21 Side Dishes That Won’t Get Ignored at the Dinner Table

When it comes to making side dishes, I’m all about finding ones that truly bring something special to the meal. I want sides that people actually reach for, the ones that complement the main course and bring balance to the plate. With these side dish ideas, you’re set to make something that’s more than just “extra” at the table because they are must-haves.

Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

These cheesy loaded twice-baked potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, with a rich filling of cheese, sour cream, and bacon. They’re satisfying and hearty, making them a memorable addition to any meal. With a crispy top and creamy center, these potatoes are a guaranteed hit. Their texture and flavor ensure they’re not just a side but a star in their own right. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Ratatouille

Ratatouille brings the best of fresh vegetables together in one beautifully layered, flavorful dish. This classic French side packs vibrant flavors and colors, making it a standout addition to any table. Each bite offers a tender, herbed blend of eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes. It’s a dish that brings visual appeal and complements everything from roast chicken to grilled fish. Healthy, colorful, and never ignored.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille

Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes

Creamy and packed with garlic, these mashed red potatoes offer a simple yet rich flavor that’s hard to resist. With just the right amount of butter and seasoning, this side pairs well with meats and hearty veggies. They’re a go-to because of their quick prep and big flavor payoff. When you serve these, you can be sure that no one will leave them behind. A timeless side dish that’s always appreciated.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes

Green Bean Casserole

This classic green bean casserole is creamy and crunchy, making it a nostalgic favorite for many. With a mix of tender beans, a rich sauce, and a crispy topping, it’s a well-rounded side that brings comfort to the table. It pairs perfectly with holiday roasts or casual weeknight dinners. The familiar flavors make it a favorite everyone will reach for. A must-have side for any comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

These air fryer Brussels sprouts bring a crispy, caramelized touch to the table, transforming a humble veggie into a standout side. The air fryer gives them a quick cook with little oil, making them healthier and crunchier than oven-roasted versions. Their nutty, slightly sweet flavor pairs perfectly with meats and potatoes, offering a nice contrast. They’re a hit even with those who aren’t typically Brussels sprouts fans. Simple yet memorable, they won’t be passed over.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Aloo Gobi Masala

Aloo Gobi Masala combines tender potatoes and cauliflower with a warming blend of spices, creating a hearty, aromatic side dish. It’s a flavorful companion to rice, naan, or grilled meats, bringing a touch of Indian flavor to the meal. With its fragrant aroma and vibrant color, it easily grabs attention on the dinner table. This vegetarian side is both filling and flavorful, appealing to a variety of palates. A unique side that adds a global touch to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala

Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

These roasted Roma tomatoes are soft, slightly charred, and full of concentrated tomato flavor, making them a great addition to any meal. Using the air fryer cuts down on cook time while enhancing the tomatoes’ natural sweetness. They pair well with pasta, salads, or even grilled meats, adding a pop of color and flavor. Simple but full of character, they’re a memorable side. A delicious way to serve up something unexpected.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

Vegan Mexican Rice

Vegan Mexican rice is a vibrant and flavorful side that’s easy to make and complements any Tex-Mex or Mexican-inspired meal. With a rich tomato base and mild spices, it adds a touch of heat without overpowering the main dishes. Its bright orange hue and fluffy texture make it a beautiful addition to the table. Filling and satisfying, it’s hard for anyone to pass up. A go-to side for a festive and colorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mexican Rice

Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams

This sweet potato casserole offers a creamy, comforting blend of sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy, caramelized topping. Using canned yams makes it quick and easy, so you get maximum flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it pairs well with turkey, ham, or roast beef. The sweet, nutty flavor and crisp topping make it a crowd-pleaser that won’t get left behind. An inviting, nostalgic side for any special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams

Crab Fried Rice

Crab fried rice brings tender, flavorful rice together with bits of crab, creating a side that’s both unique and satisfying. The seafood flavor adds depth to the dish, making it a memorable option alongside grilled meats or seafood mains. Quick to prepare and visually appealing, it’s sure to stand out at any gathering. The mix of rice and crab makes it a side that could easily be a main for smaller meals. Perfect for adding a touch of the coast to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Crab Fried Rice

Easy Scalloped Potatoes

These easy scalloped potatoes are creamy, cheesy, and rich, adding a touch of indulgence to any meal. Layered with cheese and baked to golden perfection, they’re a perfect companion for roasts or grilled meats. This classic side dish is known for its comforting, homestyle flavor that everyone loves. Soft and creamy on the inside with a bubbly, crispy top, they’re hard to resist. A timeless choice that no one will leave behind.
Get the Recipe: Easy Scalloped Potatoes

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Air fryer potato wedges are crispy on the outside and soft inside, making them an ideal side for burgers, sandwiches, or roasted meats. They’re quick and use minimal oil, making them a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor. Seasoned to perfection, they add a bit of crunch to the meal and are a sure hit with all ages. They bring the classic appeal of French fries with a heartier twist. A side that’s too good to skip.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Zucchini Bruschetta

Zucchini bruschetta brings a fresh twist to a classic appetizer, using zucchini as a base instead of bread. Topped with tomatoes, herbs, and a hint of garlic, it’s a light and flavorful option that pairs well with Italian or Mediterranean mains. This is an ideal side for warm weather meals, adding a refreshing touch to the table. It’s healthy and flavorful, making it a side everyone can enjoy. A fresh, vibrant option that won’t be overlooked.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

This Crock Pot mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and cooked to perfection with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, freeing up time for other dishes. It’s rich and comforting, making it an easy favorite at gatherings or family dinners. With each bite, you get that nostalgic, homemade taste. A timeless side that everyone will happily reach for.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

Green Beans with Garlic Butter

Green beans with garlic butter are a quick and flavorful addition to any meal, bringing a savory touch that’s both simple and memorable. The garlic butter adds a rich depth that perfectly complements the green beans’ natural sweetness. This side takes minimal time to prepare, making it a practical choice for busy nights. It’s the kind of dish that adds a bit of elegance without any extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Garlic Butter

Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Roasted cabbage steaks are a unique side that combines a crisp, caramelized exterior with a tender, flavorful center. These “steaks” add a hearty, veggie-forward option that stands out next to any main course. Easy to prepare, they’re perfect for mixing up the usual side dish routine. With just a few simple ingredients, this side is an effortless way to bring something special to the table.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Maple-glazed carrots are lightly sweetened and perfectly roasted in the air fryer, resulting in a soft yet slightly caramelized bite. The maple glaze brings warmth and a hint of sweetness, making these carrots an ideal side for roasts or holiday meals. Quick to prepare, they bring a cozy touch to the table without extra fuss. This side’s balance of flavors and textures makes it hard to overlook.
Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Southern fried cabbage with bacon is a rich and savory side that brings a comforting, down-home vibe to any meal. The smoky bacon adds depth, blending perfectly with the tender cabbage for a satisfying combination. Ready in minutes, it’s a flavorful side that doesn’t require much time or effort. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy hearty, Southern-inspired flavors.
Get the Recipe: Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

These vegan taco-stuffed sweet potatoes are a colorful, nutrient-packed side that adds a bold twist to the table. The filling is a blend of hearty beans and spices that pairs well with the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Simple to prepare, this dish adds a unique touch that’s both filling and flavorful. Great as a side or even as a light main, these sweet potatoes are sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Bacon-wrapped cabbage brings together smoky bacon and tender cabbage for a savory side that’s hard to resist. The air fryer gives the bacon a crispy finish while keeping the cabbage tender and flavorful. This side dish is quick to prepare, adding a fun twist to ordinary cabbage. It’s an easy way to bring a crowd-pleasing option to the table with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

Air fryer smashed potatoes with cheese are crispy, golden, and topped with melted cheese for a side that’s bound to be a favorite. They’re simple yet satisfying, bringing a fun twist to traditional potatoes. These potatoes take little time to make in the air fryer, and the result is a crunchy, cheesy delight that fits any meal. Perfect for adding a little extra flavor to the dinner spread.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese