29 Side Recipes To Make Sure Every Meal Feels Like A Feast
Making a meal feel like a feast needs more than just a main dish. Side recipes bring color, flavor, and fun to the table. Crunchy salads, creamy mashed potatoes, and buttery corn add comfort and joy. Fresh bread, roasted vegetables, and warm rice make everything complete. With 29 side recipes, every bite feels special, and every meal becomes a moment to enjoy.

Cowboy Casserole

You’re going to love how crispy tater tots top the hearty Cowboy Casserole. Serve it with a simple green salad on the side for extra crunch. Add some warm dinner rolls to soak up everything. It’s perfect for both busy nights and relaxed weekends. Everyone will ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Casserole
Southern Mash

What a treat it is to enjoy creamy Southern Mash with a hint of charm. Pair it with crispy fried chicken for a comforting meal. Don’t forget a side of buttered corn or green beans. Perfect for any family dinner. You’ll find yourself wanting more.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash
Garlic Bread

There’s nothing quite like biting into warm, buttery Garlic Bread. It goes great with spaghetti or lasagna. Add a side salad with vinaigrette for balance. Perfect addition to any family meal. Everyone loves the taste. Bringing all these sides together, it’ll feel like a feast.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread
Corn Casserole

It’s so easy to enjoy the sweet, buttery goodness of Corn Casserole. Pair it with smoky BBQ ribs for a mouthwatering combination. Add some coleslaw to the mix for extra flavor. Ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Everyone will rave about it.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole
Funeral Potatoes

All gatherings feel warmer with creamy Funeral Potatoes on the table. They match perfectly with baked ham or turkey. Serve alongside some roasted vegetables. Great for holiday meals or potlucks. Everyone will enjoy every bite.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

For a tasty veggie dish, try Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. Add a side of fresh mixed greens. Perfect for adding a bit of balance to your meal. You’ll find it hard to resist a second helping.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

Kick your dinner up a notch with Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes. It’s excellent with steamed vegetables or a light salad. A side of corn on the cob makes the meal complete. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when guests come over. You’ll love the bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes
Pizza Salad

Switch things up with a fun Pizza Salad. It’s great with a cup of tomato soup on the side. Try it with some garlic knots for a full-on pizza experience. Ideal for lunch or a light dinner. Kids and adults alike will enjoy it. All together, people come away from the meal feeling content.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad
Mac and Cheese

Nothing beats the comfort of creamy Mac and Cheese. It’s always a hit with BBQ pulled pork. Add a side of coleslaw for a refreshing touch. Perfect for casual dinners or potluck gatherings. Adults and kids will enjoy its cheesy goodness.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese
Scalloped Potatoes

The rich layers in Scalloped Potatoes make any meal special. Perfect with a juicy roast or baked chicken. Include some sautéed spinach or Brussels sprouts on the side. Ideal for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Everyone will love each creamy bite.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes
Easy Tater Tot Casserole

Pairing a crunchy salad with Easy Tater Tot Casserole brings a fresh balance to your meal. A simple side of roasted veggies adds color and nutrition. Consider a small serving of coleslaw to bring a bit more texture. Toasted bread or a light bun complements the casserole’s heartiness.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole
Sweet Potato Fries

A crispy batch of Sweet Potato Fries fits perfectly with a juicy burger or wrapped sandwich. A light spinach salad with a vinaigrette dressing brings freshness to the table. Adding a small bowl of mixed nuts can also add an interesting crunch. Serving them with a tiny variety of dipping sauces is a fun way to customize flavors.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries
Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

When enjoying Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara, a green salad sprinkled with nuts adds a refreshing touch. A basket of breadsticks invites everyone to have seconds. A small serving of grilled asparagus or steamed broccoli keeps things light. Pairing with a fruity tea or refreshing lemon water makes it all come together.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara
Hasselback Potatoes

Slicing into those crispy Hasselback Potatoes is a delight when served with grilled meats like steak or chicken. Add a side of mixed veggies and a flavorful dip for variety. Offering a light Caesar salad can bring a healthy twist. Incorporating a small dollop of sour cream or yogurt as a topping is always a good idea.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes
Easy Chicken Casserole

A piping hot Easy Chicken Casserole is wonderfully complemented by a cucumber and tomato salad. Toasted garlic bread on the side can be a nice touch. A small portion of peas or carrots adds vibrant colors and flavors. A cool glass of iced tea ties everything together nicely. A meal like this ensures everyone leaves the table happy.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole
Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

Adding Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa to your spread brings excitement to each plate. Scooping it up with tortilla chips keeps things lively. Pair it with grilled meats for a south-of-the-border feel. Light quesadillas on the side give a cheesy option to munch on. Experimenting with these sides ensures your meal is both fun and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa
Easy Walking Taco Casserole

A bowl of Easy Walking Taco Casserole is a scene-stealer at any dinner. A side of Mexican rice complements the dish nicely. Adding black beans or guacamole brings even more variety. Sprinkling some freshly chopped cilantro on top works wonders. The meal becomes a festivity with this simple yet impactful combination.
Get the Recipe: Easy Walking Taco Casserole
Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

As you dig into Copycat Chipotle Black Beans, consider serving them with cilantro-lime rice. Tortillas make a great addition for some wrap-and-roll action. A dollop of sour cream or sprinkle of shredded cheese adds richness. Including a fresh salad can provide a light counterpoint. This grouping of sides ensures a fulfilling mealtime experience.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Black Beans
The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Families love The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole because it pairs so well with simple sides. Crinkle-cut fries are always a hit when served alongside. Complement the meal with pickled vegetables for added tang. Little bowls of ketchup or mustard make for fantastic dipping options.
Get the Recipe: The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole
Cilantro Lime Rice

Try serving Cilantro Lime Rice with grilled shrimp or chicken fajitas for something special. A fluffy pile of black or pinto beans fits right in. Adding tortilla chips on the side is a tasty move. A side of fresh salsa brings everything together. Simple and flavorful, it’s a favorite in many kitchens.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice
Best Tuna Casserole

Start your meal with a deliciously comforting dish. Best Tuna Casserole pairs wonderfully with freshly steamed veggies. Its creamy texture and rich taste make it a must-have. Your family will keep asking for more. Perfect for any dinner.
Get the Recipe: Best Tuna Casserole
Dauphinoise Potatoes

Rich and creamy, these potatoes are a delight. Dauphinoise Potatoes can make any main dish shine. A touch of garlic and cheese turns simple potatoes into a showstopper. It’s a wonderful match with roasted meats. Every spoonful is pure comfort.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes
Chicken and Rice Casserole

A warm and hearty option for dinner time. Chicken and Rice Casserole brings together tender chicken and flavorful rice. Add a side of fresh greens to balance it out. It’s a complete meal in itself. Easy to make and sure to please everyone.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Casserole
French Bread

Freshly baked and perfectly crusty on the outside. French Bread is a fantastic addition to any meal. It pairs amazingly with soups, salads, or pasta dishes. Tear apart a piece and enjoy the soft inside. Simple, yet incredibly delicious.
Get the Recipe: French Bread
Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Crisp broccoli mixed with a refreshing dressing makes for a crunchy delight. Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing is a fantastic way to get your veggies in. It’s a great side dish for grilled meats or sandwiches. The creamy dressing ties everything together. It’s light, fresh, and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing
Hashbrown Casserole

Imagine a dish that’s both crispy and creamy. Hashbrown Casserole is a comforting side that’s great with breakfast or dinner. Its rich taste and texture make it irresistible. Serve it alongside your favorite eggs or main course. You’ll love every bite.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole
Best Zucchini Bread

Freshly baked with a moist texture and mild sweetness. Best Zucchini Bread is a treat for any time of the day. Great with coffee in the morning or as an afternoon snack. The subtle flavor pairs well with a variety of dishes. A tasty way to enjoy zucchini.
Get the Recipe: Best Zucchini Bread
Tuna Noodle Casserole

A classic dish with creamy noodles and tender tuna. Tuna Noodle Casserole is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Add a side salad to complete the meal. It’s a family favorite that’s easy to prepare. Comfort food at its best.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

A burst of freshness with a bit of heat. Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad adds a punch to your meal. It’s crisp, tangy, and slightly spicy. Perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or rice dishes. An exciting twist to traditional salads.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad
About the Author

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.
