Every plate needs backup, the kind that steps in with just the right amount of texture or contrast to pull it all together. A little snap, some creaminess, or a charred edge can be exactly what your meal needs to hit its stride. With 25 options to choose from, your dinners have just found their new best friends.

A bowl of smashed cucumber salad with sesame seeds, cilantro, red chili flakes, and a light dressing. — Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Roasted Green Beans with Almonds and Lemon

A plate of roasted green beans garnished with sliced almonds, accompanied by lemon slices on a black serving board. — Roasted Green Beans with Almonds and Lemon. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Crisp-tender green beans shine in Roasted Green Beans with Almonds and Lemon, a combination that balances freshness with richness. The slight char on the beans pairs beautifully with the nutty crunch of toasted almonds. A squeeze of lemon adds brightness and ties the flavors together effortlessly. This side dish offers simplicity while complementing nearly any main course.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Green Beans with Almonds and Lemon

A Southern Classic: Tomato Pie

A slice of tomato pie on a white plate with a serving utensil, and a whole tomato pie in a white fluted dish, are shown on a marble surface with a small bowl of spices and basil leaves. — A Southern Classic: Tomato Pie. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Few dishes capture Southern comfort like A Southern Classic: Tomato Pie, where layers of juicy tomatoes meet a flaky crust. A cheesy topping adds an irresistible depth, while fresh herbs enhance the overall flavor. This delicious pie transforms humble tomatoes into a dish full of charm and character. Despite its simplicity, it commands attention at the dining table.
Get the Recipe: A Southern Classic: Tomato Pie

31 of Chef Jenn's FAVE Casseroles!

Recipes for Comfort-Filled Family Meals

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I've gathered 31 of my favorite casseroles for you and your family to love! I've created and tested each recipe many times, and you can be sure of no AI. Just dependable, scratch-made dishes to dig into!

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✅ Sloppy Joe Casserole
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✅ Tuna Noodle Casserole.
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Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

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

Often overlooked, Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta proves greens can be the star of the meal. Their tender texture contrasts pleasantly with the crispness of pancetta, creating a dish with balance and boldness. A touch of garlic and olive oil enhances the natural earthiness of the greens. This dish celebrates sustainability, using every part of the beet to craft something memorable.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Creamed Peas

Classic simplicity defines Creamed Peas, a dish that boosts this humble vegetable into something rich and flavorful. Velvety cream sauce envelops fresh peas, complementing their subtly sweet flavor. The inclusion of onions adds a gentle contrast and deepens the dish’s flavor profile. It’s a must-have side for bringing warmth and comfort to the table.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Peas

Horiatiki Salad

True Greek flavors come alive in Horiatiki Salad, a mixture of fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives with creamy feta. Red onions add sharpness, while oregano and olive oil provide bold Mediterranean notes. This rustic salad skips leafy greens and lets hearty vegetables take center stage. Perfect for light meals or serving alongside grilled proteins.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Smoked Spaghetti Squash

A baked spaghetti squash half filled with cooked strands, garnished with chopped parsley, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. — Smoked Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smokiness transforms the mild flavor of spaghetti squash in Smoked Spaghetti Squash, creating a unique depth in every bite. Its tender strands take on a smoky profile while maintaining their natural sweetness. A sprinkle of herbs rounds out the dish and enhances its aroma. This side pairs well with meats and other roasted vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Spaghetti Squash

Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts

Bold and balanced flavors define Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts, where earthy beets meet creamy goat cheese. Crunchy walnuts not only provide texture but also deepen the flavor experience of this dish. A light drizzle of vinaigrette ties all the elements together perfectly. It’s a colorful and thoughtful addition to any spread.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts

Skillet Fried Potatoes

Rustic appeal meets classic flavors in Skillet Fried Potatoes, a dish where golden brown potatoes take the spotlight. Each piece is crisp on the outside while soft and fluffy inside, offering both textures in every bite. A touch of seasoning brings out their natural goodness. It’s the perfect side for hearty mains or breakfast platters.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Fried Potatoes

Fried Green Tomatoes

A rectangular white plate with fried green tomato slices garnished with herbs, a small cup of dipping sauce, a fork, and a blue napkin on the side. — Fried Green Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Southern charm is evident in Fried Green Tomatoes, where firm, tangy slices are coated in a golden crust. Their tart interior contrasts beautifully with the crisp outer layer, creating a dish with distinct textures. A hint of seasoning completes the flavor profile without overwhelming the tomatoes themselves. A favorite for many, it’s both nostalgic and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Fried Green Tomatoes

Summer Bow Tie Pasta Salad

A plate of bowtie pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, yellow bell peppers, zucchini, black olives, and herbs, set on a blue plate with a bowl of tomatoes and utensils nearby. — Summer Bow Tie Pasta Salad. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Versatility is key in Summer Bow Tie Pasta Salad, combining tender pasta with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing. Ingredients like cherry tomatoes or herbs can be added to enrich its flavor and texture. A slight crunch from raw veggies keeps it refreshing and fulfilling. It’s a simple yet dynamic dish suitable for nearly any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Summer Bow Tie Pasta Salad

Air Fryer Irish Nachos

Creative use of potatoes makes Air Fryer Irish Nachos a standout. Thin potato slices are crisped beautifully in the air fryer, topped with melty cheese and optional garnishes like sour cream or green onions. Their crunchy texture is complemented by creamy and tasty additions. This dish reimagines nachos with flair and hearty appeal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Irish Nachos

Farmhouse Veggie Salad with Feta

Bright flavors are the hallmark of Farmhouse Veggie Salad with Feta, where crisp vegetables meet salty feta in perfect harmony. A light vinaigrette enhances the vegetables’ natural sweetness without overpowering. The addition of seeds or nuts can add extra crunch for a fuller texture. It’s a wholesome and balanced choice for any menu.
Get the Recipe: Farmhouse Veggie Salad with Feta

Mexican Black Beans

Depth of flavor defines Mexican Black Beans, where simple ingredients like garlic and spices come together seamlessly. Slow cooking allows these beans to absorb rich and aromatic notes, enhancing their natural creaminess. A squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of cilantro can bring a fresh finish. Perfect alongside rice, tacos, or other Mexican favorites.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Black Beans

Honey Roasted Baby Carrots

Assorted roasted baby carrots in orange, yellow, and purple colors on a baking sheet, garnished with chopped herbs. — Honey Roasted Baby Carrots. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Sweetness meets warmth in Honey Roasted Baby Carrots, where caramelized edges highlight the natural sugars of the vegetable. A touch of honey balances well with light seasoning to enhance their flavor. Roasting brings a gentle char, deepening the taste and texture. These carrots are a family-friendly side that complements almost all main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Honey Roasted Baby Carrots

Scalloped Potatoes with Ham and Cheese

Comfort food takes center stage in Scalloped Potatoes with Ham and Cheese, blending tender layers of potatoes with hearty ham. A creamy, cheesy sauce binds the dish together, adding richness to every bite. Baked to golden perfection, the top layer offers a subtle crunch. Ideal for gatherings, this dish is both fulfilling and crowd-pleasing.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes with Ham and Cheese

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A white bowl filled with fried cabbage with pieces of bacon sits on a white surface with a blue cloth nearby. — Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Simplicity and boldness combine in Fried Cabbage with Bacon, a dish where crisp cabbage meets tasty, smoky bacon. A light sauté retains the vegetable’s texture while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. A pinch of seasoning enhances the taste without overshadowing the main ingredients. It’s an easy yet flavorful side that’s hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Corn Nuggets

Bite-sized sweetness defines Corn Nuggets, where kernels are enveloped in a crispy batter for a perfect contrast. The golden exterior highlights the natural flavor of corn while delivering a pleasurable crunch. Beyond their taste, these nuggets are easy to serve and share. They’re a great option for complementing both casual meals and fun gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Corn Nuggets

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

A baking sheet with several smashed roasted potatoes, garnished with herbs and grated cheese, arranged in rows. — Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Texture takes center stage in Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, where each potato is pressed and roasted to crunchy perfection. Garlic and Parmesan add layers of bold flavor, making the dish both aromatic and delicious. The golden crust contrasts beautifully with the tender insides of the potatoes. It’s a versatile and visually appealing option for nearly any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Cucumber and Onion Salad

A bowl of cucumber salad with red onions and fresh dill, placed on a wooden plate with a fork, surrounded by ingredients on a marble surface. — Cucumber and Onion Salad. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Cool and refreshing, Cucumber and Onion Salad offers a straightforward combination of thinly sliced cucumbers and onions. A light vinaigrette pulls the ingredients together, balancing tanginess with subtle sweetness. Optional herbs like dill can boost the dish for extra freshness. Perfect for balancing heavier mains, it’s timeless and reliable.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber and Onion Salad

Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup

Homemade elements define Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup, ensuring every bite feels wholesome and fresh. Tender broccoli and fluffy rice are bound by creamy and cheesy flavors. The absence of canned soup adds a home-cooked touch that boosts texture and taste. It’s a comforting side that pairs seamlessly with almost any roast or entrée.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup

Viral Onion Boil

A whole onion stuffed with spices and seasonings, baked in foil with visible juices and browned bits. — Viral Onion Boil. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Innovation meets flavor in Viral Onion Boil, where whole onions are cooked to tender perfection. The boiling process brings out their natural sweetness while keeping their structure intact. Seasonings seep into the onions, creating a gentle yet impactful flavor profile. It’s an unexpected addition that surprises and delights at the table.
Get the Recipe: Viral Onion Boil

Greek Green Beans

Traditional flavors shine in Greek Green Beans, where tender beans are infused with tomato and garlic. Slow cooking allows the beans to absorb all the rich Mediterranean flavors for a deeply fulfilling experience. A drizzle of olive oil and a touch of herbs complete the dish perfectly. Ideal for serving alongside grilled meats or seafood.
Get the Recipe: Greek Green Beans

Asian Noodle Salad with Ginger Dressing

A bowl of Asian-inspired noodle salad with vegetables, garnished with cilantro, chopsticks on top, and ingredients like lime, peanuts, and fresh herbs nearby. — Asian Noodle Salad with Ginger Dressing. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Bold spices and textures define Asian Noodle Salad with Ginger Dressing, pairing tender noodles with crunchy fresh veggies. The ginger dressing is both fragrant and flavorful, tying the whole dish together effortlessly. Optional sesame seeds or peanuts can add extra texture for more contrast. It’s a vibrant side that works well with stir-fries and grilled proteins.
Get the Recipe: Asian Noodle Salad with Ginger Dressing

Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Wholesome flavors are the heart of Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole, where creamy mashed potatoes are baked into a perfectly golden crust. Cheese melts into the casserole, creating a deliciously rich layer on top. A touch of seasoning enhances the simplicity of the dish without overpowering it. It’s a comforting side that feels like home with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Grilled Radishes With Jalapeño Dipping Sauce

A plate with grilled radishes, a bowl of creamy dipping sauce, lime halves, jalapeño, and a striped cloth on a white surface. — Grilled Radishes With Jalapeño Dipping Sauce. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Smoky notes define Grilled Radishes With Jalapeño Dipping Sauce, where radishes take on a tender texture but retain their signature bite. The jalapeño dipping sauce adds a gentle heat, complementing the grilled elements beautifully. This unexpected duo creates a balance of flavors that is equal parts refreshing and bold. Perfect as a side or appetizer for meals that call for creativity.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Radishes With Jalapeño Dipping Sauce