29 Side Recipes That Will Have You Skipping The Main Course

Not every meal needs a centerpiece. These 29 sides are a good reminder that smaller plates can carry the whole spread. Whether it’s something warm, fresh, or made to go with other items on the table, each option holds up on its own. Great for sharing or building a meal out of different parts.

Cheese Grits

A hearty serving of Cheese Grits can easily steal the show at any dining table. This dish brings warmth with its creamy texture and rich flavor. It pairs beautifully with a variety of meals but can equally stand alone as a fulfilling dish. You’ll find it hard to stop at just one helping.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Grits

Asparagus Casserole

Asparagus Casserole is a must-try for anyone looking for a dish with fresh flavors. This casserole is baked to creamy perfection, making it a hit for any gathering. It’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Serve it up for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

Bacon Wrapped Smokies

If you’re looking for something irresistibly flavorful, Bacon Wrapped Smokies are your go-to. The combination of smoky bacon wrapped around little sausages creates a flavorful bite that’s hard to beat. These are ideal for parties or as a hearty side dish. Every bite is a new reason to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Baked Potato

Simple yet delicious, a Baked Potato can be transformed into a centerpiece of your meal. Its fluffy interior and crispy skin provide a perfect canvas for your favorite toppings. It’s a versatile addition to any meal, offering both comfort and taste. Few sides are as fulfilling and customizable.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato

Best Tuna Casserole

Best Tuna Casserole brings a classic to the table with a twist of extra flavor. This casserole is a hearty option that can stand alone or complement your meal. It’s baked to golden perfection and is always a satisfying choice. It’s especially perfect for a cozy day in.
Get the Recipe: Best Tuna Casserole

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Combine rich flavors in a dip that’s both spicy and savory with Buffalo Chicken Dip. This dish is always a favorite at gatherings and is easy to scoop up with your favorite crackers or veggies. It’s not only packed with flavor but also has a tempting aroma. You’ll want to make sure there’s enough to go around!
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Broccoli Casserole

Broccoli Casserole offers both nutrition and indulgence in one dish. This casserole is a blend of creamy and cheesy texture that makes broccoli the star. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate more greens into your meals in a delicious way. It’s almost too good to pass up as just a side.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

You bring an international flair to your dining table with Jamaican Red Beans and Rice. This dish is known for its robust flavors and hearty nature. Whether served as a side or a main dish, it provides a lovely eating experience. It’s sure to capture the attention of anyone who tries it.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Cobb Salad

Fresh and colorful, Cobb Salad serves as a vibrant and filling side or main course. The varied ingredients create a diverse and enjoyable texture and flavor profile. It’s often chosen for its visual appeal and nutritional balance. This salad has a way of becoming a quick favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa offers a burst of flavor with every bite. This salsa is perfect as a side dish or an appetizer. Its bold and bright flavors are ideal for those who enjoy a little spice. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as enjoyable as it is easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

Cilantro Lime Rice

Light and fragrant, Cilantro Lime Rice is a refreshing side that complements many dishes. Its vibrant lime and fresh cilantro flavors make it a lively addition to any plate. Whether paired with seafood or served under grilled vegetables, it remains unforgettable. You’ll relish every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Corn Casserole

Sweet and creamy, Corn Casserole is a comforting side dish perfect for any occasion. This dish is popular for its simplicity and the heartwarming taste it delivers. It pairs wonderfully with meats and vegetables alike. The texture and flavor are sure to bring smiles.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

At your next gathering, serve Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad for a truly enjoyable dish. This salad is a delicious mix of textures and flavors, making it a favorite. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a substantial side. Guests will love the unique combination of ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Vegetable Fritters

Vegetable Fritters are not only easy to make but also delicious. These fritters offer a crunchy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. They are perfect for dipping and make for a fun and flavorful side. Plus, they’re a great way to sneak more vegetables into your meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fritters

