25 sides that could easily replace your main dish (Trust us)

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These sides know how to hold their own. When what’s meant to be a simple side dish starts getting all the attention, you just let it happen. No one’s missing the main dish when these are on the table.

Sliced bread loaf topped with melted cheese, herbs, and spices.
Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Parmesan Crusted Potatoes

A baking sheet with garnished parmesan crusted potatoes on it.
Parmesan Crusted Potatoes. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Parmesan Crusted Potatoes are a standout side dish, and main courses are often overrated. With a cooking time of about 50 minutes, these potatoes are prepared by seasoning them with garlic, herbs, and a generous topping of Parmesan before baking until they’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re perfect for busy evenings or hosting guests.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Crusted Potatoes

Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese

Baked tomatoes with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese garnished with parsley.
Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese bring a splash of color and rich flavor to your table with minimal effort. Fresh tomatoes are sliced, layered with Parmesan and mozzarella, seasoned with Italian herbs, and baked until the cheese is bubbly and golden in just 25 minutes. This dish is quick to prepare and great for impressing guests or making a weeknight meal feel a bit more special. It’s a practical choice that helps busy cooks add a touch of gourmet to regular meals without extra work.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese

Tuna Macaroni Salad

Close-up of a creamy pasta salad sprinkled with paprika and garnished with chopped herbs in a white bowl.
Tuna Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuna Macaroni Salad is an easy-to-make, delicious side perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks. It combines cooked elbow macaroni with canned tuna, hard-boiled eggs, and a dressing of mayonnaise, sweet relish, and mustard, this dish comes together in just 40 minutes. It uses ingredients likely already in your pantry, making it a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor or filling quality. This salad can make meal planning less chore and good, especially during hectic days.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Macaroni Salad

Fresh Corn Salad

A bowl of fresh salad featuring corn, avocado, cucumber, tomatoes, and crumbled cheese, mixed with herbs.
Fresh Corn Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Fresh Corn Salad is a vibrant dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a light, healthy option anytime. Packed with fresh vegetables and a lime dressing, it’s both nutritious and delicious. Best of all, it comes together in only 40 minutes. You’ll start by dicing or chopping up cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, English cucumber, red onion, and basil before boiling the corn and then cutting the kernels off the cob. Then, you’ll mix everything together with a simple lime dressing. For extra flavor and texture, you can optionally add chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and crumbled feta cheese or cotija cheese. Once everything is combined, you’ll just chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, and then you’re all set to serve.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Corn Salad

Quinoa Chickpea Salad

A bowl filled with a quinoa salad that includes chickpeas, chopped red bell peppers, cucumbers, red onions, and fresh herbs, presented on a light-colored surface.
Quinoa Chickpea Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Quinoa Chickpea Salad can hold its own at any table. Packed with quinoa, fresh veggies, and a lemon-garlic dressing, it’s hearty enough to steal the spotlight from a main course. It’s quick to prep, making it a go-to for lunches, light dinners, or potluck contributions. Cook the quinoa, toss in the veggies, and drizzle it with the lemon-garlic dressing for a dish that tastes as fresh as it looks.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Chickpea Salad

Loaded Tater Tots

A close-up of loaded tater tots topped with melted cheese, bacon, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of creamy sauce being added from a white spoon.
Loaded Tater Tots. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Loaded Tater Tots aren’t just a snack — they’re a showstopper. Ready in 35 minutes, these crispy, cheesy, bacon-topped tots can easily turn the main dish into an afterthought. Bake the tots until golden, layer them with melted cheddar, sour cream, bacon, and green onions, and you’ve got a side that people will keep reaching for. Leftovers store well, but don’t expect many.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Tater Tots

German Potato Salad

Close-up of a spoon lifting a serving of German potato salad garnished with chopped parsley. The salad contains sliced potatoes, bacon bits, onions, and a light dressing.
German Potato Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This German Potato Salad knows how to take center stage. Tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a tangy vinegar-based dressing make this side dish a standout option for dinners, potlucks, or family barbecues. It’s ready in under an hour and served warm, so it always feels fresh. Boil the potatoes, cook the bacon, and toss it all together with mustard, vinegar, and bacon drippings for a dish that holds up for days in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: German Potato Salad

Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Close-up of a hand pulling melted cheese from a loaf of garlic bread topped with chopped herbs and browned cubes.
Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread is the side dish that might just outshine everything else on the table. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a party favorite or a must-have for pasta night. Slice a loaf, slather it with garlic butter, and pack it with mozzarella and Parmesan. Once baked, the crispy edges and gooey center make it impossible not to reach for another piece.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Italian Orzo Pasta Salad

