Save The Day (And Dinner!): 17 Easy Sides That Rescue Any Meal

Turning a meal from bland to grand is no small feat, but with these 17 easy side dishes, it’s not only possible, it’s guaranteed. They’re the perfect mix of convenience and taste, designed to suit any meal, mood, or occasion. Forget about stressing over what to serve with dinner; these sides are your foolproof solution to making every meal a success.

Cheesy potato casserole in a white dish with a fork.
Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Egg Casserole – Make Ahead Breakfast

A casserole dish containing egg casserole.
Egg Casserole – Make Ahead Breakfast. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Getting breakfast ready for a crowd has never been easier, thanks to Egg Casserole. Just mix it up the night before, pop it in the oven in the morning, and you’ve got a hearty breakfast that’ll start everyone’s day off right. It’s a lifesaver for busy mornings.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole – Make Ahead Breakfast

Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

Air fryer glazed carrots in a bowl with parsley.
Air Fryer Glazed Carrots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Need a side that’s both sweet and easy to make? Try whipping up some Air Fryer Glazed Carrots. They’re a hit for their caramelized edges and tender center, making any dinner feel a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

Yellow Lentil Dal

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

If you’re looking for a side that’s hearty and packed with flavor, Yellow Lentil Dal fits the bill. It’s a comforting, nutritious choice that pairs well with nearly any main dish, satisfying everyone at the table with its warm, spiced taste.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Lentil Dal

Wild Rice Casserole

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Wild Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Adding Wild Rice Casserole to your meal brings a hearty and flavorful side that everyone loves. It mixes wild rice with delicious mix-ins, making any dinner feel more complete and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries with a dipping sauce.
Sweet Potato Fries. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who can resist Sweet Potato Fries? They’re the perfect blend of sweet and salty, making an ideal side for burgers, sandwiches, or just about anything. Plus, they’re a surefire way to please both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries

Pizza Salad

Homemade pizza salad in a serving bowl with wooden salad servers resting on top.
Pizza Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those days when you can’t decide between salad and pizza, Pizza Salad offers the best of both worlds. It’s a fun, fresh take on your favorite pizza toppings, all tossed in a leafy green mix.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Stuffed Peppers

Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers in a white bowl.
Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dig into our Stuffed Peppers for a colorful and tasty addition to your table. They’re filled with a savory mix that can easily be tailored to include your favorites. This dish is versatile, delicious, and always a welcome sight.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

Baked Potato

Baked potatoes on a serving dish with sour cream and fresh parsley.
Baked Potato. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A simple Baked Potato can be the start of something amazing with the right toppings. It’s a comfort food classic that’s filling and customizable, ensuring everyone’s happy with their meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato

Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

A casserole dish with zucchini and cheese on it.
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Turn zucchini into a dish everyone craves with Cheesy Zucchini Casserole. It’s a comforting, cheesy bake that makes a great side or vegetarian main. This casserole might just become the new family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Refried Beans

A bowl of homemade refried beans and lime wedges.
Refried Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

No Mexican meal is complete without a hearty scoop of Refried Beans. They’re creamy, flavorful, and the perfect complement to tacos, burritos, and more. Making them at home is easier than you think and always worth the effort.
Get the Recipe: Refried Beans

Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy potato casserole in a white dish with a fork.
Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Looking for a delicious side dish that’s both fancy and cozy? Look no further than Scalloped Potatoes! This dish has got it all – layers of thinly sliced potatoes, creamy sauce, and melted cheese. It’s perfect for any family dinner, and is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Cheesy cauliflower casserole in a white dish with spoons.
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole takes a beloved vegetable and transforms it into a creamy, cheesy delight. It’s a side dish that’s sure to win over even the pickiest eaters, making veggies the star of the show.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

7 Layer Salad

A salad bowl filled with vegetables and peas.
7 Layer Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you bring a 7 Layer Salad to the table, you’re serving up a rainbow of fresh flavors and textures. It’s as beautiful as it is delicious, making it a hit for potlucks, picnics, or just a special family meal.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad

Cauliflower Steaks

Cauliflower steaks with pomegranate and pistachios on a plate.
Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Middle of the week and out of dinner ideas? Cauliflower Steaks are a simple, tasty solution that’ll impress anyone. They’re easy to season and cook, offering a delicious and healthy option that fits right into any meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Steaks

Asparagus Casserole

Cheesy asparagus casserole on a plate with a fork.
Asparagus Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Asparagus Casserole is a creamy, dreamy way to enjoy this spring vegetable. It turns asparagus into a cheesy, breadcrumb-topped dish that’s impossible to resist. This casserole is a side that often steals the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

Minestrone Soup

Two bowls of soup with pasta and vegetables.
Minestrone Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Adding a bowl of Minestrone Soup to your meal introduces a rich blend of veggies, beans, and pasta. It’s a hearty, comforting soup that’s perfect for any season, making everyone feel cozy and satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Waldorf Salad

Waldorf salad on a bed of lettuce, with salad servers resting on top.
Waldorf Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Shake up your salad routine with a classic Waldorf Salad. It’s crunchy, sweet, and creamy all at once, making it a refreshing side or light meal. This salad is a timeless dish that brings a touch of elegance to your dining table.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

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