Wild Rice Casserole

For a touch of the wild, try Wild Rice Casserole, a dish that’s both rustic and rich. This hearty casserole brings a unique flavor to the table, making it an instant favorite. It’s robust enough to serve as a main dish and complements a variety of proteins. Enjoy its distinct taste and satisfying feel.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

Dauphinoise Potatoes

If you love layers of flavor, Dauphinoise Potatoes will quickly become your go-to side dish. The creamy texture pairs well with just about anything you decide to serve. Enjoy it during a springtime family reunion or add it to your brunch lineup; its versatility is unmatched. Every bite offers a comforting richness that’s hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Dense Bean Salad

Dense Bean Salad is a wonderful choice when you’re looking for something hearty yet refreshing. It’s packed with nutrients and flavors that meld beautifully over time, so it’s even better when made ahead. Ideal for picnics or as a quick side during busy weeknights, it provides a robust boost to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

Mac and Cheese

A classic favorite that never goes out of style is Mac and Cheese. It combines creamy, cheesy goodness in every forkful, making it a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just need comfort food, this dish stands out. It’s a creamy twist that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Macaroni Salad

For a light yet lovely side, give Macaroni Salad a try. It’s cool, creamy, and has just the right touch of crispness to refresh your palate. Perfect for serving alongside your main course or enjoying on its own, this salad is a must-have for quick lunches. Enjoy its simplicity at your next family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Mashed Potatoes

Nothing says comfort quite like a bowl of Mashed Potatoes. They’re smooth, fluffy, and a staple alongside many main courses. Serve them up at your next dinner for an easy, pleasing side that goes with virtually anything. Their creamy texture makes them an instant favorite at any table.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes

Mexican Street Corn

Mexican Street Corn brings the essence of street fairs right to your dining table. It’s a vibrant side dish that adds a pop of color and flavor to any meal. Ideal for those who enjoy a hint of spice, it’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. This dish is sure to inject some fun into your mealtime routine.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Enjoy a crunchy texture and vibrant colors that make any plate more exciting with Red Cabbage Coleslaw. This side dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to whip up. It’s perfect for barbecues or as a fresh addition to your dinner. You’ll appreciate its fresh, crisp taste.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped Potatoes come layered with indulgence and home-cooked appeal. Perfect for a family gathering or just a cozy meal, they offer a comforting accompaniment to any main dish. Enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors that this dish brings to your table. It’s always a warm welcome at meal times.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Sourdough Bread

Fresh-baked Sourdough Bread can steal the show with its crusty exterior and soft, airy interior. Ideal for soaking up sauces or enjoying with butter, it enhances any meal. A slice of this bread alongside your favorite dishes makes for a fulfilling experience. It’s simply irresistible when served warm from the oven.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bread

Southern Mash

Southern Mash blends traditional flavors in a smooth, rich side that complements any table. It’s particularly good when you crave something warm and filling. Perfect for casual dinners, it holds its own among more complex dishes. This side dish keeps things simple yet thoroughly enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

When you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting, Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole should be at the top of your list. It’s baked to perfection with a golden top that’s hard to resist. Ideal for those who want to enjoy something hearty without feeling weighed down. It’s a substantial yet light favorite for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Add a bit of kick to your meal with Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. This dish is refreshingly crisp and offers a pleasant heat that spices up your dining experience. It’s quick to prepare and serves as a fantastic side or a vibrant addition to your spring feast. A true highlight for those who appreciate a little spice.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Easy Chicken Casserole

An Easy Chicken Casserole can be the heartwarming side you didn’t know you needed. It’s simple to prepare and fills your kitchen with enticing aromas. Great for occasions when you need something fulfilling yet uncomplicated, it pairs well with fresh salads. This casserole creates comfort on a plate for everyone to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

Sweet Potato Fries

Experience a beloved alternative to traditional fries, offering a sweet twist that’s hard to turn down with Sweet Potato Fries. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and can be a hit with kids and adults alike. Serve them at your next family meal or as a snack during movie night. These fries add a burst of flavor to any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries