Main Course? Who Needs It! 17 Insanely Delicious Side Dish Stars

Forget the main course and let these 17 side dishes do the heavy lifting at your dinner table. Each recipe is a standout, created to elevate any meal with unique flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re hosting a special event or just spicing up a weeknight dinner, these sides are crafted to impress. They’re not just additions to your plate; they’re the main attractions, ready to make every meal memorable and delicious.

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

Corn Casserole

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

Who says you need a main course when you have a side dish as satisfying as this? Corn Casserole is creamy, dreamy, and everything you could want in a comfort food dish. It’s perfect for those who love something a little sweet with their savory.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

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

Add a zesty kick to your meal with a side that’s light yet packs a punch. Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad is crisp, refreshing, and tinged with just the right amount of spice. It’s an excellent palate cleanser or complement to any hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Egg Bites

Egg Bites on a board with a little parsley on top.
Egg Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Perfect for grab-and-go, these little bites are more than just breakfast. Egg Bites are packed with flavor and can be customized with your favorite add-ins. They’re great for parties, quick snacks, or complementing a brunch spread.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Pizza Salad

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

Imagine all your favorite pizza toppings in a fresh, crunchy salad. Pizza Salad mixes things up by bringing pizza night into a bowl. It’s a fun, flavorful side that’s sure to delight anyone who’s a fan of a good slice.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

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.

Why go out when you can enjoy your favorite restaurant flavors at home? Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa brings a sweet and tangy flavor to any plate. It’s fantastic as a standalone snack or as a topping for tacos and more.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

Hasselback Potatoes

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

Want something that looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to make? Hasselback Potatoes offer just that, with their crispy edges and soft, savory centers. They’re a hit at any dinner party or when you just want to treat yourself.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

Yellow Squash Casserole

Squash casserole being served with a wooden serving spoon.
Yellow Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a side that’s as nutritious as it is delicious, look no further. Yellow Squash Casserole is comforting and packed with flavor, making it a perfect addition to any meal. It’s a great way to get kids and adults alike to enjoy their vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Squash Casserole

Waldorf Salad

Waldorf salad on a bed of lettuce, with salad servers resting on top.
Waldorf Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This classic salad has stood the test of time for a reason. Waldorf Salad combines crunchy apples, grapes, and nuts in a creamy dressing for a taste that’s both refreshing and satisfying. It’s a delightful addition to any meal, especially during summer.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

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

Bring a bit of Tex-Mex flair to your dinner with a side that’s simple yet savory. Copycat Chipotle Black Beans are slow-cooked to perfection, offering a rich and robust flavor that complements any main dish beautifully. They’re great for burrito bowls too.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Dauphinoise Potatoes

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

If you’re after something truly indulgent, this is the dish to beat. Dauphinoise Potatoes are creamy, garlicky, and decadently layered. They’re the perfect side for any special occasion or whenever you need a bit of pampering.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Green Bean Casserole

A casserole dish filled with green bean casserole with a spoon in it.
Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A holiday favorite that’s welcome any time of year. Green Bean Casserole is creamy, crunchy, and full of comforting flavors. It’s the side dish that often ends up stealing the show.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Cilantro Lime Rice

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

Brighten up your meal with a side that’s as simple as it is delightful. Cilantro Lime Rice brings a fresh zest to the table, making it an ideal companion to spicy dishes. It’s light, fluffy, and bursting with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Broccoli Casserole with Crackers

Someone serving broccoli casserole.
Broccoli Casserole with Crackers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Turn broccoli into something even the pickiest eaters will love. Broccoli Casserole with Crackers is a cheesy, crunchy treat that’s both nutritious and comforting. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy your greens.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole with Crackers

Southern Mash

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

Mash up your side dish game with a creamy, buttery twist on the classic. Southern Mash is smooth and rich, with a flavor that feels like home. It’s the perfect comfort food to round out a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Fingerling Potatoes

Fingerling potatoes in a serving bowl.
Fingerling Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These aren’t your average spuds. Fingerling Potatoes roasted to perfection are a versatile side that pairs well with just about anything. They bring a touch of elegance to the table with their unique shape and tender texture.
Get the Recipe: Fingerling Potatoes

Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Roasted brussels sprouts in a white bowl.
Balsamic Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Give your veggies a gourmet upgrade with a side that’s both healthy and delicious. Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are roasted until golden and dressed with a sweet balsamic glaze. They’re irresistible, especially when looking for a flavorful green side.
Get the Recipe: Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese pasta salad in a bowl with fresh tomatoes by the side.
Caprese Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those who love fresh, Italian-inspired flavors, this salad is a must-try. Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant mix of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella tossed with pasta. It’s a refreshing side or light meal that’s perfect for any outdoor gathering.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pasta Salad

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