Who decided the main course should always be the star? These 31 sides are here to challenge the status quo. Packed with bold ideas and clever upgrades, they’re designed to make the entrée look like an afterthought. Think creamy, crispy, tangy, and savory options that make your plate the life of the party. Don’t be surprised if your guests fill up on the sides and leave the roast wondering where it all went wrong.
Grilled Elote Corn Ribs
With a smoky edge and a satisfying crunch, Grilled Elote Corn Ribs turn an ordinary ear of corn into a handheld showstopper. Perfectly cooked and loaded with flavor, they’re great for parties or casual dinners. Forget the main dish; these ribs are the conversation starter you didn’t know you needed. They’re proof that sometimes the side really does steal the show.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs
Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
Forget the lettuce; Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad is a fresh twist on a classic dish. With a mix of textures and a smoky finish, it’s the ultimate pairing for any grilled entrée. The potatoes add heartiness, while the asparagus keeps it light enough for second helpings. It’s a salad that feels substantial without upstaging the entire meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
Make plenty—you’ll need more than you think. Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits are tiny bites of layered goodness that add a playful twist to your table. With their buttery texture and cheesy flavor, these little biscuits pair perfectly with just about anything. Easy to grab and impossible to resist, they’re the side dish that keeps disappearing.
Get the Recipe: Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
Smoked Cauliflower
A smoky spin takes Smoked Cauliflower to a whole new level of side dish fame. Its rich flavor and soft texture make it the surprise hit of the meal, proving vegetables can be more than just an afterthought. Paired with any main, it stands out with a confidence that’s hard to ignore. Don’t be surprised when everyone’s asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cauliflower
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
The creamy comfort of Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole is nothing short of legendary. This dish brings nostalgic vibes to the table, but with a richness that keeps everyone going back for seconds. It’s not just mashed potatoes—it’s a casserole designed to make the turkey feel like an afterthought. Expect this to be the most-requested side for every gathering.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Turkey Fried Rice
Guests might forget the turkey’s still on the platter. Turkey Fried Rice takes leftovers to the next level, transforming simple ingredients into a dish worth celebrating. Balanced with just the right amount of flavor, it stands out even on a table full of options. This dish works both as a hearty side or a main for those who love versatility.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Fried Rice
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Light yet satisfying, Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp is the ideal side for balancing out rich main courses. The shrimp adds a hint of indulgence, making this salad feel extra special. Its bright, bold flavors keep the meal interesting, giving it a crowd-pleasing appeal. You’ll find yourself making this one even when there’s no occasion.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Crispy and golden, Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes combine texture and flavor in every bite. These are potatoes reimagined as the life of the meal. Whether paired with grilled meats or served as a snack, they’re as versatile as they are irresistible. Don’t be surprised if these become a new staple at your table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Mexican Rice
Bursting with flavor, Mexican Rice turns a humble side into a star of the meal. Its vibrant color and perfect balance of seasonings make it an essential addition to any spread. Great alongside rich mains, it holds its own with a satisfying heartiness. You’ll find yourself making this one for weeknights and celebrations alike.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Sweet and tender, Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots bring simple elegance to the plate. These aren’t your average carrots—they’re the side dish everyone secretly hopes you’ll serve. Perfectly cooked and subtly flavored, they complement any main course effortlessly. They might just be the most talked-about dish at your table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Grilled Asparagus
Simple but not boring, Grilled Asparagus delivers smoky flavor with a satisfying crunch. It’s the kind of side that feels fancy without being fussy, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether served alongside steak or chicken, it has a way of upstaging the main. Bonus: it’s as healthy as it is delicious, so you can pile it on guilt-free.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
It’s proof that the simplest dishes can sometimes make the biggest impression. Mediterranean Couscous Salad brings vibrant flavors and textures to the plate, making it a standout at any meal. Its versatility shines, pairing beautifully with mains or holding its own as a star side. Whether for a casual lunch or an elegant dinner, this salad fits right in.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
Smoky, charred, and slightly sweet, Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob is summer on a plate. It’s a side that’s as fun to eat as it is flavorful, earning a spot at any barbecue or weeknight dinner. The smoky notes add depth that pairs beautifully with grilled mains. Bring this to the table, and watch it disappear in no time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
Smoked Mac & Cheese
Comfort food gets an upgrade with Smoked Mac & Cheese, where bold flavors meet creamy perfection. This dish holds its own at the table, often outshining the mains. The subtle smoky aroma adds a layer of sophistication that keeps everyone coming back for more. It’s not just mac and cheese—it’s an experience worth savoring.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
With nutty richness, Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds redefine what a vegetable side can be. These sprouts offer a satisfying crunch and a flavor that feels both classic and fresh. They pair seamlessly with hearty mains while holding their own spotlight. Even the sprout skeptics won’t be able to resist this dish.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
Fresh and vibrant, Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill is a side dish that surprises with its simplicity. The tangy brightness of lemon pairs beautifully with the subtle earthiness of cauliflower. This dish brings balance to heavier mains, making it a must-serve for any occasion. Light yet satisfying, it’s a side that leaves a lasting impression.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
Grilled Vegetables
Smoky and versatile, Grilled Vegetables prove that simple ingredients can deliver big flavor. Perfectly charred and seasoned, they pair with anything from steak to pasta. This dish adds color and variety to the table, ensuring everyone gets their fill of something fresh. It’s a side that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables
Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
Fresh and hearty, Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes is a seasonal favorite. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a versatile addition to any meal. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side for heavier mains, this salad balances richness with brightness. It’s proof that salads don’t have to take a back seat.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
Parisian Potatoes
Sophisticated yet approachable, Parisian Potatoes are small but mighty in flavor. Perfectly cooked with a touch of elegance, they elevate any plate they’re added to. Whether served with a roast or something lighter, these potatoes are versatile and crowd-pleasing. A dish this good proves that simplicity often wins.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes
Classic Mac and Cheese
Creamy, gooey, and utterly nostalgic, Classic Mac and Cheese is the side dish that never disappoints. Its timeless appeal makes it a favorite for all ages, whether at a family dinner or a holiday feast. Pair it with any main, and it still manages to stand out as the most comforting part of the meal. Few sides are as universally loved as this one.
