The Real Reason You’re Excited For Dinner? 29 Side Dishes

Dinner might get all the attention, but it’s usually the side dishes that people end up talking about. With 29 options ready to steal the spotlight, the main course is just one part of the fun. These sides bring the kind of excitement that makes every plate feel a little extra.

Cheese Grits

We’re talking about Cheese Grits that are creamy and oh-so-comforting. Perfect as a side for nearly anything, they have the magic touch to make any meal special. Whether it’s breakfast or dinner, these grits bring warmth to your plate. You’ll find that they pair well with so many dishes.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Grits

Garlic Bread

Garlic Bread brings that golden crunch we all crave. Serve it hot, and you’ve got the perfect companion to any soup or pasta. It’s those simple garlic flavors that instantly make you feel homey and satisfied. Your dinners are about to get a whole lot more exciting.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Vegetable Fritters

Crunchy on the outside with a tender heart, Vegetable Fritters are a hit. These little golden fritters pack in a lot of flavor. Just right as a snack or side, they have the perfect mix of textures. A great choice when you want to add some veggies to the table.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fritters

Antipasto Salad

When you’re looking for a mix of textures and flavors, Antipasto Salad hits the spot. It’s a great way to start a meal or even enjoy on its own. Filled with a variety of ingredients, each bite is a new experience. This salad really allows you to explore lots of different tastes.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Focaccia Bread

Soft, fluffy Focaccia Bread brings a touch of the Mediterranean right to your table. Perfect for dipping, topping, or just enjoying on its own. It’s a side that pairs beautifully with many mains and soups. This bread adds that special something to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

Crispy Air Fryer Bacon is bacon taken to the next level. Crunchy and tasty without all the hassle, it’s an easy side for any meal. Enjoy it with eggs, on a sandwich, or even crumbled over a salad. Bacon lovers, you’re in for a treat.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

Asparagus Casserole

When it comes to a side dish that brings a little green to your plate, Asparagus Casserole is a standout. Imagine bites that blend tender pieces and a creamy texture. It’s a great way to add some veggies in a comforting way. Whether you’re having a small family dinner or a larger gathering, this dish will be appreciated.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

Funeral Potatoes

Funeral Potatoes are like a comforting hug on your plate. With a crispy topping and soft interior, this dish screams comfort. It’s perfect for those days when you need a no-fuss side that pleases everyone. Great for potlucks or just a family meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Dense Bean Salad

For something hearty yet refreshing, Dense Bean Salad is your go-to. It’s packed with protein and flavor, making it a great side or even a main. Each bite gives you a rewarding crunch and a burst of taste. This salad is perfect for those looking for a fulfilling dish.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

Best Zucchini Bread

Whether you have it for a snack, Best Zucchini Bread never disappoints. Moist and tender, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy zucchini. Sweet enough to enjoy on its own and versatile enough to pair with other veggies or cheese. This bread is a must-try.
Get the Recipe: Best Zucchini Bread

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Light, aromatic Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice pairs perfectly with so many meals. It’s a great base for your curries, stir-fries, and more. Enjoy its subtle fragrance as it complements your dishes. Great rice to enhance your dinner experience.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Easy Chow Mein

Adding a bit of variety doesn’t mean extra work, thanks to Easy Chow Mein. This dish brings a welcome change with its easy-to-love flavors. It’s a simple way to mix up the usual side options. Plus, it pairs well with almost anything you’re serving up as the main course.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

Garlic Knots

For something that feels a bit like a treat, Garlic Knots are the answer. They are soft on the inside with a golden brown outside. Great for dipping or enjoying on their own, these knots make any meal feel special. Perfect to share with family or friends.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Hot Honey Chicken Salad offers a sweet and spicy twist on the classic chicken salad. It’s perfect as a side or even as the main event. Fresh, flavorful, and with just the right kick, it’s a great way to mix things up. Add a bit of excitement to your meal with this unique salad.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Gnocchi

Soft little pillows of joy, Gnocchi are versatile and always delicious. Whether you sauté them up with sauce or add them to a soup, they bring comfort in every bite. Perfect for a quick dinner solution that feels special. These little dumplings are always welcome at the table.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

Hawaiian Baked Beans

A sweet twist on a classic, Hawaiian Baked Beans bring balance to your plate. Great with grilled meats or on their own, their unique flavor profile adds something special. Each bite is a mix of sweet whenever you need a fun side. Perfect for BBQs and family get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Baked Beans

Scalloped Potatoes

Creamy, layered Scalloped Potatoes are what comfort food dreams are made of. They’re rich, filling, making them a diner favorite. Perfect with a roast or all on their own. When you want something hearty, these potatoes are a great choice.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Mexican Street Corn

Enjoy a fun twist with Mexican Street Corn. It’s smoky, sweet, and delicious as a side for any Mexican dish. Great for adding a little pop to your meal with its bold flavors. This side is sure to bring smiles to everyone around the table.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn

Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

If you’re in the mood for something with a little bit of island flavor, Jamaican Red Beans and Rice is your pick. It’s filling, flavorful, and makes a great partner for meat dishes. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, it brings a little vacation to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Italian Pasta with Salami

Give your pasta a little kick with Italian Pasta with Salami. The mix of textures and flavors makes it a welcome addition to any meal. Serve it as a main or a side, it’s versatile and tasty. Perfect when you need to switch up your pasta game.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Take your potatoes to new heights with Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Creamy, crunchy, they’re an experience from start to finish. Perfect for when you need more than just regular potatoes. They’re sure to become a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Fresh and filled with a variety of textures, Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies is a winner. It’s light yet filling, making it a great side or even a main. Packed with flavors, it’s ideal for warm weather meals. Bring this to your next picnic or BBQ.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Sourdough Bread

A classic favorite, Sourdough Bread offers a tangy flavor that’s unbeatable. Perfect with soups, stews, or simply with butter. Its chewy texture makes it a versatile side for many dishes. If you’ve never tried making sourdough, now’s a great time to start.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bread

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Add some crunch to your meal with Red Cabbage Coleslaw. It’s bright, fresh, and pairs well with grilled meats or sandwiches. Easy to prepare and always a refreshing addition to any dish. Perfect for your BBQs and picnics.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Dauphinoise Potatoes

Enhance your dinner with Dauphinoise Potatoes. Creamy and cheesy, they’re everything you want in a potato side dish. Great with roasts or alone, they make any meal feel special. These potatoes are rich and bring a touch of elegance to your table.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Bring a touch of sweetness and crunch with Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. It’s a fresh and filling option that works as a side or a main. Light yet rewarding, it’s perfect for any meal. The combination of flavors keeps things interesting and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Baked Sweet Potato

Simple yet worthwhile, Baked Sweet Potato is a timeless favorite. It’s naturally vibrant flavor deepens as it roasts, filling the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that feels like a quiet celebration of good food. Its natural sweetness pairs well with many mains or stands alone. Easy to prepare, it’s wholesome and hearty.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato

Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

For a side that’s full of flavor, Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables can’t be beat. Each veggie is roasted to bring out its natural goodness. Easy to make and perfect for any dinner. This is a great way to add some veggies to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Macaroni Salad

Bring a classic to your table with Macaroni Salad. It’s creamy, crunchy, and filled with flavor, making it a must-have for gatherings. This salad is all about that timeless taste we all love. Perfect for BBQs, picnics, or a simple side dish at home.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad