Side dishes have a notorious rep for playing second fiddle, but let’s be honest, sometimes that so-called “supporting” act is the real headliner. You’re here for sides that’ll make your entrée do a double-take and wonder where it all went wrong. These 15 recipes are about to make that main course seem like an afterthought.

Baked Sliced Zucchini

Get ready to push your main dish to the side because these Baked Sliced Zucchini are about to steal the show. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up these zucchini slices that come out of the oven crispy on the edges and soft in the middle. They’re seasoned with Parmesan and Italian spices for that extra kick. Top them off with more Parmesan, and you’ve got a side that’s both quick and great for adding more veggies to your plate. They’re perfect for any day of the week and even when you’ve got guests over.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sliced Zucchini

Parmesan Crusted Potatoes

Your main course might just get jealous with these Parmesan Crusted Potatoes on the table. They’re a crowd-pleaser, with a crunchy outside and a soft inside, all thanks to a combination of garlic powder, bread crumbs, Parmesan, and herbs. Spice them up with red pepper flakes and cayenne. These potatoes are a great choice when you want to make something special without too much trouble.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Crusted Potatoes

Halloumi Fries

These Halloumi Fries are about to make you forget all about your main dish. They’re golden, they’re crispy, and they’re the perfect match for your favorite dips. To make them, just slice the halloumi, coat it with seasoning, and give it a quick fry. A pinch of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of salt and pepper is all it takes to make these fries shine. And for the spice lovers, a splash of Sriracha will add that extra kick. They’re a great pick for livening up your meal and sparking conversations around the table.
Get the Recipe: Halloumi Fries

Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad

When you’re looking for something fresh to sit next to your main dish, this Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad is the way to go. It’s got crisp cucumbers and sharp red onions, all mixed up in a creamy dill dressing that’s smooth with a mix of sour cream, mayonnaise, and fresh dill. Give it a quick 30-minute chill, and it’s ready to serve. This salad is great for those scorching days or alongside a hearty meal, keeping things light and fresh. Plus, it’s a smart choice for meal prep, staying fresh for days.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad

Golden Baked Jicama Fries

Get set to introduce your taste buds to Golden Baked Jicama Fries, a side dish that’s as fun as it is new. You’ll spend a bit over an hour on these, but most of that time, they’re just doing their thing in the oven. Start by peeling and slicing the jicama, boil it to soften, toss it with avocado oil, a sprinkle of turmeric, and garlic powder, then bake until they’re just right. These fries are great for anyone wanting to try a healthier side without missing out on that indulgent feel. They’re easy to make and a fresh alternative to traditional fries.
Get the Recipe: Golden Baked Jicama Fries

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

This Twice Baked Potato Casserole is the kind of side that might just overshadow your main course. It’s a hearty mix of fluffy russet potatoes, crispy bacon, and a creamy blend of sour cream, milk, butter, and cheese, all seasoned to perfection. It’s a one-dish wonder that brings together all those comforting flavors in every bite. You can count on this casserole to keep everyone at the table satisfied and save you the trouble of making a bunch of different sides.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice is that fresh side dish you’ve been looking for to shake things up a bit. Take cauliflower florets and pulse them until they’re the size of rice grains, then cook them up with some onion and jalapeño for a bit of a kick. Finish it off with a splash of lime juice and zest for that bright, citrusy flavor. It’s a light option that’s perfect for days when you want to keep things simple yet flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese

When you bring out these Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese, don’t be surprised if they get all the attention. They’re layered with tomatoes, cheeses, and a mix of herbs and seasonings, all finished with a drizzle of olive oil or avocado oil. Once baked until the cheese is bubbly and broiled until golden, they’re ready to serve in about 25 minutes. Quick to prepare, these tomatoes are a colorful and flavorful addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese

Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower

This Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower might just make you forget there’s even a main dish. Start by simmering the cauliflower in chicken stock, then roast and broil it to get that perfect crispiness on the outside. While it’s roasting, baste it with melted butter, sprinkle on some Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper. In 30 minutes, you’ve got a side that’s easy on your wallet and effort but big on flavor. It’s great for those days when you want to keep things simple but still put something impressive on the table.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Fried Cabbage with Bacon is the kind of side that can easily upstage your main meal. It’s ready in 25 minutes and combines the rich flavor of bacon with the sweet crunch of cabbage. You can throw in a bit of apple cider vinegar or some Cajun seasoning to make it even better. It’s a great go-to for those nights when you need something fast to go with dinner, and it’s packed with good stuff for your plate.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

With Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms, you’re in for a treat that might just overshadow your main course. Stuff those mushroom caps with a mix of sausage, cream cheese, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and seasonings, then pop them in the oven. In about 45 minutes, you’ll have a side that’s bound to get everyone talking. They’re perfect when you need something that’s both easy to make and looks like you pulled out all the stops. These mushrooms are a surefire hit for any gathering and add a bit of flair to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Loaded Zucchini Boats

Loaded Zucchini Boats are about to become the main attraction on your plate. These zucchini halves are baked and then filled to the brim with a mix of bacon and cheese, making every bite packed with flavor. Top them off with a bit of sour cream and some chopped green onions for that extra pop. They’re a creative way to get more veggies into your meals without missing out on great taste.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Zucchini Boats

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon is the side dish that could easily take center stage. You’ve got butternut squash and cauliflower florets roasted to perfection, mixed with crispy bacon bits, and a handful of spinach for good measure. Toss them all together on a baking sheet with a simple homemade dressing, and you’ve got a side that’s not only straightforward to make but also pairs perfectly with just about any main dish you can think of.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms is set to become the highlight of your meal in just 30 minutes. It’s a lighter version of the classic risotto, swapping out rice for cauliflower rice and adding a heap of savory mushrooms. Tossed with onions, Parmesan, a splash of heavy cream, and a few seasonings, this dish keeps things creamy and full of flavor. It’s a great choice for those who love a good, hearty side but could do without the extra carbs that come with traditional risotto.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes might just make you push your main dish aside. It turns your regular broccoli into something special, mixing in sun-dried tomatoes and a dash of spices, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. You can whip this up on the stovetop in about 25 minutes, making it a perfect pick for those nights when you need a side that’s quick but doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s a great way to spice up your veggie game and keep dinner prep simple.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes