Some side dishes are more like superheroes in disguise, always coming through when needed. Whether it’s a casual meal or a special occasion, these 21 trusty options never let anyone down. They complement just about anything without stealing the show, proving that sometimes the support act is just as important. Perfect for those moments when you need a reliable addition to the main dish without overthinking it.
Parmesan Crusted Potatoes
Who doesn’t love a crispy potato dish? Add a sprinkle of cheese and you’ve got a side that’s hard to resist. Parmesan Crusted Potatoes are your go-to when you want something with a crunchy outside and a soft, warm inside. They’re perfect for those moments when you need a reliable side that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Crusted Potatoes
Cheesecake Salad
Ever thought salad could taste like dessert? Well, that’s exactly what you get with Cheesecake Salad. It’s a sweet treat that pairs well with any meal, offering a unique blend that surprises first-timers. For those days when a regular salad just won’t do, this dish brings joy and a dash of whimsy to the table.
Get the Recipe: Cheesecake Salad
Egg Bites
For a savory start to your day or a protein-packed side, Egg Bites are the answer. They’re easy, customizable, and always a hit whether it’s breakfast or brunch. Loaded with flavor, they make a filling addition to any meal without weighing you down. Plus, they’re a fun way to get your protein in, with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites
Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes
When you’re craving comfort food, Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes come to the rescue. Think of them as the superhero of side dishes, complete with all the toppings that make your mouth water. They’re the epitome of cheesy goodness, making every bite better than the last. Perfect for those nights when only the most filling side will do, these potatoes deliver big on taste and comfort.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes
Greek Quinoa Salad
Light, refreshing, but surprisingly filling, Greek Quinoa Salad hits all the right notes. It’s the ideal choice for hot days or when you’re aiming for a healthier meal option. This salad mixes crunch with the nutty flavor of quinoa, creating a side dish that stands out. Whether you’re having a casual lunch or a dinner party, it’s versatile enough to complement any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Greek Quinoa Salad
Classic Mushroom Bourekas Recipe
Who said mushrooms had to be boring? Classic Mushroom Bourekas turn this humble ingredient into stars of the show. Wrapped in flaky pastry, these little parcels are a joy at any gathering. Ideal for when you want to offer something warm and inviting, they’re a testament to how simple ingredients can create magic.
Get the Recipe: Classic Mushroom Bourekas Recipe
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots
Miss the flavors of your favorite takeout option? Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots brings that experience home. They’re a hit at parties or as a treat during game night, offering a twist on traditional tots. Loaded with flavor, they promise to be a memorable side that steals the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots
Best Easy and Creamy Squash Casserole
For those chilly nights when only the warmest, most comforting dishes will do, Best Easy and Creamy Squash Casserole serves up coziness in a dish. It’s like a warm hug for your stomach, making it a favorite for both kids and adults. With its creamy texture, it pairs beautifully with any meal, promising to warm you from the inside out. It’s the side that you’ll crave on those cold, sweater-weather days.
Get the Recipe: Best Easy and Creamy Squash Casserole
Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven
Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven offers a healthier take on crispy sides without skimping on flavor. Perfect for when you’re looking to add more greens to your meal in a way that’s both flavorful and filling. These zucchini slices turn golden and crispy, proving that healthy can still be exciting. They’re the side that everyone will be reaching for, making you the hero of healthy eats.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Baked Zucchini in Oven
Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe
Looking for a dish that’s as nutritious as it is colorful? Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes are the answer, bringing a burst of freshness to your plate. They’re perfect for those times when you want something light yet fulfilling. Packed with flavors, these tomatoes are a beautiful addition to any meal, proving that healthy options can be just as exciting.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe
Instant Pot Mexican Rice
Say goodbye to bland side dishes with Instant Pot Mexican Rice. It’s a flavorful companion to any Mexican inspired meal, bringing a bit of zing that’s hard to resist. Ready in no time, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend. This rice proves that convenience doesn’t have to mean compromise on taste, making it a favorite for those hectic days.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mexican Rice
Popeyes Coleslaw
Craving something cool and crisp? Popeyes Coleslaw brings a classic taste home, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and tang. It’s an excellent side for BBQs or anytime you want a bit of crunch to complement your meal. This coleslaw is the underrated hero that completes any dish, proving that sometimes, simple is best.
Get the Recipe: Popeyes Coleslaw
Ratatouille with an Italian Flair
Bring a touch of elegance to your table with Ratatouille with an Italian Flair. This dish upgrades vegetables to a whole new level, combining them in a way that’s both beautiful and delicious. It’s perfect for impressing guests or when you want to treat yourself to something special. Full of vibrant colors and flavors, it’s a showcase of how veggies can make a dish shine.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille with an Italian Flair
Au Gratin Potato Stacks
When you’re in the mood for something cheesy and comforting, Au Gratin Potato Stacks are here to satisfy. These little towers of joy are a fantastic twist on a classic, delivering both taste and presentation. Ideal for special occasions or when you want to upgrade your dinner game. They’re proof that with just a bit of creativity, you can transform everyday ingredients into something extraordinary.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks
Marinated Tomatoes
Marinated Tomatoes are a simple yet vibrant side that adds a splash of color and flavor to any meal. They’re the perfect choice when you want something light and refreshing, with a hint of something special. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just need a quick side for dinner, these tomatoes fit the bill. They remind us that sometimes, the best tastes come from the simplest of methods.
Get the Recipe: Marinated Tomatoes
Sesame Noodles
Sometimes, all you want is something quick and flavorful, and Sesame Noodles are exactly that. They’re a delicious twist on ordinary noodles, bringing together a blend of flavors that’s hard to beat. Ideal for those lazy days or when you need a side dish in a pinch. They’re the easy-going, delicious side that effortlessly complements any Asian-inspired meal.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Noodles
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
For a side that’s both hearty and healthy, Grilled Cauliflower Steaks stand out. They offer a wonderful option for those looking for something different, yet filling. These “steaks” are a testament to how versatile cauliflower can be, turning a simple vegetable into the star of your meal. They’re a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to add more vegetables to their plate in an exciting way.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Chicken Miso Soup
Nothing beats the comfort of a warm bowl of soup, and Chicken Miso Soup is like a gentle embrace for your soul. It’s the perfect remedy for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. This soup combines flavors in a way that’s soothing and filling, making it a must-have side for any meal. It’s a comforting classic that never disappoints, promising a feeling of warmth and well-being with every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Miso Soup
Creamy Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes
For a colorful twist on a classic, Creamy Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes catch the eye and please the palate. They bring an unexpected splash of color to the table, alongside a creamy texture that’s hard to resist. Perfect for making dining a bit more exciting, they’re a wonderful way to impress guests or treat yourself. They remind us that sometimes, going off the beaten path with your side dishes can lead to delicious surprises.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes
Air Fryer Radishes
With Air Fryer Radishes, you discover a whole new way to enjoy this often-overlooked vegetable. They come out crispy and delicious, offering a lighter alternative to traditional fried sides. Perfect for when you’re craving something crispy without all the guilt. They’re the quick, easy, and healthy side that’s sure to turn heads and change minds about what an air fryer can do.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Radishes
Apple Cranberry Salad
Brighten up your meal with the refreshing taste of Apple Cranberry Salad. This dish combines sweet and tart flavors in a way that’s crisp and invigorating. Ideal for those days when you need a quick, light side that still packs a flavor punch. It’s a great reminder that salads don’t have to be boring, proving that a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cranberry Salad