Adding new side dishes to your cooking routine can be a total game-changer. But when it comes to 15 beginner side dishes, simplicity is key. These dishes are so easy that you’ll kick yourself for not trying them sooner. Seriously, once you start making them, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it ages ago!
![Cheesy potato casserole in a white dish with a fork.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Scalloped-Potatoes-1.jpg)
Wild Rice Casserole
![A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MSN-Wild-Rice-Casserole.jpg)
Looking for a hearty and wholesome side dish? Wild rice casserole is the answer. Nutty wild rice, savory mushrooms, and tender veggies all come together in this satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s so simple to make, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t try it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole
Egg Bites
![Egg Bites on a board with a little parsley on top.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Egg-Bites.jpg)
Have you ever tried those little egg bites? They’re like mini omelets, and they’re so simple to make. Just pop them in the oven or microwave, and you’ve got a tasty snack or breakfast. Seriously, they’re so easy and versatile, you’ll kick yourself for not trying them sooner.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites
Waldorf Salad
![Waldorf salad on a bed of lettuce, with salad servers resting on top.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Waldorf-Salad-3.jpg)
Waldorf salad is a classic for a reason. Crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and sweet grapes all tossed in a creamy dressing – it’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures. And the best part? It’s so easy to make, you’ll be kicking yourself for not making it sooner. Seriously, why did you wait so long?
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad
Cilantro Lime Rice
![Chipotle rice in a bowl with sliced lime and spoons.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Cilantro-Lime-Rice-3.jpg)
Cilantro lime rice is a staple in Mexican cuisine, and for good reason. It’s flavorful, fragrant, and the perfect accompaniment to any dish. Plus, it’s so easy to make – just cook your rice with some cilantro and lime juice, and you’re good to go. Trust me, you’ll be kicking yourself for not making it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice
Corn Casserole
![Corn casserole in a casserole dish with a portion removed.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Corn-Casserole.jpg)
You’ve gotta try corn casserole. It’s a Southern classic and for good reason. Sweet, creamy, and downright delicious. Just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and you’ve got yourself a tasty side dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Why didn’t you make this sooner?
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad
![Slices of cucumber tossed in spicy Korean dressing.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Korean-Cucumber-2.jpg)
If you’re a fan of spicy food, you’ve gotta try Korean cucumber salad. It’s refreshing, crunchy, and packed with flavor. And the best part? It’s super simple to make – just slice up some cucumbers, toss them with a spicy-sweet sauce, and you’re good to go. Trust me, you’ll be hooked once you try it.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad
Broccoli Casserole with Crackers
![Someone serving broccoli casserole.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Broccoli-Casserole-1.jpg)
You know that broccoli casserole with the crunchy cracker topping? It’s a classic for a reason. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting. You just mix everything together, throw it in the oven, and voila! It’s like a hug in a casserole dish. Why didn’t you make this sooner?
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole with Crackers
Pizza Salad
![Homemade pizza salad in a serving bowl with wooden salad servers resting on top.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Pizza-Salad-3.jpg)
Pizza salad – have you tried it? It’s like all the flavors of
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad
Copycat Chipotle Black Beans
![Chipotle black beans cooked and in a serving bowl.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Copycat-Chipotle-Black-Beans-3.jpg)
And what’s a Chipotle-inspired meal without their famous black beans? Luckily, you can make them at home with this easy copycat recipe. Just toss some beans with onion and spices, and you’ve got yourself a tasty side dish that’ll have you wondering why you didn’t make it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Black Beans
Yellow Squash Casserole
![Squash casserole being served with a wooden serving spoon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Squash-Casserole.-.jpg)
Ever had yellow squash casserole? It’s super easy – just layer squash, sauce, and breadcrumbs, and bake until bubbly. It’s the perfect way to use up those summer veggies. Plus, it’s so tasty and satisfying, you’ll wish you had discovered it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Squash Casserole
Scalloped Potatoes
![Cheesy potato casserole in a white dish with a fork.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Scalloped-Potatoes-1.jpg)
Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. And the best part? They’re super easy to make – just layer thinly sliced potatoes with cheese and cream, and bake until golden and bubbly. You’ll be wondering why you didn’t make them sooner.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes
Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa
![A bowl of freshly made Copycat Chipotle corn salsa with a serving spoon in it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Copycat-Chipotle-Corn-Salsa-3.jpg)
Love Chipotle’s corn salsa? You can make it at home! It’s so simple – just chop up some fresh veggies, mix them together with lime juice and cilantro, and you’re done. It’s the perfect side dish for taco night, and it’s so tasty, you’ll wish you had tried it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa
Chili Potatoes
![Chili potato recipe served in white bowl with a fork.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Chili-Potatoes-1.jpg)
Spice up your dinner with chili potatoes! Crispy roasted potatoes tossed in a flavorful chili seasoning, it’s a delicious side dish that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t try it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Chili Potatoes
Caprese Pasta Salad
![Caprese pasta salad in a bowl with fresh tomatoes by the side.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Caprese-Pasta-Salad.jpg)
Caprese pasta salad is a game-changer. Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil all tossed with pasta – what’s not to love? Plus, it’s so easy to throw together, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t add it to your rotation sooner. It’s the perfect side dish for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pasta Salad
Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows
![A person scooping a sweet potato casserole out of a baking dish.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Sweet-Potato-Casserole-2.jpg)
Just think of creamy sweet potatoes topped with gooey marshmallows. It’s like dessert for dinner! And the best part? It’s so easy to make – just mix everything together and bake until golden and bubbly. Trust me, you’ll be kicking yourself for not making it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows