17 side dishes that will have you making extra just to have leftovers for the next day

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Looking for side dishes that’ll make you want to cook more than you need? These 17 ideas are perfect for those who can’t resist having extra leftovers to look forward to. You’ll end up looking for ways to stretch your portions so there’s more for tomorrow’s meals. Who said leftovers can’t be just as good, if not better, than the main course?

A close-up of Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole with a serving spoon in the dish.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Greek Green Beans

Greek Green Beans served on a white rectangular plate.
Greek Green Beans. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Fresh and full of character, Greek Green Beans are an excellent side dish made more flavorful with a blend of unique cooking methods. Bringing them to your table ensures you have something special for tomorrow’s leftovers. You’ll enjoy the way they add a touch of authenticity to your meal. These green beans are a simple addition that fits any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Greek Green Beans

Horiatiki Salad

A black bowl contains a Horiatiki salad with blocks of feta cheese, garnished with herbs.
Horiatiki Salad. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

When you think of a classic, refreshing option, Horiatiki Salad comes to mind. This salad combines fresh ingredients into a colorful, appetizing dish that’s hard to resist. Perfect for leftovers, it keeps well and adds a burst of freshness to your next day’s lunch. It’s a great way to enjoy something light yet full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Sauteed Beet Greens with Pancetta on a white plate.
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Getting creative with your side dishes? Try Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta. This unique pairing brings a variety of textures and flavors that make every bite interesting. You’ll look forward to having those leftovers, trust me. They transform the ordinary beet greens into something you’d be happy to eat the next day.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Creamed Corn

Smoked Creamed Corn in a black skillet.
Creamed Corn. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy a classic comfort side with Creamed Corn, where each spoonful brings warmth and familiarity. Its creamy texture complements many dishes, making it versatile. Perfect for cozy dinners, it easily pleases everyone at the table. And, it’s just as good heated up the following day.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn

Smoked Brussels Sprouts

Smoked Brussels Sprouts with bacon on a white plate.
Smoked Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For something with a bit of a smoky punch, Smoked Brussels Sprouts are a fantastic choice. The smoking process adds an unexpected layer of flavor to these little veggies. You’ll appreciate how they hold up well, making them perfect for the next day’s leftovers. They add an extra dimension to whatever main course you pair them with.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brussels Sprouts

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

A white bowl filled with seasoned roasted sweet potato cubes, garnished with chopped herbs, with a metal serving spoon on the side and a printed napkin partially visible.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Quick and hassle-free, Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes provide a healthy yet tasty side. Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, you’ll find yourself reaching for them often. Leftovers taste as good as they did fresh, making them a versatile choice. You’ll appreciate their simplicity yet heartwarming impact on your meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Corn Fritters

Corn fritters in a black cast iron pan.
Corn Fritters. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, Corn Fritters make a fun addition to your meal. These little fritters pack a punch of flavor that stays even for the next day. They are easy to reheat and maintain their unique texture. Toss a few extra for leftovers, and you won’t be disappointed.
Get the Recipe: Corn Fritters

Smoked Double Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Smoked Double Stuffed Potatoes on a square plate.
Smoked Double Stuffed Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for something substantial? Smoked Double Stuffed Baked Potatoes come with all the bells and whistles. They are a hearty side dish that keeps well for later enjoyment. You’ll appreciate the combination of smokiness and creaminess next time you’re looking for an easy leftover.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Double Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Cauliflower with lemon and dill on a black board.
Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fresh and aromatic, Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill offers a light and tangy twist to your meal. The combination of flavors brings out the natural taste of cauliflower, making it interesting. These leftovers keep their freshness well, giving you something delectable for the next day. You’ll easily find yourself preparing more just to enjoy extra portions later.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes

Braised potatoes in a pan after cooking.
Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

With their aromatic appeal, Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes are hard to resist. They bring a fulfilling touch to your meal, perfectly pairing with almost any main dish. These potatoes do well as leftovers, keeping their flavors intact. You’ll find them just as inviting on the second day.
Get the Recipe: Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes

Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli

A serving of Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli on a black plate.
Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Dreaming of a comfort food classic? Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli offers a blend of creamy goodness and fresh veggies. Leftovers of this hearty casserole taste just as good the next day, making it a practical choice. It’s comforting and filling, ideal for enjoying over multiple meals.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli

Grilled Veggies

Grilled vegetables on a rectangular white platter, including red and yellow bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini slices.
Grilled Veggies. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Nothing beats the smoky flavor of Grilled Veggies. The grilling process delivers a depth of flavor that’s simply unbeatable. Plus, these leftovers make a great snack or side for the next day. They’re a perfect way to add more vegetables to your diet without compromising on taste.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies

Green Beans Almondine with Bacon

Green beans with almonds and bacon on a white plate.
Green Beans Almondine with Bacon. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Add a touch of elegance with Green Beans Almondine with Bacon. The combination of crunchy and delicious flavors brings a special flare to the table. Leftovers maintain their appeal, providing a delicious second act. It’s an appetizing way to have a balanced and interesting side dish.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans Almondine with Bacon

Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Grilled corn on the cob pieces topped with cheese, chili powder, and cilantro, served on a black slate plate with lime wedges on the side.
Grilled Elote Corn Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Spicing things up? Grilled Elote Corn Ribs bring a tangy, charred twist paired with a unique presentation. They’re fun to eat and add a burst of flavor to your meal. Don’t be surprised if you’re making extra to enjoy the following day. This side will have everyone reaching for more.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Mississippi Mud Potatoes

A spoonful of Mississippi Mud Potatoes with herbs, held above a dish.
Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a rich and filling option, Mississippi Mud Potatoes stand out. They blend creamy textures and robust flavors, perfect for taking seconds. Leftovers are just as palatable, making the extra effort worthwhile. You’ll find this dish becoming a regular request at your table.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Irish Nachos

Tray of Irish nachos topped with green onions, bacon, cheese, and drizzled with sour cream.
Irish Nachos. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Creative and flavorful, Irish Nachos redefine how you view nachos. The dish packs an array of interesting flavors and remains delicious even as leftovers. It’s a fun and engaging way to add variation to your meal. You won’t mind making extra; this one is all about indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Irish Nachos

Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

A close-up of Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole with a serving spoon in the dish.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Nothing beats the comforting taste of Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole, a dish that warms the heart and satisfies every craving. This creamy and rich masterpiece is a true crowd-pleaser at any gathering. With the potential for great leftovers, it’s worth making a little extra. You’ll appreciate how well it keeps and is always ready to be enjoyed again the next day.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

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