15 Simple Sides That Make Weeknight Dinners Shine

Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinner routine? Well, get ready to shake things up because I've compiled an exciting collection of simple side dishes that are guaranteed to level up your weeknight dinners. These sides aren't just your ordinary accompaniments; they're the secret sauce to transforming any meal into an upgraded dining experience.

Imagine coming home after a long day at work, craving something delicious but don't have the energy for an elaborate cooking session. That's where these simple sides come in handy. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation times, they effortlessly complement any main course, turning even the most basic meal into a gourmet experience. Each side dish is carefully made to bring out the best flavors and textures, making every bite a moment to savor.

But it's not just about convenience; these sides are also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you're looking to add more veggies to your diet or impress your family with restaurant-quality dishes, these recipes have got you covered. Plus, with options suitable for various dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free, there's something here for everyone to enjoy. So, join me as we embark on a culinary journey filled with simplicity, flavor, and endless possibilities. Trust me; your weeknight dinners will never be the same again!

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese are a delicious addition to any dinner spread. With their creamy interior and golden cheese topping, they're sure to please even the pickiest eaters. These smashed potatoes are a simple yet flavorful side dish that will make your weeknight dinners shine.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes are a comforting and indulgent side dish that's sure to impress. With their cheesy filling and crispy potato skins, they're a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. These twice baked potatoes are a simple yet decadent addition to your weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Green Beans with Garlic Butter

Green Beans with Garlic Butter are a simple and flavorful side dish that complements any main course. With their crisp-tender texture and savory garlic butter sauce, they're a delicious addition to your weeknight dinners. These green beans are a quick and easy way to add a touch of elegance to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Garlic Butter

Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a classic French vegetable stew that's hearty, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners. With its medley of fresh vegetables cooked in a savory tomato sauce, it's a satisfying side dish on its own or served over rice or pasta. This ratatouille recipe is a delicious way to add variety to your meals.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille

Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Roasted Cabbage Steaks offer a simple yet elegant side dish option for weeknight dinners. With their caramelized edges and tender center, they're a flavorful addition to any plate. These cabbage steaks are a delicious way to enjoy the versatility of cabbage in a new and exciting way.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Easy Scalloped Potatoes

Easy Scalloped Potatoes are a classic comfort food dish that's perfect for cozy weeknight dinners. With their creamy sauce and tender potatoes, they're a satisfying side dish that pairs well with any main course. These scalloped potatoes are a simple yet indulgent addition to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Scalloped Potatoes

Green Bean Casserole

Green Bean Casserole is a classic holiday dish that's also perfect for weeknight dinners. With its creamy sauce and crispy topping, it's a comforting side dish that everyone loves. This casserole is a simple yet delicious way to add a touch of nostalgia to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer offer a sweet and savory side dish that's quick and easy to make. With their caramelized exterior and tender interior, they're a delicious addition to any weeknight dinner. These glazed carrots are a flavorful way to enjoy this classic vegetable in a new way.
Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Zucchini Bruschetta

Zucchini Bruschetta is a fresh and flavorful appetizer or side dish that's perfect for summer dinners. With its combination of grilled zucchini, tomatoes, and balsamic glaze, it's a delicious way to enjoy seasonal produce. This bruschetta is a light and tasty addition to your weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta

Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage is a savory and satisfying side dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its crispy bacon and tender cabbage, it's a flavorful addition to any plate. This cabbage recipe is a delicious way to enjoy this humble vegetable in a new way.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts offer a quick and easy way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. With their crispy exterior and tender interior, they're a delicious side dish for any meal. These Brussels sprouts are a flavorful addition to your weeknight dinners that's sure to please the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a hearty and flavorful side dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners. With its crispy bacon and tender cabbage, it's a comforting addition to any plate. This fried cabbage recipe is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of the South in a simple and satisfying dish.
Get the Recipe: Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes are a simple yet flavorful side dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners. With their caramelized edges and juicy interior, they're a delicious addition to any plate. These roasted tomatoes are a quick and easy way to enjoy the flavors of summer all year round.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams

Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams is a classic holiday dish that's also perfect for weeknight dinners. With its sweet potato base and crunchy topping, it's a comforting side dish that everyone loves. This casserole is a simple yet delicious way to add a touch of sweetness to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams

Vegan Mexican Rice

Vegan Mexican Rice is a flavorful side dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or fiestas. With its combination of rice, tomatoes, and spices, it's a delicious addition to any Mexican-inspired meal. This rice recipe is a simple yet satisfying way to add a touch of spice to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mexican Rice