15 Irresistible Side Dishes to Perfect Any Meal

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Side dishes can turn any meal into a feast, and this collection of 15 standout recipes is here to inspire your table! From comforting classics like Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese and Duchess Potatoes to vibrant options like Honey & Maple Roasted Parsnips and Oven Roasted Asparagus, there’s something to complement every dish and craving. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or spicing up a weeknight meal, these sides are irresistibly delicious and easy to prepare. Let’s explore the recipes that take your meals to the next level!

Butternut Squash Casserole

Looking down on a plate with slices of ice cream pie with chocolate syrup drizzles over the top. — Image Credit: The Cookie Rookie

Dare to rethink your idea of a simple side dish, because this Butternut Squash Casserole is guaranteed to elevate your dinner experience! This delectable dish bakes to perfection, creating a delightful blend of butternut squash and cheesy goodness that will leave your taste buds singing.

Get the recipe: Butternut Squash Casserole

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

A closeup of cheesy potatoes with a crispy, buttery cereal topping. — Image Credit: Marly McMillen/Namely Marly

Savor each delectable bite of these delightful dairy-free “potluck” potatoes, where the indulgent creaminess of the dish is perfectly complemented by the satisfying crunch in every mouthful. Named for their convenience in preparing and sharing at potluck dinners, these potatoes are sure to leave a lasting impression with their incredible taste!

Get The Recipe: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Honey & Maple Roasted Parsnips

Simple ingredients create flavor fireworks! Butter, honey, maple syrup, and fresh thyme transform parsnips into crispy, sweet, and utterly irresistible bites.

Get The Recipe: Honey & Maple Roasted Parsnips

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Dive into timeless cheesy bliss! This creamy baked mac and cheese is surprisingly simple to make yet guaranteed to be a family favorite.

Get The Recipe: Creamy Baked Mac and CheeseQuick and Easy Saag Bhaji {Spinach Curry}

a close up image of {Spinach Curry on yellow rice — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Quick and Easy Saag Bhaji recipe delivers a flavorful and aromatic spinach curry that rivals your favorite Indian takeout. It’s a simple vegetarian dish that can be served as a main course or a vibrant side, ready in under 30 minutes!
Get the Recipe: Quick and Easy Saag Bhaji {Spinach Curry}

Easy Homemade Cornbread

Homemade Cornbread on a plate with honey — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This easy homemade cornbread recipe is perfect as a side dish or enjoyed for breakfast. Made with simple ingredients and ready in minutes, this one-bowl recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s both quick and delicious. Enjoy a taste of Southern comfort with this family-friendly favorite.
Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade Cornbread

Best Ever Fried Rice

This fried rice recipe is better (and faster!) than takeout and can be ready in under 20 minutes! Customize it with your favorite leftover protein for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Best Ever Fried Rice

Parmesan Lemon Orzo Pasta

Ready in just 25 minutes, this Parmesan Lemon Orzo Pasta is a creamy and delicious one-pot recipe. It can be served as a main dish or a flavorful side. This dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Lemon Orzo Pasta

Oven Roasted Asparagus

This recipe for Oven Roasted Asparagus is a simple and delicious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Fresh asparagus is roasted with garlic, olive oil, and seasoning until crisp, then finished off with lemon juice and zest for a bright, flavorful dish. It’s quick, easy, and healthy, making it a great choice for a weeknight meal or a holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus

Asparagus Casserole

This Asparagus Casserole is a creamy and flavorful side dish that will be a hit at any gathering. With crispy breadcrumbs and fresh parsley, it’s a delightful combination of textures and tastes. It’s the perfect recipe for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

Duchess Potatoes

Duchess Potatoes are a classic side dish that’s both elegant and easy to make. These rich, buttery potatoes are crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making them a perfect addition to any holiday meal or special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a show-stopping side that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Duchess Potatoes

Seriously, The Best Broccoli of Your Life

a plate piled with roasted broccoli and lemons — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Roasted Fresh Broccoli recipe with garlic, lemon, and Parmesan Cheese is so good, it’s dubbed “The Best Broccoli of Your Life!” Quick and easy to make, it’s sure to become a family favorite side dish.
Get the Recipe: Seriously, The Best Broccoli of Your Life

Best Ever Mashed Potatoes

Mashed Potatoes in a bowl topped with butter — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

These mashed potatoes are guaranteed to be the best you’ve ever tasted! This recipe creates a fluffy, creamy side dish that’s perfect for holidays or a comforting family meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have mashed potato magic on your table in no time.
Get the Recipe: Best Ever Mashed Potatoes

Grilled Corn On The Cob

Unlock the secrets to perfectly Grilled Corn on the Cob with this comprehensive guide! From selecting the freshest ears to mastering grilling techniques, this recipe ensures a delicious side dish every time. Whether you prefer grilling on the stove, open grill, or in foil, this guide has you covered.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn On The Cob