27 sides that’ll outshine the steak this Father’s Day

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Steak might be the main event, but these 27 sides are here to steal the spotlight. From bold and cheesy to fresh and zippy, there’s something in this lineup that’ll have Dad piling his plate high. Trust us—he’ll be talking about the sides long after the grill cools down.

A bowl of coleslaw with shredded carrots and raisins on a wooden surface, next to a red and white checkered cloth.
Carrot Raisin Salad. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Orange Rice

Bowl of rice with chopped celery and orange slices on a wooden table.
Orange Rice. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

If your dad’s into bold flavors, you’ve gotta make this for Father’s Day. This orange rice bakes up tender, zesty, and seriously delicious—and it goes with pretty much anything. Everyone’s gonna ask for the recipe, so just be ready. It’s super easy too, so I’m making a double batch and calling it a win. Honestly, it might steal the show from the main dish.
Get the Recipe: Orange Rice

Cowboy Caviar

A bowl of bean and corn salad with diced avocado, red onion, tomatoes, and cilantro surrounded by tortilla chips.
Cowboy Caviar. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Whip up some Cowboy Caviar and it’ll be gone before you know it! This mix of beans and veggies is awesome with chips, tossed in a salad, or just eaten by the spoonful. It’s fresh, easy to throw together, and always a hit. Everyone ends up going back for seconds. You might wanna make a double batch just to be safe!
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Caviar

Surprise Potatoes

A casserole dish with shredded cheese and a wooden spoon.
Surprise Potatoes. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Need something new to make? Grandma’s Surprise Potatoes are cheesy, creamy, and totally addictive. They’re super easy to toss together and always the first thing to disappear. Perfect for dinner, potlucks, or when you just want comfort food that hits the spot. Honestly, I’d make a double batch—you’ll wish you had more!
Get the Recipe: Surprise Potatoes

Green Beans Almondine with Bacon

Green beans with bacon and almonds on a red plate.
Green Beans Almondine with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Need a quick side for Father’s Day that still feels a little fancy? This Green Beans Almondine has crispy bacon, buttery almonds, and fresh green beans—all the good stuff without a ton of work. It’s super easy to throw together and tastes like you did way more than you actually did. Everyone’s gonna be asking for the recipe!
Get the Recipe: Green Beans Almondine with Bacon

Sweet Potato Puffs

A plate with a bite out of a sweet potato puff.
Sweet Potato Puffs. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

These Sweet Potato Puffs are definitely going on my Father’s Day menu! Crispy on the outside, soft and sweet inside—they’re kinda impossible to stop snacking on. You can serve ’em as a side or just let everyone grab a few while hanging out. I’m making extra because they disappear fast. Super easy, super tasty, and a fun way to add a little sweetness to the day.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Puffs

Grape Salad

Grape Salad in clear bowl with green grapes in background.
Grape Salad. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Who needs fancy dishes when you’ve got this creamy grape salad? It’s super easy, super tasty, and perfect for just about any occasion. Once you try it, you’ll be making it all the time—and people will be begging you for the recipe! Seriously, don’t be surprised when everyone asks for more. You’ll definitely want to make extra!
Get the Recipe: Grape Salad

Cabbage Apple Salad

Red cabbage slaw in a wooden bowl with a spoon.
Cabbage Apple Salad. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Forget the fancy salads this Father’s Day—this Cabbage Apple Salad is where it’s at. Crunchy cabbage, sweet apples, and a tangy little dressing that’s way better than the usual stuff. It’s super easy to toss together, and you can even make it ahead. Perfect for BBQs or just hanging out at home. So good, you’ll be going back for seconds (or thirds).
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Apple Salad

Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

A baking dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust, with a portion served out.
Creamy Macaroni and Cheese. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

This super creamy mac and cheese is loaded with cheddar and Gruyere, then topped with a buttery panko-Parmesan crunch. It’s cheesy, cozy, and totally addictive—don’t be surprised if people start begging you to make it again. Whip it up for any get-together or just because you’re in the mood for something awesome.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

