Side Dish Recipes That Prove Sides Can Be The Most Exciting Part With 29 Dishes

Let’s be honest, half the fun of eating is what’s happening off to the side. And when there are 29 different ways to make those extras the real highlight, you know something’s up. People might start asking for seconds before the main course even lands. These aren’t just supporting acts—they’re stealing the spotlight and the last spoonful.

Crispy Shallots

If you’re looking to add a bit of crunch to your meal, these are a game changer. Nestled atop any dish, Crispy Shallots bring a surprising texture that’s hard to resist. They’re incredibly versatile, working well in both fancy and simple meals. Just a handful can transform a side dish into the star of the show.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shallots

Dauphinoise Potatoes

Imagine a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Dauphinoise Potatoes are just that, making any dinner table look more sophisticated. They’re creamy, indulgent, and have that perfect golden top that everyone fights over. Trust me, they often steal the spotlight from the main course.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Buffalo Chicken Salad

Here’s something for those who love a bit of kick in their meals. Buffalo Chicken Salad combines spicy flavors with the coolness of salad, creating a perfect balance. It’s not just another salad; it’s a bold statement on your dinner table that promises excitement with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Salad

Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

Everyone knows bacon makes everything better, but Crispy Air Fryer Bacon takes it to a whole new level. It’s not just for breakfast; it can top anything from burgers to salads, bringing that beloved smoky crispiness. Plus, making it in the air fryer is a game changer, offering less mess and more flavor.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

Bacon Wrapped Smokies

When you want to bring something unforgettable to a get-together, Bacon Wrapped Smokies are the way to go. These little bites of heaven are smoky, savory, and oh-so addictive. They’re the perfect blend of smoky sausage and crispy bacon, making them disappear from the plate in no time.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Cheese Grits

For a southern twist, Cheese Grits showcase how simple ingredients can create something extraordinarily cozy and inviting. They’re creamy, cheesy, and soul-warming, making any meal feel like a hug on a plate. Pair them with anything from shrimp to vegetables, and watch them become an instant favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Grits

Seven Layer Salad

If you think salads are boring, Seven Layer Salad will change your mind. It’s layered with colors, textures, and flavors that make each forkful exciting. It’s a crowd-pleaser not only because it looks impressive in a clear bowl but also because it tastes just as vibrant as it looks.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

Hasselback Potatoes

Hasselback Potatoes bring a touch of elegance to the humble spud. With their fan-like appearance, crispy edges, and soft center, they are a feast for the eyes and the palate. These spuds are not just a side; they’re a statement, making any regular meal feel like a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

Antipasto Salad

When you’re in the mood for Italian but want to keep it light, Antipasto Salad is your go-to. It’s brimming with a variety of flavors and textures from meats, cheeses, and olives. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a bold foray into the heart of Italian cuisine, proving salads can be the main attraction.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Potato Casserole

Sometimes, you just need something hearty and comforting, and that’s where Potato Casserole comes into play. It’s loaded with creamy, cheesy goodness that feels like a warm embrace. Perfect for a family dinner or gathering, it’s guaranteed to please a crowd and fill your home with a welcoming aroma.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Bright, tangy, and ridiculously colorful, Red Cabbage Coleslaw is the perfect side to liven up your plate. It’s not just about the vibrant color; it’s the crunchy texture and fresh taste that can refresh any meal. Whether it’s next to BBQ or fish, it brings a lively contrast that’s hard to overlook.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Asparagus Casserole

Asparagus Casserole combines the elegance of asparagus with the heartiness of a casserole. It’s a vibrant dish that can stand proudly next to any main, earning its place with a mix of textures and flavors. Not only does it scream “spring” with its fresh taste, but it also brings a comforting warmth that’s perfect for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

Best Zucchini Bread

Who said sides can’t be sweet? Best Zucchini Bread is here to prove them wrong. This bread is moist, tender, and packed with flavor, making it a welcome addition to any table. It’s versatile too, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Once you try it, you’ll find any excuse to bake another loaf.
Get the Recipe: Best Zucchini Bread

Crunchy Onion Rings

If you’re after that perfect crunch, Crunchy Onion Rings are where it’s at. They are the ultimate side, offering a fulfilling bite that’s hard to beat. Perfect for dipping or just munching on their own, they turn any meal into an exciting event. Forget about soggy rings; these are all about that irresistible crunch.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

For a twist on a classic, Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese offers a comforting hug with a hint of sweetness. It’s creamy, it’s cheesy, and it has that comforting flavor we all love, with a twist that surprises and delights. It’s a side dish that doesn’t just complement the main; it might just steal the show.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a delicious way to enjoy your veggies. It’s rich, it’s creamy, and it has a golden cheesy crust that’s utterly irresistible. This dish is a testament to how vegetables can be the main star, offering a comfort food experience that even the pickiest eaters can’t help but love.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Garlic Knots

Let’s not forget about Garlic Knots, those little pieces of heaven that no one can resist. They’re fluffy, garlicky, and finished with a generous sprinkle of parmesan, making them the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Be it pasta, salad, or just on their own, they always manage to steal the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Bringing the flavors of street food right to your table, Mexican Street Corn Salad is bursting with flavor. It’s fresh, it’s spicy, and it’s utterly addictive. With each bite, you get a taste of summer, no matter what time of the year it is. This side dish is more than just a salad; it’s a celebration of flavors that brightens up any meal.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Southern Cornbread

Southern Cornbread is a classic that never disappoints. It’s sweet, it’s savory, and it has a crumbly texture that makes it the perfect side for chili, BBQ, or just about anything. It’s a dish that brings comfort with each bite, evoking memories of family dinners and gatherings. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed at any meal.
Get the Recipe: Southern Cornbread

Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Looking for something truly indulgent? Mississippi Mud Potatoes are the answer. They’re rich, creamy, and loaded with all the good stuff. This dish takes potatoes to a whole new level of deliciousness, making them hard to resist. Perfect for when you want to bring a bit of indulgence to your meal, they’re a surefire way to impress.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Healthy Chicken Salad

For those seeking a lighter option, Healthy Chicken Salad is a refreshing choice. It’s packed with flavor, yet light enough not to weigh you down. It’s the perfect side dish that easily doubles as a main, ideal for days when you want something fulfilling yet healthy. This salad proves that eating well doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or enjoyment.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken Salad

Eggplant Casserole

If you’re a fan of comfort food, Eggplant Casserole is a must-try. It’s hearty, it’s rich, and it’s packed with flavors that meld together beautifully. This dish turns a simple vegetable into a star, showing off how versatile and delicious eggplant can be. It’s a comforting side that’s perfect for any occasion, promising satisfaction in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Spice up your salad game with Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. It’s a vibrant, spicy, and refreshing dish that brings a bit of excitement to any meal. With a creamy dressing that complements the spice perfectly, it’s a balanced dish that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed Peppers are as colorful as they are delicious. They’re a vibrant side dish that’s bursting with flavors and textures. Filled to the brim with a wonderful mix, they’re not just a treat for the eyes but also for the palate. Whether you’re looking for something light or hearty, these peppers fit the bill, making your meal more exciting and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

Focaccia Bread

There’s nothing like freshly baked Focaccia Bread to complete a meal. It’s fluffy, it’s aromatic, and it has that perfect crunch on the outside. This bread isn’t just a side; it’s a piece of art, with its beautiful dimples and fragrant herbs. It’s the perfect vehicle for soaking up sauces or enjoying on its own, elevating any meal from good to unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Sometimes, simplicity is key, and Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice proves just that. It’s delicate, it’s fragrant, and it perfectly complements any dish, making it a staple in many meals. This rice isn’t just a filler; it’s an essential part of the dining experience, enhancing the main dish with its subtle, sweet flavor and soft texture.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Hawaiian Baked Beans

Take a trip to the tropics with Hawaiian Baked Beans. They’re sweet, slightly tangy, and irresistibly savory, offering a unique twist on a classic side dish. These beans are a surefire way to add excitement to any meal, bringing a bit of island flavor to your table. They’re not just beans; they’re a flavorful adventure.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Baked Beans

Yellow Squash Casserole

Yellow Squash Casserole is a wonderful way to enjoy summer squash. It’s creamy, it’s comforting, and it has a cheesy topping that makes it irresistible. This dish showcases the squash in a hearty, comforting way, making it a favorite at any table. It’s a great example of how a simple vegetable can be transformed into a standout dish.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Squash Casserole

Baked Rice

For a cozy and comforting side, Baked Rice is a fantastic choice. It’s fluffy, it’s warm, and it has a depth of flavor that you just can’t get from stovetop rice. This dish takes a staple grain and upgrades it into something special, turning it into a comforting dish that complements any main. It’s simple yet surprisingly fulfilling, making it a must-try for any rice lover.
Get the Recipe: Baked Rice