The Spotlight Is On Sides With 29 Recipes You’ll Love

The spotlight’s on sides, and it’s about time. These 29 recipes are the kind of thing that steal the show when no one’s looking. Perfect for those who pretend the main dish is what matters, but we all know better. Warning: your relatives might start asking for the “real” recipe—and no, you’re not sharing unless bribed.

Mexican Street Corn Salad

If you’re craving a side that packs a punch, Mexican Street Corn Salad is your answer. It’s an easy choice for bringing some liveliness to your dinner table. The combination of creaminess and a touch of heat keeps things interesting. And it comes together so fast, it’s almost too good to be true.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Sourdough Bread

There’s something special about a freshly baked loaf of Sourdough Bread. Its crusty outside and soft inside go perfectly with pretty much anything you’re having. It’s always a win, from dipping into soup to piling on your favorite toppings. Plus, baking your own bread is straight-up impressive.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bread

Baked Rice

When things get hectic, Baked Rice is there to save your meal prep. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it side. Expect perfectly cooked grains without the fuss every single time. You’ll find it fits in seamlessly with whatever you’re serving.
Get the Recipe: Baked Rice

Healthy Chicken Salad

With Healthy Chicken Salad, you get a side that’s as nutritious as it is tasty. It’s not just for those trying to eat better—it’s a winner across the board. Take advantage of how well it stores for easy meal planning. Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy on its own or with your favorite bread.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken Salad

Garlic Bread

When you bake up some Garlic Bread, expect it to vanish in minutes. It’s the buddy your pasta was looking for and it’s super easy to make. Golden, crispy, with that irresistible garlic punch—it’s comfort food at its finest. Trust me, your whole gang will be asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

If you want to add an exciting side to the mix, try Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. It’s a crunchy, refreshing treat with a spicy kick that’s totally addictive. A snap to prep, it compliments heavier dishes by cutting through the richness. Serve this up and watch it disappear as fast as you made it.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Mac and Cheese

There’s no comfort food quite like homemade Mac and Cheese. Even with just a few ingredients, it comes out rich and creamy. Kids and adults alike can’t get enough of that cheesy pull. And it’s a no-brainer for gatherings or just a weeknight where you’re craving coziness.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Dense Bean Salad

For those days when you need a side that sticks to your ribs, there’s Dense Bean Salad. Packed with protein and easily customizable, it’s good food that feels good to eat. It’s perfect for meal prep because it keeps like a charm. And honestly, it’s just as good front and center as it is on the side.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

Everyone knows that Crispy Air Fryer Bacon is straight-up irresistible. It’s all the payoff of crispy bacon with none of the greasy skillet hassle. Whether you like it with breakfast or on top of a burger, it’s a solid move. And the air fryer makes it so incredibly easy—you’ll wonder why you ever did it any other way.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Bacon

Southern Cornbread

Southern Cornbread is not just a side; it’s the soul-warming companion to your favorite dishes. When made in a cast-iron skillet, it comes out with that perfect crust that’s pure gold. Let’s just say it’s the right kind of simple – not too fancy, just downright good. Whether with chili or just buttered up, it’s comfort food royalty.
Get the Recipe: Southern Cornbread

Italian Pasta with Salami

Upgrade your pasta game with Italian Pasta with Salami. Quick to prepare, it offers a flavorful change of pace from the usual pasta night. Pair it with a salad or enjoy it as it is—either way, it’s going to be a highlight. Plus, it’s a nice way to bring a bit of Italy home without the plane ticket.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Let Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables offer you a hands-off side that’s both healthy and satisfying. These veggies roast away in the oven, giving you time to focus on your main dish. Their naturally sweet, earthy taste is an easy win for any meal. And honestly, the cleanup is a breeze—what’s not to love?
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Who said chicken salad had to be boring? Definitely not Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. It’s a refreshing twist on a classic, with bites of sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans. It’s as good in a sandwich as it is on its own—seriously, give it a shot.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Bring a little island flavor to the table with Jamaican Red Beans and Rice. It’s robust enough to be eaten by itself or as a complementary side. The slow-simmered spices and herbs make each spoonful pop. And really, it’s comfort food with a side of tropical vibe—no passport required.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Mashed Potatoes

