When Your Sides Need A Glow-up, Try 29 Delicious Recipes

Feeling like regular meals are getting a bit bland? Give side dishes a total makeover with 29 exciting recipes. Adding a little sizzle with fresh ideas can completely transform an everyday dinner. Grab these amazing recipes and watch taste buddies light up at mealtime!

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

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.

When those average meals just won’t cut it, turn to Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes for a bit of sweet heat. With honey and chipotle peppers, this dish ensures your steak and potatoes are anything but typical. It’s a surefire way to add some bold flavors to your dinner table and an excellent twist to your usual steak night.
Get the Recipe: Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

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.

If you’ve ever wondered why they call it Crack Chicken Casserole, one taste will clear up any doubt. This hearty option fuses creamy, cheesy, and chicken-y in a big way. It’s one of those “make again” recipes that’ll have the family clamoring for more. And it’s a snap to put together, which is always a nice bonus.
Get the Recipe: Crack Chicken Casserole

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.

Need a pop of color on your plate? You can’t go wrong with an Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe. It’s the kind of side that brings a natural sweetness to your meal that even the kids will approve. And the gleam of the honey glaze makes them an eye-catcher at any dinner setting.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

Corn Casserole

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

Liven up your side dish game with a creamy, sweet, and perfectly delectable Corn Casserole. It’s a crowd-pleaser that not only goes well with a range of mains but is also a breeze to make. This recipe is the comfort food star that’s destined to become a standard request at family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Southern Mash

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

Who doesn’t love a good mashed potato? But let me tell you, Southern Mash takes it to a whole new level. It’s creamy, it’s comforting, and it just feels like home. You’ll want to make sure you’ve got room on your plate for this one, trust me.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

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

In search of a side dish that’s both nutritious and comforting? Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole might just be what you need. It’s got all the creamy, cheesy goodness you crave, without the guilt. Plus, it’s so delicious, even the pickiest eaters will be asking for more.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Sweet Potato Fries

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

If you’re in the mood for something a bit different from your regular fries, give Sweet Potato Fries a whirl. They’re sweet, they’re salty, and they’re downright addictive. Perfect as a side or just for snacking, they’re a great way to shake up your routine.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries

Wild Rice Casserole

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

Want something a little heartier than plain rice? Wild Rice Casserole is packed with flavor and texture. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a feast for the senses. Perfect for those nights when you’re craving something different, it’s a dish that won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

Scalloped Potatoes

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

Got a gathering coming up and need a guaranteed hit? Scalloped Potatoes should be at the top of your list. Layered with flavor and baked to creamy perfection, they’re the kind of dish that has everyone asking for seconds. And the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Vegetable Casserole

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

Mixing up a variety of veggies in one dish can be a total game changer, and that’s exactly what Vegetable Casserole is to your dinner plans. Baked to perfection, every forkful is brimming with garden goodness. It’s the ultimate way to get a rainbow of nutrients without sacrificing flavor. And hey, it even makes leftovers something to look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable 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.

Discover why Best Zucchini Bread is a go-to for many once you get a taste. It’s a recipe that transforms zucchini into a moist, flavorful bread you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert, it makes enjoying vegetables a whole lot sweeter.
Get the Recipe: Best Zucchini Bread

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.

Ever wished to feel like a millionaire at mealtime? Enter Million Dollar Casserole. The name alone promises an indulgent experience, and it sure does deliver. With layers of rich flavor, it’s the comfort food you didn’t know you were craving until now.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Casserole

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.

Seeking comfort with a twist? Try sprinkling a bit of wholesome goodness into your mac with Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. This dish proves that comfort classics can be both familiar and new at the same time. Not to mention, it’s a sneaky way to incorporate more veggies into your comfort foods.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

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.

Remember the joy of cornbread fresh out of the oven? Now, combine that with a casserole and you have Easy Cornbread Casserole. It’s a touch of Southern charm that complements every hearty meal. And let’s be honest, who can resist that golden, crumbly texture?
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole

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.

When you’re in the mood for a side that’s both refreshing and indulgent, try whipping up a Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Crisp broccoli meets a luscious dressing, creating a salad that’s hard to resist. It’s an ideal choice for meal prep or for adding a dose of green to your plate, all while keeping things irresistibly tasty.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

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.

Bring the renowned flavors of a favorite eatery into your kitchen with Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa. Sweet corn and just the right amount of heat combine to create a salsa that’s as good as the original—if not better. It’s the perfect side to enhance any Mexican-themed dish or to enjoy all by itself with chips.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

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.

Sometimes you need a dish that’s both filling and effortless, and that’s where Tuna Noodle Casserole comes in. It brings together noodles, tuna, and a velvety sauce for that ultimate comfort food experience. Offering a feel-good meal from the inside out, the simplicity of this dish is part of its irresistible charm.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole

Cilantro Lime Rice

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

Looking for something light and fresh to pair with your meal? Check out Cilantro Lime Rice. It’s the perfect companion to any dish, adding just the right touch of zest without overpowering the main course. With its fluffy grains and refreshing flavor, it’s a surefire way to mix things up.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

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

If you’re looking to dial up the heat on your side dishes, Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad has you covered. This salad is the ultimate combination of cool cucumbers and fiery spices, adding an explosion of taste to any meal. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
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.

If you’ve got a craving for something comforting and easy to make, look no further than Chicken and Rice Casserole. This dish practically defines homestyle cooking, making it perfect when you’re after a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With its creamy texture and hearty flavors, it’s a fantastic way to spice up your dinner lineup.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Casserole

Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

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

Give your everyday meals a burst of flavor with Copycat Chipotle Black Beans. These are no ordinary beans; they’re infused with the distinct taste of one of your favored restaurants. Each bite brings a depth of flavor that reminds you why sometimes the simplest dishes have the most impact, especially when they’re this versatile.
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.

Ever tried slicing your potatoes before baking them? That’s the secret behind Hasselback Potatoes. These beauties come out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They’re not just potatoes; they’re a game-changer for your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

Pizza Salad

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

When you’re torn between craving pizza and wanting something lighter, Pizza Salad is your solution. This dish brings all your cherished pizza flavors into a crisp, refreshing salad. It’s a fantastically creative choice that ensures you’ll never have to choose between pizza and salad again—now they’re one and the same.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Hashbrown Casserole

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

Picture a dish that’s both cheesy and comforting, perfect for those mornings when cereal just won’t cut it. That’s where Hashbrown Casserole comes in. With its golden top and hearty interior, it’s the breakfast hero you’ve been waiting for. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, making leftovers a cause for excitement, not dismay.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

French Bread

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

Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked bread. French Bread is a classic for a reason. It’s simple, it’s versatile, and it goes with just about everything. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is bound to impress.
Get the Recipe: French Bread

Dauphinoise Potatoes

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

Sometimes, you just need a dish that feels a bit fancy without all the fuss. Dauphinoise Potatoes are exactly that. Thinly sliced potatoes, baked in a cream sauce until they’re perfectly tender. They’re the side dish you didn’t know you were missing.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

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

When rice is more than just a side dish, it’s all about Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice. Its subtle aroma complements any main dish without stealing the show. You’ll find it’s the perfect backdrop to exotic flavors, supporting your culinary adventures from the comfort of your kitchen. Plus, there’s nothing like the texture of perfectly cooked jasmine rice.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

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.

Who says you can’t enjoy the flavors of a taco in a casserole form? Taco Casserole brings all that fun to the table. It’s layered with deliciousness that’ll make you revisit taco Tuesday on any day of the week. Get ready for a fiesta in your mouth with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Taco 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.

Sometimes you just need a dish that’s downright satisfying and Mississippi Mud Potatoes is that dish. It brings together creamy and potato-ey in a harmony that’ll have you feeling all the feels of Southern comfort. Whether for a special occasion or a regular weeknight, it’s sure to be a hit. And yes, they’re as fun to eat as they sound.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes

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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