12 side dishes that’ll have you ignoring the main course

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Are you ready to take your meals to the next level? Well, get excited because I’ve curated a collection of side dishes that’ll have you ignoring the main course. From creamy mashed potatoes to flavorful rice dishes and crispy veggies, these sides are not just afterthoughts; they’re the stars of the show. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to elevate your weeknight meals, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to steal the spotlight and leave your guests asking for seconds. So, get ready to impress with these irresistible sides that’ll have everyone coming back for more!

Close-up of a spoon holding creamy mac and cheese garnished with green onions.
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Ratatouille

Close-up of a wooden spoon holding ratatouille, featuring chopped zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, garnished with parsley.
Ratatouille. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Ratatouille is a vibrant and flavorful dish that steals the show as a side, making it perfect for side dishes that will have you ignoring the main course. Packed with a colorful array of vegetables, this dish is both visually appealing and delicious. Whether served hot or cold, ratatouille pairs well with a variety of proteins, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Quick and easy to prepare, this French classic is sure to impress your guests and elevate any dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille

Crab Fried Rice

A bowl of fried rice with vegetables and crab meat.
Crab Fried Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crab Fried Rice is a mouthwatering side dish that takes center stage, perfect for side dishes that will have you ignoring the main course. With its savory flavors and tender crab meat, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. Quick and easy to make, crab fried rice is a great way to elevate your meal and add a touch of luxury to any dinner spread. Whether served as a side or enjoyed on its own, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Get the Recipe: Crab Fried Rice

Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Cabbage and bacon in white serving bowl.
Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a comforting side dish that steals the spotlight, perfect for side dishes that will have you ignoring the main course. With its savory bacon and tender cabbage, this dish is a Southern classic that’s sure to please. Quick and easy to make, it’s a great option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether served alongside barbecue or fried chicken, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends alike.
Get the Recipe: Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Green Bean Casserole

A ramekin of green bean casserole topped with crispy fried onions, served on a wooden table.
Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Green Bean Casserole is a timeless classic that shines as a side dish, making it perfect for side dishes that will have you ignoring the main course. With its creamy sauce and crispy topping, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to disappear fast. Quick and easy to make, it’s a great option for holiday dinners or potluck gatherings. Whether served as a side or enjoyed as a main course, this dish is a comforting and satisfying addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Aloo Gobi Masala

Aloo gobi masala in skillet with naan bread.
Aloo Gobi Masala. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Aloo Gobi Masala is a flavorful Indian dish that steals the spotlight as a side, perfect for side dishes that will have you ignoring the main course. With its aromatic spices and tender potatoes and cauliflower, this dish is a feast for the senses. Quick and easy to make, it’s a great option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether served with rice or naan, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends alike.
Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala

Air Fryer Home Fries

Air-fried potato cubes with diced green bell peppers on plate.
Air Fryer Home Fries. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Home Fries are a crispy and delicious side dish that deserves the spotlight, making them perfect for side dishes that will have you ignoring the main course. With their golden brown exterior and fluffy interior, these home fries are a comforting addition to any meal. Quick and easy to make in the air fryer, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional fried potatoes. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, these home fries are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Home Fries

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

A bowl of macaroni and cheese in front of a slow cooker.
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese is a creamy and indulgent side dish that steals the show, perfect for side dishes that will have you ignoring the main course. With its rich cheese sauce and tender pasta, this dish is a comfort food classic that’s sure to please. Quick and easy to make in the slow cooker, it’s a hassle-free option for potlucks, parties, or weeknight dinners. Whether served as a side or enjoyed as a main course, this mac and cheese is guaranteed to be a hit with cheese lovers of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Four twice baked potatoes in a small baking dish.
Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes are a decadent side dish that deserves the spotlight, making them perfect for side dishes that will have you ignoring the main course. With their creamy filling and crispy bacon topping, these potatoes are a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. Quick and easy to make, they’re a great option for special occasions or holiday dinners. Whether served as a side or enjoyed as a main course, these loaded potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Vegan Mexican Rice

Mexican rice in small oval serving dish with spoon.
Vegan Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Vegan Mexican Rice is a flavorful side dish that takes center stage, perfect for side dishes that will have you ignoring the main course. With its aromatic spices and vibrant vegetables, this rice dish is a feast for the senses. Quick and easy to make, it’s a great option for weeknight dinners or taco night. Whether served alongside Mexican-inspired dishes or enjoyed on its own, this vegan rice is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mexican Rice

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Fried potato wedges with ketchup and parsley.
Air Fryer Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Potato Wedges are a crispy and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for side dishes that will have you ignoring the main course. With their golden brown exterior and fluffy interior, these potato wedges are a delicious alternative to traditional fries. Quick and easy to make in the air fryer, they’re a healthier option for satisfying your potato cravings. Whether served alongside burgers, sandwiches, or grilled meats, these potato wedges are sure to be a hit at any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Easy Scalloped Potatoes

Close-up of a cheesy scalloped potatoes dish in a white baking dish, garnished with parsley.
Easy Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Easy Scalloped Potatoes are a comforting side dish that steals the spotlight, perfect for side dishes that will have you ignoring the main course. With their creamy sauce and tender potatoes, these scalloped potatoes are a classic favorite that’s sure to please. Quick and easy to make, they’re a great option for holiday dinners or potluck gatherings. Whether served as a side or enjoyed as a main course, these potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Scalloped Potatoes

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

A spoon lifting a smashed potato garnished with rosemary, with a festive table setting in the background.
Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese are a crispy and cheesy side dish that deserves the spotlight, perfect for side dishes that will have you ignoring the main course. With their golden brown crust and melty cheese topping, these smashed potatoes are a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. Quick and easy to make in the air fryer, they’re a delicious option for any meal. Whether served as a side or enjoyed as a snack, these potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

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