Carrot Raisin Salad

A bowl of coleslaw with shredded carrots and raisins on a wooden surface, next to a red and white checkered cloth.
Carrot Raisin Salad. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Whipping this up for Father’s Day and honestly, it couldn’t be easier. It’s just carrots, cabbage, and raisins all mixed with a creamy lemony dressing—and yeah, it’s way better than it sounds. It goes with everything, disappears fast, and hits that sweet-and-crunchy spot every time.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Raisin Salad

Layered Salad

A layered salad in a clear glass trifle bowl on a wooden board, with peas, lettuce, and red tomatoes, next to a floral patterned cloth.
Layered Salad. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

This layered salad is gonna be a total hit for Father’s Day! It’s got crunchy lettuce, fresh veggies, crispy bacon, and a creamy dressing — seriously tasty. Super easy to make and filling enough to count as a meal. Trust me, it’ll be the first thing gone, so grab a plate before it’s all eaten! Perfect for any get-together and everyone’s favorite!
Get the Recipe: Layered Salad

Mexican Macaroni Salad

Mexican Macaroni Salad in a bowl.
Mexican Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Switch things up this Father’s Day with Grandma’s Mexican Macaroni Salad! It’s creamy, tangy, and super easy to toss together. Great for cookouts, potlucks, or just dinner at home—and yeah, it always disappears fast. Everyone’s gonna ask what’s in it, so be ready to share!
Get the Recipe: Mexican Macaroni Salad

Orange Glazed Carrots

A plate of glazed carrot slices topped with chopped herbs, served with a light sauce.
Orange Glazed Carrots. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

These Orange Glazed Carrots are super tasty — sweet, buttery, and loaded with fresh citrus flavor. They’re tossed in a yummy orange sauce that’s just the right mix of sweet and savory. Way easier and way more fun than plain steamed carrots, your friends will totally be asking you to make them again. Perfect for any dinner when you want to impress without spending forever in the kitchen. Plus, they go with pretty much anything!
Get the Recipe: Orange Glazed Carrots

Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

A bowl of creamy macaroni salad topped with sliced boiled eggs, chopped green onions, and a sprinkle of paprika, placed on a wooden surface.
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

If you’re into deviled eggs, you’re gonna love this pasta salad. It’s got all the good stuff—eggs, relish, mustard, and a little paprika for that extra kick. Tangy, creamy, and just plain tasty. Whip it up for your Father’s Day cookout and watch it disappear. I’m already planning to make a double batch next time!
Get the Recipe: Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Three baked potatoes on a blue and white plate.
Stuffed Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

These loaded baked potatoes are pure cozy vibes! Creamy potatoes, melty cheese, and you can throw them together in no time. They go with pretty much anything, but honestly, they’re good enough to just eat straight from the pan. Grab a fork, get comfy, and don’t plan on sharing.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Amish Macaroni Salad

Bowl of Amish macaroni salad with some on a spoon.
Amish Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Amish macaroni salad is the one that always vanishes first! It’s super creamy, a little sweet, and crazy easy to toss together. Perfect for cookouts, potlucks, or just because. Everyone—kids and adults—goes nuts for it, so don’t be shocked when the bowl’s scraped clean.
Get the Recipe: Amish Macaroni Salad

Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli

Frozen broccoli florets roasted on an air fryer tray.
Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Frozen broccoli’s great when you need a quick side, but let’s be real—nobody wants it all soggy! This air fryer recipe makes crispy, tasty broccoli that everyone will actually eat. It’s fast, easy, and perfect for Father’s Day when you want something simple but yummy. You’ll definitely be making this a lot!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli

Marinated Brussels Sprouts

Marinated brussels sprouts are shown on a white plate with a spoon and a dark red linen in the background.
Marinated Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

These marinated Brussels sprouts are tossed with shallots, rosemary, and a little honey, so they’ve got that savory-sweet thing going on. They’re awesome as a snack, a quick side, or even just on their own like a salad. Super easy to throw together, and they’ll totally steal the show at your Father’s Day dinner.
Get the Recipe: Marinated Brussels Sprouts

Spring Onion Potato Salad

A bowl of spring onion potato salad.
Spring Onion Potato Salad. Photo credit: The Honour System.