For a side that everyone at the table will love, just say hello to Mashed Potatoes. They’re creamy, they’re dreamy, and they go with literally everything. Making them is a snap, whether you like them smooth or with a bit of chunk. And come on, who doesn’t love a good scoop of mashed potatoes?
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes

Stuffed Peppers

Step up your side dish collection with peppers that are filled to the brim with goodness, creating a perfect companion to any main dish. Stuffed Peppers are the way to go for a comforting add-on to your dinner tonight. They manage to make every meal feel just a bit more complete. Plus, everyone loves a dish that’s as fulfilling as it is tasty.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

Easy Chicken Casserole

When you need something that’s both filling and comforting, Easy Chicken Casserole fits the bill perfectly. This casserole has become the ultimate go-to on busy weeknights. It’s exactly what you need when you’re looking for a hearty addition to the dinner table. Just slide it in the oven for a hassle-free cooking experience.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

Garlic Knots

If you’re in the mood for something buttery and garlicky, then these knots are just what you need. Garlic Knots serve as the ideal pre-dinner nibble or a perfect side to your favorite pasta dishes. Their soft, aromatic nature is irresistible. Break one open and watch as everyone digs in for more.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Easy Chow Mein

Give the usual dinner routine a twist with a dish that brings an Asian flavor right to your table. Easy Chow Mein is as good as your preferred takeout and pairs nicely with a variety of dishes. It’s a lifesaver on busy evenings, offering a delicious change of pace with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

Sweet Potato Fries

Swap out the ordinary potato fries for something with a bit more color and a hint of sweetness. Sweet Potato Fries stand out as a vibrant, crunchy option that’s hard to resist. Ideal for those looking to shake things up at mealtime. With their crispy edges and soft insides, they’re a true favorite.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries

Crunchy Onion Rings

Nothing beats the satisfying crunch of these onion favorites when you’re craving something with a bit of bite. Crunchy Onion Rings offer a mouth-watering addition to any burger or can stand proudly on their own. They’re so popular, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got plenty to go around.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

Vegetable Fritters

For a perfect little veggie-packed bite, these fritters are just the ticket. Vegetable Fritters come together quickly, offering a crispy, tasty, and somewhat greener alternative for your side dish cravings. They introduce a pleasant variety that’s hard to beat, especially if you’re looking to add more vegetables to your meal in a fun way.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fritters

Antipasto Salad

Antipasto Salad brings a touch of Italian flair to your meal, making it anything but ordinary. With this salad, you get a mix that’s refreshing and pairs wonderfully with Italian mains. It’s a bright spot on the table, offering a different kind of freshness that’s well-received at any dinner.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Crispy Shallots

Sometimes, it’s the smallest touches that make the biggest difference in a meal. Crispy Shallots add that much-needed crunch and flavor to top off any dish, making it from good to unforgettable. They’re simple, versatile, and upgrade your meal with barely any effort. A little goes a long way for a fantastic finish.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shallots

Bacon Wrapped Smokies

These little bites are always the highlight of any gathering, making hosting a breeze. With Bacon Wrapped Smokies, you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that’s as delicious as it sounds. They’re the perfect combination of smoky and savory, proving hard to resist. Watch them disappear as soon as you bring them out.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Dinner Rolls

No dinner spread is truly complete without the soft, fluffy presence of Dinner Rolls. These rolls are what you reach for to complement any meal, ideal for mopping up the last bits of sauce or enjoying as a warm, buttery start. They’re an essential at any meal, disappearing before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Seven Layer Salad

For a dish that impresses with both taste and presentation, look no further. Seven Layer Salad is a spectacle of colors and textures, making it a surefire hit at any table. It’s not just about looks; each layer offers its own unique flavor, combining to create a perfectly balanced bite.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

Asparagus Casserole

When you’re looking for a dish that’s a bit on the richer side, this casserole doesn’t disappoint. Asparagus Casserole brings together creamy goodness and healthful greens in one perfect dish. It complements any meaty main beautifully, making it a standout choice for family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

Hawaiian Baked Beans

Hawaiian Baked Beans offer a unique twist on a classic side, introducing a hint of sweetness to your meal. These beans are something a bit different, sure to be a hit with their mix of flavors. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats, making them a must-have for any dining occasion.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Baked Beans