21 Side Dishes That Are Anything But Boring

Say goodbye to mundane meals with these thrilling side dishes. The lineup includes 21 creative recipes that promise to enhance your dining experience without complicating your cooking routine. Each dish is easy to prepare yet sophisticated in taste, ensuring that your sides never fade into the background again. Prepare to awaken your palate and add some excitement to your plates with flavors that are anything but ordinary.

Fork lifting a serving of cheesy cheeseburger casserole garnished with parsley.
The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Air Fryer Broccoli

A dish of ravioli with bacon and parsley that can be found at Olive Garden.
Air Fryer Broccoli. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you’re looking to add a crunch to your meal, popping some broccoli into an air fryer does the trick. It cooks up crispy and golden, perfect as a side or just to snack on. This Air Fryer Broccoli is a healthy and simple way to bring more greens to your table without any hassle.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Broccoli

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Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

A bowl of yellow lentil dal with sour cream and a spoon.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of warm Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. This dish is a soothing blend of flavors that feels like a cozy blanket on a cold day. Ideal for a comforting family dinner, it ensures everyone leaves the table happy.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Easy Tater Tot Casserole

A bowl of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings garnished with chopped parsley.
Easy Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Here’s a dish that brings back childhood memories: Easy Tater Tot Casserole. It’s creamy, crispy, and totally comforting, making it a favorite at any gathering. Quick to assemble, it’s a stress-free option that delivers big on taste and nostalgia.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole

Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

A serving of tater tot casserole on a spoon.
Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re in the mood for something creamy and filling, our Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara is a perfect choice. It brings a taste of Italian elegance to any meal, making it feel like a special night out. This dish is especially great when you want a little luxury at the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Easy Chicken Casserole

A bowl of air fried broccoli garnished with grated cheese and lemon wedges.
Easy Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those busy nights, Easy Chicken Casserole is your go-to for a quick and delicious meal. It’s hearty enough to satisfy everyone at the table and pairs perfectly with a light salad. This casserole combines convenience with home-cooked flavor, making it a weeknight favorite.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

Yellow Lentil Dal

A fork lifting a cheesy bite from a bowl of chicken casserole topped with bacon and breadcrumbs.
Yellow Lentil Dal. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Add some international flair to your dinner with Yellow Lentil Dal. This dish is packed with flavors that are both aromatic and comforting. It’s easy to make and provides a nutritious side that complements any main course beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Lentil Dal

Wild Rice Casserole

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Wild Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Wild Rice Casserole is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a hearty and healthy side dish. Its nutty flavor and satisfying texture make it a hit in any meal setting. This casserole is versatile enough to pair with meats or shine as a vegetarian main.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Smashed Red Skin Potatoes in a white bowl.
Crispy Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

This dish is a must-try for anyone who loves the crunch of fried potatoes but wants something a little different. These potatoes are boiled, smashed, and then crisped to perfection in the oven. Crispy Smashed Potatoes are an excellent side for any main dish, bringing texture and flavor that complements any meal.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Easy Walking Taco Casserole

A freshly baked taco casserole garnished with lettuce, tomatoes, and green onions.
Easy Walking Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spice up your meal routine with Easy Walking Taco Casserole. This dish combines all the flavors of a taco in a one-dish bake that’s fun for the whole family. It’s perfect for a casual dinner where everyone can enjoy a tasty and playful meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Walking Taco Casserole

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

A bowl of Thai jasmine rice and chili peppers.
Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you need a subtle, sweet base for your dishes, Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice is the way to go. This rice is known for its delightful aroma and light, fluffy texture. It complements any saucy dish, enhancing the overall flavors of your meal.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Eggplant Casserole

A plate of eggplant casserole with sauce and cheese.
Eggplant Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Eggplant Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings a rich texture to your dining table. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, where it can serve as a satisfying vegetarian option. This casserole melds various flavors to create a fulfilling and comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Vegan Chicken Nuggets

Vegan chicken nuggets in a bowl with dip.
Vegan Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re exploring plant-based eating, Vegan Chicken Nuggets are a tasty treat that mimics the classic favorite without any meat. They’re crispy on the outside and tender inside, making them a great snack or side. Pair them with your favorite dips for a fun and satisfying meal component.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chicken Nuggets

Air Fryer Asparagus

An air fryer pile of asparagus with grated cheese.
Air Fryer Asparagus. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Air Fryer Asparagus turns this simple vegetable into a crispy, delicious side. It’s quick to prepare and adds a burst of green to your plate. Perfect for those who want a healthy option without spending too much time in the kitchen, this dish brings flavor and nutrients to the forefront.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus

Vegetable Casserole

A baked casserole with a golden breadcrumb topping, garnished with fresh herbs.
Vegetable Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

When you need a dose of veggies, Vegetable Casserole is the answer. It’s packed with a variety of vegetables, baked into a warm, inviting dish that’s perfect for any meal. This casserole is not only nutritious but also delicious, offering a great way to get your daily servings of vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole

Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!)

Air fryer chicken wings served with fresh tomatoes and herbs on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those who love their snacks crispy, Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!) are a must-try. These wings come out perfectly crispy without the need for deep frying, making them a healthier option. They’re ideal for game day or as a savory treat for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!)

The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Fork lifting a serving of cheesy cheeseburger casserole garnished with parsley.
The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole brings all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a hearty, one-dish meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. This casserole is packed with flavor and sure to satisfy those burger cravings in a unique way.
Get the Recipe: The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

Air fryer glazed carrots in a bowl with parsley.
Air Fryer Glazed Carrots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Looking for a side that’s both sweet and easy to prepare? Air Fryer Glazed Carrots are a great addition to any meal, offering a touch of sweetness with minimal effort. These carrots become wonderfully caramelized in the air fryer, bringing a bright pop of color and flavor to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries Recipe

A bowl of crispy portobello mushroom fries with dipping sauce.
Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries Recipe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries are a delicious alternative to traditional fries. This recipe turns earthy portobello mushrooms into crispy, savory treats that are perfect as a side or appetizer. They’re particularly good for adding a gourmet touch to any meal, especially when served with dips.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries Recipe

Air Fryer Homemade Fries

A serving of golden-brown french fries with a side of ketchup.
Air Fryer Homemade Fries. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Making Air Fryer Homemade Fries gives you all the crunch and flavor of traditional fries with less oil. They’re a staple that goes well with almost anything or can be enjoyed on their own. This method brings out the best in potatoes, making them crispy outside and soft inside.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Homemade Fries

Minestrone Soup

Two bowls of soup with pasta and vegetables.
Minestrone Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Minestrone Soup is a robust and hearty dish that brings a variety of vegetables and flavors into one comforting bowl. It’s perfect for warming up on chilly days or for a simple, nutritious meal any time. This soup is a classic that never fails to please with its rich and savory depth.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Glazed barbecued chicken drumsticks on a white plate.
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you crave a dish that’s both quick to make and delicious, then Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks might just hit the spot. This recipe lets you enjoy the smoky flavors of barbecue without the grill, and the air fryer gets the skin wonderfully crispy. It’s perfect for a hassle-free family meal or a casual weekend gathering.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

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