Make every bite count: 17 sides packed with flavor

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Forget the main course; let’s focus on the sides that truly shine. These 17 side dishes are meticulously crafted to pack each bite with an explosion of flavor. Whether you’re looking for something to complement your main meal or a stand-alone snack, these recipes are designed to impress. Each dish brings its own unique twist to the table, turning simple ingredients into memorable experiences!

A serving of tater tot casserole on a spoon.
Easy Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

A bowl of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings garnished with chopped parsley.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re longing for a taste of comfort, nothing hits the spot quite like this dish. The Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings bring the nostalgic flavors of Southern cooking right into your kitchen, perfect for a family dinner. It’s a surefire way to satisfy those homestyle cravings with a dish that feels like a warm hug.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Fork lifting a serving of cheesy cheeseburger casserole garnished with parsley.
The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Imagine scooping up all the delicious flavors of a cheeseburger into one comforting casserole. The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole does just that, combining juicy burger tastes with the ease of a baked dish. It’s a fun twist on a classic that’s sure to win over everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Vegan Chicken Nuggets

Vegan chicken nuggets in a bowl with dip.
Vegan Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

For those seeking a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies the craving for crunch, Vegan Chicken Nuggets are your go-to. They are perfect for parties or a quick snack, loved by both kids and adults, and they’re great for dipping too. Plus, they offer a plant-based twist that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chicken Nuggets

Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

A dish of ravioli with bacon and parsley that can be found at Olive Garden.
Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a touch of Italian flair without leaving your home, try this luxurious dish. Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara brings rich, creamy flavors to your table, ideal for when you’re in the mood for something decadent. It’s a delightful way to capture the essence of dining out right in your dining room.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Easy Chicken Casserole

A fork lifting a cheesy bite from a bowl of chicken casserole topped with bacon and breadcrumbs.
Easy Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you need a comforting meal without a lot of fuss, this dish comes to the rescue. Easy Chicken Casserole is a simple blend of flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully in the oven. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when time is short but you still want a home-cooked meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

Air Fryer Asparagus

An air fryer pile of asparagus with grated cheese.
Air Fryer Asparagus. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Quick and easy sides like Air Fryer Asparagus ensure you get to enjoy healthy vegetables without the long cooking times. This method turns fresh asparagus into a crispy, delicious addition to any meal in minutes. It’s a fantastic way to keep dinner healthy, green, and stress-free.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

A bowl of Thai jasmine rice and chili peppers.
Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

No Asian-inspired meal is complete without a bowl of perfectly cooked rice. Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice is aromatic and soft, making it an excellent partner to rich curries and spicy dishes. This simple side dish subtly enhances the main course with its gentle, fragrant presence on the plate.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Air Fryer Broccoli

A bowl of air fried broccoli garnished with grated cheese and lemon wedges.
Air Fryer Broccoli. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you’re looking for a side that’s both nutritious and quick to prepare, Air Fryer Broccoli checks all the boxes. This dish emerges perfectly crispy from the air fryer, offering a fast and delicious way to enjoy your greens. It’s an excellent companion to any main, adding a burst of color and nutrients.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Broccoli

Easy Walking Taco Casserole

A freshly baked taco casserole garnished with lettuce, tomatoes, and green onions.
Easy Walking Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dive into the fun with Easy Walking Taco Casserole, a dish that transforms familiar taco flavors into a delightful baked form. This one-dish wonder is perfect for feeding a crowd or spicing up a family dinner. It’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat, offering a playful take on traditional tacos.
Get the Recipe: Easy Walking Taco Casserole

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Slices of cucumber tossed in spicy Korean dressing.
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Add a zing to your meal with Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad, a side that’s both refreshing and bold. This salad pairs the coolness of cucumber with a fiery dressing that wakes up the palate. It’s a quick way to introduce some lively flavors to your dinner, complementing any mild main dish beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Dauphinoise Potatoes

An oven dish with baked dauphinoise potatoes in it.
Dauphinoise Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a truly indulgent side, Dauphinoise Potatoes offer layers of creamy, garlicky goodness. Each slice of potato is bathed in a rich cream sauce, then baked to golden perfection. It’s a luxurious addition to any meal, ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself on a special night in.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Easy Tater Tot Casserole

A serving of tater tot casserole on a spoon.
Easy Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Kids and adults alike can’t get enough of Easy Tater Tot Casserole, a dish that brings together crispy potatoes in a cheesy, comforting bake. It’s perfect for potlucks or family dinners, serving up a satisfying crunch with every bite. This casserole is a versatile favorite that’s easy to love.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole

Air Fryer Homemade Fries

A serving of golden-brown french fries with a side of ketchup.
Air Fryer Homemade Fries. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a healthier take on a beloved snack, Air Fryer Homemade Fries deliver all the crunch without the extra oil. These fries are a perfect side for dipping and sharing, making any meal feel like a treat. They’re a straightforward, satisfying way to complete a burger night or any casual dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Homemade Fries

Breakfast Casserole

Breakfast casserole topped with melted cheese, garnished with sliced green onions and chopped herbs.
Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Whether it’s for a hearty breakfast or a brunch that impresses, Breakfast Casserole fills the table with joy. This dish combines favorite morning flavors in one bake, making it a hit for any gathering. It’s a make-ahead marvel that lets you enjoy more time with guests and less time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Casserole

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Glazed barbecued chicken drumsticks on a white plate.
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing says summer like Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks, offering that barbecue taste with less hassle. These drumsticks are juicy inside and charred on the outside, perfect for a quick family dinner. Pair them with a simple salad or coleslaw for a meal that brings the best of the grill indoors.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries Recipe

A bowl of crispy portobello mushroom fries with dipping sauce.
Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries Recipe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Turn to Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries for a side that stands out at any table. These aren’t your average fries; they’re rich in flavor and crisped to perfection, offering a meaty texture that satisfies. They’re an ideal pick for those who love a twist on the traditional, packing a punch of flavor in each bite.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries Recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!)

Air fryer chicken wings served with fresh tomatoes and herbs on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those who crave that perfect bite, Air Fryer Chicken Wings come out extra crispy every time. This dish is less greasy than its deep-fried counterpart but just as satisfying. They’re a fantastic choice for game day or as a protein-rich side, easily customizable with your favorite sauces and dips.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!)

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