Family dinner just got an upgrade with 31 side recipes so good your kids might offer to set the table—twice. These dishes are more than just extras; they’re the kind of sides that steal the show. From quick prep to crowd-pleasing flavors, these recipes will have everyone sneaking bites before the main dish even makes it out. If your little ones start arguing over who gets to help, don’t be surprised—they’re probably plotting to get an early sample.
Grilled Elote Corn Ribs
These corn ribs are a game changer. Grilled to perfection with a smoky char, they bring the perfect amount of flavor that can make anyone forget the main course is still coming. You might even catch your kids offering to set the table just for a sneak peek of these irresistible ribs. It’s a dish that makes everyone want to gather around and dive in, and they’ll be talking about it long after dinner is done.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
There’s no side quite like Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole—it’s creamy, indulgent, and always a hit. This casserole takes mashed potatoes to a whole new level, making it a dish that everyone will want to dive into. The moment it’s placed on the table, you’ll see kids scrambling to grab a spoonful, and setting the table might become their favorite task. It’s the kind of side that makes every meal feel like a family celebration.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole
Turkey Fried Rice
Need a quick and flavorful side? Turkey Fried Rice does the trick. It’s a comforting dish that uses up leftovers while still feeling like a treat. This rice is perfect for adding some extra flavor and substance without taking up too much time. Watch as your kids volunteer to set the table, all in hopes of grabbing a bite before the plates are even served.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Fried Rice
Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
This combination of grilled asparagus and potatoes is perfect for when you need a side that packs in both flavor and heartiness. Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad combines tender potatoes with crispy asparagus for a winning side that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Kids might rush to set the table just to catch a whiff of this dish before it hits their plates. It’s the kind of side that transforms a simple dinner into something special.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad
Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
Light, buttery, and full of cheesy goodness, these biscuits are perfect for any meal that needs a little extra comfort. Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits are the kind of side that disappear quickly, leaving everyone wishing there were more. The flaky texture makes them irresistible, and you’ll find kids eager to volunteer for the table-setting duties just to get a head start. It’s an easy dish that feels like a true treat every time.
Get the Recipe: Mini Flaky Cheese Biscuits
Smoked Cauliflower
Don’t overlook cauliflower—it’s totally transformed when smoked. This side takes a humble vegetable and gives it a rich, smoky flavor that’s far from bland. It’s the kind of dish that will have your kids volunteering to set the table just to get a whiff before the meal even begins. Smoked Cauliflower is the perfect balance of flavor and simplicity, making it a go-to dish for any dinner.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cauliflower
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Light and filling, Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp is a side that’s perfect for warm nights or as a fresh addition to any meal. The combination of flavors is both refreshing and satisfying, offering something different from the usual side dishes. Your kids might find themselves offering to set the table just so they can catch a glimpse of this dish. It’s a quick, easy-to-make salad that feels like a special treat at every meal.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Grilled Asparagus
This side is a timeless favorite, but it gets a real upgrade when it’s grilled. Smoky and slightly crispy, Grilled Asparagus is both satisfying and light, adding just the right amount of flavor without stealing the spotlight. As it sizzles on the grill, your kids might start volunteering to set the table to get a closer look—and an earlier taste. Even those who might usually pass on asparagus will find themselves coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
This couscous salad might just become the new favorite at your dinner table. With its blend of fresh flavors and satisfying texture, it pairs wonderfully with both light and hearty dishes. You’ll likely find your kids vying for the seat closest to the serving bowl, eager to get a taste before anyone else. Perfect for meals that need a light, refreshing side, Mediterranean Couscous Salad is sure to become a regular.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
A simple yet bold side, Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob can turn any meal into an event. The smoky flavor adds depth to the natural sweetness of the corn, making it a must-have at any family gathering. It’s fun to eat, and once it hits the table, kids might rush to claim their share before anyone else. If table-setting volunteers are unusually enthusiastic, you’ll know it’s because they’re eyeing this showstopper.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoked Corn on the Cob
Smoked Mac & Cheese
Who wouldn’t want to sneak a bite of this indulgent side before dinner even starts? Smoked Mac & Cheese turns a classic comfort dish into something extraordinary with a subtle smoky flavor. It’s creamy, cheesy, and rich, making it the perfect side for any gathering. This dish is likely to be the star of the meal, and you might find your kids volunteering to set the table just to grab a quick spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese
Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
These potatoes are crispy, creamy, and absolutely addictive. When you pop them into the air fryer and give them a quick grill, they turn into the ultimate side dish that complements any main course. You’ll likely see your kids excitedly volunteering to set the table just to grab a bite of these irresistible potatoes. It’s a side that’s easy to make but feels like a true comfort food treat every time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
Mexican Rice
Simple yet satisfying, it’s the kind of rice that adds a little extra to any plate. Mexican Rice brings a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with everything from tacos to grilled chicken. It’s hearty, savory, and flavorful, making it a go-to side for any meal. Once this dish hits the table, your kids will be eager to set it just to grab a taste.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice
Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
These sweet, tender baby carrots are a side that everyone will love, especially with their perfectly balanced glaze. Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots are the kind of dish that will have your kids volunteering to set the table just to get a sneak taste. The carrots are cooked to perfection, and the glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness. It’s a side that fits seamlessly into any meal, making it an instant hit.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
A simple yet luxurious side that’s perfect for special dinners or weeknight meals. Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds are a game-changing way to enjoy this vegetable. The rich, nutty flavor from the butter and almonds makes these sprouts irresistible. Once these crispy, caramelized bites hit the table, your kids will probably be racing to set it up just to steal a taste.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds
Parisian Potatoes
A dish that feels fancy but is simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Parisian Potatoes bring a touch of elegance to any meal with their perfectly crispy exterior and tender interior. These bite-sized beauties are as satisfying as they are easy to eat, making them an ideal side for family meals. Your kids will likely rush to set the table, eager to be the first to grab these crispy treats.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes
Classic Mac and Cheese
There’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of Classic Mac and Cheese, and this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. The creamy sauce and tender pasta come together to create a side that everyone will want to grab seconds of. It’s perfect for family meals or special occasions, and your kids might just fight for the chance to set the table, hoping for an early taste. This side never goes out of style, and it always delivers.
