29 Side Recipes To Wow Your Guests From The First Bite To The Last

A feast is only as good as what’s served alongside it, and there’s no room for weak links. These 29 side dishes bring the kind of bold, comforting, or crispy goodness that can hold their own next to any main course. Some might even end up stealing the show—just don’t tell the roast. Guests will leave wondering why they ever settled for plain sides.

Bread Stuffing

If you’re looking to add a classic touch to your meal, look no further. A staple at many tables, Bread Stuffing, brings comfort and warmth with every bite. It’s simple yet can be made unique with a blend of your favorite seasonings. Perfect for making any dinner feel like a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Bread Stuffing

Baked Rice

Sometimes, the simplest dishes leave the longest lasting impressions. Baked Rice is the perfect example, transforming ordinary rice into a dish with a wonderful texture and flavor. It’s an effortless way to complement any main, making sure your guests are impressed from the start. Easy to prepare, but impossible to overlook.
Get the Recipe: Baked Rice

Cobb Salad

Looking for something fresh to balance your spread? Cobb Salad is a colorful, vibrant dish that offers a refreshing twist. Each forkful is a burst of flavor, ensuring your guests will dive back in for more. It’s a versatile addition that can be customized to cater to any preference.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

When you want comfort food without the guilt, Cheesy Zucchini Casserole hits just the right spot. This dish blends the rich, gooey goodness of cheese with the light, fresh feel of zucchini. It’s a match made in heaven, offering a lighter take on classic comfort food. Everyone is bound to ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Upgrade your meal with the subtle, fragrant presence of Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice. Its distinct aroma and tender texture make it an unforgettable side that pairs well with both spicy and mild dishes. It’s a simple way to bring a touch of elegance to any dinner table. A must-try for anyone looking to step up their rice game.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Crispy Shallots

Add a crunch to your meal that’s impossible to ignore with Crispy Shallots. These little gems are more than just a garnish; they’re a game changer. Sprinkle them on top of any dish for an instant burst of flavor and texture. It’s an easy, yet effective way to add depth to your sides.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shallots

Baked Potato

Nothing says comfort quite like a perfectly Baked Potato. With its crispy skin and fluffy interior, it’s a simple pleasure that complements any meal. Offered with a variety of toppings, it allows your guests to customize to their liking. A surefire way to please the crowd.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato

Garlic Bread

What’s a dinner without the irresistible allure of Garlic Bread? Its golden, buttery crust and soft, flavorful center make it the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Ideal for soaking up sauces or enjoyed on its own, it’s a staple that no guest can resist. Always the first item to disappear from the table.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Asparagus Casserole

Turn a classic vegetable into a show-stopping side with Asparagus Casserole. This dish combines the tender crunch of asparagus with creamy, savory flavors. It’s a sophisticated addition to any meal, offering a perfect blend of texture and taste. Sure to impress those looking for something beyond the ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

Dauphinoise Potatoes

Indulge your guests with the rich, creamy layers of Dauphinoise Potatoes. This elegant dish is a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. Perfect for anyone wanting to add a touch of luxury to their meal. It’s comfort food with a classy twist.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Broccoli Casserole

Give your sides a green makeover with Broccoli Casserole. This vibrant dish is not only eye-catching but packed with flavor. A great way to get your guests excited about eating their veggies. It’s a comforting, hearty addition that brings both color and taste to any table.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Cilantro Lime Rice

Brighten up your spread with Cilantro Lime Rice. This zingy, refreshing side dish is a light yet flavorful complement to heavier mains. Its lively flavors are sure to captivate your guests, offering a fresh twist on traditional rice. A simple way to inject vibrancy into your meal.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Best Zucchini Bread

For a side that doubles as a conversation starter, serve up some Best Zucchini Bread. This unexpected twist on traditional bread brings moisture and a slight sweetness that’s hard to beat. It’s a versatile offering that fits in from breakfast through dinner. Watch as your guests marvel at the creativity.
Get the Recipe: Best Zucchini Bread

Mashed Potatoes

A true comfort classic, Mashed Potatoes never fail to delight. Silky smooth and deeply flavorful, they’re a testament to the power of simplicity. Perfect for pairing with just about anything, they’re sure to be a hit with guests of all ages. A definitive must-have at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes

