20 Homemade Side Dishes That Steal the Show

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Side dishes are the secret stars of every meal. From crispy roasted veggies to creamy pastas and fresh salads, these recipes are easy, comforting, and full of flavor. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner, a holiday gathering, or a backyard cookout, this list has something for everyone. Get ready to find your new favorite go-to sides that make every plate complete.

Roasted Green Beans

garlic roasted fresh green beans piled high on a serving dish — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

These Garlic Roasted Green Beans are a simple, rustic side dish that’s packed with flavor. With just a handful of ingredients and one pan, you can have perfectly cooked green beans with a delicious garlic flavor. Top with parmesan cheese for an extra touch of savory goodness!
Get the Recipe: Roasted Green Beans

Perfect Homemade Garlic Bread

This garlic bread recipe is so good, you’ll never want store-bought again! It’s super easy to make with just a few simple ingredients and ready in just 15 minutes. The combination of butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a truly irresistible side dish.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Homemade Garlic Bread

Roasted Carrots

These Roasted Carrots are a simple side dish that’s packed with flavor. They’re easy to prepare and perfect for holiday dinners or a quick weeknight meal. This dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Get the Recipe: Roasted Carrots

Crispy Garlic Roasted Potatoes

These Crispy Garlic Roasted Potatoes are the perfect side dish for any occasion. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and have a satisfying crispy texture. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a holiday gathering!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Garlic Roasted Potatoes

Easy Homemade Cornbread

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

This Easy Homemade Cornbread recipe is ready in minutes and requires only one bowl! Made with simple ingredients like cornmeal, flour, and sugar, it’s incredibly easy to make. This recipe is perfect as a side dish or a comforting addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade Cornbread

Best Ever Fried Rice

Craving takeout but want a healthier option? This Best Ever Fried Rice recipe is ready in under 20 minutes and rivals your favorite restaurant. Packed with flavor from garlic, soy sauce, and your choice of leftover chicken, it’s a quick and satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Get the Recipe: Best Ever Fried Rice

Homemade Fresh Cranberry Sauce

This Homemade Fresh Cranberry Sauce recipe is a must-have for your holiday table. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with fresh flavors like orange juice and cinnamon. This simple recipe will be a crowd-pleaser in just 15 minutes!
Get the Recipe: Homemade Fresh Cranberry Sauce

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

a close up image of Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese recipe is a timeless classic that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s incredibly easy to make, and the combination of sharp and mild cheddar cheeses creates a comforting and delicious flavor that everyone will love. Top it with a crispy panko breadcrumb topping for the perfect finishing touch!
Get the Recipe: Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Amish Macaroni Salad

This Amish Macaroni Salad is a creamy and tangy twist on a classic side dish. With a combination of sweet and savory flavors, it’s perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or a quick and easy lunch. The addition of crunchy vegetables and hard-boiled eggs makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Get the Recipe: Amish Macaroni Salad

Best EVER Potato Wedges

Potato Wedges in a basket — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

These potato wedges are so good, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with even the pickiest eaters! This easy recipe transforms ordinary potatoes into delicious, homemade wedges that are far better than store-bought fries. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Best EVER Potato Wedges

Quick 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 is a flavorful and aromatic spinach curry that’s perfect as a vegetarian main course or a side dish to any Indian meal. Made with fresh spinach and a blend of fragrant spices, this recipe comes together quickly for a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful dish any night of the week!
Get the Recipe: Quick and Easy Saag Bhaji {Spinach Curry}

Easy Saffron Potato Casserole

A close up image of yellow Saffron Potato Casserole — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

Looking for a way to elevate your potato side dish? This Easy Saffron Potato Casserole is a simple recipe that adds a touch of elegance to a classic comfort food. The saffron-infused sauce elevates the humble potato, making it perfect for holidays or any special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Easy Saffron Potato Casserole

Sausage Stuffing

This Sausage Stuffing recipe is a Thanksgiving must-have! It’s packed with flavor from sausage, herbs, and seasoning, all while keeping the preparation quick and easy. This side dish will be a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort!
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffing

Oven Roasted Asparagus

This Oven Roasted Asparagus recipe 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 with a bright lemon flavor. It’s quick, easy, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus

Bacon And Asparagus Pasta Salad

This Bacon and Asparagus Pasta Salad is a delightful dish for any occasion, from barbecues to family dinners. The combination of crisp bacon, tender asparagus, and perfectly cooked rotini, all tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, makes for a flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s a guaranteed hit at potlucks and a great way to enjoy a fresh, seasonal salad.
Get the Recipe: Bacon And Asparagus Pasta Salad

The Best Brussels Sprouts of Your Life

Roasted Brussels Sprouts on a sheet pan — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

These garlic Parmesan roasted Brussels sprouts are so good, they’re dubbed “The Best Brussels Sprouts of Your Life!” With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this side dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to transform your Brussels sprouts game!
Get the Recipe: The Best Brussels Sprouts of Your Life

Oven Roasted Cauliflower

This oven-roasted cauliflower recipe is elevated with a flavorful combination of butter, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and parmesan cheese. It’s a simple side dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Cauliflower

Vinegar Coleslaw {No Mayonnaise}

Vinegar Coleslaw in a white bowl — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Vinegar Coleslaw is a crunchy and tangy side dish that’s perfect for any summer gathering. Made with fresh cabbage, carrots, and a zesty vinegar dressing, it’s a refreshing alternative to traditional mayonnaise-based coleslaw. Serve it at your next BBQ, potluck, or picnic for a flavorful and healthy side!
Get the Recipe: Vinegar Coleslaw {No Mayonnaise}

Grilled Corn On The Cob

Learn how to grill corn on the cob perfectly every time with this comprehensive guide! Whether you prefer grilling it on the stove, open grill, or in foil, you’ll get tips and tricks for buying, cleaning, and grilling to perfection. Get ready for a delicious side dish that’s perfect for BBQs, potlucks, and family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn On The Cob

Fried Potatoes and Onions

This Fried Potatoes and Onions recipe is a simple, yet satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any meal. Bacon, potatoes, garlic, and onions are fried to golden perfection and seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika. Garnish with fresh chives for a pop of color and flavor!
Get the Recipe: Fried Potatoes and Onions