Tired of your vegetables playing second fiddle? It’s time to give them the spotlight with these show-stopping sides. With 19 options to choose from, you’ll have enough variety to keep things interesting for weeks. Your main course might get jealous of all the attention these dishes are getting!
Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Some sides don’t hold back, and Mississippi Mud Potatoes is one of them. It’s rich, hearty, and full of texture that pairs well with both light and heavy mains. Great for when you need something that feels like more than just a side. Once on the table, it usually disappears fast—people keep scooping until it’s gone.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Not everything on the plate has to be heavy, and Mexican Street Corn Salad brings that fresh, fun balance. It’s got crunch, color, and just enough flavor to keep things interesting without stealing the whole show. Works well next to grilled meats, tacos, or anything mild. A strong go-to when you want something easy but not boring.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Sourdough Bread
Even a simple loaf can change the mood of a meal, and Sourdough Bread always does the trick. The crisp edge with a soft middle makes it work with soups, meats, or anything saucy. It holds up well, doesn’t go soggy fast, and has that bit of chew that makes each bite better. Always worth having on hand.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bread
Potato Salad
Classic sides stick around for a reason, and Potato Salad never really leaves the spotlight. It’s creamy, cool, and just sharp enough to balance out rich or grilled dishes. Everyone expects it, and somehow it still manages to surprise. Whether it’s the only side or one of many, it holds its ground like a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad
Mexican Street Corn
When you want a quick way to bring life to the table, Mexican Street Corn always shows up with energy. There’s something about the mix of flavor and texture that works with almost anything. You can pair it with meat, rice, or even stack it into tacos. It’s bold without trying too hard—just the way sides should be.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn
Mashed Potatoes
Comfort food usually starts with something soft and warm, and Mashed Potatoes check both boxes without fail. They’re the perfect base for sauces, gravies, or anything that needs a bit of support. Simple but dependable, and always welcome next to almost any main. When you need something everyone will eat, this is the one.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes
Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies
Sometimes you want a side that’s not too heavy but still holds up, and Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies does that well. It’s got texture, a little bite, and works hot or cold. Great for casual meals or meal prep since it keeps well in the fridge. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to bring out often.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies
Red Cabbage Coleslaw
For something crisp and light that still brings bold flavor, Red Cabbage Coleslaw is an easy pick. It cuts through heavy mains and keeps the plate balanced without much effort. The color adds something extra to your spread, too. Great for barbecues or just weekday dinners when you need a no-fuss add-on that works.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw
Stuffed Peppers
Sides that feel like a little meal of their own always stand out, and Stuffed Peppers bring that energy. They’re filling but not overwhelming, and pair well with a variety of main dishes. They work great when you want something more than a salad or bread. A smart pick when you want to stretch a meal further.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers
Scalloped Potatoes
There’s something about layered dishes that make them feel a bit more special, and Scalloped Potatoes fit right in. They’re soft in the middle, crisp on top, and hold up well next to both meats and veggies. Whether you’re feeding a few or a crowd, it never feels like a filler. It’s a side that feels like it belongs.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes
Seven Layer Salad
Layers make everything more fun, and Seven Layer Salad brings that visual appeal along with a solid mix of textures. It works well as a centerpiece side, something that gets people talking before they even take a bite. Stays crisp even after sitting for a bit. Whether you serve it in a bowl or dish, it always makes an impression.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad
Southern Cornbread
When you need something warm, crumbly, and easy to match with almost anything, Southern Cornbread fits right in. It’s not too sweet, not too plain—just balanced enough to work with rich, saucy mains or light, fresh sides. Always a hit with people who like something soft but sturdy. You’ll probably want extra for second helpings.
Get the Recipe: Southern Cornbread
Sweet Potato Fries
If you’re bored of the usual sides, Sweet Potato Fries keep things fun without going over the top. They’re crispy on the outside, soft in the middle, and easy to pair with almost any main. Great for dipping or just eating straight off the tray. They disappear fast, so don’t be surprised if there are no leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries
Southern Mash
There’s something extra comforting about Southern Mash that makes it more than just another potato side. It’s creamy, rich, and works well with meats, veggies, or even just on its own. Makes a plate feel fuller without stealing attention from the main. A smart choice when you want a side that holds its own.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash
Potato Casserole
Sometimes you just want a side that feels like home, and Potato Casserole brings that comfort without much effort. It’s rich and filling, with a texture that goes from creamy to crisp in every bite. Great for both weeknights and bigger gatherings. This one always makes people ask what’s in it—even though it’s simple.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad
Bright, crunchy, and just a bit bold, Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad adds a punch without being overpowering. It’s quick to throw together but has enough flavor to stand up next to grilled or fried mains. Works great as a contrast on heavier plates. Ideal when you need something refreshing that still carries heat.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad
Wild Rice Casserole
If you’re looking to mix it up with something a little more textured, Wild Rice Casserole adds depth to your meal. It’s earthy, hearty, and brings a nice contrast to softer mains. Holds up well on its own but blends in easily with whatever else is on the plate. A nice change from the usual sides.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole
Vegetable Fritters
When you want something small that still feels like a treat, Vegetable Fritters are a solid pick. They’re crispy, light, and perfect for dipping or pairing with meats and grains. Great for sharing or piling onto a plate as a filler. Quick to reheat, easy to enjoy—these don’t stay on the table for long.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Fritters
Macaroni Salad
You can’t go wrong with something simple that works with everything, and Macaroni Salad fits that perfectly. It’s cool, creamy, and easy to prep ahead for no-stress meals. Always a good match with grilled mains or fried sides. Feels familiar without being boring—and somehow always better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad
