47 Fall Sides My Kids Ask Me To Make On Repeat

There’s something about side dishes that somehow steals the spotlight every fall. Maybe it’s because they’re the ones everyone actually finishes, or maybe it’s just that the kids won’t stop asking for them week after week. With 47 different options to choose from, it’s hard not to give in when each one feels like a small win at the dinner table.

A bowl of gnocchi topped with grated cheese, fresh basil, and black pepper.
Gnocchi. 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.

Creamy, cheesy, and everything you need for a cozy fall meal, Crack Chicken Casserole is a family favorite for good reason. It’s packed with comforting flavors that come together in every bite. Perfect for cooler evenings, it feels like a warm hug for your palate without overcomplicating mealtime.
Get the Recipe: Crack Chicken Casserole

Beet Salad

A close-up of a salad featuring chopped beets, cucumber, feta cheese, walnuts, and fresh herbs on a white plate.
Beet Salad. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Fall meals need pops of color, and Beet Salad delivers exactly that with its bright and lovely flavors. The balance between earthy and tangy tones makes it stand out against typical vegetable sides. My kids enjoy it for its slightly sweet bite, proving that healthy can absolutely be a kid-approved option.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad

Hot Honey Chicken Salad

A honey hot chicken salad with succulent fried chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese crumbles, cucumber slices, and mixed greens, all topped with a creamy dressing.
Hot Honey Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet and spicy come together in Hot Honey Chicken Salad, making it a go-to fall side that my kids never get tired of. The dish feels hearty yet refreshing, which fits perfectly alongside heavier fall mains. It’s the kind of mix that pairs warmth with tang, giving it a balance that’s hard not to love.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Garlic Bread

Slices of garlic bread topped with chopped parsley and sea salt sit enticingly on a wooden board, accompanied by a small bowl of salt and fresh cloves of garlic.
Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Few things scream comfort during these cooler months like Garlic Bread fresh out of the oven. Perfect for dipping into soups or enjoying on its own, it’s always requested at dinner. The garlic and buttery flavors make it hard not to grab just one more piece. Between the crispy outside and soft center, no one at the table is ever skipping this favorite.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Cabbage Casserole

A close-up of a baked casserole dish filled with creamy cabbage gratin, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust, with a serving spoon partially visible.
Cabbage Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Warm, hearty, and filled with layers of flavor, Cabbage Casserole is perfect for fall evenings when a filling side is a must. It’s one of those dishes my kids gladly eat, despite not being big fans of cabbage otherwise. The texture and comforting flavors are versatile enough to complement many meals. It’s made its way to our regular fall rotation without question.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Casserole

Butternut Squash Risotto

A bowl of risotto topped with roasted pumpkin pieces, grated cheese, and fresh parsley, with a checkered napkin and herbs nearby.
Butternut Squash Risotto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy and cozy, Butternut Squash Risotto is a perfect mix of comfort food and fall flavors. Its smooth textures and fall-inspired ingredients make it a hit with everyone at the table. My kids love how rich yet gently sweet it tastes, fitting perfectly alongside heavier dishes. It’s a staple on chilly evenings when comfort is the priority.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Risotto

French Onion Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with a golden-brown breadcrumb crust and garnished with fresh herbs.
French Onion Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Bold flavors meet cheesy goodness in French Onion Casserole, giving fall dinners a little extra flair. The rich ingredients come together in a way that’s both hearty and satisfying for everyone at the table. This dish doesn’t just stand out, it practically demands seconds from every family member, especially the kids. It’s hard to imagine fall meals without this one.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Casserole

Grilled Corn on the Cobb

Four grilled corn cobs topped with crumbled cheese, chopped herbs, and spices are arranged on a white plate.
Grilled Corn on the Cobb. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Smoky and tender, Grilled Corn on the Cobb hits the table as a fall favorite for my family. It’s simple, but the flavors are anything but boring, especially when paired with seasonal meals. The slight char enhances its natural sweetness, making it almost impossible to skip out on. Whether served on game days or weeknight dinners, it’s a must on our fall menu.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn on the Cobb

Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins

Cornbread muffins topped with sliced jalapeños in white paper liners, arranged on a wooden surface.
Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

When it comes to side dishes that bring a little heat with sweetness, Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins are my go-to. These fall-inspired muffins pair perfectly with all those cozy stews and soups we make this time of year. My kids enjoy the mild kick balanced with just the right touch of honey. Making extras has become a habit because they disappear so fast.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins

Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

A white dish with roasted root vegetables, including carrots, parsnips, red onions, and sweet potatoes, garnished with fresh dill and thyme.
Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Roasted goodness takes center stage with Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables, an essential side for fall gatherings. The mix of vibrant colors and tender bites has everyone reaching for seconds. My kids love how roasting brings out the natural sweetness in each piece, especially during the cooler months.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Big Mac Sliders

Two sloppy joe sliders with melted cheese and ground beef filling stacked on a plate, with lettuce and a bowl in the background.
Big Mac Sliders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Fall is full of casual dinners, and Big Mac Sliders easily steal the show. These mini sandwiches pack all the flavors of the fast-food favorite but in a fun, shareable size. My kids practically fight over the last one every time they hit the table. They’ve become a go-to when we want something that feels indulgent but still fits into the cozy fall vibe.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Sliders

Corn Casserole

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

Smooth and comforting, Corn Casserole is a no-fuss side that never gets turned down at fall dinners. It strikes that perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a crowd favorite in our house. My kids always ask for this one because it feels both nostalgic and comforting with every bite. Of all the sides, this one regularly ends up on repeat in our rotation.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Egg Roll

A wooden tray with spring rolls and lime wedges lined with parchment paper sits next to a small bowl of dipping sauce on a light surface.
Egg Roll. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crunchy and packed with flavor, Egg Roll is an unexpected fall option that my kids can’t get enough of. It’s a great pair to heavier dishes, offering a lighter, crispy bite alongside the warmth of the season’s meals. The filling and crunch make it a side that keeps everyone at the table happy. Even as leftovers, they’re quick to request a plate-full.
Get the Recipe: Egg Roll

Crunchy Onion Rings

A close-up of crispy, golden-brown onion rings sprinkled with chopped parsley and black pepper on a white parchment-lined surface captures perfection in every bite.
Crunchy Onion Rings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crispy and golden, Crunchy Onion Rings are one of those sides my family asks for again and again during fall. They’re just the right mix of crunch and flavor for game days or movie nights. My kids especially love dunking them into their favorite sauces and can polish off a plate in record time. When comfort food is all we want, these are always on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

Roasted Broccoli

A bowl of roasted broccoli topped with grated cheese and seasoning.
Roasted Broccoli. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Even picky eaters change their minds when Roasted Broccoli is on the table during fall dinners. The roasting process adds a depth of flavor that takes it beyond your usual veggie sides. Perfectly tender yet slightly crispy, kids tend to reach for it even before other favorites. It’s a healthier addition to our fall meals but never feels boring or bland.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Broccoli

Sweet Potato Wedges

Roasted sweet potato wedges sprinkled with herbs on parchment paper.
Sweet Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you need something simple yet flavorful, Sweet Potato Wedges fit right into fall menus. Their natural sweetness gets enhanced during roasting, making them an easy hit with my kids. They’re versatile enough to pair with so many meals, from burgers to casseroles. Plus, they always feel a bit more festive around this time of year.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Wedges

Spanish Rice

A bowl of seasoned rice garnished with chopped herbs, served in a beige ceramic dish.
Spanish Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Vibrant and full of flavor, Spanish Rice easily becomes a frequent request from my kids during fall. Its warm seasoning and fluffy texture make it irresistible as a side. It pairs great with nearly any main dish, and there’s rarely any leftovers when this is on the table. This one has become a go-to for adding variety to our seasonal meals.
Get the Recipe: Spanish Rice

Southern Cornbread

Close-up of two stacked pieces of cornbread with melted butter on top, showcasing a golden-brown crust and moist, crumbly texture.
Southern Cornbread. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Soft with just the right amount of crumble, Southern Cornbread shines bright during fall meals. Whether paired with chili or enjoyed solo, it’s always a hit with my kids. Its soft texture and gentle flavor feel natural during this time of year and complement hearty dishes well. Once served, the basket always empties faster than I expect.
Get the Recipe: Southern Cornbread

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.

While simple, Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe never fails to earn its place at the table during fall. They’re naturally sweetened and tender, bringing a touch of warmth to our meals. It’s one of those veggie sides that even picky eaters can’t turn down thanks to its well-rounded flavor.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

Garlic Knots

Close-up view of freshly baked garlic knots with parsley and seasoning, resting on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Soft, fluffy, and with a slight hint of garlic, Garlic Knots are the kind of side my kids always expect during fall dinners. They’re a simple yet irresistible addition that fits right in with soups or casseroles. Watching the knots disappear from the tray almost faster than I pull them out of the oven is a regular thing in my house.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

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.

Fall evenings are a favorite when this dish is part of dinner. Easy Cornbread Casserole brings to the table a warm, comforting texture kids can’t resist. It’s the balance of softness and flavor that keeps them asking for it week after week. Whether paired with a main dish or eaten solo, it’s a side they never grow tired of.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole

Scalloped Potatoes

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

Few things feel as right for cooler nights as Scalloped Potatoes bubbling in the oven. Layers of tender slices and creamy richness make this one a family go-to every fall. The texture is what makes it unforgettable, indulgent but approachable for kids. They’ll always ask for seconds when this is on the table.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

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.

