I Keep 29 Fall Sides in My Back Pocket for Every Invite

When autumn invites stack up, sides do the heavy lifting. With 29 options to rotate, nobody gets bored, and everyone finds something to load on their plate. They work for game nights, office potlucks, or even family dinners where opinions run strong. It’s like having a playbook that always keeps gatherings running smoothly.

Cauliflower Steaks

Thick slices that hold their shape and make a bold statement on the table. Cauliflower Steaks bring a pleasing texture that stands out even as a side. They feel hearty without overpowering the main dish. A simple way to keep everyone interested in vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Steaks

Sweet Potato Wedges

Perfect balance between soft centers and crispy edges makes this a go-to option. Sweet Potato Wedges add warmth and just the right amount of texture to any plate. They’re easy to grab and pair well with dips or other sides. A reliable pick for a shareable side that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Wedges

Grilled Corn on the Cobb

Easy-to-hold and full of flavor, this is always a crowd favorite. Grilled Corn on the Cobb brings a smoky touch to enhance its natural sweetness. It works great with almost any meal lineup, from casual gatherings to more formal dinners. Guaranteed to be finished before anything else.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn on the Cobb

Southern Cornbread

Moist yet crumbly, this staple side feels like it belongs with almost everything. Southern Cornbread adds texture and that comforting bite everyone loves. It’s great on its own or topped with gravy when needed. Always a dependable addition at the table.
Get the Recipe: Southern Cornbread

Scalloped Potatoes

Thin layers stacked with creamy goodness make this side dish hard to resist. Scalloped Potatoes offer a melt-in-your-mouth texture that feels rich without overdoing it. It’s easy to pair with hearty mains or enjoy as a standalone side. Perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes

Garlic Bread

Warm slices of bread infused with bold flavor are always welcomed at any meal. Garlic Bread is simple but never boring and pairs beautifully with anything saucy. It holds its crunch while soaking up flavors from the plate. A staple you can never go wrong with.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Creamy and dippable, it’s a crowd-pleaser that stands out in any spread. Spinach Artichoke Dip brings a balance of flavors while adding richness to meals. Perfect for dipping crackers, bread, or veggies without feeling too heavy. A side that fits right into any invite.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

Fingerling Potatoes

Small potatoes that pack a punch of flavor and are perfect for mixing things up. Fingerling Potatoes roast up with a great texture and mix well with other dishes. They offer a nice change from traditional options while being easy to grab. Ideal for tables needing variety without extra work.
Get the Recipe: Fingerling Potatoes

Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta

Creamy and flavorful pasta that doesn’t take center stage but still impresses. Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta makes for a versatile side that fits a variety of main dishes. Its mild richness feels like a treat even as a quick pairing. Great for potlucks or casual dinners with friends.
Get the Recipe: Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta

Yellow Squash Casserole

Turning squash into a casserole creates a hearty yet light side dish. Yellow Squash Casserole layers flavors and textures that work well with roasts or grilled items. It’s smooth, soft, and fits naturally at potlucks or family dinners. A smart way to highlight vegetables without feeling repetitive.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Squash Casserole

Smashed Potatoes

Crispy on the outside yet soft inside, they’re a perfect side ready to stand out. Smashed Potatoes bring texture and flexibility to accompany almost any dish. They’re simple to prepare and fulfilling enough to fill out the plate. Great for a no-fuss option that feels a little special.
Get the Recipe: Smashed Potatoes

Macaroni Salad

Cold, creamy, and quick to scoop onto plates, it is a classic addition. Macaroni Salad holds up well for larger gatherings while keeping things simple. It’s easy to make ahead and pairs wonderfully with heavier entrées. A dependable dish for sharing at any invite.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Baked Potato

Straightforward side that can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with toppings. Baked Potato delivers a hearty yet versatile option that works in almost any meal. It’s filling without stealing attention from the main course. Every table always finds room for one.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato

Honeycrisp Salad

Crisp and refreshing option that feels light but still hits the spot. Honeycrisp Salad blends crunch and balance, making it an excellent pairing with rich mains. It’s a reliable choice for adding variety without much effort. A go-to side that feels fresh every time.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad

Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries

Bite-sized add-on that’s as fun to eat as it is to serve. Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries bring a unique texture and earthy flavor to the table. They work well for dipping or simply as a standalone addition to the plate. Great for invites where finger foods are appreciated.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries

Hasselback Potatoes

Elegant yet simple sliced potatoes that bake beautifully for a fancy feel. Hasselback Potatoes offer a mix of crispy edges and soft centers for a unique experience. They’re visually appealing and fit into casual or formal meals easily. A reliable side that guests always notice.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

Broccoli Casserole

Creamy goodness that sneaks vegetables in without making it obvious. Broccoli Casserole is rich enough to stand out but mild enough to complement mains. It’s great for potlucks or as part of larger spreads. A dependable choice that everyone usually enjoys.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Garlic Knots

Soft and brushed with flavor, these little bread bites are perfect for sharing. Garlic Knots are simple yet addictive and pair wonderfully with saucy dishes. They’re just the right size to grab without filling up too much. A must-have for carb lovers at any event.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Brussels Sprouts Casserole

A baked veggie dish that turns a simple ingredient into something memorable. Brussels Sprouts Casserole mixes creamy textures with a nice crunch for balance. It works great alongside proteins and other smaller sides. A creative way to serve a classic vegetable.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Crunchy Onion Rings

Crispy rings that add fun and texture to the table. Crunchy Onion Rings are easy to grab and perfect for dipping or enjoying on their own. They pair great with mains or just as a snackable side. Always a welcome addition when keeping things casual.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

Sweet Potato Fries

Thin strips that bring natural sweetness along with a crispy bite. Sweet Potato Fries are a great alternative to traditional fries with their vibrant flavor. They pair with almost anything or stand alone as a snack-worthy side. Perfect for invites needing something simple yet irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Creamy pasta dish with a twist that leans just slightly toward richness. Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese offers mild sweetness mixed with hearty textures. It’s a comforting choice that fits perfectly when balancing heavier plates. Excellent as a creative addition for family-friendly meals.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Vegetables baked into a cheesy, bubbly dish that easily complements any table. Cheesy Zucchini Casserole delivers bold texture without much effort in preparation. It’s a side dish that feels satisfying but still light enough to pair with mains. Great for potlucks or dinner invites needing variety.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Funeral Potatoes

A creamy, baked side that’s rich and loaded with flavor in every bite. Funeral Potatoes offer a comforting touch that feels like home-cooked simplicity. They’re hearty enough to pair with simple proteins or stand strong in spreads. Perfect for events when comfort food is the goal.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Egg Casserole

Balanced with hearty ingredients that fit neatly into a baked dish. Egg Casserole is easy to slice and serves well in both small or large portions. It works as a simple but complete addition next to lighter pairings. A convenient choice when feeding a group is the priority.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole

Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Hearty dish that combines warmth and texture into one reliable side. Jamaican Red Beans and Rice works especially well with spiced mains or as a standalone bowl. It holds up well all day and travels easily for gatherings. A crowd-pleaser for anyone looking for variety beyond plain rice.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Red Beans and Rice

Potato Casserole

Layers of soft potato goodness baked into a creamy, rich dish. Potato Casserole adds warmth and substance to any meal lineup. It’s simple to prepare yet feels complete enough to stand on its own. A no-fail choice that guests will keep coming back for.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole

Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy pasta that’s always a hit with both kids and adults alike. Mac and Cheese is a classic side dish that pairs well with a wide variety of mains. It’s comforting and simple while being hard to resist in any setting. Great for casual or more formal gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Roasted Whole Cauliflower

A centerpiece-worthy dish that’s simple yet feels special. Roasted Whole Cauliflower brings incredible texture while being an easy way to enjoy vegetables. It’s satisfying enough on its own but works as a great addition to larger spreads. A visually interesting and tasty choice for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Whole Cauliflower