Banish Boring Sides Forever With 29 Tasty Recipes

Meals feel more complete when sides are full of flavor. A little extra seasoning or a new twist can turn them into something special. Even simple dishes can be made richer and more exciting with the right mix. There’s no need for boring sides when 29 tasty recipes can keep things fresh and fun.

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.

Southern Mash

Mashed potatoes on a white plate.
Southern Mash. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Looking for a side dish that isn’t boring, Southern Mash is the comfort food that fits the bill. It’s rich, creamy, and pairs well with just about any main dish. If you’re stuck in the routine of bland sides, it’s a game-changer. This is what transforms a regular dinner into something special.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Cowboy Casserole

Close-up of a cowboy casserole in a white dish, showing layers of ground meat and vegetables topped with a golden-brown mashed potato crust, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cowboy Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes, you need a side dish that mixes things up. Cowboy Casserole is like a fun twist on traditional sides. It’s hearty, flavorful, and great for any family meal. When you’re tired of the same old options, it adds something exciting to the table. You’ll love how it complements your main dishes perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Casserole

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries with a dipping sauce.
Sweet Potato Fries. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Say goodbye to regular fries and hello to something better. Sweet Potato Fries are crispy with a touch of natural sweetness. They make a great side for burgers, chicken, or anything you’re having. When you need a break from the usual sides, these fries are perfect. Get ready to enjoy every bite.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries

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.

Everyone loves a good plate of something classic. Mac and Cheese fits in with nearly any meal. It’s cheesy, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you find regular sides to be dull, this one never disappoints. Add it to your dinner table for a simple way to keep things interesting.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Cheesy cauliflower casserole in a white dish with spoons.
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Adding veggies to your meal doesn’t have to be boring. Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole brings a tasty twist to typical vegetable dishes. It’s a great way to make sure everyone enjoys their greens. When you’re looking for something different, it’s the perfect side dish. Serving this at dinner will shake things up in a good way.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower 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.

Ordinary potato dishes don’t stand a chance against something more exciting. Funeral Potatoes offer a creamy, crunchy experience that’s unique. They’re great for sharing with friends and family, and they never feel dull. If you’re done with boring potatoes, these are a must-try. They quickly become the new family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Wild Rice Casserole

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

Rice doesn’t have to be plain and uninspiring. Wild Rice Casserole is a fantastic side that brings both flavor and texture. It’s perfect with poultry, beef, or fish, making it a versatile option. When regular rice isn’t cutting it, this casserole stands out. Everyone will appreciate how much it enhances the meal.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

A close-up image of honey chipotle seasoned roasted potatoes garnished with parsley, served alongside grilled steak and lettuce.
Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes you need a side with a bit of punch. Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes deliver with a mix of sweet and spicy. It almost steals the spotlight from the main course. Ideal for adding excitement to your meal, it pairs well with various dishes. This combination makes every meal feel memorable.
Get the Recipe: Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

Corn Casserole

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

It’s time to rethink what you know about corn dishes. Corn Casserole turns regular corn into a rich, creamy side everyone loves. It’s an excellent addition to meats and veggies alike. Perfect for breaking the monotony of everyday sides, it adds freshness to any meal. You’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Corn 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.

Plain bread is fine, but something more flavorful makes meals better. Garlic Bread is crunchy, garlicky, and a perfect complement to many dishes. Whether you’re having soup, salad, or pasta, it never feels ordinary. If regular bread isn’t cutting it, this option adds a great twist. Enjoy how it enhances every meal.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Scalloped Potatoes

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

Think of layers of tender potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Scalloped Potatoes bring warmth to any meal and are perfect for sharing at family dinners. They come out of the oven golden and bubbling, making them irresistible. Simple ingredients can make such a comforting side dish. Say goodbye to those plain sides forever.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Easy Tater Tot Casserole

A serving of tater tot casserole on a spoon.
Easy Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Combining crispy tater tots with a rich, hearty filling, Easy Tater Tot Casserole is a treat. It’s a balanced mix of textures and flavors that makes it a crowd-pleaser. Quick to throw together, it’s ideal for busy nights. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven, with melty cheese on top. Your side dish game just got stronger.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Slices of cucumber tossed in spicy Korean dressing.
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Have a refreshing bite with Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. Its crisp, spicy, and tangy flavors wake up your palate. The perfect mix of crunchy vegetables with a kick of spice, it pairs well with any main dish. No more bland sides, just exciting textures and tastes. Try this for a change from the ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

A dish of ravioli with bacon and parsley that can be found at Olive Garden.
Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy, rich, and loaded with flavor, Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara is a must-try. Each bite brings the taste of a restaurant dish to your home. Perfectly cooked ravioli nestled in a rich sauce makes it a hit at any table. It’s an easy way to impress without too much effort. Consider your side dish dilemmas gone.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Pizza Salad

Homemade pizza salad in a serving bowl with wooden salad servers resting on top.
Pizza Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mixing all your favorite pizza flavors into a fresh salad, Pizza Salad is both unique and tasty. The combination of fresh greens and classic pizza toppings brings a new twist to your meals. Easy to prepare and fun to eat, it becomes a quick favorite. Everyone will love this new take on an everyday side. A fresh approach to banishing boring sides.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Easy Chicken Casserole

