Sometimes, the side dishes steal the show, and who says they shouldn’t? Think about sitting down to a meal where the sides are so hearty and fulfilling that you barely miss having a main course. It’s all about those recipes that are packed with enough flavor and substance to stand alone. These 13 side dishes have the power to make your meal times something truly special without any need for a main dish to complete the scene.
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my Affiliate Disclosure.
Potatoes au Gratin
Who knew comfort could be so simple yet so rich? Our Potatoes au Gratin prove it with their creamy texture and golden top. It’s a dish where simplicity meets indulgence, and it honestly stands strong on its own. Forget about the need for anything else on your plate; these potatoes have got your back.
Get the Recipe: Potatoes au Gratin
Dry Fried Green Beans
Sometimes, magic happens in the kitchen with minimal fuss. Take our dry-fried green Beans, for instance. They bring a crunch and flavor that light up your dining table. These aren’t just an addition; they’re often the main star, making you question why you even thought you needed a main course to start with.
Get the Recipe: Dry Fried Green Beans
Air Fryer Corn Elote
Bringing street food vibes right to your table, our Air Fryer Corn Elote does more than fill a space on your plate. It’s all about that smoky flavor paired with just the right amount of kick. This dish proves that sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the most memorable. Who needs a main dish when you have this by your side?
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Corn Elote
Instant Pot Coconut Rice
There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of our Instant Pot Coconut Rice. It’s creamy and fluffy, and it takes you on a mini vacation with every bite. Often, it’s so good that you seriously consider skipping the main dish and diving into just this. It’s the culinary hug you didn’t know you needed.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Coconut Rice
Mexican Corn Salad
With our Mexican Corn Salad, expect a bowl of vibrant colors and flavors that steal the show. It’s a celebration of textures and tastes that confidently stands alone, making you forget there was ever a main dish planned. This salad isn’t just a side; it’s the highlight of your meal.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Corn Salad
Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
Who doesn’t love a good fry? Our Air Fryer Zucchini Fries flip the script, offering a crispy, guilt-free pleasure that seriously contends for the spotlight. They’re so compellingly good that you’ll find yourself reaching for more, the main dish forgotten. Honestly, who needs potatoes when zucchini can do all this?
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
Green Bean Stuffing Casserole
Bringing a touch of holiday joy to any meal, our Green Bean Stuffing Casserole is a hearty friend that often outshines its plate partners. It meshes comfort and tradition in one dish, making it hard to leave room for anything else. Perfect for those who love a bit of nostalgia with their meals.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Stuffing Casserole
Buttermilk Bread
There’s bread, and then there’s our Buttermilk Bread, a slice of heaven that pairs with absolutely anything or nothing at all. It’s the warm, comforting embrace you didn’t know you were missing. Whether you’re buttering it up or enjoying it solo, this bread often makes you forget you had other plans.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Bread
Air Fryer Onion Rings
Crunchy, golden, and utterly irresistible, our Air Fryer Onion Rings invite you to question everything you knew about needing a main dish. They’re a perfect example of how a simple side can capture all your attention, making everything else secondary. Ideal for those craving that crunch without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Onion Rings
Classic Soft Dinner Rolls
Soft, fluffy, and utterly buttery, our Classic Soft Dinner Rolls are what dinner table dreams are made of. They make such a statement on their own, you might second-guess needing anything else. It’s all about that soft touch and melt-in-your-mouth bliss. A real treat for anyone who believes bread is life.
Get the Recipe: Classic Soft Dinner Rolls
Pommes Duchesse
Who says elegance can’t come in simple packages? Our Pommes Duchesse bring a touch of sophistication to any meal. With their crisp outside and soft, flavorful inside, they’re more than just a side—they’re a statement, making any additional mains feel almost unnecessary.
Get the Recipe: Pommes Duchesse
Deviled Egg Potato Salad
When you think salad, you don’t always think standout, but our Deviled Egg Potato Salad begs to differ. It blends two classic favorites into one dynamic dish that often steals the show. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any day you’re craving comfort without the fuss, it’s a dish that says, “Who needs a main?”
Get the Recipe: Deviled Egg Potato Salad
Air Fryer Broccolini
If you thought broccolini was just another green side, our Air Fryer Broccolini will make you think again. It delivers a crispy, flavorful experience that can easily overshadow a main. This is for those who appreciate a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor. Sometimes the green choice is all you really need.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Broccolini
