51 Fall Side Dishes Everyone In My Family Agrees On

Every fall get-together needs snacks that make people think you spent all day in the kitchen. The kind that looks like a five-star effort but secretly takes half the fuss. These 49 side dishes pull off that magic trick perfectly, impressive on the outside, easy behind the scenes.

Breakfast potatoes with parsley on a wooden cutting board.
Breakfast Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

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.

When cheesy layers show up at dinner, plates get cleaned out fast. Crack Chicken Casserole mixes creamy bites and simple crunch that everyone wants more of. Good on its own or paired with grilled meats. People ask for seconds before it’s gone. Always gets voted back on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Crack Chicken Casserole

Egg Fried Rice

Oval dish filled with fried rice garnished with chopped green onions.
Egg Fried Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Quick rice sides make busy nights smoother. Egg Fried Rice is crispy, filling, and doesn’t weigh you down. Serves well with bold main dishes or grilled proteins. Handy for leftovers and even cold lunches. The pan is usually empty after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Egg Fried Rice

Asian Slaw

A bowl of colorful coleslaw with shredded purple and green cabbage, carrots, chopped peanuts, and greens, mixed with dressing.
Asian Slaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crunchy salads add balance next to all the heavier mains. Asian Slaw keeps things fresh, light, and colorful at the table. Eat it solo or pile it on sliders and tacos. It’s one of those sides that gets repeat requests. Works every time for picky eaters too.
Get the Recipe: Asian Slaw

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.

Bright colors pop out in a bowl and grab everyone’s attention. Beet Salad brings subtle sweetness and crunch with every bite. Pairs well with other veggies or lean proteins. Easy to prep in advance. Plates are always empty by the end of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad

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.

Soft layered sides add comfort to every meal. Cabbage Casserole shows up with a creamy finish and never lasts long. No matter what main dish you serve, this pairs up without hassle. Handy for potlucks or regular dinners. Family always asks for it again.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Casserole

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.

Warm bread on the table is a sure win with any crowd. Southern Cornbread comes out fluffy and firm for easy slicing. Perfect for dipping or eating plain. Pairs up with chili or BBQ dinners. You’ll see people grab extras for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Southern Cornbread

Mexican Rice

A close-up of cooked Mexican rice with a wooden spoon, garnished with chopped parsley.
Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Hearty rice bowls make dinner feel complete. Mexican Rice brings color, flavor, and a soft texture you’ll want every week. Mixes well with spicy mains or wraps. Family likes it with lunch leftovers too. Fast to make and gone at meals.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice

Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins

Cornbread muffins topped with sliced jalapeños in white paper liners, arranged on a wooden surface.
Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Muffins with a kick always get curious looks at dinner. Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins balance sweet with mild heat for every bite. Works well with soups or BBQ. Good for snacks the next day. Bowls empty quickly with these on the side.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins

Butternut Squash Risotto

A bowl of risotto topped with roasted pumpkin pieces, grated cheese, and fresh parsley, with a checkered napkin and herbs nearby.
Butternut Squash Risotto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy rice sides stack the plate with comfort. Butternut Squash Risotto fills you up with soft bites and a hint of sweet flavor. Nice with roasted meats or simple veggies. Perfect for second helpings. Requested over and over for dinner parties.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Risotto

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.

Colorful trays look great with every meal. Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables give crunch and flavor so everyone gets a bit of something different. Quick to serve crowds. Works for snacking after dinner too. No leftovers with these veggies.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

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.

Cheesy layers and crispy tops set this side apart. French Onion Casserole works with steak dinners and comfort food nights. The dish is a favorite at big family tables. Always leads to people hunting for seconds. Family asks for it every time.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Casserole

Grilled Corn on the Cobb

Four grilled corn cobs topped with crumbled cheese, chopped herbs, and spices are arranged on a white plate.
Grilled Corn on the Cobb. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hands-on sides break up the main meal in a fun way. Grilled Corn on the Cobb brings smokiness and fresh crunch in each bite. You’ll see everyone reaching for a second round. Pairs with nearly every main. Always gets finished before dessert rolls out.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn on the Cobb

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.

Bites with a kick keep meals interesting. Hot Honey Chicken Salad pops with flavor and fills you up without weighing you down. Good for topping sandwiches or serving as a side bowl. Gets talked about after dinner. Loves being part of any spread.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crispy layers mixed with creamy filling make dinner better. Hashbrown Casserole is easy to scoop and holds up the next day for leftovers. Perfect partner for big breakfasts or grilled meats. Usually, the dish is gone before anyone notices.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown 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.

Plates get filled quickly when fluffy slices are ready. Garlic Bread smells amazing before dinner starts and works for dipping or eating plain. Family grabs extra pieces with every meal. Matches up with pasta or soup. Always wanted to attend weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Corn Casserole

Corn casserole in a casserole dish with a portion removed.
Corn Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Classic sides that never get old bring everyone to the table. Corn Casserole comes out creamy and soft, perfect for pairing with anything. Makes big servings for group meals. Scoops are gone before the drinks are finished. Good with lunch leftovers too.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Sautéed Kale

A white bowl filled with sautéed kale and sliced garlic, with a fork lifting a portion from the bowl.
Sautéed Kale. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Green sides don’t have to be ignored at dinner. Sautéed Kale is light and packs a crunch that’s simple to prep. Matches up with rice, potatoes, or meats. Stays fresh for lunch the next day. Even skeptical eaters come back for more.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Kale

Wild Rice Casserole

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Wild Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hearty grains break up the plate and leave everyone satisfied. Wild Rice Casserole matches big flavor and pleasing crunch for easy serving. Great for lunches or weeknight dinners. The pan is always empty after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

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.

Everyone smiles when a crispy snack hits the table. Crunchy Onion Rings stack up high and pair with sauces or sandwiches. Easy to eat by hand. Gone fast with crowd dinners. People ask for these for every tailgate or party.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

Scalloped Potatoes

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

Creamy bites with a soft finish win over families every time. Scalloped Potatoes fill plates up and stay rich for leftovers. Works with grilled or roasted mains. You always need an extra batch. Never any complaint with this side.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

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 knots with a buttery outside make snacking fun at dinner. Garlic Knots pull apart easy and work as a starter or side. Pairs with soups, pastas, or meats. Gone before you know it! There is no slice left in the basket.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Honeycrisp Salad

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

Sweet and fresh salads keep dinners feeling light. Honeycrisp Salad stays crunchy and colorful, great for pairing with heavy mains. The bowl empties before the rest of the meal finishes. People ask about making it again soon.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad

Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes on parchment paper, with dollops of sauce and sprigs of dill.
Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Potatoes with the edge win out over bland sides every meal. Smashed Potatoes have a crispy top and soft inside for extra comfort. Perfect for any roast or grill night. Quick cleanup after dinner. Gone fast at every table.
Get the Recipe: Smashed Potatoes

Spanish Rice

A bowl of seasoned rice garnished with chopped herbs, served in a beige ceramic dish.
Spanish Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Rice with extra kick changes up dinner without much effort. Spanish Rice brings color and flavor that goes with tacos, grilled meats, or roasted veggies. Good for meal prepping. Always gets finished before the main courses disappear.
Get the Recipe: Spanish Rice

Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Casserole dish with Brussels sprouts, crispy onions, cheese, and herbs, mixed with a spoon.
Brussels Sprouts Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy veggie sides get a spot alongside classics for a reason. Brussels Sprouts Casserole brings crunch and smoothness in every forkful. Plates always get cleared. Handy for any holiday or weeknight meal. Makes leftovers for breakfast too.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts 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.

Thick slices of bread with herbs always get interest at dinner. Focaccia Bread is soft, flavorful, and works for dipping or snacking. Never sticks around long. Good for packing up the next day. Perfect match for soups or salads.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

Yellow Squash Casserole

Squash casserole being served with a wooden serving spoon.
Yellow Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Soft veggie sides add color and comfort to every meal. Yellow Squash Casserole comes out creamy with a little crunch on top. Fits in with grilled chicken or fish. Great for picky eaters. Family puts it on the favorite list quickly.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Squash 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.

Sides with a twist turn regular dinners into something new. Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes are easy to scoop and feel more fun than mashed potatoes. Good as a base next to proteins. Disappears quickly at the table. People ask for this at potlucks too.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Macaroni Salad

A spoon lifting a serving of creamy macaroni salad with diced red onion and fresh herbs, with pepper sprinkled on top.
Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy and cold pasta salads make eating veggies easy. Macaroni Salad brings crunch, color, and gets everyone to take a scoop. Handy for leftovers or next-day lunches. Shows up on repeat with family meals. Always runs out before dinner is finished.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

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.

Hearty sides fill plates and stomachs without fuss. Hamburger Casserole brings comfort in every bite and pairs up fast with green sides. Good for busy nights or lazy weekends. Everyone at the table keeps asking for it.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta

A white dish filled with cooked fusilli pasta, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, with a silver fork resting inside.
Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy pastas with a trendy twist make side dishes more fun. Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta stacks up flavor and smoothness for every plate. Great for pairing with meats or eating solo. Usually the pan gets licked clean. Popular for sharing with friends.
Get the Recipe: Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta

Baked Zucchini

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

Veggies with crunchy edges pull people in for seconds. Baked Zucchini is soft inside and works with grilled mains. Easy cleanup makes it a go-to for busy nights. People start grabbing this one before salads even get served.
Get the Recipe: Baked Zucchini

Gnocchi

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

Soft bites with a chewy finish keep dinner interesting. Gnocchi pairs well with sauces, roasted meats, or veggies. Quick to prep for a busy week. Family comes back for second helpings. No leftovers make it to the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

Baked Potato

Baked potatoes on a serving dish with sour cream and fresh parsley.
Baked Potato. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Classic sides can make any dinner complete. Baked Potato offers warm bites with a fluffy center and crispy skin. Piled up with sauces or toppings for extra comfort. Fast to prepare for any night of the week. Plates look empty after it’s on the table.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato

Big Mac Sliders

Two sloppy joe sliders with melted cheese and ground beef filling stacked on a plate, with lettuce and a bowl in the background.
Big Mac Sliders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Stackable snacks show up at dinner and steal the spotlight from plain sides. Big Mac Sliders come out looking fancy but take little effort. Eats well with fries or salad. Plates are wiped clean every time. Worth repeating for parties and casual meals.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Sliders

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.

