49 Fall Sides Inspirations That Bring Just Enough Autumn Attitude
49 fall sides inspirations show how easy it is to mix a little autumn flavor into weeknight meals or special occasions. Cooler months call for something different, even when you just want an extra dish alongside the main course. Making seasonal sides is a simple way to keep things interesting without adding extra stress.

Hearty Wild Rice Casserole

Steamy spoonfuls from this Hearty Wild Rice Casserole fill cold days with rich flavor and color. Chewy rice mixed with autumn veggies makes every bite fun to try. I serve this often at big dinners because the dish disappears so quickly. Nature’s best grains always seem even better in cozy fall casseroles.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Wild Rice Casserole
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Smooth, cheesy layers in this Cheesy Funeral Potatoes turn every dinner into a celebration. People reach for seconds before the pan even cools, letting you know it’s a true fall favorite. I like making extras, since friends ask to take some home. Warm comfort food always feels right as the weather turns crisp.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Bubbly cheese hiding soft squash gives this Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese a sweet twist on a classic. Kids and adults both scoop big spoonfuls as soon as it hits the table. I bring this out on chilly evenings because it’s special but easy to make. Recipes that mix veggies and pasta always get attention.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Crunchy Asian Slaw

Colorful and crisp, bowls of this Crunchy Asian Slaw wake up drowsy fall menus in seconds. A mix of crunchy vegetables brings extra energy to heavier autumn meals. I like to set this out at holiday potlucks for a fresh surprise among all the warm foods. Tangy slaw helps brighten things before desserts appear.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Asian Slaw
Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Crispy outsides covering fluffy centers make this Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes a star at every meal. These bites crackle with every chew, making snack time more fun. I toss a plate on the table for game nights and watch them disappear. Potato croquettes help bring autumn together with crunch and comfort.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes
Buttery Garlic Bread

Few scents beat the aroma from this Buttery Garlic Bread as it leaves the oven. Golden slices steal everyone’s focus, and plates empty fast at big family gatherings. I grab extra to make sure there’s enough for dipping in soups. Garlic bread belongs on every fall menu when you want simple comfort.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Garlic Bread
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Scooping up this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole makes fall suppers feel complete. Melty cheese inside crispy bites gets lots of happy reactions from hungry guests. I rely on this dish for chilly evenings around the dinner table. Hashbrown casseroles make every night feel a bit like a party.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
Golden Crunchy Onion Rings

Hot rings from this Golden Crunchy Onion Rings recipe snap with every bite. Everyone grabs one before they even sit down, making them an easy hit for fall potlucks. I pile onion rings high because no one can seem to stop at one. Crunchy snacks bring fun attitudes to autumn gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crunchy Onion Rings
Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto

Tender rice mixed with sweet squash makes this Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto extra special. Soft spoonfuls cheer up even the coldest evening and always encourage second helpings. I use this dish to start fancy dinners since it looks so pretty on the plate. Risotto with fall veggies helps set the mood before the main meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto
Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Roasting carrots and potatoes for this Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables lets their natural sweetness shine. Veggies with golden edges fill the kitchen with autumn smells that get everyone eager for dinner. I serve this at big meals since it matches every fall main course. Roasted vegetables seem like fall in every forkful.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
The Best Corn Casserole

Warm and sunny in look, this The Best Corn Casserole gives dinner a fun, sweet side dish. Soft corn and fluffy filling make even picky eaters come back for more. I add corn casserole to holiday menus since it’s always a hit. Sides like this help balance out all the savory flavors on the plate.
Get the Recipe: The Best Corn Casserole
Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Smooth and creamy spoonfuls from this Buttery Mashed Potatoes always get cheers for simple comfort. Golden mounds make any dinner feel like Thanksgiving, no matter which month it is. I mash big batches so nobody misses out at big fall gatherings. Mashed potatoes pair with everything and keep people smiling.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Fluffy Egg Fried Rice

Bowls of this Fluffy Egg Fried Rice bring color and lightness to the autumn spread. Each spoonful offers something different, and leftovers disappear quickly each time. I serve fried rice for quick holiday lunches or as a side to big dinners. It’s one of those dishes everyone enjoys, no matter the season.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Egg Fried Rice
Mushroom Gravy

Drizzling this Mushroom Gravy over potatoes brings deep, earthy flavor to cold-weather plates. The smooth sauce gets lots of requests from guests who love cozy autumn meals. I keep extra warm on the stove so people can use it on veggies or bread. Mushroom gravy helps make leftover night feel just right.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy
Soft Garlic Knots

Warm rolls of this Soft Garlic Knots pull apart easily, making dinner feel special without any stress. Chewy bites are perfect for dipping or just enjoying plain. I bake extra so there’s enough for late-night snacking. Soft bread with garlic always turns a simple meal into something to talk about.
Get the Recipe: Soft Garlic Knots
Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes

Creamy layers in this Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes give comfort with each forkful. Southern-style potatoes feel like a hug on cold autumn nights. I make a double batch for big holiday parties because extra always vanishes. Mashed potatoes are the classic side people count on every fall.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes
Fresh Beet Salad

Pops of red and purple in this Fresh Beet Salad make dinner plates look colorful and exciting. Crisp vegetables with a hint of sweetness start fall meals off bright. I hand out extra helpings since it pairs well with heavier mains. Beet salad keeps things fresh as the days grow shorter.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad
Spicy Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins

Soft muffins from this Spicy Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins give dinner a kick that’s sweet and fun. Bits of heat mixed with gentle honey draw curious eaters to try a taste. I bake these for autumn parties where everyone wants something different. Cornbread with surprises always brings a smile.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins
Tender Baked Zucchini

Green rounds from this Tender Baked Zucchini fit easily into any fall feast. Gentle baking keeps them soft and inviting for picky eaters. I pass this dish around the table, since it vanishes right away. Zucchini seems even better oven-baked in autumn.
Get the Recipe: Tender Baked Zucchini
Creamy Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta

Pasta fans go wild for this Creamy Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta because it feels new and cozy at the same time. Creamy sauce hugs each noodle, making every bite exciting and warm. I serve this pasta for sleepovers and group meals when people want to try something trendy. Cheese and noodles always lead to happy faces.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta
Cheesy Eggplant Casserole

Savory, soft bites from this Cheesy Eggplant Casserole turn a simple vegetable into a fall superstar. The melty cheese draws everyone to the table and keeps them coming back for seconds. I use this option when I want extra color on my autumn plate. Eggplant with cheese feels special for chilly nights.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Eggplant Casserole
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Rich layers in this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham fill cool evenings with comfort and smiles. Tender bites blend potatoes with savory ham, making every forkful hearty and memorable. I pick this dish for potluck gatherings since leftovers never seem to last. Potato casseroles with ham brighten up fall menus.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Loaded Big Mac Sliders

Serving up this Loaded Big Mac Sliders adds fun bites that everyone wants to try. Piled high and colorful, these sliders bring out big smiles before the main dish even arrives. I use them for birthday dinners or game nights so people get excited. Easy-to-eat foods help fall parties feel lively and casual.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Big Mac Sliders
Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Glossy, golden bites from this Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze shine as a must-try autumn side. The glaze helps each sprout taste a little fancy without being tricky to make. I lay these out for holiday meals, and plates always look brighter. Brussels sprouts get a boost with autumn-inspired toppings.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Golden Sweet Potato Fritters

Fresh from the pan, these Golden Sweet Potato Fritters look and taste like autumn in a bite. Crunchy edges with pillow-y insides make them perfect for breakfast or dinner. I serve sweet potato fritters with cider for an extra touch of fall. Warm fritters turn snack time into something special as the leaves change.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sweet Potato Fritters
Creamy Green Bean Casserole

Classic recipes like this Creamy Green Bean Casserole never fail at big autumn feasts. Creamy sauce and crispy toppings keep eaters coming back for another helping. I line up extra baking dishes to handle the crowd at Thanksgiving. Green bean casserole is the side every fall table needs.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Green Bean Casserole
Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Apple slices in this Crisp Honeycrisp Salad bring crunch and cold sweetness to heavier meals. Tangy dressing wakes up even the sleepiest autumn plate. I use this salad for group dinners so people get a chance to taste something bright. Crisp apples help fall flavors shine.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad
Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes

Fans of this Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes love the golden edges in every slice. The cool pattern makes them fun to eat and even better to show off. I pass these potatoes around for holiday meals where everyone wants a cool-looking side dish. Hasselback style brings a new twist to fall potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Fan-Out Crispy Hasselback Potatoes
Fluffy Egg Casserole

Rising high out of the dish, bites from this Fluffy Egg Casserole start any meal with color and comfort. Soft eggs fill bellies before bigger foods arrive. I pick this casserole for weekend brunches so nobody leaves hungry. Fluffy casseroles make chillier mornings extra bright.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Egg Casserole
Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Tangy forkfuls from this Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Salad wake up the mouth before the main event. Light, juicy chicken pairs with a little kick, making dinner feel lively. I toss this salad together on nights when fall weather needs a punch. Salads with both sweet and spicy flavors start the night on a fun note.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Salad
Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Thick slices of this Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes give off deep flavor, making plain potatoes feel extra special. Every serving draws requests from folks who want something bold. I stack extra trays to keep everyone happy during autumn gatherings. Potato sides like this one prove fall is all about comfort.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Easy Cornbread Casserole

Soft and a little sweet, bites from this Easy Cornbread Casserole fit right in at fall family meals. Quick mixing means more time with friends and less time in the kitchen. I lean on cornbread casseroles for potlucks, since everyone says yes to a second slice. Cornbread sides bring warmth that matches the season.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole
Tender Roasted Broccoli

