10 Delicious Dinner Side Dishes
Make your next meal special with 10 tasty dinner side dishes. They add warmth and flavor to your table. Each recipe combines rich ingredients and comforting tastes, perfect for any main course.
You’ll discover a wide range of options, from cheesy bakes to festive casseroles. These side dishes not only please your taste buds but also offer something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a big event or having a family dinner, these dishes will surely impress.
In this decadent, rich, and yummy list, we focus on some classics like Baked Mac & Cheese, but also include some dishes geared toward the Holiday Season. Whether your headed to a Thanksgiving Dinner, Christmas gathering, or a even a holiday party with co-workers, there’s a really fun range of ideas here that can’t miss!
Also, keep in mind that this list contains a lot of the basics, but you can click on any individual recipe to go to a more expansive and in-depth article about that dish, which includes things like ingredient variations, how to navigate dietary restrictions, and presentation ideas. So have fun exploring… and then even MORE FUN eating!
Key Takeaways
- Variety of side dishes: 50% vegetable-based, 20% meat-based, and 20% potato options.
- Quick preparation: Many dishes can be made in 10 to 20 minutes, offering convenience.
- Diverse ingredients: Recipes include sweet potatoes, brown rice, and a blend of spices.
- Appeals to preferences: Options for vegans and vegetarians included in the selection.
- Global flavors: Some dishes bring in international tastes to enrich your dinner experience.
Baked Mac & Cheese
Baked Mac & Cheese is a top comfort food loved by pretty much EVERYONE!. It’s a cheesy pasta dish with tender elbow macaroni and a creamy cheese sauce. The sauce often includes sharp cheddar and Gruyère. A golden breadcrumb topping adds a nice crunch.
To make this dish, start by boiling the macaroni until it’s al dente. Then, make a roux by whisking butter and flour together. Gradually add milk and cheese to create a smooth sauce. Mix the pasta with the sauce, put it in a baking dish, and bake until it’s bubbly and golden.
The recipe is pretty flexible, and you can vary the gooey, cheesy amounts to suit your taste. So for exact measurements of the basics and more advice, just click the recipe and you’ll find a deeper level of info!
IDEAS: Many enjoy Baked Mac & Cheese with different side dishes. Some favorites include:
- BBQ ribs, known for their tender texture and smoky flavor
- Oven-baked BBQ chicken drumsticks, coated in sweet and tangy BBQ sauce
- Honey garlic ribs, which bring a sticky sweetness
- Buttermilk fried chicken, offering a crispy counterpart
- Crispy baked buffalo chicken wings, adding a spicy kick
For a refreshing contrast, try asparagus or a simple green salad. You can also add different cheeses like Parmesan or feta for a twist.
Baked Mac & Cheese is loved for its iconic creamy texture and deep flavors. It’s a versatile dish that pleases everyone, making it perfect for any gathering.
Cheesy Cauliflower Bake
The Cheesy Cauliflower Bake is a tasty twist on traditional side dishes. It turns fresh cauliflower into a rich, satisfying casserole. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F, perfect for baking this cheesy delight.
Boil 2 large heads of cauliflower for about 5 minutes until tender. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in another pot. Then, whisk in 1/4 cup of flour and cook for a few minutes.
Slowly add 1 1/2 cups of whole milk and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. This takes 3 to 4 minutes to simmer. Stir in 8 ounces of sharp cheddar and 4 ounces of Monterey Jack cheese. Coat with a tablespoon of cornstarch for creaminess.
Mix the tender cauliflower with the cheese sauce in a baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes, letting the cheese bubble. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving for better flavor and texture.
Also, while we know you’re probably locked in the gooey cheesiness, this dish actually is surprisingly nutritious…
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 292 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 13 g |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Sodium | 974 mg |
| Potassium | 521 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Vitamin A | 565 IU |
| Vitamin C | 72 mg |
| Calcium | 596 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
This Cheesy Cauliflower Bake can be made ahead and frozen. Reheat in the microwave for 2 to 3 minutes. It’s a comforting side dish that’s healthier than classic gratins.
Broccoli Rice Casserole
Broccoli Rice Casserole is a comforting side dish that’s easy to make. It combines fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and seasoned rice. This mix makes it a hit with families.
To start, sauté onions in butter and add garlic for flavor. Then, mix in low-sodium chicken broth and half-and-half for a creamy base. Use about 20 ounces of broccoli florets for a vibrant green color and nutrients.
To finish, layer the ingredients in a baking dish. Top with Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Bake until it’s hot and golden brown.
This casserole is not only easy to make but also versatile. It’s great as a side or a main dish. A serving has about 287 calories, making it a guilt-free choice.
You can store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months. It takes about 35 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. Try different versions, like Broccoli Chicken Casserole, for new tastes. This dish is all about comfort, flavor, and ease. YUM!
