Not every side dish needs to steal the spotlight, but it does need to work with whatever else is on the table. The best ones are flexible, reliable, and easy to pair with everything from grilled meats to simple weeknight dinners. These 13 side dishes focus on balanced flavors and straightforward prep so they fit into almost any meal. And once you have a few of these ready to go, we stop overthinking what to serve alongside dinner.
Roasted Butternut Squash
Roasted Butternut Squash cooks until tender with a slightly sweet flavor. It’s a simple side that pairs well with savory mains.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash
Smoked Corn on the Cob
Smoked Corn on the Cob adds a smoky layer to a familiar side. It’s easy to serve and works across many meals.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Corn on the Cob
Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese
Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese bakes into a rich, creamy dish with a golden top. It’s a dependable side that fits almost any table.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese
Roasted Green Beans
Roasted Green Beans cook until tender with lightly crisp edges. They’re a versatile vegetable side that works with everything.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Green Beans
Roasted Carrots with Hazelnuts
Roasted Carrots with Hazelnuts combine sweet roasted carrots with a bit of crunch. It adds texture and balance to the plate.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Carrots with Hazelnuts
Grilled Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Grilled Bacon Wrapped Asparagus pairs crisp asparagus with smoky bacon. It’s a simple side that feels a little more complete.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Cherry Chicken Salad Recipe (with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken)
Cherry Chicken Salad mixes chicken with a slightly sweet and savory combination. It works well as a lighter side or add-on.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Chicken Salad Recipe (with Leftover Rotisserie Chicken)
Cayenne Maple Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts and Squash
Cayenne Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Squash combine sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors. They bring bold contrast to the plate.
Get the Recipe: Cayenne Maple Roasted Bacon Brussels Sprouts and Squash
Easy Grilled Corn Salad
Easy Grilled Corn Salad mixes charred corn with fresh herbs and light dressing. It’s a bright side that balances heavier dishes.
Get the Recipe: Easy Grilled Corn Salad
Smoked Potato Salad
Smoked Potato Salad adds a smoky twist to a classic creamy side. We like how it stays familiar while adding depth.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Potato Salad
Grilled Asparagus in Foil
Grilled Asparagus in Foil steams asparagus with simple seasoning for a tender result. It’s easy to prepare and pairs with anything.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus in Foil
Umami Smoked Mushrooms
Umami Smoked Mushrooms cook into tender bites with deep savory flavor. They add richness without overpowering the meal.
Get the Recipe: Umami Smoked Mushrooms
BBQ Glazed Smoked Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
BBQ Glazed Smoked Brussels Sprouts with Bacon combine smoky sprouts with sweet glaze and bacon. They bring bold flavor that still pairs easily.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Glazed Smoked Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