Bright sides catch the eye and taste sweet with any meal. Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe feeds a crowd and pairs well with chicken or pork. Quick to cook and easy to serve. Always gone fast at dinner. Shows up often in family requests.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

A person scooping a sweet potato casserole out of a baking dish.
Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fun toppings put classic sides over the edge. Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows brings creamy bites with a gooey crunch. Good for holiday or regular meals. Everyone gets seconds when you serve this. Hard to keep any left for lunch.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

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.

Cheesy comfort fills bowls every time you serve dinner. Mac and Cheese show up golden, bubbly, and quick to vanish. Works with BBQ or roast mains and packs well for leftovers. You’ll need big pans for big crowds.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Pasta bakes always make the table happy. Ravioli Casserole stacks up soft bites with sauce and creamy edges. Plates get cleared before salads make the rounds. Requests for repeat servings start before it’s gone. Good for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Dauphinoise Potatoes

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

Cheese and cream turn potatoes into a favorite on the table. Dauphinoise Potatoes bake up with a rich texture that matches any main course. Always the side people talk about. Scoops disappear before you reach for seconds. Good for holidays and simple nights.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise 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.

Warm, soft sides work with all main dishes. Easy Cornbread Casserole offers comfort and easy serving. Slices hold up for second helpings. Never sticks around for leftovers. Families want this one on the weekly menu.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole

Cauliflower Steaks

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

Veggie slices with roasted edges make dinner more special. Cauliflower Steaks hold up for mains or serve as a base for other flavors. Quick prep and easy plating. Great for helping everyone eat their veggies. Cleans up fast after the meal.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Steaks

Marry Me Chicken Casserole

A casserole dish filled with baked pasta topped with melted cheese and garnished with chopped herbs.
Marry Me Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Crowd-pleasing layers always get finished fast. Marry Me Chicken Casserole keeps dinner quick and filling. Soft bites and creamy finish win over every plate. Handy as leftovers or the next day’s lunch. Requests come in for every gathering.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Casserole

Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.
Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crisp salads break up heavy plates and clear out fast. Antipasto Salad packs flavor with each forkful. Handy for lunch boxes or busy nights. Works well as a starter or paired with meats. Even picky eaters ask for it again.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Egg Casserole

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

Simple casseroles feed crowds with lots of options. Egg Casserole comes out soft, fluffy, and easy to slice. Fills plates for brunch or dinner. Packs up perfectly for leftovers or snack trays. Almost always gets finished on the spot.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole

Antipasto Skewers

A plate of antipasto skewers with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, olives, artichoke hearts, cured meats, and a drizzle of green pesto.
Antipasto Skewers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bites on sticks make dinners fun with zero hassle. Antipasto Skewers pair flavors and colors for easy grabbing. Handy for casual and big gatherings alike. Rarely any left by dessert. Always asked for again next time.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Skewers

Sweet Potato Cubes

Sweet potato cubes on a plate with a dipping sauce.
Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bite-sized veggie pieces feed a crowd with minimal fuss. Sweet Potato Cubes roast up crispy and stay soft inside. Handy for meal prep or snacking. Kids love grabbing handfuls of the tray. You’ll see requests for more right away.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cubes

Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

A casserole dish with zucchini and cheese on it.
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Veggie bakes with a cheesy top make dinner happier for everyone. Cheesy Zucchini Casserole gives soft, creamy layers and blends well with grilled meats. Usually, the first side dish is finished. Simple and quick for any meal. Good for leftovers the next day.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Funeral Potatoes

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.
Funeral Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Any dinner gets better with creamy, crispy sides. Funeral Potatoes stack flavor and texture, perfect with roasted or grilled mains. Plates are cleaned before anything else. Good for brunch, dinner, or even snacks. Always shows up at family tables.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

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.

Pasta casseroles rarely last long at family tables. Spaghetti Casserole packs in sauce, cheese, and soft noodles for big portions. Perfect for dinner parties or quick weekday meals. Seconds always get served. No one complains about repeats.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Breakfast Potatoes

Breakfast potatoes with parsley on a wooden cutting board.
Breakfast Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crispy spuds start off every brunch or dinner right. Breakfast Potatoes work as a side for main courses or stand alone for simple nights. Good hot or cold for next-day snacking. Easy to mix up flavors. Families ask for them weekly.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Potatoes

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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