37 Side Dishes That Will Go Great With Any Meal

Side dishes can completely change a meal, and I love having a few go-to options that work with anything on the table. They’re quick to prepare, add color and flavor, and make weeknight dinners feel more complete. I always appreciate sides that are easy, versatile, and bring the whole meal together without extra stress.

A bowl of seasoned, roasted butternut squash cubes garnished with herbs, placed on a white surface next to a fork and a red checkered cloth. — Air Fryer Butternut Squash. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Close-up of macaroni salad with elbow pasta, peas, cheddar cheese cubes, red onion, and a creamy dressing. — Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This pasta salad is a great choice for side dishes that pair with any meal because it’s quick to prepare and full of fresh flavors. The bacon and ranch blend adds a satisfying touch without being heavy. It can be made ahead, making weeknight dinners easier. Its creamy texture complements a variety of main dishes effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Parmesan Roasted Zucchini in Oven

Roasted zucchini slices with melted cheese and herbs sit enticingly on a white plate, as a fork elegantly holds one piece. — Parmesan Roasted Zucchini in Oven. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

Roasted zucchini with parmesan works well as a side for almost any meal thanks to its simple preparation and light flavor. The oven-roasting brings out natural sweetness. It cooks quickly, perfect for busy weeknights. This veggie dish balances richer mains and adds a healthy touch.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Roasted Zucchini in Oven

Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

Baked macaroni and cheese topped with breadcrumbs and bacon in a white dish, with a serving on a plate beside it. — Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This mac and cheese is a classic side that goes with many main courses because it’s cheesy and filling. It’s easy to make and comes together quickly for a weeknight meal. The creamy texture pairs well with both meats and vegetables. Everyone at the table will appreciate a warm, comforting side like this.
Get the Recipe: Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

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.

Using the crock pot makes this mac and cheese an effortless side for any dinner. It’s creamy and soft, perfect alongside meats or veggies. The slow-cooker method allows hands-off cooking while you focus on other dishes. It’s ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
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.

These baked potatoes make a hearty and convenient side dish for any meal. They’re filled with cheese, bacon, and seasonings, giving them a comforting flavor. Easy to prep ahead, they save time on busy nights. They complement both meat and vegetarian mains perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Green Beans with Garlic Butter

Green beans with pine nuts on a plate. — Green Beans with Garlic Butter. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Green beans tossed in garlic butter are a simple side that pairs well with a wide variety of mains. The garlic adds a punch without overpowering the beans. They cook quickly and are easy to prepare any night of the week. Their bright flavor balances heavier dishes perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Garlic Butter

Vegan Mexican Rice

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

This rice dish is versatile and pairs with most meals due to its light, flavorful seasoning. Quick to cook, it works well for weekday dinners or weekend gatherings. The spices enhance other dishes without being overwhelming. It’s a practical and colorful side everyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mexican Rice

Air Fryer Frozen Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries from the air fryer are a convenient and fast side for many meals. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they cook quickly without much effort. Perfect for casual dinners or family nights. They add a sweet, familiar taste that complements savory mains.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Frozen Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams

Close-up of a spoonful of sweet potato casserole with a topping of toasted pecans and marshmallows. — Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This casserole makes a comforting and easy side dish for a variety of main courses. Using canned yams speeds up preparation without sacrificing flavor. The sweet topping contrasts well with savory dishes. It’s a practical option for weeknight dinners or holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams

No Knead Italian Artisan Bread

Italian artisan bread sliced on cutting board. — No Knead Italian Artisan Bread. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Fresh bread is always a versatile side that fits with any meal. The no-knead method keeps it simple while producing a soft, crusty loaf. Perfect for soaking up sauces or accompanying mains. It adds a homemade touch with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: No Knead Italian Artisan Bread

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

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

Potato wedges cooked in the air fryer are a quick side that goes with many dinners. They come out crisp without deep frying. Easy to prepare and satisfying for the whole family. They pair especially well with roasted meats and sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Bacon-wrapped cabbage is a unique side that complements many meals. The air fryer makes it simple and fast while keeping the cabbage tender. The bacon adds flavor without heavy prep. It’s a great addition to weeknight dinners or casual meals.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Oven Baked Asparagus with Parmesan

Tongs holding roasted asparagus with grated cheese on a white platter, surrounded by lemon slices. — Oven Baked Asparagus with Parmesan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Oven-baked asparagus with parmesan is a fast and flavorful side dish. It’s easy to prep and cooks quickly for weeknight dinners. The parmesan adds a touch of richness that pairs with a variety of mains. This dish brightens any plate and balances heavier entrees.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Asparagus with Parmesan

Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Sliced glazed carrots garnished with herbs on a fork, with more on a plate in the background. — Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air fryer maple-glazed carrots are a quick side with a touch of natural sweetness. They cook fast and retain a tender texture. The glaze pairs well with meats and grains. It’s a simple yet elegant addition to weekday dinners.
Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

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.