Get the Recipe: Classic Mac and Cheese
Ukrainian Potatoes
Rustic and hearty, Ukrainian Potatoes bring a comforting warmth to any spread. Their simple yet bold flavor makes them a perfect match for rich and savory mains. This dish has an understated charm that feels right at home in both casual and formal settings. With these on the table, no one leaves hungry.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes
Grilled Ratatouille
A smoky twist on a classic, Grilled Ratatouille packs bold flavors into every colorful bite. This vegetable medley feels rustic yet elevated, making it perfect for any table. Pair it with a simple protein, and you’ve got a meal that’s as balanced as it is satisfying. It’s the kind of side dish that might just outshine the entrée.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Crispy, cheesy, and indulgent, Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots are the definition of comfort food. They’re bite-sized snacks that double as an unforgettable side dish. These tots bring bold flavors to the table, making them perfect for parties or casual meals. Once served, they’ll be the first thing to disappear.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Quick Smoked Tomatoes
Smoky and bursting with flavor, Quick Smoked Tomatoes are the versatile side dish you didn’t know you needed. They bring depth and richness to any meal, pairing effortlessly with mains or as a topping for other sides. Their simplicity is their strength, making them easy to prepare yet impossible to forget. These tomatoes might just become a staple in your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Quick Smoked Tomatoes
Cucumber Salad with Feta
Light and refreshing, Cucumber Salad with Feta offers a cool contrast to heartier dishes. Its simple flavors and crisp texture make it a reliable choice for any meal. This salad shines on hot days or as a side for grilled favorites, bringing balance to your plate. It’s an easy yet impressive dish that guests always appreciate.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Earthy and rich, Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta turns humble greens into something unforgettable. The pancetta adds a savory touch that pairs beautifully with the greens’ natural flavors. It’s a side dish that feels indulgent without being heavy, perfect for balancing richer mains. A surprising favorite, this one is worth trying again and again.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Smoky and hearty, Grilled Cauliflower Steaks make a strong case for vegetables as the main event. They’re the perfect side for any barbecue or dinner spread, holding their own against the boldest flavors. Their simplicity is their strength, proving that a few good ingredients can create something memorable. These are as satisfying as they are wholesome.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Creamed Corn
Sweet and creamy, Creamed Corn is the ultimate comfort side that pairs well with almost anything. Its rich texture and subtle sweetness make it a hit at family dinners and holiday spreads alike. This dish feels nostalgic yet timeless, fitting seamlessly into both classic and modern menus. It’s a side you’ll find yourself making year-round.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
Sweet and smoky, Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze adds a tropical twist to your meal. Its caramelized edges and bright glaze create a perfect balance of flavors. This side dish works beautifully with grilled mains, offering a hint of sweetness that complements the savory. It’s a refreshing and unexpected addition to any spread.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Fresh herbs meet smoky tomatoes in Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes, a side that stands out with bold flavors and vibrant textures. It’s light yet satisfying, making it a perfect balance for richer dishes. This salad feels at home on any table, from casual lunches to formal dinners. It’s proof that a great side dish doesn’t need to be complicated.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans)
Slow-cooked and full of flavor, Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans) are a hearty side with Mediterranean flair. Their rich taste pairs beautifully with roasted meats or lighter mains, making them versatile for any menu. This dish feels both comforting and sophisticated, offering a taste of tradition with every bite. A must-have for anyone seeking bold and wholesome sides.
Get the Recipe: Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans)