly anything.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta

Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes

Spring salad with asparagus and potatoes on a white plate.
Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When you want a salad that feels substantial, this dish is the one to reach for. Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes combines the season’s best flavors in one bowl. It’s hearty yet fresh, offering the perfect balance of earthiness and crispness. A great side for a springtime dinner, it adds a burst of color and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes

Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

Three pieces of grilled cauliflower steaks on a black plate.
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Looking for a veggie side that’s as filling as it is flavorful? Grilled Cauliflower Steaks are a hearty option that’ll leave everyone talking. They have a meaty texture and smoky flavor, making them perfect for grilling season. This dish is one of those sides that can stand on its own but also complements almost any main course.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Packed with flavor, this dish brings a Mediterranean twist to your side dish options. Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp combines the perfect amount of lightness with a touch of sophistication. It’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, with flavors that complement everything from seafood to grilled chicken. This salad works great for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Grilled Vegetables

A variety of grilled vegetables on a platter.
Grilled Vegetables. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

There’s nothing like the simplicity of grilled vegetables. Grilled Vegetables offer that perfect charred flavor while keeping the natural crunch of fresh produce. They’re easy to throw on the grill and pair well with just about anything, making them a versatile side. Whether you’re grilling steaks or seafood, this side fits right in.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables

Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

A black bowl filled with tabbouleh salad with smoked tomatoes.
Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

This salad brings fresh flavors to life, with a smoky twist. Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes offers the perfect balance of herbs and vegetables with a deep, smoky note. It’s light yet filling, ideal for summer dinners or anytime you need a refreshing side. This dish shines when paired with grilled meats or seafood.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

Smoked Mac & Cheese

A skillet filled with Smoked Mac & Cheese.
Smoked Mac & Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you want mac and cheese with a little extra flair, smoked is the way to go. Smoked Mac & Cheese brings all the creamy comfort of the classic, with a smoky depth you didn’t know you needed. It’s a side that can turn any meal into a memorable one. Perfect for BBQs or casual dinners, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese

Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Sauteed Beet Greens with Pancetta on a white plate.
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

If you’re looking for something a little more unique, this side is a standout. Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta brings together the earthy flavors of the greens with the savory punch of pancetta. It’s the kind of side that adds sophistication to any plate. Whether served with a simple dinner or a special occasion meal, it’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Grilled Ratatouille

Close-up shot of Grilled Ratatouille on a black plate.
Grilled Ratatouille. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

This dish takes vegetables to the next level with its smoky grilled flavor. Grilled Ratatouille is a perfect side for a summer BBQ, bursting with rich, earthy flavors. It’s the kind of dish that feels rustic but refined, with each bite offering a new layer of flavor. Simple yet satisfying, it’s a great complement to grilled meats or a vegetarian spread.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds in a shallow yellow bowl.
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Brussels sprouts can be more than just a side—they can be the star. Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds offers a rich, nutty flavor with just the right amount of crunch. This dish feels upscale without requiring much time to make. It’s a sophisticated addition to any dinner, and pairs well with nearly everything.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad

Close-up shot of Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad on a white plate.
Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

If you’re after something fresh but hearty, this salad is the way to go. Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad combines smoky asparagus with tender potatoes in a simple yet flavorful dish. It’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to summer BBQs. This side brings something special to the table without a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad

Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole on a tray.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a twist on classic mashed potatoes, this casserole hits the spot. Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole is creamy and comforting with a crispy, golden top. It’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or any meal that needs a little extra something. You’ll find this dish disappearing fast once it hits the table.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

A bowl of Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots in a bowl.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

These carrots taste just like the ones at your favorite comfort food restaurant. Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots are tender and slightly sweet, with just the right amount of seasoning. They’re a simple side that pairs well with nearly any meal. This dish makes your usual carrot side feel a little more special.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob

Three ears of husked corn were arranged on a dark slate plate.
Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Corn on the cob is always a crowd favorite, but grilling it with a smoky touch makes it unforgettable. Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob takes the classic side to a whole new level, adding depth and complexity. It’s perfect for BBQs or summer dinners, bringing that perfect smokiness without being overwhelming. Whether you’re serving ribs or burgers, this side is a must-have.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob

Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Cauliflower with lemon and dill on a black board.
Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cauliflower doesn’t have to be boring, and this dish proves it. Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill gives the veggie a fresh, zesty flavor that brightens up any meal. It’s simple but packs a punch, perfect for when you need a lighter side. This dish pairs perfectly with both grilled and roasted main courses.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Quick Smoked Tomatoes

Smoked tomatoes served on a white rectangular plate.
Quick Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Smoky tomatoes add a bold, savory flavor to any dish. Quick Smoked Tomatoes are perfect as a side or topping for nearly any meal. They offer a rich, smoky depth that complements both light and heavy dishes. If you want a side with a little extra punch, these tomatoes do the job perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Quick Smoked Tomatoes

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled Asparagus on a white square plate.
Grilled Asparagus. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Asparagus is one of those vegetables that just shines on the grill. Grilled Asparagus brings out the natural flavors with a slight char that adds depth. It’s an easy yet classy side that pairs well with anything from steak to fish. When you need a side that’s simple but feels special, this one’s it.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus

German Yellow Beans

A bowl of German yellow beans on a wooden table.
German Yellow Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a veggie side that’s simple but packed with flavor, German yellow beans are a great choice. German Yellow Beans bring a subtle sweetness and tenderness that make them a crowd favorite. They pair well with both roasted meats and lighter dishes, offering versatility. This side is perfect for anyone looking for a simple yet satisfying addition to the table.
Get the Recipe: German Yellow Beans

Parisian Potatoes

A spoon lifts several Parisian potatoes from a black skillet filled with more Parisian potatoes.
Parisian Potatoes. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

These potatoes bring a touch of elegance to your plate. Parisian Potatoes are rich and creamy with a texture that’s both smooth and satisfying. They’re perfect for a special occasion or any time you want to make your meal feel more upscale. This side pairs well with both hearty and light main courses.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes

Creamed Corn

Smoked Creamed Corn in a black skillet.
Creamed Corn. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This classic side dish gets an upgrade with rich, creamy goodness. Creamed Corn is the ultimate comfort food that complements anything from grilled meats to roast dinners. It’s rich and satisfying, with a texture that’s perfectly smooth. This dish is sure to be a hit no matter the meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn

Classic Mac and Cheese

A portion of Old Fashioned Mac & Cheese on a black plate.
Classic Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Sometimes, you just want the comfort of classic mac and cheese. Classic Mac and Cheese offers creamy, cheesy goodness that everyone can appreciate. It’s a versatile side that pairs well with almost anything, from burgers to BBQs. This dish never goes out of style, making it the perfect addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Classic Mac and Cheese

Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze

Four pieces of Grilled Pineapple With Buttery Lime Glaze on a white rectangular plate.
Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

A sweet and savory side that’s a little unexpected. Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze adds a tropical twist to your meal with its perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it an easy way to take your BBQ to the next level. This side is always a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze

Greek Green Beans

Greek Green Beans served on a white rectangular plate.
Greek Green Beans. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

For a simple but flavorful side, Greek green beans are a perfect choice. Greek Green Beans are tender but still crisp, with just the right amount of flavor. They pair well with anything from grilled meats to pasta dishes. This dish is an easy way to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.
Get the Recipe: Greek Green Beans

By

Leave a Comment