Scalloped potatoes are a warm, comforting side for many meals. They come together quickly for a baked dish that complements both meats and vegetables. The creamy layers make them approachable for weeknight dinners. This classic side is always a hit at the table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Scalloped Potatoes

Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a versatile side that enhances any dinner plate. It cooks quickly and combines beans, sauce, and a crunchy topping. Perfect for weeknights or holiday meals. Its creamy texture pairs well with roasted meats.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Bowl of roasted sweet potato cubes garnished with herbs. — Air Fryer Butternut Squash. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Butternut squash cooked in the air fryer is an easy side that complements a wide range of main dishes. It becomes tender and caramelized without long prep time. Quick cooking makes it practical for weeknight meals. Its natural sweetness balances savory entrees.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Aloo Gobi Masala

This spiced potato and cauliflower side works well with a variety of dinners. Quick to cook and packed with flavor, it enhances other dishes without overpowering them. It’s easy to prepare on busy nights. Its warm spices make it a comforting addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala

Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potato stuffed with black beans and corn. — Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Stuffed sweet potatoes make a hearty, flavorful side dish for weeknight dinners. The filling is easy to prepare and pairs with many mains. Air fryer or oven methods save time in the kitchen. It’s a satisfying option that complements meat and plant-based meals alike.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Dairy Free Mac and Cheese

A bowl of creamy penne pasta with a fork, placed on a textured surface. — Dairy Free Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Dairy-free mac and cheese works as a versatile side for various meals. It cooks quickly and delivers creamy texture without dairy. Perfect for family dinners or casual weeknights. This dish balances proteins and vegetables on the plate.
Get the Recipe: Dairy Free Mac and Cheese

Seafood Pasta Salad

Seafood pasta salad is a light and quick side that pairs well with many main dishes. It’s easy to prepare and serves well chilled. The mix of flavors complements both meats and vegetables. This makes it a practical choice for busy evenings or gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad

Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

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

Fried cabbage with bacon is a hearty side that goes with most dinners. The bacon adds flavor while keeping prep simple. Quick cooking makes it perfect for weeknights. It pairs well with roasts, chicken, and grilled dishes.
Get the Recipe: Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Braised Brussels Sprouts

Plate of roasted Brussels sprouts with lemon slices, served with a creamy sauce. A fork holds one sprout above the dish. — Braised Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Braised Brussels sprouts are an easy side that enhances many meals. Quick to prepare, they become tender while keeping a slight bite. Their subtle flavor balances richer main dishes. This makes them a dependable option for weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Braised Brussels Sprouts

Bacon Green Beans

Close-up of a plate with sautéed green beans and bacon pieces, with a fork spearing a few beans. — Bacon Green Beans. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Green beans with bacon are a simple side dish that fits a variety of meals. Cooking time is short, and prep is minimal. The smoky bacon flavor blends well with beans and complements proteins. It’s a practical addition to weekday dinners.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Green Beans

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 fast side that goes with many main courses. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they cook quickly without much effort. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They pair easily with meats and vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Home Fries

Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes

A bowl of mashed potatoes garnished with parsley, set on a pink cloth napkin, with whole potatoes and a grater in the background. — Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Mashed red potatoes with garlic are a classic, easy side for any dinner. The creamy texture and mild garlic flavor enhance a variety of mains. Quick to make, they’re perfect for weeknight meals. This side balances richer or roasted dishes beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes

Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Sliced and roasted cabbage wedges seasoned with herbs on a white plate, garnished with black pepper and fresh herbs. — Roasted Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Roasted cabbage steaks make a simple side that complements many dinners. Cooking in the oven keeps prep easy and fast. Their caramelized edges add flavor without extra effort. They pair well with meats, grains, and other vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

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 versatile side that goes with a variety of mains. It cooks quickly while combining seafood and rice flavors. Great for busy weeknights or casual meals. Its subtle seafood taste enhances any plate.
Get the Recipe: Crab Fried Rice

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Air-fried brussels sprouts with grated parmesan cheese on a white plate. — Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Brussels sprouts in the air fryer are a quick, crispy side dish. The method is fast and easy, making weeknight prep simple. They pair well with meats and grain dishes. Their slight char brings out a naturally sweet flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Zucchini Bruschetta

Zucchini bruschetta is a fresh, fast side dish that pairs with many main courses. It comes together quickly and adds a light, flavorful option to the table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The mixture of tomato and zucchini brightens any meal.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta

Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a versatile side that complements many dinner plates. Quick cooking brings out the flavor of vegetables while keeping prep simple. It works well alongside meats, grains, or proteins. This colorful dish adds both flavor and nutrition.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille

Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Two halves of baked sweet potato topped with butter and garnished with herbs on a white plate, with a red checkered napkin on the side. — Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Sweet potatoes in the air fryer are a fast, simple side that goes with a wide range of mains. The air fryer crisps edges while keeping the inside soft. Quick cooking makes them perfect for weeknights. They balance richer dishes with natural sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Slow Cooker Rice

A spoonful of slow-cooked white rice held above a bowl, with a fresh green parsley leaf in the background. — Slow Cooker Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Rice in the slow cooker is a hands-off side that works with almost any meal. It cooks while you focus on other dishes, saving time. Fluffy and easy to portion, it pairs with proteins and vegetables. This makes it a practical weeknight choice.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Rice

Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

Roasted tomatoes seasoned with herbs and spices, served on a white plate garnished with parsley. — Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Roasted roma tomatoes from the air fryer are a quick side that enhances many meals. Crispy edges and concentrated flavor develop fast in the fryer. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. They add color and depth to any plate.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

Ham and Potato Casserole

This casserole is a hearty side that pairs with a variety of mains. Prep is easy and cooking time is reasonable. The combination of ham and potatoes is filling without being heavy. Perfect for family dinners on busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Potato Casserole

Green Bean Tomato Salad

A plate of green beans tossed with cherry tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese, accompanied by a fork, on a white surface. — Green Bean Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This salad is a fresh, quick side that complements many main dishes. Minimal prep makes it ideal for busy evenings. Bright flavors of tomato and beans pair well with meats or grains. It adds a refreshing touch to any plate.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Tomato Salad

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.

Smashed potatoes with cheese from the air fryer are a fast and simple side. Crispy on the edges, soft inside, and cheesy throughout. Perfect for weeknight meals or casual dinners. They go well with both meats and vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese