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.
Corn Casserole
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
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
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
Imagine all your favorite
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad
Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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