A bowl of orzo pasta salad with chopped tomatoes, olives, cucumbers, red onions, basil, and crumbled feta cheese.
Italian Orzo Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Italian Orzo Pasta Salad is proof that sides can outshine the main event. Tender orzo, fresh vegetables, and a homemade dressing come together in a dish that works for family dinners or summer barbecues. After cooking the orzo and whisking up the dressing, everything gets tossed together and chilled to lock in the flavor. It stores well in the fridge, so you’ll have something fresh to enjoy for days.
Get the Recipe: Italian Orzo Pasta Salad

Jiffy Corn Casserole

Close-up of baked cornbread cut into square pieces. The cornbread is golden brown with visible corn kernels and specks of black pepper, arranged closely together on a white surface.
Jiffy Corn Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Jiffy Corn Casserole doesn’t just sit quietly on the side — it gets noticed. Made with whole corn, creamed corn, and Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, it bakes into a golden-topped, spoonable casserole with just the right amount of sweetness. Whisk the eggs, stir in the pantry staples, and bake for 40–50 minutes for a dish that’s just as fitting for holiday gatherings as it is for dinner any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Jiffy Corn Casserole

Cheddar and Chive Mashed Potatoes

A close-up of creamy mashed potatoes topped with melted butter and sprinkled with chopped chives. A spoon is partially submerged in the mashed potatoes, showcasing their smooth and fluffy texture.
Cheddar and Chive Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Cheddar and Chive Mashed Potatoes bring bold flavor to any meal. Creamy, cheesy, and ready in just 30 minutes, they’re a weeknight hero or a dinner party show-stealer. Boil the potatoes, mash them with butter and milk, and stir in sharp cheddar and fresh chives. It’s comfort food with just enough flair to hold its own against any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar and Chive Mashed Potatoes

Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread

A close-up of a slice of cornbread being lifted from a round pan. The cornbread has a golden-brown crust and a moist, crumbly interior.
Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread has a way of taking over the table. With a golden crust and a hint of honey sweetness, it’s hard to call it “just a side.” Ready in 35 minutes, it’s a go-to for holiday dinners or a last-minute addition to any meal. Bake it in a skillet for that crisp edge and tender crumb that’ll have people coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread

Golden Baked Jicama Fries

In FDL library.
Golden Baked Jicama Fries. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Golden Baked Jicama Fries are a creative and healthy alternative to traditional fries. Prep involves slicing jicama into sticks, boiling until soft, and seasoning with avocado oil, turmeric, and garlic powder before baking. This dish is flavorful and adds a nutritious boost to any meal. These fries are perfect for health-conscious eaters looking to try something new without spending hours in the kitchen. They are a great way to spice up your dinner routine while keeping things simple and healthy.
Get the Recipe: Golden Baked Jicama Fries

Halloumi Fries

Halloumi fries with dill dip on a plate.
Halloumi Fries. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Halloumi Fries turns the concept of a side dish on its head. Coating slices of halloumi cheese in a flour and spice mix and baking them until golden brown takes about 25 minutes. The result is a perfectly crispy exterior with a melty, rich cheese interior. Easy to whip up and a real crowd-pleaser, these fries show you don’t need a main dish to be satisfied. They’re also great for those nights when you want something quick but impressive. You spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the meal.
Get the Recipe: Halloumi Fries

Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad

Bowl of creamy dill cucumber onion salad in a bowl with spoons.
Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad is a refreshing side dish that comes together in 30 minutes. It features crisp cucumbers and sharp red onions tossed in a creamy dill dressing, and this salad is light yet delicious. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or when you need a quick side that’s also refreshing. This salad is perfect for meal prep, reducing kitchen time on busy days. It serves a cool, crisp complement to any meal, making it easier to enjoy more time with family and less time cooking.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad

Baked Sliced Zucchini

Baked sliced zucchini with parmesan on a white plate.
Baked Sliced Zucchini. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Baked Sliced Zucchini takes the hassle out of preparing a nutritious side dish. This recipe involves slicing zucchini, topping it with Parmesan and Italian spices, and baking until the texture is perfectly crispy yet tender, all in just 20 minutes. It’s a quick fix for a busy night and pairs well with almost any main dish. Including this zucchini in your meal lineup helps ensure you’re getting a good dose of veggies in a very palatable way, which can be a game changer for families with picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sliced Zucchini

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Twice baked potato casserole dish with cheese, bacon and green onions.
Twice Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a hearty side that might make you skip the main course. Combining russet potatoes with bacon, sour cream, milk, butter, and cheese creates a creamy and comforting dish ready in about 90 minutes. It’s perfect for family gatherings or when you need a dish that feeds a crowd and can be prepared beforehand. This casserole is a stress-free way to keep everyone happy and full, giving a reliable go-to for any occasion that demands a filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

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

Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice showcases how a side dish can be light and flavorful. Ready in 20 minutes, this dish combines pulsed cauliflower with onions and jalapeños, finished with a tangy lime kick. It’s the perfect accompaniment to tacos, grilled chicken, or fish, giving a low-effort way to boost your veggie intake. This dish is especially great for those looking to maintain a healthy diet without spending too much time in the kitchen. It’s a smart, delicious choice that keeps mealtime simple and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

Loaded Zucchini Boats

Three loaded zucchini boats on a plate.
Loaded Zucchini Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Loaded Zucchini Boats are a flavorful and efficient solution for a busy evening meal. These boats fill halved zucchinis with bacon, cheese, and sour cream, combining rich flavors in a ready dish in under 30 minutes. They are perfect for nights when time is short, but you still want a hearty meal. These boats are also a great way to encourage more vegetable consumption deliciously, showing that a great side dish can be the highlight of any meal. They’re a great choice for reducing dishwashing and increasing enjoyment at dinner time.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Zucchini Boats

Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Buttery whole roasted cauliflower on a baking sheet.
Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower transforms an everyday vegetable into a standout side. After simmering in chicken stock, it is roasted with butter, Parmesan, and thyme, and it achieves a rich and tender outcome in just 30 minutes. Preparing this dish is straightforward, making it perfect for a busy weeknight yet special enough for guests. It’s a great way to enjoy vegetables and show that you don’t need a main dish for a great meal. Plus, this recipe can save you time and effort during meal prep, simplifying your cooking without sacrificing taste.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms on a serving tray.
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms are flavorful, combining sausage, cream cheese, bread crumbs, Parmesan, and garlic in a mouthwatering filling. It’s baked until golden, these mushrooms are ready in just 45 minutes, making them a practical choice for planned events and spontaneous gatherings. They show that a side dish can be as impressive as any main course, especially when you’re looking to impress with minimal kitchen time. This recipe saves time and reduces kitchen stress, letting you focus on enjoying the evening.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Roasted butternut squash with cauliflower and bacon and dollops of sour cream with a spoon.
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon dish combines sweet butternut squash with hearty cauliflower and crispy bacon for a robust flavor profile. Seasoned with garlic and Dijon mustard and roasted to perfection, it’s ready in about an hour. This dish is a great way to add vegetables to your diet in a simple and filling way, showing that sides can indeed be the highlight of a meal. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a filling meal without spending all night in the kitchen, making mealtime easy and fun.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Cauliflower risotto in a pan.
Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms is a lighter take on traditional risotto. It’s made with cauliflower rice, mushrooms, Parmesan, and some cream. This dish is rich in flavor yet light on the stomach. It cooks up in just 30 minutes, making it a great side for any meal where you want something special without too much effort. It’s a perfect example of how a well-made side dish can outshine traditional main courses, perfect for those seeking a comforting meal without the heaviness of rice. Plus, this dish is great for keeping your kitchen clean and your stress levels low.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A pan full of bacon and cabbage with a wooden spoon.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a quick and delicious side that combines the crispiness of bacon with the softness of cooked cabbage. This dish comes together in about 25 minutes and is versatile enough to pair with various main dishes or shine independently. It’s a great choice to add more vegetables to your meals in a way that everyone will love. This recipe also makes weeknight dinners easier and is perfect for when you need a quick, delicious meal without much prep or cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

A pan of creamy broccoli with sun-dried tomatoes with a wooden spoon.
Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes makes a simple side dish feel like a gourmet treat. Broccoli florets and sun-dried tomatoes are tossed in a creamy, lightly spiced sauce, ready in about 25 minutes. This side is quick and easy to make and adds a burst of flavor to any meal, showing that you don’t need a main dish to create a memorable dining experience. It’s great for busy nights when you need something quick and filling, helping you reduce stress and enjoy your mealtime.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

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