Dinner Rolls

Soft, warm, and wonderfully buttery, Dinner Rolls are the little touch that completes a meal. They’re fantastic for mopping up sauces or simply enjoyed with a pat of butter. Offering these at your dinner encourages sharing and conversation. Impossible to pass up, they’re a universally loved addition.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Macaroni Salad

Add a cool, creamy contrast to your meal with Macaroni Salad. It’s a refreshing side that brings a slight tang and texture to balance out richer, heavier dishes. Every spoonful is a wonderful mix, ensuring your guests find something new in every bite. A classic choice that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Garlic Knots

Garlic Knots are where flavor and fun meet. These little twists pack a punch with each bite, filled with the aromatic allure of garlic and herbs. They’re not just delicious; they’re a joy to look at, adding a whimsical touch to your table. A surefire way to keep the conversation lively and the compliments coming.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Eggplant Casserole

Transform eggplant into a centerpiece with Eggplant Casserole. This dish brings layers of flavor and texture, making it a standout side that often steals the show. It’s a hearty, fulfilling choice that pleasantly surprises those unfamiliar with its charm. A great way to introduce variety into your meal.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Hasselback Potatoes

Take potatoes to the next level with Hasselback Potatoes. Their unique cut allows flavors to seep into every slice, creating a crispy outside and tender inside. It’s not just a side; it’s a conversation piece. These potatoes are as delicious as they are beautiful on the plate.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

For a side that packs a punch, Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad is your go-to. Its crisp freshness and fiery kick are the perfect accompaniments to any meal, offering a refreshing balance. It’s a bold choice for those looking to add a bit of excitement to their dining experience. An unforgettable flavor journey.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Vegetable Fritters

Vegetable Fritters make eating your greens fun and delicious. Each bite is a crispy, savory treat, proving that sides can be just as exciting as the main course. They’re a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies in a way that everyone will love. A surefire hit for guests young and old alike.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fritters

Mexican Street Corn

Guests always look for that special dish that pops with flavor. Mexican Street Corn brings a festive vibe to any gathering, with its vibrant dressing and bold spices. Sharing this side will have your guests talking about their meal for days. It’s easy to serve either hot or cold, making it perfect for any kind of event.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn

Yellow Squash Casserole

At your next dinner, surprise everyone with Yellow Squash Casserole. This dish combines comfort with a touch of elegance. It’s creamy and has a lovely texture that pairs well with various main dishes. If you have friends who enjoy trying new variations of popular recipes, this is a must-serve.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Squash Casserole

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

For those who enjoy a crunch in their side dishes, Red Cabbage Coleslaw is ideal. It offers a vivid color to brighten up the plate and adds a fresh crispness that complements both grilled and rich foods. This coleslaw is also great for health-conscious guests, as it’s packed with nutrients.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Scalloped Potatoes

Imagine a dish that’s warm, comforting, and perfect for family gatherings. Scalloped Potatoes are just that, featuring layers of thinly sliced potatoes in a smooth sauce. It’s a comforting choice that goes well with any protein. Also, it’s versatile enough to be a hit at both casual and formal gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Stuffed Peppers

Brighten up the table with Stuffed Peppers, a colorful and hearty option. These are packed with flavors that meld beautifully inside each pepper. This dish is not only visually appealing but also filling enough to satisfy those with bigger appetites. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce vegetables in a fun way.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

Potato Salad

If you’re planning a relaxed meal, Potato Salad is a go-to. It’s a classic that never fails to please a crowd with its creamy texture and comforting taste. This side dish is convenient as it can be made ahead of time. It pairs perfectly with anything off the grill or as part of a larger buffet.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad

Sweet Potato Fries

Shake things up a bit with Sweet Potato Fries. This side dish is a sweet twist on traditional fries and tends to be a hit with folks of all ages. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for dipping. Plus, they add a splash of color to any meal setting.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries

Seven Layer Salad

Don’t forget a layered spectacle like Seven Layer Salad when you’re next hosting. This dish offers multiple textures and flavors stacked beautifully in a clear bowl, making it as appealing to look at as it is to eat. It’s a staple at gatherings for its ability to cater to different tastes, all in one go.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad