I Make 29 Fall Side Dish Recipes That Never Get Left Behind

At every fall gathering, these 29 side dishes somehow become the real stars of the table. Guests keep circling back like it’s a buffet they paid for. Even the “I’m just here for dessert” people get caught red-handed. By the end, the serving spoons are sitting in empty dishes like they’ve been through a battle.

A mouthwatering close-up of pumpkin soup garnished with a swirl of cream, crunchy pumpkin seeds, a crispy slice, and aromatic sage leaves.
Pumpkin Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Beet Salad

A close-up of a salad featuring chopped beets, cucumber, feta cheese, walnuts, and fresh herbs on a white plate.
Beet Salad. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

You’d be surprised how much you’ll love Beet Salad after one bite. It’s the kind of dish that stands out on the table for all the right reasons. Something about its balance of tangy and earthy flavors makes it too good to pass up. This side always disappears fast, so plan for seconds!
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad

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.

Everyone loves Crack Chicken Casserole for its creamy and comforting vibe. It’s hearty enough to feel like a main but also works great as a side. Packed with layers of satisfying textures, it’ll win over the whole crowd. You’ll definitely be asked for the recipe after this one.
Get the Recipe: Crack Chicken Casserole

Baked Zucchini

Roasted zucchini halves garnished with chopped parsley on a white plate.
Baked Zucchini. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

No one ever expects Baked Zucchini to steal the spotlight, but it always does. It’s simple and hits just the right spot. Whether it’s the texture or the flavor combo, it’s hard to stop at just one serving. This is proof that veggies can be unbeatable.
Get the Recipe: Baked Zucchini

French Onion Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with a golden-brown breadcrumb crust and garnished with fresh herbs.
French Onion Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Comfort food takes a whole new meaning with French Onion Casserole. It’s rich, packed with layers, and perfect for any big meal. The balance of flavors in every single bite makes it so memorable. Don’t be shocked when people ask for seconds, or thirds.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Casserole

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.

Nobody says no to Mac and Cheese, and for good reason. It’s creamy, cheesy, and always a favorite for kids and adults alike. It’s one of those sides that feel timeless and just right with every meal. You can’t go wrong with this classic on your table.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Cabbage Casserole

A close-up of a baked casserole dish filled with creamy cabbage gratin, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust, with a serving spoon partially visible.
Cabbage Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

You might not expect Cabbage Casserole to be the crowd-pleaser, but it always is. It’s hearty, warm, and has that homey vibe everyone loves. You get comforting layers of goodness in every forkful. Trust me, this one doesn’t get left behind.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Casserole

Honeycrisp Salad

A bowl of mixed greens salad with sliced Honeycrisp apples, walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
Honeycrisp Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

You can’t go wrong with Honeycrisp Salad as a fresh and sweet side. It’s perfect when you need something light to balance out heavier dishes. Every bite feels refreshing, and it never overshadows the main course. It’s the kind of thing your plate needs.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad

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.

Fresh, warm Dinner Rolls always make the meal feel complete. They’re soft, buttery, and perfect for grabbing with any dish. Whether you’re soaking up sauce or eating them plain, they’re an instant hit. Make extra, you’ll need them.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Hamburger Casserole

A close-up of a spoon lifting a portion of hamburger casserole, showcasing baked macaroni and cheese layered with ground meat and topped with lettuce and creamy sauce.
Hamburger Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Comfort food is redefined with Hamburger Casserole. It’s hearty, satisfying, and has everything you want in a filling side dish. The layers just bring it all together in the best way. This one’s a winner every single time it’s served.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

Hot Honey Chicken Salad

A honey hot chicken salad with succulent fried chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese crumbles, cucumber slices, and mixed greens, all topped with a creamy dressing.
Hot Honey Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

People don’t realize how good Hot Honey Chicken Salad can be until they try it. It’s got a great balance of heat and sweetness that pairs well with so many meals. It feels like an upgrade on regular chicken salad. Guaranteed to be a hit when you serve it.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad

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.

Don’t forget about Garlic Knots to round out your spread. They’re soft, buttery, and pack just enough garlic to keep things interesting. Whether it’s dinner or a casual gathering, these always go fast. Take one, or they might all be gone.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Spaghetti Casserole

A serving of cheesy baked spaghetti is being lifted with a utensil. The dish is topped with melted cheese and garnished with herbs.
Spaghetti Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Spaghetti Casserole tries to steal the whole show every time, it’s that good. The layers of pasta and rich sauce just scream comfort. Something about it makes it impossible not to go back for seconds. Everyone at the table won’t stop talking about it.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

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.

There’s nothing like a warm, buttery carb fix. Garlic Bread is one of those side dishes that works with almost anything on your table. It’s crispy on the outside yet soft inside, and it soaks up sauces perfectly. You’ll want to grab extra, because it’s always the first to go.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Gnocchi

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

Craving something that balances between pasta and dumplings? Gnocchi might just become your new favorite dish. These fluffy bites make anyone come back for more and bring an Italian flair to your meal. Each bite is like a little pillow of goodness that leaves you wanting the next one.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

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.

Some dishes just feel like pure comfort food. Southern Cornbread is one of those recipes that’s crumbly yet soft, with the perfect balance of textures. It’s great alongside soups, stews, or just a dollop of butter. Nobody skips this side when it’s on the table.
Get the Recipe: Southern Cornbread

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.

If you need a dish that could practically double as a main, Million Dollar Casserole is the way to go. Creamy and layered, it’s got just the right mix of richness and texture. It’s the side dish you’ll make, and everyone will talk about for years. Good luck having leftovers of this one!
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Casserole

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.

Rice doesn’t have to be plain, and Baked Rice proves it. Perfectly textured and packed with just the right amount of seasoning, it’s a step up from the everyday. This dish works great to soak up gravies or as a base for just about anything. Plus, it’s dead easy to throw together.
Get the Recipe: Baked Rice

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.

You need something for a veggie option that doesn’t feel like an afterthought. Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe manages to be sweet with just the right hit of balance so it’s not over the top. They’re tender, colorful, and hard to resist. Even picky eaters go for seconds here.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

Twice Baked Potatoes

Twice-baked potatoes topped with melted cheese and chopped green onions on a baking sheet.
Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sometimes basic mashed gets boring, and you want to change it up. Twice Baked Potatoes bring creaminess, a little texture, and that iconic crispy top everyone loves. They’re great to make ahead, and they’re just as good reheated. Perfect for weeknights or special dinners.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

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.

When you want a side that’s equal parts comforting and versatile, Easy Cornbread Casserole delivers. It’s moist, just a little bit sweet, and always crowd-pleasing. Pair it with anything from BBQ to roasted veggies, and it fits right in. This one’s a classic for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole

Leek and Potato Soup

A bowl of creamy soup garnished with sautéed green onions and herbs.
Leek and Potato Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Soup lovers, you’re going to want to keep this one in mind. Leek and Potato Soup is creamy, simple, and sticks to the good basics. It’s the perfect side to have alongside something crispy, like toast or a sandwich. No heavy need to dress it up, it just gets it right.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

Green Bean Casserole

A casserole dish filled with green bean casserole with a spoon in it.
Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Enjoy a classic made just right every time. You can’t go wrong with Green Bean Casserole at any gathering. This dish always walks the line between crispy and creamy perfectly. Family and friends will definitely be coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Focaccia Bread

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

If you’re over plain rolls, Focaccia Bread is where it’s at. It’s got a great texture that’s airy yet dense enough to dip into soups or oils. Plus, it’s perfect for ripping apart with your hands, not too fancy, just good. It’s kind of a bread upgrade you didn’t know you needed.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

Sweet Potato Wedges

Roasted sweet potato wedges sprinkled with herbs on parchment paper.
Sweet Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet potatoes are just unbeatable in terms of versatility. Sweet Potato Wedges are crispy on the edges, soft in the center, and have the ideal mix of simple seasoning. They make a great swap for fries or classic roasted potatoes. Kids, adults, and everyone in between grab these fast.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Wedges

Egg Casserole

A casserole dish containing egg casserole.
Egg Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Breakfast for dinner, anyone? Egg Casserole is hearty, easy to customize, and can carry just about anything you throw in. It’s perfect as a main or even cut into smaller squares for a side. Either way, it’s reliable, super filling, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole

Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Three baked sweet potatoes topped with minced meat, melted cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions on a white plate.
Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Looking for a cozy dish that’s both hearty and unique? Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes are the twist you’ve been craving. Imagine the classic dish with a surprising sweet kick, perfect for any day. It’s one of those meals that’s both filling and hits all the right spots.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Cauliflower Steaks

Cauliflower steaks with pomegranate and pistachios on a plate.
Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mix things up with some plant-based goodness during dinner. Cauliflower Steaks offer a fulfilling and healthy alternative to the usual meaty options. They hold their own on any plate and are always a hit. You’ll love the way these hold the sauce just right.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Steaks

Dauphinoise Potatoes

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

For those who can’t resist creamy and rich dishes, this one’s for you. Dauphinoise Potatoes are everything you hope for in a decadent casserole side. These layers are melt-in-your-mouth tender and perfect for any gathering. Seriously, this one never stays on the table for long.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Pumpkin Soup

A mouthwatering close-up of pumpkin soup garnished with a swirl of cream, crunchy pumpkin seeds, a crispy slice, and aromatic sage leaves.
Pumpkin Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Want to try a dish that screams comfort in a bowl? Pumpkin Soup is your answer. It’s smooth, heartwarming, and always delivers a punch of coziness. Perfect for slow evenings or when you need something warm and familiar. You’ll wonder why it wasn’t a staple in your home sooner.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Soup

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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