This Spring Onion Potato Salad is a tasty, healthy side that mixes crunchy spring onions with soft, creamy potatoes. It’s super easy to whip up and goes with just about anything. Perfect for summer cookouts or a quick weeknight dinner — and honestly, it’s so good you might want to make it all the time!
Get the Recipe: Spring Onion Potato Salad

Instant Pot Jalapeño Risotto

Red bowl of risotto topped with sliced jalapeños.
Instant Pot Jalapeño Risotto. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

This Instant Pot Jalapeño Risotto is crazy easy and so good—whether you’re making it as a main dish or just a side. A splash of olive oil gives it a little something extra. Perfect for a chill Father’s Day meal, and honestly, you’ll probably go back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Jalapeño Risotto

Vegan Couscous salad

Image shows a closeup of an enameled cast iron pan filled with a vegan couscous salad.
Vegan Couscous salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Couscous tends to get overlooked, yet it’s an amazing canvas for a variety of flavors. This version is packed with colorful veggies and hearty enough to stand on its own as a main dish, but it also pairs beautifully with anything fresh off the grill. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous salad

Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Rotisserie chicken pasta salad in a bowl.
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad is full of leftover chicken, crunchy veggies, and a creamy dressing that’s seriously addictive. It’s super easy to toss together and works for lunch, dinner, or whatever. Bring it to a get-together or keep it in the fridge for snacking—it never sticks around for long. Honestly, I could eat this stuff straight outta the bowl.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Rice

A bowl of Longhorn steakhouse rice with copper forks on a table.
Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Rice. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Whip up this Longhorn Steakhouse rice for Father’s Day — it’s a super easy side with onions, bell peppers, and rice cooked in chicken broth. It’s got that perfect combo of savory and a little sweet, with fluffy rice and a bit of crunch from the veggies. Quick to make but full of flavor, it’s great for your cookout or just a chill dinner.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Rice

Garlic Herb Butter Gnocchi

Roasted Garlic Herb Butter Gnocchi with peas and parmesan.
Garlic Herb Butter Gnocchi. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

This meatless meal is quick, cozy, and surprisingly filling—ready in under 20 minutes! Perfect for those nights when you want something easy but still crave something good. We’ve been making it on repeat lately, and it never gets old.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Herb Butter Gnocchi

Greek Quinoa Salad

Quinoa salad in a brown bowl, garnished with pita bread.
Greek Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This Greek Quinoa Salad is light, tasty, and super easy to throw together. It’s packed with crunchy veggies, creamy feta, and cannellini beans, all tossed in a zippy homemade vinaigrette. Perfect as a meatless main or a side with whatever’s on the grill. Bonus—it keeps great in the fridge for leftovers!
Get the Recipe: Greek Quinoa Salad

Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

Side view of wild rice pilaf with pomegranate and butternut squash.
Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This easy pilaf is loaded with butternut squash and wild rice—it’s cozy, hearty, and full of flavor. The sweet squash and nutty rice are a perfect match. It’s the kind of side dish that quietly steals the show, so don’t be surprised if it gets more love than the main course!
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf

Jamie Oliver’s Mothership Tomato Salad

A platter of colorful cherry tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, red onion, and basil leaves. Four forks are placed beside the dish on a white surface.
Jamie Oliver’s Mothership Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Jamie Oliver’s ‘Mothership’ Tomato Salad totally ended my search for the ultimate summer tomato dish. It’s loaded with juicy, ripe tomatoes and just the right amount of seasoning—simple, fresh, and seriously good. I could eat this on repeat all summer long.
Get the Recipe: Jamie Oliver’s Mothership Tomato Salad

Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

A bowl of cilantro lime cauliflower rice.
Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This cilantro lime cauliflower rice is light, flavorful, and comes together in no time with just a few basics. It’s a great low-carb side that goes with pretty much anything. I’m making it for Father’s Day this year—figured we could use something a little lighter with all the heavy stuff. Plus, it’s so good no one even misses the real rice!
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

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