29 Side Dishes That Make The Main Course Jealous

Side dishes have the power to steal the spotlight and make any main course feel a little less important. With 29 different options, each one brings bold flavors and exciting textures to the table. When the side dishes shine, every meal becomes a feast, leaving everyone at the table asking for more. The right side dish can truly make any dinner unforgettable.

Close-up of a creamy macaroni and cheese dish with visible black pepper seasoning.
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crack Chicken Casserole

Close-up of a baked apple crumble dessert in a ceramic dish, featuring a golden-brown crumbly topping.
Crack Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Some sides just steal the spotlight, and Crack Chicken Casserole does exactly that. It’s a hearty choice that commands attention at the dinner table. Great for busy nights or special occasions, it pairs nicely with any main dish. No one will believe how simple it is to prepare. You’ll find it hard to keep any leftovers!
Get the Recipe: Crack Chicken Casserole

Southern Mash

Mashed potatoes on a white plate.
Southern Mash. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy and smooth, Southern Mash is a side dish everyone loves. It’s perfect for pairing with just about any main dish. Simple to make, it brings a touch of comfort to every meal. Add some gravy, and you’ve got a winner. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that won’t take much effort.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

Close-up of a dish featuring glazed carrots garnished with chopped herbs, served in a white bowl.
Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sweet and healthy, Easy Honey Glazed Carrots are a fantastic side dish. Quick to prepare, they add a pop of color and flavor to any plate. They complement any meal and are loved by kids and adults. Perfect for a quick side that feels special. You’ll want to make this one regularly!
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

Vegetable Casserole

A baked casserole with a golden breadcrumb topping, garnished with fresh herbs.
Vegetable Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Packed with flavor and nutrition, Vegetable Casserole is an amazing addition to any meal. It’s ideal for those times when you want something filling without being too heavy. Super easy to prepare, it fits right into any dinner plan. Everyone will appreciate the fresh ingredients and great taste. Makes your main course a bit envious!
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole

Mississippi Mud Potatoes

A baked dish with melted cheese, diced pineapples, browned bacon, and chopped green onions on top.
Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Rich in flavors and textures, Mississippi Mud Potatoes are always a hit. They’re perfect for pairing with any meat or hearty main dish. Simple to make yet incredibly delicious, they’re great for family meals or potlucks. Everyone will rave about them. Just get ready for requests for a repeat!
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Close-up of a delightful broccoli salad with crispy bacon, sunflower seeds, and a creamy dressing. Mixed ingredients are visible in detail, showcasing the vibrant textures and colors of this fresh broccoli salad.
Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crunchy and tasty, Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing adds a perfect contrast to any rich meal. Simple and quick to prepare, it’s always a hit. The flavors mix well enough to steal the spotlight. Ideal for any event, it takes almost no time. Serve it next to your favorite main dish!
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Easy Cornbread Casserole

A portion of a cheesy, golden-brown savory cornbread casserole is being lifted from the dish, showing its flaky crust and gooey cheese filling.
Easy Cornbread Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Cornbread taken up a notch, Easy Cornbread Casserole is a side that pairs with everything. Loved for its slightly sweet flavor and moist texture, it’s a sure hit. Super simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy dinners. Every bite feels like comfort food at its finest. Watch it disappear quickly!
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries with a dipping sauce.
Sweet Potato Fries. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A slightly sweet twist on a classic, Sweet Potato Fries are the side dish everyone loves. They pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Healthier than regular fries and just as tasty, they’re quick to make. Perfect for adding a bit of unexpected flavor to your meals. Serve them with your favorite dip!
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries

Million Dollar Casserole

A serving spoon lifts a portion of creamy, baked casserole with a crunchy topping, revealing melted cheese.
Million Dollar Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Packed with rich flavors, Million Dollar Casserole makes your meal feel extra special. It’s easy to prepare and complements any main dish. Ideal for times when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s sure to be the star of the table. Enjoy the compliments that follow!
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Casserole

Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy potato casserole in a white dish with a fork.
Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy and delicious, Scalloped Potatoes are the ultimate comfort side dish. Perfect for pairing with roast beef or baked chicken, they fit well with a variety of mains. Easy to make but feels like a special treat. Ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions. Everyone will be asking for seconds!
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Tuna Noodle Casserole

A baking dish filled with golden-brown baked tuna noodle casserole, topped with breadcrumbs and garnished with chopped parsley.
Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A comforting and filling side, Tuna Noodle Casserole pairs well with any main dish. It brings a blend of flavors that everyone loves. Just right for family meals, it’s dependable and delicious. Everyone appreciates how it complements their favorite mains. It’s a timeless classic that fits every occasion.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Slices of cucumber tossed in spicy Korean dressing.
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Adding a refreshing kick to your plate, Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad is a hit. Its bold flavors and crunchy texture make it a standout. Perfect alongside rich dishes, it brings balance to any meal. Quick to prepare, it’s always a favorite. Your meal will feel complete with this vibrant salad.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Baked rice casserole with melted cheese on top, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Hearty and easy to love, Chicken and Rice Casserole makes any main course better. It’s a go-to side that fits seamlessly with a variety of meals. Families enjoy its uncomplicated and familiar flavors. Great for both busy nights and relaxed dinners. You’ll find it becomes a staple in kitchen routines.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Casserole

Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

A close-up image of honey chipotle seasoned roasted potatoes garnished with parsley, served alongside grilled steak and lettuce.
Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet and spicy notes in Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes make it a dish to remember. It stands proudly next to any main course, adding a distinct flavor. Preparing it is straightforward and rewarding. A versatile side that pairs perfectly with almost anything. Your meals get an exciting boost with this addition.
Get the Recipe: Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Cheesy cauliflower casserole in a white dish with spoons.
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A fun and creamy accompaniment, Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole enhances any meal. It’s an easy-to-make dish that satisfies both kids and adults. Pairing it with various mains is a breeze. Perfect for when you want something new at the table. This casserole quickly becomes a favorite everyone asks for.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Best Zucchini Bread

Sliced zucchini bread on a white surface, showing a moist interior with visible green flecks of zucchini.
Best Zucchini Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bringing a unique twist to the table, Best Zucchini Bread adds a pleasant contrast. It’s perfect when you need a bit of sweetness with your mains. Easy to prepare, it’s always a hit during meals. Whether for lunch or dinner, it fits right in. Families keep asking for this delicious bread.
Get the Recipe: Best Zucchini Bread

Wild Rice Casserole

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Wild Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Rich and robust, Wild Rice Casserole is an excellent side for many dishes. Its hearty flavors make it a favorite. Simple to prepare, it complements both casual and special meals. It stands out without overshadowing the main course. This dish quickly finds a place in everyone’s meal plans.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

Pizza Salad

Homemade pizza salad in a serving bowl with wooden salad servers resting on top.
Pizza Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A twist on traditional salads, Pizza Salad turns heads at mealtime. It pairs perfectly with simpler main dishes. Full of familiar flavors, it’s always enjoyable. Easy to make and fun to eat, it livens up any meal. Everyone looks forward to this unique side.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Corn Casserole

Corn casserole in a casserole dish with a portion removed.
Corn Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A versatile side, Corn Casserole fits with any meal effortlessly. It’s creamy and has a slight sweetness that everyone enjoys. Simple to make, it supports a range of main dishes. Ideal for both everyday dinners and gatherings with loved ones. This casserole is always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

A bowl of freshly made Copycat Chipotle corn salsa with a serving spoon in it.
Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Adding a burst of flavor to your meal, Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa is a favorite. It mixes spice and sweetness perfectly. Easy to prepare, it pairs well with many dishes. Everyone appreciates its fresh and vibrant taste. It’s a great way to bring something new to the table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

Taco Casserole

A bowl of taco casserole topped with melted cheese, black olives, tomatoes, and green onions, with a creamy dip in the background.
Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When it comes to outshining the main dish, Taco Casserole steps up with bold flavors. It’s always a hit at the table and has everyone coming back for more. You can count on it to add a festive touch to family dinners. It’s a comforting addition that pleases everyone. Sharing a meal feels more fun with this flavorful side on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole

Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Chipotle black beans cooked and in a serving bowl.
Copycat Chipotle Black Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Feeling like adding a hint of restaurant flair at home. Copycat Chipotle Black Beans bring that rich touch to side dishes. They pair well with various meals, adding depth without being overwhelming. Anytime you include them in your lineup, plates get emptied and smiles abound. They’re a convenient way to make meals feel a little more special.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Hasselback Potatoes

Roasted hasselback potatoes on a baking sheet with parmesan.
Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

In the world of sides, Hasselback Potatoes bring a fun twist that makes them stand out without much effort. Their crispy, tender texture complements many main dishes effortlessly. They are easy to make and deliver a nice contrast at the table. Even with simple ingredients, these potatoes turn heads.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

Cilantro Lime Rice

Chipotle rice in a bowl with sliced lime and spoons.
Cilantro Lime Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Looking to give your meal an extra pop, Cilantro Lime Rice steps in to make things a bit more exciting. It pairs beautifully with a range of dishes, enhancing flavors without taking over. Easy to whip up, this rice adds a little something extra to dinner. It’s a side that keeps everyone reaching for another helping.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Dauphinoise Potatoes

An oven dish with baked dauphinoise potatoes in it.
Dauphinoise Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Looking for something both classic and delicious, Dauphinoise Potatoes offer just that with their creamy nature. They pair well with many main courses, often stealing the show. A simple yet elegant choice, these potatoes upgrades any dining experience without much fuss. With every bite, they add a comforting touch to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

French Bread

A person is holding French bread.
French Bread. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a side dish that complements any meal, French Bread is a trusty companion. Its perfect crunch and flavor make it a welcome addition at any meal. Whether for soaking up sauces or enjoying plain, it never disappoints. Simple yet effective, it’s often the go-to for those short on time. Everyone enjoys its comforting presence on the table.
Get the Recipe: French Bread

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Craving something comforting, Hashbrown Casserole delivers a cheesy, creamy experience that’s hard to beat. It’s a perfect addition to breakfast through dinner, appreciated by all. Quick to assemble, it often becomes the unexpected star of the meal. Sharing time around the table feels cozier with it in the mix.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

A bowl of Thai jasmine rice with chili peppers on side.
Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a light, aromatic side that pairs with almost anything, look to Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice. Its pleasing fragrance adds something extra without overwhelming other flavors. It’s quick to prepare and effortlessly fits into your meal plan. Everyone appreciates its versatility and warmth. Each serving feels like a little escape to comfort.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy macaroni and cheese dish with visible black pepper seasoning.
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Love the classics but want something a bit different, Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese provides a creamy twist. Its unique flavor pairs well with familiar dishes, making everyone keep asking for more. It brings a comforting vibe to your dining table without being heavy. It’s an inviting choice when you want a little variety.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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