15 Easy Dinner Side Dishes You’ll Be Happy You Tried

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The main course might be the star, but side dishes elevate a meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you crave classic comfort food or a burst of global flavors, this roundup has something for everyone. From quick and easy weeknight solutions to show-stopping holiday dishes, get ready to find your new favorite sidekicks!

Restaurant Style Red Mexican Rice

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You’re just 30 minutes away from the perfect Mexican rice! Packed with flavor, it’s the ultimate sidekick for tacos, enchiladas, or whatever you’re cooking up.

Get The Recipe: Restaurant Style Red Mexican Rice

Easy Stovetop Glazed Carrots

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These stovetop glazed carrots are a flavor-packed delight—richly buttery, perfectly sweet, and balanced with a tangy splash of vinegar. Each tender bite glistens with a caramelized glaze, topped off with a vibrant sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Get The Recipe: Easy Stovetop Glazed Carrots

Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes

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These Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes are smooth, creamy, and buttery, bursting with rich flavor from Yukon Gold potatoes and real butter. They’re a great way to make any meal feel special, all without the last-minute rush!

Get The Recipe: Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes

Creamed Spinach

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Don’t underestimate the power of this delightfully simple creamed spinach recipe. It’s destined to be the star of your holiday feast.

Get The Recipe: Creamed Spinach

Cream Cheese Corn

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Craving classic comfort food with a twist? Look no further than this Stovetop Cream Cheese Corn recipe. This creamy twist on creamed corn comes together in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect quick and easy side dish for any occasion, especially holiday gatherings.

Get The Recipe: Cream Cheese Corn

Roasted Carrots

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Forget complicated sides! These Balsamic Garlic Roasted Carrots boast big flavor with minimal effort, making them a dinnertime winner.

Get The Recipe: Roasted Carrots

Roasted Green Beans

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Don’t let simplicity fool you – this recipe delivers on flavor! These roasted green beans are welcome to any table, from holidays to quick weeknight dinners.

Get The Recipe: Roasted Green Beans

Best Ever Mashed Potatoes

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Bid farewell to lumpy disappointments! This recipe guarantees the silkiest, most decadent mashed potatoes you’ve ever tasted.

Get The Recipe: Best Ever Mashed Potatoes

Honey & Maple Roasted Parsnips

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Simple ingredients create flavor fireworks! Butter, honey, maple syrup, and fresh thyme transform parsnips into crispy, sweet, and utterly irresistible bites.

Get The Recipe: Honey & Maple Roasted Parsnips

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

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Dive into timeless cheesy bliss! This creamy baked mac and cheese is surprisingly simple to make yet guaranteed to be a family favorite.

Get The Recipe: Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

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Bacon makes everything better, and these Brussels sprouts are no exception! Indulge in a creamy side dish that’s bursting with flavor.

Get The Recipe: Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

Cheesy Cauliflower Bake

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Craving something warm and satisfying? Look no further than this Cheesy Cauliflower Bake. It’s a symphony of cheese and creamy goodness in every bite.

Get The Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Bake

Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes

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These mashed sweet potatoes are a flavor explosion! Creamy, smooth, and packed with a delightful buttery taste, they’re the perfect way to elevate any meal.

Get The Recipe: Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Crispy Roasted Potatoes

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These aren’t your average roasted potatoes. We’re talking irresistible crunch with a luxuriously soft, pillowy center.

Get The Recipe: Crispy Roasted Potatoes

Best EVER Potato Wedges

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Transform ordinary potatoes into crispy, golden wedges with this simple recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, these homemade potato wedges are guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family.

Get The Recipe: Best EVER Potato Wedges