18 side dishes that make basic dinners feel upgraded

Side dishes might seem simple, but they’re often what bring a meal together. They add extra flavor, texture, and variety without a lot of extra effort. These recipes keep things easy while still giving you something that feels complete on the plate. Don’t be surprised if they end up getting more attention than the main dish.

Crispy Parmesan Potatoes

Crispy Parmesan potatoes roast on a cheesy crust and are served with herbed yogurt and homemade chili oil for a flavorful and easy side dish.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Parmesan Potatoes

Potato Galette

This potato galette has crisp edges, a tender center and bold flavors. It’s simple to make yet looks impressive enough for any dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Potato Galette

Louisiana Voodoo Fries

Crispy fries, Cajun spice, melty cheese, and cool ranch—these bold Louisiana voodoo fries are irresistible. You’ll love this copycat recipe!
Get the Recipe: Louisiana Voodoo Fries

Roasted Artichokes

Master the art of roasting artichokes for that perfect flavor. Although artichokes are often overlooked, they really are a delicious option.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Artichokes

Cheesy Rice

Whip up this tasty cheesy rice in minutes. It’s perfect as a quick side dish. Use any kind of cheese and seasonings to make it your own.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Rice

Air Fryer French Onion Baked Potatoes

Looking for a new side dish idea? These air fryer French onion baked potatoes are sweet, creamy, savory and go with steak, chicken and more.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer French Onion Baked Potatoes

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Tater Tots

These air fryer sweet potato tater tots are great as either an appetizer or a side dish. You can even make them as a snack. They’re so good.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Tater Tots

Maple Garlic Sweet Potato Casserole

This gorgeous maple garlic sweet potato casserole is simple to prepare and offers a blend of incredible flavors and textures in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Maple Garlic Sweet Potato Casserole

Green Bean Casserole

Discover a creamy green bean casserole recipe that’s perfect for your holiday table. Delight your guests with this easy, delicious classic.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Garlic and Herb Stuffing

Not only is this garlic and herb stuffing perfect for your roasted turkey but it’s also amazing in leftover turkey or chicken sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Garlic and Herb Stuffing

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Indulge in creamy garlic mashed potatoes, the ultimate comfort food. Perfectly buttery and flavorful, this recipe will elevate any meal.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Crack Green Beans

These crack green beans are made with brown sugar, soy sauce, butter, garlic, and bacon. They’re so good and pair with just about everything.
Get the Recipe: Crack Green Beans

Hibachi Noodles

Offering all those wonderful flavors you already know and love from the Japanese restaurant, these hibachi noodles are so easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Hibachi Noodles

Garlic Butter Fondant Potatoes

These garlic butter fondant potatoes are worth making. They’re crispy on the outside, soft inside and they literally just melt in the mouth.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Fondant Potatoes

Loaded Mac And Cheese

This loaded mac and cheese dish goes so well with anything from a juicy T-bone steak to grilled chicken. It’s mac and cheese… just better!
Get the Recipe: Loaded Mac And Cheese

Red Wine Mushrooms

These Red Wine Mushrooms make for a simple delicious side dish featuring cremini mushrooms tossed in butter, red wine and garlic.
Get the Recipe: Red Wine Mushrooms

White Beans With Bacon And Herbs

These White Beans with Bacon and Herbs are so simple to make, rich and savory, comforting, loaded with flavor and super delicious.
Get the Recipe: White Beans With Bacon And Herbs

Asian Green Beans

These Asian Green Beans are the perfect side dish featuring fresh green beans in an Asian style sweet and spicy sauce.
Get the Recipe: Asian Green Beans