Because Nobody Talks About The Main Dish When The Sides Are This Good

With 29 options that are as tasty as they are easy to prepare, the sides are so irresistible, you’ll find yourself focusing more on these crowd-pleasers. From comforting classics to exciting new flavors, each side brings something unique to the table. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these sides enhance any occasion.

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise.
Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cheese Grits

Creamy polenta in a skillet, topped with chopped herbs and black pepper, and stirred with a wooden spoon.
Cheese Grits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Ever tried Cheese Grits that melt in your mouth like a warm hug? Think of a creamy texture combined with that unmistakable cheesy kick. It’s perfect for any gathering, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile. You’ll find yourself going for seconds and maybe even thirds.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Grits

Vegetable Fritters

Vegetable fritters in a stack.
Vegetable Fritters. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, these Vegetable Fritters make vegetables fun. Each bite bursts with a unique medley of flavors. Kids will even forget they’re eating veggies. Pop them on a plate, and watch them disappear in no time.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fritters

Baked Rice

A close-up of a bowl of oven-baked fried rice mixed with colorful vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, and scallions, with a spoon resting inside.
Baked Rice. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

No one talks about Baked Rice without mentioning how it becomes the crowd favorite. Each grain absorbs all the goodness, making every bite a treat. Simple yet so flavorful, it pairs well with almost any main dish. You’ll wonder why you didn’t try this sooner.
Get the Recipe: Baked Rice

Stuffed Peppers

Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers in a white bowl.
Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Those who love a bit of everything will adore Stuffed Peppers. Each pepper is packed with a hearty mix that brings out the best flavors. It’s colorful, it’s filling, and it’s always a conversation starter at the dinner table. Perfect for sharing, but you might want one all to yourself.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

Focaccia Bread

Slices of focaccia bread topped with rosemary and flaky salt, arranged on brown parchment paper.
Focaccia Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

The joy of tearing into Focaccia Bread is unmatched. Soft, airy with a bit of crunch, each piece is a delight. Whether it’s dipping in sauces or pairing with a meal, it stands out. You just can’t beat the fresh, warm taste of homemade bread.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

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

Seeking a tangy kick? Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad delivers that crunchy freshness with every bite. It’s the perfect mix of spicy and cool, surprising many who try it for the first time. A light side dish that refreshes the palate and leaves you wanting more.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

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.

Have a slice of Best Zucchini Bread and be amazed at how a veggie can make bread so scrumptious. Moist, lightly sweet—it’s a hit at any breakfast or snack time. Kids and adults both find it hard to resist. Bring it to a potluck and expect rave reviews.
Get the Recipe: Best Zucchini Bread

Southern Mash

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

Comfort on a plate, Southern Mash is all about homestyle goodness. Creamy, buttery with a hint of that home-cooked love. Ideal for pairing with any main course, it always finds a way to be remembered. Trust me, you’ll be going back for another spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Bread Stuffing

A close-up of a casserole dish filled with stuffing made of bread cubes, cranberries, chopped herbs, and celery.
Bread Stuffing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Many sides come and go, but Bread Stuffing remains a classic. Tasty, moist, with just the right amount of crisp on top. It feels like a meal within itself without taking away from the main course. Perfect addition to any hearty meal gathering.
Get the Recipe: Bread Stuffing

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.

Craving something that embodies home cooking? Southern Cornbread with its slightly crunchy edges and soft center is the answer. Sweet enough to be different but not overpowering the main dishes. It’s simple perfection on a plate, one bite, and you’re hooked.
Get the Recipe: Southern Cornbread

Bacon Wrapped Smokies

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish.
Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bite-sized beauty, Bacon Wrapped Smokies hits all the right notes from the first bite. Sweet, tasty, and a bit smoky, they disappear fast. The perfect appetizer for any celebration. It’s that irresistible combo that keeps everyone coming back.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Cilantro Lime Rice

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

Bright and refreshing, Cilantro Lime Rice breaks the monotony of usual sides. Every spoonful brings a fresh burst of flavor. It’s a side that stands up well next to any main. A lovely twist that adds something special to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

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.

Who can resist warm Garlic Bread? Crispy on the outside, soft and buttery on the inside, with that unmistakable garlic aroma. Perfect for soaking up sauces or just on its own. It’s the kind of side that makes everyone eager for more.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

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.

Warm, fluffy Dinner Rolls always have a way of bringing a smile. Freshly baked, they fill the air with a comforting aroma that makes it hard to resist. Perfect for any meal, their soft, pillowy texture is a delight. Simple yet classic, they’re loved by everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Easy Chow Mein

A close-up view of a plate of chow mein stir-fried noodles with vegetables and black sesame seeds, with chopsticks visibly picking up a portion.
Easy Chow Mein. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Quick yet rewarding, Easy Chow Mein brings a gratifying mix of textures. Noodles stir-fried to perfection, it’s everything you want from a comfort meal. Perfect with so many dishes, the leftovers (if any) are always cherished. A sure win for any mealtime.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

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

For those who appreciate simplicity, Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice is pure perfection. Light, aromatic, and the perfect bed for any main dish. Serves as a refreshing change from the usual sides. Every grain offers a gratifying quiet satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

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.

Craving crunch? Crunchy Onion Rings deliver a crispy golden exterior every time. Perfectly seasoned, they make the best snack or side. Whether solo or dipped in your favorite sauce, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. You can’t go wrong with these.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

Gnocchi

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

Soft, pillowy Gnocchi offers that perfect balance between tender and hearty. Dressed with sauces or enjoyed plain, it’s a treat. Each bite feels like a small cloud of comfort. A great option when pasta feels too heavy but you still crave that cozy carb feeling.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

Hawaiian Baked Beans

A plate of Hawaiian baked beans garnished with a pineapple slice and chopped herbs.
Hawaiian Baked Beans. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet with a kick, Hawaiian Baked Beans are a refreshing take on the classic. The added twist keeps you coming back for more. Perfect alongside any grilled main dish, they add a unique touch. A sure-fire favorite at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Baked Beans

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.

Combining the creaminess of mac and cheese with a hint of sweetness, Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is a game changer. Comfort food redefined, offering a healthier twist. You’ll find this side dish melts resistance even from the pickiest eaters. No one can have just one scoop.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

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 to perfection, Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables bring out deep flavors in each bite. A hearty mix that pairs brilliantly with any main. It’s simple, wholesome, and looks as good as it tastes. Makes getting your veggies oh-so-easy.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

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

For a touch of the islands, Jamaican Red Beans and Rice delivers full flavor. Nutrient-rich and worthwhile, each spoonful surprises. Combines well with a multitude of mains, adding that exotic flair. It’s like a little vacation on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

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.

Nothing is as nostalgic as Mac and Cheese with its creamy, cheesy goodness. Each bite brings cozy memories to life. It’s that perfect comfort side dish that pleases everyone. You can never go wrong serving it alongside any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Scalloped Potatoes

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

With layers upon layers, Scalloped Potatoes offer creamy deliciousness in every slice. Perfectly tender with a touch of creaminess, they pair well with anything. A timeless classic that enhances any meal. A crowd favorite that’s hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those who want something different, Italian Pasta with Salami hits the spot. Rich in flavor with just the right chew, it’s hard to beat. A great way to add a bit of Italian flair to your meal. Pairs wonderfully with many dishes.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Sourdough Bread

Sliced loaf of bread on a cutting board with a knife beside it.
Sourdough Bread. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

The tangy, chewy goodness of Sourdough Bread is unmatched. Its distinct flavor comes from the natural fermentation process, creating a depth that’s hard to replicate. Perfect for sandwiches or just paired with butter, it’s a staple. Great for any meal or snack time.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bread

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

A bowl of fresh red cabbage coleslaw garnished with herbs.
Red Cabbage Coleslaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Vibrant and crunchy, Red Cabbage Coleslaw adds color to your meal. Lightly dressed to bring out its natural flavors, it’s both refreshing and rewarding. Pairs beautifully with rich mains. Keeps everything balanced without overpowering any dish.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

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, buttery Garlic Knots offer that perfect garlicky hit. The golden, slightly crispy edges paired with the soft, pillowy inside create an irresistible texture. Ideal for mopping up sauces or enjoying solo, they never disappoint. Warm and fragrant, they make any meal special.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Seven Layer Salad

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise.
Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

With layers that boast different textures and flavors, Seven Layer Salad is a feast for both the eyes and palates. Crisp, creamy, and absolutely refreshing, it complements any main. A showstopper at any meal gathering. Perfect for sharing!
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

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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