Super Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Creamy Mashed Potatoes are a favorite Comfort Side Dish, great for any meal. They use just 3 pounds of potatoes to serve 8 people. The secret to their creaminess is using Yukon Golds or russets, which are buttery.
Boil the potatoes for 15 to 20 minutes until they’re tender. This makes them perfect for a side dish.
The recipe has only 7 ingredients, making it easy for anyone to make. They’re great with meat like turkey, steak, and pork chops. They also go well with vegetarian dishes like green beans or lentils.
Reheating leftovers is simple, whether in the microwave or oven. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Or freeze them for later. For different tastes, add more cream, butter, or broth when reheating.
| Preparation Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | Approximately 8 people |
| Main Ingredients | 7 |
| Boiling Time | 15 to 20 minutes |
| Recommended Potatoes | Yukon Golds, Russets |
| Storage | Refrigerate leftovers for 3 days; freeze for 2 months |
| Recipe Rating | 4.99 out of 5 (from 60 votes) |
Creamy Mashed Potatoes make any dinner special. They’re also great for creative leftovers. Try making potato and cod cakes or turkey stew with mashed potato dumplings. This dish is a hit, offering comfort and flavor for any occasion — possibly even stealing the show from the main course!
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a mix of creamy and rich flavors. They are perfect for big gatherings or family dinners. It’s an often overlooked potato casserole and yet is sure to please any crowd.
To make this tasty side dish, start with 4 russet potatoes, sliced thin. Sauté 1 finely chopped yellow onion in 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it’s caramelized, about 15 minutes. Then, mix 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with 2 cups of whole milk, 1 ½ cups of shredded mild cheddar cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a medium saucepan.
Layer the potato slices and caramelized onions in a 2-quart baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over them. Bake at 350°F, covered for 1 hour and 45 minutes. Then, uncover for 20 minutes to get that golden topping. The whole baking time is about 85-90 minutes, making 8 servings with 346 calories each.
If you’re making the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes ahead of time, soak the potato slices in cold water for 30 minutes. You can also bake them for 30 minutes, let them cool, then refrigerate. This way, the dish is ready to impress whenever you need it.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Russet Potatoes | 4 (about 2 pounds) |
| Yellow Onion | 1 |
| Unsalted Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| All-Purpose Flour | 3 tablespoons |
| Kosher Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Whole Milk | 2 cups |
| Mild Cheddar Cheese | 1 ½ cups |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste |
Easy Cheesy Corn Casserole
The Cheesy Corn Casserole is a creamy and flavorful dish loved by many. It’s a comfort food that combines sweet corn with cream cheese and sharp cheddar. This drool-worthy blend creates a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.
To make it, just mix all the ingredients in a bowl. Then, put the mixture in a baking dish. Bake at 375°F for 40-45 minutes until it’s golden brown and bubbly. You can even make it ahead of time, making it easy for hosts to manage their events.
- Nutrition per serving: 263 calories, 19g carbohydrates, 13g protein, 14g fat.
- Using leftover ingredients like diced ham or smoky cheeses can elevate flavor profiles.
- Variations include diced jalapeños for spice or smoked gouda for a unique twist.
- Adaptable for slow cooking, making it a fantastic option for potlucks.
Cheesy Corn Casserole is easy to make and adds comfort and richness to any meal. It’s a favorite at holiday feasts from Easter to Christmas. Or, just whip up a batch for a weeknight supper and dig in right in!
Sweet Potato Casserole with Gooey Marshmallows
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is a favorite Thanksgiving side dish. But honestly, it seems a shame to just bring out this superstar once or twice a year. It highlights the sweet and creamy nature of sweet potatoes. The mix of mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and cinnamon makes it a cozy dish for holidays. But let’s start a new trend and make this dish acceptable YEAR ROUND!
To start, boil about 3 pounds of sweet potatoes. This can be 6 medium to large sweet potatoes or 3 cans of sweet potatoes. Boil them until they’re tender, about 15 minutes. Then, mash them and add brown sugar, butter, and vanilla extract.
For extra flavor, add warm spices like pumpkin pie spice or bourbon.
The marshmallow topping elevates the dish. Mini marshmallows and pecans add a crunchy, sweet layer. You can also try a streusel or pecan crumble topping.
- Ingredients Needed:
- 3 pounds of sweet potatoes
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 cup of salted butter
- 4 cups of mini marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- Pecans or walnuts (optional)
After mixing, bake the casserole at 375°F for 30 to 35 minutes. It’s ready when the marshmallows are golden. You can make it up to 48 hours in advance and store it in the fridge.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is a sure-fire hit at any gathering. So wow your guests — or host, if you bring it for a potluck — and choose this unsung hero!
Grandma’s Classic Turkey Stuffing
Grandma’s Turkey Stuffing is a classic beloved family recipe passed down through generations. It’s a comforting side that makes any holiday meal special, especially on Thanksgiving. The mix of savory ingredients creates a cozy flavor that goes well with turkey and gravy.
But again, why just Thanksgiving?! It’s so good, we should be able to enjoy throughout the year! If you brought this to a dinner in March, is anyone really going to say “No thank you?” NO! They will chow down and rave about it all night long.
With that said, making this Homemade Stuffing Recipe begins with key ingredients like poultry seasoning, unsalted butter, and fresh veggies. Here’s a quick overview of what you need:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 1 1/2 cups |
| Chopped Celery | 1 cup |
| Diced Yellow Onion | 1 cup |
| Poultry Seasoning | 1 1/2 tablespoons |
| Chicken Stock | 1 1/2 cups |
| Large Eggs | 2 |
| Salt | 2 1/4 teaspoons |
| Ground Black Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
For the best flavor, use 13-15 cups of tightly packed dry bread cubes. Start by sautéing the veggies, then mix them with the bread cubes. Add the seasoned stock and beaten eggs. Spread it all out in a 9×13” baking pan, ready to bake.
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Prep Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Feeds: About 15 for a regular meal, 10 for Thanksgiving
After baking until golden brown, this Turkey Stuffing shines among Comfort Side Dishes. Each serving has about 769 calories, making it both filling and healthy. You can also prep unbaked stuffing for up to 48 hours in the fridge. Enjoy the warm, inviting taste of Grandma’s Turkey Stuffing, a true classic at any festive gathering.
Tart & Tangy Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry Sauce is an iconic, must-have side dish at any holiday meal. It’s vibrant and tangy, adding a sweet burst of flavor. Made with fresh cranberries, sugar, and optional ingredients like orange zest or cinnamon, it’s easy to make. Start by simmering the cranberries with sugar and water until they burst and the mixture thickens.
There are countless variations beyond the basics that can really up your Cranberry Sauce game and wow your guests or family. So be sure to click on the recipe to explore further ideas and variations!
Let your Cranberry Sauce cool and thicken. Refrigerate it for at least 4 hours before serving. This lets the flavors blend well. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
| Nutrition Information | Per Serving (¼ cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 125 |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 5mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
This cranberry sauce is not just for Thanksgiving. It can make any meal special all year round. Just think how well it would pair with a juicy, savory brisket dinner, for example! Everyone is guaranteed to enjoy its tangy-sweet taste that will make your meals brighter!
Cinnamon Fried Apples
Cinnamon Fried Apples are a sweet treat that can be a dessert or side dish. They are made by slicing Granny Smith apples and cooking them with butter, sugar, and cinnamon. This recipe is quick, taking only 40 minutes, and serves 6 people, great for family dinners or small parties.
The secret to great Cinnamon Fried Apples is the mix of flavors. Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness. This balances well with the sweetness of white sugar and the warmth of cinnamon. As they cook in butter, they become soft and fill the air with a delicious smell.
These fried apples are not just a side dish. They can also be a dessert when served warm over vanilla ice cream. Or, they’re tasty on pancakes or waffles. If you have leftovers, they keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days. This dish brings a classic taste to your table, making every meal special.
Bakeware Recommendation!
Even though these spectacular side dishes will be the real star of any meal, don’t discount the importance of having a quality dish — both in terms of cooking quality, but also so that your presentation is beautiful and as appealing as your food!
So if you’re in need of a superb casserole dish, or have an old and overused casserole dish that needs an upgrade, then treat yourself to this casserole dish by Rossallini that we absolutely LOVE!
FAQ
What are some easy side dishes to prepare for dinner?
Easy side dishes include Baked Mac & Cheese, Cheesy Cauliflower Bake, and Broccoli Rice Casserole. They need minimal steps and can be ready in under an hour.
Can I make these side dishes ahead of time?
Yes! Cheesy Corn Casserole and Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows can be made a day ahead. Just reheat them before serving.
Are these side dishes suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes and Grandma’s Turkey Stuffing are great for holidays and family gatherings. They add comfort to your meal.
What main dishes pair well with these sides?
These sides go well with roast turkey, baked ham, or grilled chicken. They also complement vegetarian options beautifully.
Are there any healthier alternatives to these side dishes?
Yes! You can use low-fat cream cheese in Cheesy Cauliflower Bake. Or, try sweet potatoes in Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for a healthier version.
How can I enhance the flavors of these recipes?
Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to Creamy Mashed Potatoes. A bit of garlic or paprika can also boost the flavors of your baked sides.
Are there any vegetarian options among these side dishes?
Yes, many are vegetarian, like Broccoli Rice Casserole and Cheesy Corn Casserole. They’re perfect for meatless meals or gatherings.
Can I modify the recipes to suit my dietary restrictions?
Certainly! You can make many recipes gluten-free or lactose-free. For example, use gluten-free breadcrumbs in Baked Mac & Cheese or almond milk in Creamy Mashed Potatoes.
What are some popular toppings for these side dishes?
Toppings like crispy breadcrumbs, cheese, or caramelized onions can make your sides more appealing. Try them on Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes or Grandma’s Turkey Stuffing for extra flavor and texture.
