The Ultimate Guide to the Best Side Dishes for Every Occasion

Side dishes are more than just extras on your plate—they complete the meal, adding texture, flavor, and balance. Whether planning a holiday feast, a summer BBQ, or a quick weeknight dinner, having the right side dish can make all the difference.

We obviously think that side dishes are the bee’s knees (does anyone say that anymore?) – why else would we have an entire website dedicated to it?

This guide will discuss the best side dishes for every occasion, with links to delicious, easy-to-make recipes.

What Makes a Great Side Dish?

A great side dish should:

Complement the main dish without overpowering it.
Be easy to prepare and scalable for different serving sizes.
Offer a balance of flavors and textures.
Use fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Essential Ingredients for the Best Side Dishes

Fresh vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, potatoes, corn)
Grains and pasta (rice, quinoa, macaroni)
Dairy and cheese (butter, cream, cheddar, Parmesan)
Herbs and spices (garlic, basil, rosemary, paprika)

Cooking Methods for Perfect Side Dishes

Oven-Baked: For crispy, golden textures (e.g., roasted vegetables, baked potatoes).
Instant Pot & Slow Cooker: Great for hands-off cooking and flavor development.
Stovetop Sautéing: Ideal for quick, flavorful sides.
Grilling & Air Frying: Adds a smoky or crispy element to your dishes.

Must-Try Side Dishes for Every Occasion

📌 Here are the best side dishes for various meals and events! Click on each to view step-by-step instructions.

Holiday & Thanksgiving Sides

BBQ & Cookout Side Dishes

Game Day & Party Sides

🏈 Little Smokies with Grape Jelly and BBQ
🏈 Easy Cheesy Bacon Ranch Dip
🏈 Buffalo Chicken Dip
🏈 Chili’s Texas Cheese Fries
🏈 Easy Crock Pot Queso Dip

Weeknight Dinner Sides

Healthy & Light Side Dishes

🌿 Grilled Watermelon Steak
🌿 Easy Avocado, Corn, and Black Bean Salad
🌿 Sautéed Green Beans with Garlic
🌿 Creamy Thanksgiving Fruit Salad
🌿 Homemade Instant Pot Hummus

📝 For more delicious ideas, check out our Best Instant Pot Side Dishes!

How to Choose the Right Side Dish for Any Meal

Side dishes should enhance the meal without overwhelming it. Here are some tips:

Perfect Pairings for Popular Main Dishes

For Chicken: Try Easy Cheesy Baked Zucchini Tots or Classic Deviled Eggs.
For Steak: Pair with Copycat Longhorn Mashed Potatoes or Longhorn Steakhouse Creamed Spinach.
For BBQ Ribs: Serve with Easy Red Lobster Coleslaw or Mexican Street Corn Salad.
For Pasta Dishes: Add One-Hour Homemade Breadsticks or Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits.

Common Side Dish Mistakes & How to Fix Them

Even the best cooks can struggle with side dishes. Here are some common mistakes and how to fix them:

Mistake: Overcooked or mushy vegetables.
✅ Fix: Use high heat roasting or quick blanching for crisp texture.
Mistake: Side dish lacks seasoning.
✅ Fix: Always taste and adjust salt, herbs, and spices before serving.
Mistake: Too much starch on the plate.
✅ Fix: Balance heavy carbs with a fresh, crisp salad or roasted veggies.

FAQs About Side Dishes

🔹 What’s the easiest side dish for a quick meal?
Both roasted vegetables or a simple salad require minimal prep and cook time.

🔹 How do I make side dishes ahead of time?
Mashed potatoes, casseroles, and pasta salads can be made in advance and reheated before serving.

🔹 What are the best side dishes for potlucks?
Anything that transports well—potato salad, pasta salad, and dips are always great options.

More Side Dish Inspiration

✨ If you love side dishes, try these next:

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Side Dishes for Every Occasion

What Makes a Great Side Dish?