A fork lifting a cheesy bite from a bowl of chicken casserole topped with bacon and breadcrumbs.
Easy Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Comforting and easy to make, Easy Chicken Casserole can quickly become a family favorite. With a blend of hearty ingredients, it’s both fulfilling and delicious. Perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead for busy weeknights. Every bite brings warmth and hominess that everyone loves. Move over boring sides, there’s a new star at the table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

A bowl of freshly made Copycat Chipotle corn salsa with a serving spoon in it.
Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Add a touch of excitement to your side dishes with Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa. Sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy, this salsa brings a burst of flavor to every bite. Perfect for pairing with chips or as a topping for other dishes, its versatility is unmatched. Whip it up in no time and see how a simple mix of ingredients can transform your meals.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

Easy Walking Taco Casserole

A freshly baked taco casserole garnished with lettuce, tomatoes, and green onions.
Easy Walking Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Combining all the fun of a taco in a dish, Easy Walking Taco Casserole is both flavorful and effortless. Layers of classic taco ingredients baked to perfection make this a hit at mealtime. Serve it straight from the baking dish for a fun and unique dining experience. Perfect for nights when you need something quick and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Easy Walking Taco Casserole

Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Chipotle black beans cooked and in a serving bowl.
Copycat Chipotle Black Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Rich and flavorful, Copycat Chipotle Black Beans add a delicious element to any meal. These beans are cooked to perfection with just the right amount of seasoning. They can complement a variety of dishes well and are super easy to make. Forget boring sides and choose this tasty option instead. Filling and flavorful, they won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Fork lifting a serving of cheesy cheeseburger casserole garnished with parsley.
The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Hearty and delicious, The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole combines all the flavors you love from a classic cheeseburger into a delicious dish. It’s packed with ground beef, melted cheese, and a tasty sauce. Perfectly layered and baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Everyone will ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Cilantro Lime Rice

Chipotle rice in a bowl with sliced lime and spoons.
Cilantro Lime Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A side dish that’s far from boring, Cilantro Lime Rice brings a burst of fresh flavor. It pairs perfectly with any main course, adding a hint of twist . Mixing rice with lime and cilantro makes it both tangy and fragrant. Try it and watch as it easily becomes a family favorite. Cook it once and you’ll want to serve it with every meal.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Best Tuna Casserole

Tuna casserole in a white baking dish.
Best Tuna Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Why settle for the usual when you can have Best Tuna Casserole? This dish combines tender tuna with creamy sauce, creating a comforting treat. Perfect for those who crave a hearty meal, it brings warmth to the table. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any night of the week. Discover how it turns a simple dinner into a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Best Tuna Casserole

Hasselback Potatoes

Roasted hasselback potatoes on a baking sheet with parmesan.
Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Inject some fun into your meal with Hasselback Potatoes, an appealing twist on a classic. These potatoes turn out crispy on the outside and soft inside. Sliced just right and baked to perfection, they make every dinner special. Add your favorite toppings for a personalized touch. A real crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Baked rice casserole with melted cheese on top, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Looking for a simple yet flavorsome dish, Chicken and Rice Casserole has got you covered. It features tender chicken mixed with fluffy rice, all baked in a harmonious blend. This one-pan meal simplifies dinner time without sacrificing taste. Serve it up for a cozy night in, and enjoy the comfort it brings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Casserole

Dauphinoise Potatoes

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

Dress up dinner with Dauphinoise Potatoes, a creamy and sophisticated side. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in cream offer a rich and luxurious taste. It’s an excellent choice for a special dinner or everyday meal. Each bite melts in your mouth, making it an irresistible treat. Upgrade your dining experience with this classic French dish.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Tuna Noodle Casserole

A baking dish filled with golden-brown baked tuna noodle casserole, topped with breadcrumbs and garnished with chopped parsley.
Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Make dinner exciting with Tuna Noodle Casserole, a comfort food staple. Combining noodles, tuna, and a creamy sauce creates a mouthwatering dish. It’s easy to whip up and perfect for busy weeknights. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the harmony of flavors and textures. Get ready to add this to your beloved recipes.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole

French Bread

A person is holding French bread.
French Bread. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Add some crunch to your meal with French Bread, fresh out of the oven. This crispy, golden bread pairs well with any dish. Its soft inside contrasts wonderfully with its crusty exterior. Baking it at home makes the experience even more special. Embrace this classic accompaniment and transform any dinner into a feast.
Get the Recipe: French Bread

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

A bowl of Thai jasmine rice with chili peppers on side.
Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Say goodbye to plain rice with Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice, an aromatic treat. It’s perfectly fluffy and pairs with various dishes. This rice adds an exotic touch and aroma to your meal. Simple to make yet impressively tasty, it’s a versatile side. Enjoy it with any main course and experience a taste of Thailand.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

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.

Tired of dull sides, Add a pop to your menu with Macaroni Salad. It’s a fun dish that steps away from the mundane. Perfect on its own or alongside your favorite entrée, it brings a smile to any mealtime. Watch as it becomes a new favorite.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

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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