It’s hard not to consider Million Dollar Casserole a fall favorite with its indulgent spin on classic layers. The dish is full of flavors that come together in every bite and feels perfect for chilly family evenings. Kids love the bold taste that makes them ask for it again and again. There’s something special about a recipe that earns a permanent spot in your lineup.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Casserole

Fingerling Potatoes

Fingerling potatoes in a serving bowl.
Fingerling Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crisp air signals the return of heartwarming sides like Fingerling Potatoes. Slightly golden and packed with flavor, they’re quick to win over even picky eaters. These little potatoes have an appealing bite that makes them easy to love. They’re on repeat every fall because they’re simple yet crowd-pleasing.
Get the Recipe: Fingerling Potatoes

Wild Rice Casserole

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

Breaking out Wild Rice Casserole tends to mark the start of cozy dinners during autumn. Its hearty flavors and textured bite are exactly what families look for when the temperatures cool. There’s something about the way the casserole anchors the meal without overshadowing the main dish. It’s fulfilling for kids while being a centerpiece for any table.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

Cauliflower Steaks

Cauliflower steaks with pomegranate and pistachios on a plate.
Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A change of pace from traditional sides, Cauliflower Steaks are perfect for fall meals. Their sturdy texture gives kids a more enjoyable way to eat vegetables. Pair this with bold flavors, and it becomes something they request over simpler veggies. It’s great for balancing hearty meals while staying kid-approved.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Steaks

Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

A person scooping a sweet potato casserole out of a baking dish.
Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Meals feel warmer with Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows on the table during fall. The sweetness combined with a playful topping makes it a favorite for kids. It’s one of those classics that effortlessly blends dessert vibes into the dinner spread. The nostalgia of this side dish makes it something they look forward to every time.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fall meals wouldn’t be complete without Mac and Cheese continually finding its way onto plates. Creamy and comforting, there’s a reason kids outvote everything else for this side dish. Its dependable goodness fits perfectly with cool evenings full of hearty foods. It’s so familiar that they’ll ask for it every week without hesitation.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Honeycrisp Salad

A bowl of mixed greens salad with sliced Honeycrisp apples, walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
Honeycrisp Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Among heavier dishes, Honeycrisp Salad offers a refreshing touch for fall evenings. Its crispness makes it perfect for balancing out richer sides while staying light. Kids love the sweetness that sneaks into every bite, making it much more appealing than a standard plate of greens. It’s a side they’ll happily eat without coaxing.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad

Creamed Spinach

A bowl of creamy spinach topped with grated cheese, being stirred with a spoon.
Creamed Spinach. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Rich and smooth, Creamed Spinach slides into fall menus with ease. Kids who usually skip greens find this side surprisingly easy to enjoy. Its subtle, comforting texture matches well with other warm dishes. Whether served with meat or vegetarian options, it’s always one they ask for on repeat during colder months.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach

Egg Casserole

A casserole dish containing egg casserole.
Egg Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cozy family mornings start better when Egg Casserole joins the table. Its hearty layers make breakfast feel complete while filling everyone up for cool fall days. Kids appreciate how easy-to-eat it is without any strong flavors overpowering the meal. This dish isn’t just a favorite; it’s a staple that feels spot-on for the season.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole

Sweet Potato Fritters

Sweet potato fritters in a stack.
Sweet Potato Fritters. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A little unexpected, Sweet Potato Fritters bring crunchy edges that kids love during fall dinners. They’re easy to grab and enjoy while adding unique texture to the spread. These appeal to everyone at the table, especially when served with something hearty. For families, these are a playful twist kids are always excited about.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fritters

Yellow Squash Casserole

Squash casserole being served with a wooden serving spoon.
Yellow Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cooler evenings call for hearty sides like Yellow Squash Casserole that stand out among traditional options. Its warm bite and soft texture seem tailor-made for fall feasts. Kids enjoy the flavors, which feel approachable yet special for weeknight or holiday meals. Don’t be surprised if they ask for it long after the season’s over.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Squash Casserole

Breakfast Potatoes

Breakfast potatoes with parsley on a wooden cutting board.
Breakfast Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Family breakfasts feel more complete with Breakfast Potatoes warming up autumn mornings. Their crispy bites and hearty texture are just what kids need before heading out on cool days. These potatoes pair so well with eggs and other breakfast staples that they’re hard to leave out during fall.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Potatoes

Hashbrown Casserole

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

Once cool weather hits, Hashbrown Casserole becomes one of the most requested sides at dinner. It’s comforting in a way that feels perfect for family evenings. Kids love the texture, which blends soft and crispy elements together seamlessly. This dish is one of those reliable favorites for fall dining.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Dauphinoise Potatoes

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

Special nights tend to include Dauphinoise Potatoes on the table. Their layers of rich creaminess make them ideal for cozy autumn gatherings. Even kids enjoy the subtle, layered flavors that balance the heavier dishes of the season. This is the side dish that feels equally fancy and family-friendly for fall meals.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Green Bean Casserole

A casserole dish filled with green bean casserole with a spoon in it.
Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Family get-togethers wouldn’t feel right without Green Bean Casserole making its way to the table. Its creamy richness is something kids enjoy, even if they usually skip vegetables. This fall staple has stuck around for decades because it fits every celebration perfectly. It’s a guaranteed favorite during the season’s dinners.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes on parchment paper, with dollops of sauce and sprigs of dill.
Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fall meals get a fun twist with Smashed Potatoes popping up on rotation. Their uneven texture keeps things exciting and enjoyable for everyone at the table. Kids love how they feel like a mix between crispy fries and comforting mashed potatoes. It’s a seasonal favorite for weeknights and gatherings alike.
Get the Recipe: Smashed Potatoes

Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

A bowl of stew with bread and carrots.
Jamaican Red Beans and Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cool-weather meals get a boost of flavor from Jamaican Red Beans and Rice. Its hearty bite matches beautifully with the warm spices that kids surprisingly embrace. Every forkful offers a balance that fits fall dinners without dominating the spread. The dish feels right at home when paired with seasonal favorites.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Sweet Potato Cubes

Sweet potato cubes on a plate with a dipping sauce.
Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simple yet delicious, Sweet Potato Cubes are a fall side that’s both kid-friendly and easy to enjoy. Their bite-sized pieces make them approachable for picky eaters while adding a sweet touch. This dish is perfect for busy nights when everyone wants something warm and filling. Repeated requests for these are practically guaranteed.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cubes

Eggplant Casserole

A slice of cheesy eggplant lasagna with tomato sauce is being lifted from a pan, showing stretchy melted cheese. A bowl is blurred in the background.
Eggplant Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

It’s always a bit unexpected to find Eggplant Casserole at fall meals, but its hearty texture wins kids over with every serving. There’s something satisfying about the way it works with heavier main dishes to create a balanced plate. Softer than some alternatives, it still holds its own as a unique seasonal option.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Macaroni Salad

A spoon lifting a serving of creamy macaroni salad with diced red onion and fresh herbs, with pepper sprinkled on top.
Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Even as fall leans into warmer dishes, Macaroni Salad still earns a spot on the table for its cool contrast. Light and flavorful, it brings a refreshing break to heavier sides. Kids love how easy it is to eat without fussing over flavors. It’s a solid addition to gatherings where variety shines.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Dinner Rolls

Close-up of freshly baked golden-brown dinner rolls, with one roll partially torn to show its soft, fluffy interior.
Dinner Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

No fall feast feels complete without Dinner Rolls rounding out the table. Their soft and airy texture makes them great for pairing with any of the season’s hearty dishes. Kids look forward to grabbing them, whether to dip or simply eat on their own. They’re one side no family meal should skip.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Funeral Potatoes

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Funeral Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cool evenings call for warm comfort foods like Funeral Potatoes, always asked for by kids during fall dinners. Their crispy topping and creamy base hit all the right notes for flavorful eating. Perfect with almost any meal, they’re among the most versatile sides for the season. This dish guarantees empty plates every time it’s served.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Layers of rich flavor make Ravioli Casserole a standout option for cozy autumn dinners. Its hearty bites and layered texture make it easy for kids to enjoy alongside other warm dishes. While filling, it never overpowers the meal but enhances fall dining effortlessly. One scoop is never enough for little ones.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Egg Fried Rice

Oval dish filled with fried rice garnished with chopped green onions.
Egg Fried Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

While not the most traditional fall choice, Egg Fried Rice still holds its place as a quick and easy side the kids love. Its straightforward flavors make it versatile for pairing with many autumn meals. Warm, filling, and just familiar enough, it’s often requested without hesitation. It’s perfect for busy nights needing something simple yet comforting.
Get the Recipe: Egg Fried Rice

Gnocchi

A bowl of gnocchi topped with grated cheese, fresh basil, and black pepper.
Gnocchi. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A cozy fall dinner feels even better with Gnocchi on the plate. Their pillowy texture makes them a comforting addition. Kids love how this dish feels unique compared to more common sides. Once included in a meal, it’s hard not to keep them coming back week after week during the season.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

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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