Get the Recipe: Classic Mac and Cheese
Ukrainian Potatoes
An easy way to turn potatoes into something exciting and memorable. Ukrainian Potatoes take a simple dish and transform it into something hearty and flavorful. These potatoes are the kind of side that’s satisfying enough to be a meal on their own, making them a perfect addition to any dinner. Expect your kids to start volunteering for table-setting duty, hoping to catch a glimpse of this dish before it’s served.
Get the Recipe: Ukrainian Potatoes
Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
Light, fresh, and tangy, Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill is a side that makes cauliflower fun again. The bright lemon and herb combination brings out the best in this often-overlooked vegetable. Your kids might find themselves volunteering to set the table, just to get a taste of the vibrant, zesty dish before anyone else. It’s a simple but flavorful side that pairs well with almost anything.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill
Grilled Vegetables
Perfect for grilling season, Grilled Vegetables take everyday veggies and turn them into something smoky and delicious. Whether it’s zucchini, peppers, or onions, this side highlights the natural flavors of fresh produce. Kids will quickly volunteer to set the table just to grab a taste of the smoky goodness. It’s a perfect side to complement almost any meal, and it’s so easy to make everyone will want in on it.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetables
Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
A perfect side for the warmer months, Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes combines fresh, tender veggies into a dish that feels both light and filling. It’s the kind of salad that pairs well with everything from grilled meats to pasta. When this dish hits the table, your kids might offer to set it just to sneak a peek. It’s an easy, refreshing side that will leave everyone wanting more.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes
Grilled Ratatouille
Watch as your kids volunteer to set the table just to catch a glimpse of this colorful dish. Grilled Ratatouille is a perfect mix of smoky, savory veggies that will have everyone at the table fighting for the last bite. Grilled to perfection, this vegetable medley is rich in flavor yet light enough to be enjoyed with any main course. It’s a great way to get even picky eaters to enjoy their vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Ratatouille
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Perfect way to enjoy beet greens in a whole new way. Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta are a savory and slightly salty side that’s perfect for those who love greens with a bit of personality. The pancetta adds a crispy, flavorful touch that makes these beet greens something special. Kids will happily volunteer to set the table, eager to get a taste of this unique side.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
When you slice cauliflower into steaks and grill them, you get a deliciously smoky, savory dish that’s hard to resist. Grilled Cauliflower Steaks offer a bold flavor that’s perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Expect to see your kids volunteering to set the table just to grab a bite of these flavorful steaks before they’re all gone. It’s a unique twist on a classic veggie that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Creamed Corn
It’s the kind of side that makes every meal feel a little more special, no matter the occasion. Creamed Corn is a side that’s comforting, creamy, and full of flavor. The sweet corn is enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce, making it a side dish that feels indulgent without being heavy. Kids will likely be the first to volunteer to set the table, knowing this dish is one they won’t want to miss.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
Kids might volunteer to set the table just to get a sneak taste of this delicious, caramelized fruit. Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze brings a sweet and tangy twist to the table. The smoky sweetness of the pineapple pairs perfectly with the citrusy glaze, making it a refreshing side that balances any heavy meal. It’s an easy, fun side that adds a touch of tropical flair to your dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple with Buttery Lime Glaze
Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Bright, fresh, and packed with flavor, Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes is a side that’s perfect for warmer weather or when you need a refreshing dish. The smoked tomatoes add an unexpected depth of flavor, turning a simple salad into something memorable. Kids will eagerly offer to set the table just to grab a forkful of this delicious, zesty salad. It’s a quick, easy side that feels like a special treat.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
These crispy, cheesy, bacon-loaded tots are a side that’s impossible to resist. Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots are packed with flavor and texture, making them a fun and indulgent addition to any meal. Your kids will probably volunteer to set the table just to sneak a few before the main course is served. It’s a side that brings comfort food to a new level with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots
Quick Smoked Tomatoes
A simple side that delivers big, bold flavors. Quick Smoked Tomatoes offer a burst of flavor that can transform any dish. Smoked to perfection, these tomatoes bring a unique twist to traditional sides and are perfect for enhancing the flavor of your main course. Expect your kids to rush to set the table, hoping to grab a taste of these smoky little bites.
Get the Recipe: Quick Smoked Tomatoes
Cucumber Salad with Feta
Light, refreshing, and full of tang, Cucumber Salad with Feta is the perfect side for balancing out heavier meals. The combination of crisp cucumbers and creamy feta cheese makes it a dish that pairs well with nearly anything. Your kids will likely offer to set the table just to be the first to sneak a bite. It’s an easy, go-to side that never fails to impress.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta
Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans)
If you want to take your side dish game up a notch, these green beans are just the ticket. Packed with flavor and simple to prepare, Fasolakia Lathera is the kind of side that pairs well with almost anything. You can expect your kids to start volunteering for table-setting duty, trying to get a peek of the hearty goodness before it hits the plate. It’s a dish that makes veggies feel exciting again, and that’s not easy to do.
Get the Recipe: Fasolakia Lathera (Greek Green Beans)