Ready to shake up your family dinners with some seriously tasty side dishes? Here’s a list of 23 awesome ideas that are so good, your family will be begging for more. Forget about those boring, been-there-done-that sides. We’re talking about easy, delicious choices that’ll turn any meal into a feast.
Think of it this way: every dinner is a chance to try something new and fun on the side. And the best part? These dishes are super simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or foodies, there’s something here for everyone to love. So, let’s add some excitement to your next family meal! Trust me, these sides are about to become your new favorites.
Egg Bites
Have you tried these egg bites? They’re like little pockets of joy – perfect for when you want a protein kick without much fuss. Great for grabbing on the go, and you can throw in whatever you like – cheese, ham, veggies. Trust me, your family will be asking for them every morning!
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites
Corn Casserole
This corn casserole is a game changer. It’s like a hug in a dish with its creamy, sweet corn goodness. It’s the side that disappears first at our family gatherings. You’ll see, everyone will be scooping seconds!
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole
Dauphinoise Potatoes
These aren’t just any potatoes, these are Dauphinoise potatoes. Think layers of thinly sliced spuds, drenched in a creamy, garlicky sauce, baked to perfection. It’s fancy enough for special occasions, but don’t be surprised if your family starts requesting it every week!
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes
Hashbrown Casserole
Hashbrown casserole is like the best part of breakfast but better. It’s cheesy, it’s comforting, and it’s got that perfect crispy top. It’s a hit at brunch, but honestly, I wouldn’t blame you if you made it for dinner too. Your family will be all over it!
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole
Sweet Potato Cubes
Roasted sweet potato cubes are a staple in my house. They’re a little bit sweet, perfectly soft, and you can spice them up however you like. Pop them in the oven and watch them disappear. It’s one of those sides everyone from the kids to the grandparents will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cubes
7 Layer Salad
Have you ever seen a salad that’s practically a centerpiece? That’s the 7 Layer Salad for you. It’s a stack of fresh veggies, cheese, and more. It’s as fun to make as it is to eat, and it’s always a conversation starter at family dinners.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad
Egg Casserole – Make Ahead Breakfast
Let me tell you about this make-ahead egg casserole. It’s a lifesaver on busy mornings. Packed with eggs and your favorite fillings, it’s ready whenever you are. The family will wake up just from the smell of it baking!
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole – Make Ahead Breakfast
Hash Browns
Who doesn’t love crispy hash browns? Make them at home and watch them get devoured in minutes. They’re the perfect side to eggs, but honestly, they’re great any time of day. Your family will be asking, ‘When are we having those amazing hash browns again?’
Get the Recipe: Hash Browns
Air Fryer Glazed Carrots
These aren’t your ordinary carrots. Glazed to perfection and made in the air fryer, they’re like candy – but healthy. Sweet, a bit caramelized, and utterly addictive. Even the pickiest eaters in your family won’t be able to resist.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Glazed Carrots
Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, with just the right amount of crust on top. Serve them up and watch your family’s eyes light up. It’s the dish that makes everyone feel cozy and happy.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes
Cauliflower Steaks
Cauliflower steaks are not just for vegetarians. They’re hearty, flavorful, and you can dress them up with all sorts of spices. They’re a hit even with the meat lovers in the family, and they look pretty fancy on the plate too!
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Steaks
Broccoli Casserole with Crackers
This broccoli casserole is something else. It’s creamy, it’s cheesy, and it’s got this amazing cracker topping for a crunch. Even the kids who say they don’t like broccoli end up asking for seconds. It’s that good.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole with Crackers
Easy Caprese Salad
Caprese salad is like a little slice of Italy. Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic. It’s so simple but so full of flavor. It’s the side dish that makes every meal feel a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad
Cilantro Lime Rice
Cilantro lime rice is the side that brightens up any meal. It’s light, zesty, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes, and your family will love the fresh, tangy taste.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice
Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows
Think of sweet potatoes topped with a layer of toasted marshmallows. This sweet potato casserole is like dessert, but you get to eat it with dinner. It’s always a hit during the holidays, but why wait? It’s too delicious to have just once a year.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows
Waldorf Salad
Waldorf salad is a classic that never goes out of style. It’s crunchy, it’s creamy, and it’s got this great mix of fruit and nuts. It’s a refreshing side that goes well with just about everything.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad
Southern Mash
Southern mash isn’t your everyday mashed potatoes. It’s richer, creamier, and often loaded with extras like cheese or bacon. It’s the kind of side dish that makes a meal memorable. Your family will be asking for this mash on repeat!
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash
Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
These aren’t your grandma’s Brussels sprouts. Roasted with a balsamic glaze, they’re the perfect mix of sweet and savory. Even Brussels sprout skeptics in the family will be converted. They’re that delicious.
Get the Recipe: Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Hasselback Potatoes
Hasselback potatoes are like the gourmet version of baked potatoes. Sliced, seasoned, and baked until crispy – they look fancy but are surprisingly easy to make. Serve them at your next family dinner and watch them disappear!
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes
Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a must-have at our family gatherings. It’s creamy, it’s comforting, and it’s got that irresistible crispy onion topping. It’s the side dish that everyone looks forward to, no matter the occasion.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole
French Bread
There’s nothing like fresh French bread. It’s perfect for mopping up sauces or just buttered on its own. There’s always a fight over the last piece at our table. It’s that good, and it goes with everything.
Get the Recipe: French Bread
Baked Sweet Potato
Baked sweet potatoes are a simple pleasure. Soft, sweet, and endlessly versatile – top them with anything from butter to fancy toppings. They’re a hit with the family and a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato
Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are like little presents for your taste buds. Filled with a tasty mix of meat, rice, and spices, they’re a full meal in a veggie. They’re colorful, flavorful, and always a hit at family dinners. You’ve got to try them!
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers