We’ve all had those days where we crave something more than just food—we’re after comfort, warmth, and that fuzzy feeling of being wrapped up in a blanket. That’s where these side dishes come in. Each one is handpicked for its ability to deliver comfort in every bite, making your meal feel like a heartfelt hug.
From gooey gratins to creamy mashes and beyond, we’ve got you covered. So, the next time you’re seeking solace in the form of food, give one of these 15 comforting sides a whirl. Trust us, your taste buds (and soul) will thank you.
Broccoli Cauliflower Gratin
Ever think broccoli and cauliflower could rival your favorite comfort foods? Throw in cheese and breadcrumbs, and you’ve got a side dish that turns these veggies into stars. It’s comfort elevated!
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cauliflower Gratin
Goat Cheese & Spinach Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Swap out regular spuds for a vibrant, healthier twist. The smooth, earthy sweetness of the potatoes combined with tangy goat cheese and spinach is dinner magic.
Get the Recipe: Goat Cheese & Spinach Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Cheesy Zucchini Quinoa
Here’s a way to make everyone love their greens. Zucchini blended with quinoa under a cheesy umbrella? That’s a win-win for both health and taste.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Zucchini Quinoa
Cauliflower Bacon Gratin
When you bring together cauliflower, bacon, and a gratin sauce, you’re crafting comfort. The saltiness of bacon paired with creamy cauliflower is sheer indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Bacon Gratin
Goat Cheese Stuffed Baby Eggplants
A mix of sweet and savory, these baby eggplants stuffed with goat cheese and drizzled with honey and balsamic make for an ideal party treat. The parsley just adds that fresh kick.
Get the Recipe: Goat Cheese Stuffed Baby Eggplants
Creamy Mashed Yuca
Mashed yuca offers a delightful twist from the usual. Creamy and smooth, it’s a comfort food you didn’t know you were missing.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Yuca
Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes
Go beyond the ordinary with these mashed purple sweet potatoes. Savory herb butter melds beautifully with the sweet potatoes, making it both nutritious and a sight for the eyes.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes
Parmesan Tomato Gratin
The flavors of summer shine in this simple tomato gratin. Topped with parmesan and rosemary, it’s the ideal dish to bid farewell to the warm days.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Tomato Gratin
Roasted Garlic Greek Yogurt Smashed Potatoes
Here’s a dish that balances health and luxury. Roasted garlic melds with the creamy texture of the potatoes, with Greek yogurt adding a tangy twist.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Garlic Greek Yogurt Smashed Potatoes
Roasted Pesto Potatoes
Simplicity at its best. These pesto potatoes, optionally sprinkled with bacon, are a versatile side that complements both meat and fish.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Pesto Potatoes
Roasted Stuffed Tomatoes
Late summer brings heirloom tomatoes to the table. Stuffed with goat cheese, creme fraiche, and thyme, and crowned with garlic breadcrumbs, they’re a seasonal delight.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Stuffed Tomatoes
Zucchini Ricotta Bake
This zucchini ricotta bake is like a hug in a dish. Think of it as lasagna’s lighter cousin, where zucchini stars and noodles take a back seat.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Ricotta Bake
Creamy Cauliflower Pumpkin Mash
A side dish that checks the boxes for health and taste. Creamy mascarpone melds with cauliflower and pumpkin, and the crunchy granola and pecan topping is just the cherry on top.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Cauliflower Pumpkin Mash
Utica Greens
A tribute to upstate New York, Utica greens offer a spicy, cheesy comfort. With escarole, prosciutto, and cherry peppers, it’s a side that adds a kick to everything from pizzas to pastas.
Get the Recipe: Utica Greens
Maple Baked White Acorn Squash
Fall on a plate! White acorn squash bakes with maple syrup, butter, and sugar, resulting in a side dish that masterfully blends savory and sweet. Perfect for those cozy autumn dinners.
Get the Recipe: Maple Baked White Acorn Squash