We found 17 secret sides that are restaurant-worthy

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Ready to give your dinners a restaurant-quality boost? Check out these 17 side dishes that pack enough punch to stand out as the stars of the table. They’re not your average sides; each one brings a dash of sophistication and lots of flavors that can complement any main dish. Whether you’re planning a special meal or just spicing up a Tuesday night dinner, these sides will bring that ‘wow’ factor right into your dining room.

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

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.

If you love the creamy, comforting taste of a classic Italian dish, this one’s for you. Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara brings the restaurant experience home with its rich flavor and satisfying texture. It’s perfect for when you want to impress guests or just treat yourself.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Easy Tater Tot Casserole

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

Think of a dish that’s as fun to eat as it is easy to make. Easy Tater Tot Casserole is a crowd-pleaser, packed with crispy tater tots atop a savory, creamy base. It’s ideal for busy nights when you want something delicious without any hassle.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole

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.

Enjoy the taste of homestyle cooking with a recipe that’s straight from the country kitchen. Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings is hearty and comforting, perfect for a cozy family dinner. It brings classic flavors to your table with a touch of nostalgia.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

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.

For a twist on taco night, this casserole makes it easy and fun. Easy Walking Taco Casserole layers your favorite taco ingredients in a dish that everyone will love diving into. It’s great for gatherings or a family dinner that needs to be on the table quickly.
Get the Recipe: Easy Walking Taco Casserole

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 need a side that’s healthy, quick, and delicious, air fryer broccoli is your go-to. Air Fryer Broccoli turns out perfectly crispy and flavorful, a far cry from the usual steamed version. It’s an easy way to get a dose of greens that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Broccoli

Vegetable Casserole

A baked casserole with a golden breadcrumb topping, garnished with fresh herbs.
Vegetable Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Experience a dish that’s bursting with color and nutrition. Vegetable Casserole is loaded with a variety of veggies in a creamy sauce, baked to perfection. It’s a hearty side that complements any main dish, bringing comfort and wholesomeness to your dining table.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole

Yellow Lentil Dal

A bowl of yellow lentil dal with sour cream and a spoon.
Yellow Lentil Dal. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

There’s nothing like a warm, spiced lentil dish to make your meal complete. Yellow Lentil Dal is a staple in many households, known for its simplicity and rich flavors. It’s perfect alongside rice or bread, making any meal feel more substantial.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Lentil Dal

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.

Need a comforting meal that comes together without fuss? Easy Chicken Casserole is a satisfying blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and soft vegetables. It’s a reliable choice for a hearty dinner that leaves everyone feeling content.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

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

Complement your spicy curries and stir-fries with something subtle yet aromatic. Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice is the perfect side, with its soft texture and slightly sweet flavor. It’s an essential staple that pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Vegan Chicken Nuggets

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

Who says you need meat to enjoy nuggets? Vegan Chicken Nuggets are a delicious alternative that will surprise you with their texture and taste. They’re fantastic for dipping and can be a hit at any party or as a quick snack.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chicken Nuggets

Air Fryer Asparagus

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

Give your meal a touch of elegance with a side that’s simple yet flavorful. Air Fryer Asparagus cooks up in minutes, offering a tender, charred addition to your plate. It’s an ideal match for both light and hearty entrees, making it a versatile choice for any dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus

The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

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

Bring the fun of a cheeseburger into a hearty, easy-to-serve casserole. The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole is a hit with kids and adults alike, combining all the beloved burger components in one delicious dish. It’s perfect for a casual family meal or a get-together.
Get the Recipe: The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

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

Enjoy the flavors of barbecue any time of the year with this quick and easy recipe. Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are smothered in tangy sauce and come out perfectly crispy. They’re a mess-free way to satisfy your BBQ cravings, even when grilling isn’t an option.
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.

If you’re looking for a unique, savory snack that stands out, these mushroom fries are a must-try. Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries offer a delightful alternative to traditional fries, with a meaty texture and rich flavor. They’re perfect for dipping and sharing.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries Recipe

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.

Skip the deep fryer but keep all the crunch with homemade fries that are as easy as they are tasty. Air Fryer Homemade Fries let you indulge in your fry craving without the guilt. They’re a quick and easy side that goes well with just about any dish.
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.

Start your morning with a dish that’s hearty and filling, or serve it for brunch and watch it disappear. Breakfast Casserole in the air fryer is a convenient way to cook up eggs, meats, and veggies in one flavorful dish. It’s perfect for when you have guests or need a big family breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Casserole

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.

When you crave that perfect crunch, air fryer chicken wings deliver every time. Air Fryer Chicken Wings are not only extra crispy but also healthier than traditional frying methods. They make a great appetizer or a fun dinner that’s sure to please everyone.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!)

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