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15 Side Dishes That Are Packed With Flavor And Perfect For Any Meal

No one talks about side dishes until the main course shows up looking lonely. A meal is only as good as what’s sitting next to it, and these options make sure every plate is balanced, and complete, and not just an excuse to eat bread. Whether it’s for a quick dinner or a big gathering, these side dishes are proof that the supporting act sometimes steals the whole show.

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

Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Au Gratin Potato Stacks on a white plate.
Au Gratin Potato Stacks. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking for a side that’s crispy on the outside and creamy inside, this one gets it right every time. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes soak up all the goodness, turning into something you’ll want to make on repeat. With a golden, bubbly top and rich texture, Au Gratin Potato Stacks bring comfort to any meal. It’s proof that potatoes don’t need to be complicated to be irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Grilled corn on the cob pieces topped with cheese, chili powder, and cilantro, served on a black slate plate with lime wedges on the side.
Grilled Elote Corn Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

There’s something fun about food that’s a little messy and a lot flavorful. That’s exactly what you get with Grilled Elote Corn Ribs, which take classic street corn and give it a smoky twist. They’re sweet, smoky, and just the right amount of charred, making them impossible to eat just one. Whether served alongside tacos or a big plate of barbecue, they always steal the show.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You know those sides that somehow feel like a meal all on their own? Chicken Fried Rice does just that, packed with all the flavors you’d expect from a takeout favorite. It’s got that perfect mix of fluffy rice, crisp bits, and a rich, savory finish that keeps you coming back for more. Whether next to grilled meats or just on its own, it always fits right in.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Parisian Potatoes

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

When you need something that feels fancy but takes almost no effort, this one delivers. Parisian Potatoes are small, round, and perfectly roasted until they’re crisp outside and soft inside. They’re simple, yet they bring a rich, buttery flavor that works with everything from steak to roasted chicken. You’ll wonder why you haven’t been making them all along.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes

Sautéed Beet Greens With Pancetta

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

Most people toss the greens and keep the beets, but that’s a mistake. Sautéed Beet Greens With Pancetta turn those leafy tops into something way too good to throw away. They soak up all the rich, smoky flavors and come out tender with just the right amount of bite. If you weren’t a fan of greens before, this will definitely change your mind.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens With Pancetta

Ukrainian Potatoes

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

There’s something about a potato dish that feels like home, and this one is no exception. Ukrainian Potatoes are hearty, rich, and full of deep, comforting flavors that go well with any main course. They’re cooked until fork-tender and packed with just the right amount of seasoning to make them stand out. If you need a side that works for any occasion, this one never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes

Classic Mac And Cheese

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

There’s a reason this dish has been a favorite for generations—it just works. Classic Mac And Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection, giving you that crispy top and gooey middle. Whether it’s paired with barbecue, roasted meats, or just eaten straight from the dish, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. If comfort had a flavor, this would be it.
Get the Recipe: Classic Mac And Cheese

Quick Smoked Tomatoes

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

A simple side can sometimes steal the whole meal, and this one proves it. Quick Smoked Tomatoes take fresh, juicy tomatoes and turn them into something smoky, rich, and packed with deep flavor. They work perfectly alongside grilled meats, tossed in salads, or even spooned over toast for a quick bite. Once you try them, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t make them sooner.
Get the Recipe: Quick Smoked Tomatoes

Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

A close-up of Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole with a serving spoon in the dish.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Some dishes just bring back memories, and this one feels like a warm hug. Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole takes everything great about mashed potatoes and makes them even better with a rich, creamy texture and perfectly baked finish. It’s the kind of dish that always disappears first at family gatherings. If you need a side that feels like home, this one does the trick.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Coleslaw

A bowl of coleslaw with vegetables and a fork.
Coleslaw. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Some sides are meant to balance out a big, rich meal, and this one does it right. Coleslaw is crisp, refreshing, and just the thing to add a little crunch to your plate. It’s the perfect contrast to smoky barbecue, crispy fried chicken, or even a sandwich that needs an extra bite. Simple, classic, and always a good idea.
Get the Recipe: Coleslaw

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.

Light, fresh, and full of texture, this is the kind of salad that works with any meal. Spring Salad With Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes brings together tender veggies and hearty potatoes in a way that feels both refreshing and rewarding. It’s the perfect side when you want something green without sacrificing flavor. Whether served warm or cold, it always hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad With Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes

Skillet Cabbage With Bacon

A bowl of cabbage salad with ham and bacon.
Skillet Cabbage With Bacon. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

If you’ve never thought of cabbage as exciting, this one will change your mind. Skillet Cabbage With Bacon turns a simple veggie into a smoky, savory side that pairs with just about anything. The cabbage cooks down until it’s tender but still has a little bite, soaking up all the rich flavors in the pan. Even the skeptics at the table will go back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Cabbage With Bacon

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.

Fresh and vibrant with just the right amount of smoky depth, this dish does it all. Tabouli Salad With Smoked Tomatoes is bright, herby, and packed with bold flavors that make it more than just a side. It’s great with grilled meats, wrapped in a pita, or even eaten straight from the bowl. If you want something refreshing but still packed with flavor, this one is a winner.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad With Smoked Tomatoes

Texas Corn Succotash

Corn salad in a black bowl with a fork.
Texas Corn Succotash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish takes corn and gives it a Southern spin that works with just about any meal. Texas Corn Succotash is sweet, smoky, and full of texture, making it an easy favorite for cookouts and family dinners. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own but also pairs well with barbecue, grilled meats, or even just a plate of beans and rice. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a staple.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash

Greek Green Beans

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

A simple side that’s packed with deep, rich flavors, this dish turns ordinary green beans into something special. Greek Green Beans are slow-cooked until they’re tender and infused with all the right seasonings. They work perfectly with roasted meats, grilled fish, or even as part of a bigger spread. It’s one of those sides that doesn’t seem like much at first but quickly becomes a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Greek Green Beans

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