Hot from the oven, chunks in this Tender Roasted Broccoli darken just enough to taste nutty and warm. Even people who skip green sides dig in for a bite or two. I serve roasted broccoli at busy autumn dinners when everyone needs something simple. Roasting helps broccoli thrive in chilly months.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli
Perfect Baked Potato

Cutting open this Perfect Baked Potato releases steam and excitement at any dinner table. Toppings piled high give each person a chance to make their own special side. I keep baked potatoes on hand for last-minute fall dinners. Potatoes help every meal feel big and cheerful.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Baked Potato
Crispy Stuffing Balls

Fall gatherings get a boost with crunchy rounds from this Crispy Stuffing Balls plate. Every bite offers a taste of Thanksgiving with a new twist. I roll extra balls for snacks while watching football after big meals. Autumn stuffing goes from classic to fun when you shape it up.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Stuffing Balls
Soft Homemade Gnocchi

Chewy dumplings from this Soft Homemade Gnocchi turn pasta night into a treat. Big smiles from hungry guests mean the dough has done its job. I whip up gnocchi for cozy fall suppers with warm sauces nearby. Soft bites help pasta stand out, especially as the seasons cool.
Get the Recipe: Soft Homemade Gnocchi
Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Plates covered in this Crispy Smashed Potatoes fill the room with crunchy sounds and laughter. The rough edges brown up beautifully for dipping and sharing. I bring smashed potatoes to game nights since they travel well and taste great hot or cold. Smashed styles keep potato sides fresh for fall.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

Shiny bites from this Easy Honey Glazed Carrots bowl catch everyone’s eye before main dishes arrive. Sweet with just a touch of warm spice, these carrots help set autumn’s tone. I toss carrots with honey for quick sides at holiday parties. Carrots prove that even the plainest vegetables look fun in the fall.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots
Caramelized Sweet Potato Cubes

Little cubes in this Caramelized Sweet Potato Cubes pan turn golden and sweet before your eyes. People grab extras because these bites mix well with every dinner you serve. I double up on sweet potato sides when fall brings out the cold. Caramelized cubes win hearts at every table.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Sweet Potato Cubes
Soft Dinner Rolls

Warm rolls from this Soft Dinner Rolls batch lift autumn meals with each pull-apart bite. Carving space for butter is always a must before eating. I line baskets with extra rolls for hungry hands at fun fall feasts. Dinner rolls make cozy nights a little softer and sweeter.
Get the Recipe: Soft Dinner Rolls
Creamy Macaroni Salad

Chilled bowls of this Creamy Macaroni Salad add a different flavor next to hot fall foods. Creamy pasta and veggie bites start meals off cool and light. I pack macaroni salad for picnics and potlucks during crisp weather. Pasta salads help balance any autumn spread.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Macaroni Salad
Easy Spaghetti Casserole

Tammy plates of this Easy Spaghetti Casserole lead to smiling faces and extra full bellies. Simple and rich, this dish always brings someone back for seconds. I make extra for cold days when comfort wins. Cheesy spaghetti casseroles keep autumn dinners easy and memorable.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spaghetti Casserole
Colorful Antipasto Skewers

Rows of this Colorful Antipasto Skewers stand out at fall parties with bright veggies and savory bites. Guests like making their own combinations before the main eats arrive. I lay out antipasto skewers for stress-free hosting. Fun finger foods help feasts feel creative and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Skewers
Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Setting this Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower in the center of the table transforms dinnertime. Crisp edges with a soft center encourage everyone to take a slice. I show off whole roasted veggies for holiday meals when something unique is needed. Roasted cauliflower brings healthy comfort to fall gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower
Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Fluffy marshmallows blanket the top of this Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows in sweet clouds. Every spoonful feels like dessert and dinner at the same time. I sing the praises of this dish every fall since people request it for every party. Sweet casseroles keep autumn time cozy.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows
Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Leftover turkey gets a second chance in these Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls. Tangy cranberries add a pop of color and flavor to every bite. I plate these for post-holiday snacks and appetizers. Stuffing balls make big holiday flavors easier to share.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
Cheesy Pizza Casserole

Thick slices of this Cheesy Pizza Casserole help turn chilly nights into pizza parties. Gooey cheese and savory bites keep everyone at the table just a few minutes longer. I rely on pizza casseroles for quick group dinners. Comfort foods should be fun, especially when autumn is here.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Pizza Casserole
Sourdough Stuffing

Classic stuffing gets a makeover in this Sourdough Stuffing that’s fluffy inside with a crisp top. The tangy bread gives new energy to the usual autumn flavors. I serve big bowls of stuffing for holiday feasts because plates clean up fast. Sourdough helps make fall meals memorable.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Stuffing
Cheesy Potato Casserole

Golden cheese stretching across each serving makes this Cheesy Potato Casserole hard to resist. Potatoes layered underneath help the whole dish feel rich and warm. I bring this option to game-day parties or family nights. Fall casseroles should be cheesy, hearty, and ready for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole
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.
