Holiday spreads always seem to need backup, and 49 fall side dishes are ready to do the heavy lifting. These aren’t just fillers, they’re the dishes that make guests circle back for second helpings. They work for every table, whether the crowd leans traditional or wants something a little different. Call them the reliable cousins that never miss the party.
French Onion Casserole
Fall dinners often need something with depth and comfort. French Onion Casserole brings rich layers that complement any main dish perfectly. It’s a warm staple that blends hearty textures seamlessly. Whether it’s for small gatherings or big meals, this dish works every time.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Casserole
Antipasto Skewers
Adding variety to holiday spreads can be fun. Antipasto Skewers balance savory options with bite-sized, easy-to-serve portions. Perfect for snack tables or as a simple side, they fit into any holiday menu smoothly. It’s a convenient option for all ages to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Skewers
Beet Salad
Fresh dishes with rich colors are always inviting on a spread. Beet Salad brings balance and pairs well with heavier dishes. The sweetness and earthy tones stand out while keeping things fresh on the table. Whether plated individually or shared family-style, this option is hard to miss.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad
Easy Cornbread Casserole
Sometimes you just need something simple and filling for a crowd. That’s where Easy Cornbread Casserole steps in to shine. It’s hearty, comforting, and fits right alongside everything from ham to turkey. It keeps things easy without sacrificing the depth everyone craves on holiday tables.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole
Baked Zucchini
Variety is key for a holiday lineup, especially with veggies. Baked Zucchini is a side that works as a lighter option that pairs well with decadent mains. Oven-baked dishes like this bring a subtle ease to balancing the heavier plates at the table. Each slice adds texture without overloading the meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Zucchini
Cabbage Casserole
There are always room for those heartier veggie-based sides. Cabbage Casserole offers warmth and substance that pairs nicely with roasts and similar classic dishes. It’s something that feeds a crowd and works well with holiday spreads. Whether for leftovers or straight out of the oven, it’s always filling.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Casserole
Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing
Crisp options can provide that needed balance during large meals. Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing adds crunch and gives variety to side dish options. The creamy dressing helps make greens feel more approachable during heavier meals. It’s a reliable choice for those looking for a quick veggie addition.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing
Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins
People like their holiday bread with a little twist sometimes. That’s where Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins fit so well into gatherings. Slightly sweet with a hint of spice, this option bridges simple cornbread and more adventurous bites. For holiday spreads needing variety, it’s one that gets talked about.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Honey Cornbread Muffins
Tuna Noodle Casserole
It’s always good to throw in sides that feed a crowd plus are nostalgic. Tuna Noodle Casserole steps in with creamy layers and hearty bites to share at larger gatherings. Easy to serve and hard to stop eating, it just works. Whenever brought to the table, this one finds its spot next to family staples.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole
Garlic Knots
Spreads need those small bread sides to feel complete. Garlic Knots aren’t fancy but hit the mark every time, becoming quick favorites. Warm and quick to grab, they’re perfect for dipping or just eating plain with big holiday meals. No matter the size of the gathering, they disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots
Mashed Potatoes
A holiday feast is never complete without Mashed Potatoes on the table. They’re creamy, smooth, and pair perfectly with nearly any main dish. You can serve them with or without gravy, and either way, they’re a crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of dish that’s hard to pass up.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Everyone loves Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese at a fall gathering. It’s a clever twist on the classic that brings subtle sweetness to a favorite side. It balances richness and creaminess in every bite. Perfect for those who want something cozy and filling.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Antipasto Salad
Serving Antipasto Salad adds a fresh, vibrant touch to a spread. It’s loaded with layers of textures and flavors that keep things interesting. This dish is light but also hearty enough to stand out at the table. A great way to balance heavier dishes at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad
Sweet Potato Wedges
A tray of Sweet Potato Wedges is always a hit. They’ve got a mix of crispy edges and tender insides that make them hard to resist. This dish works great as a side or even a casual appetizer. Definitely something you’ll want to snack on throughout the day.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Wedges
Crunchy Onion Rings
For something crunchy and filling, set out Crunchy Onion Rings. These golden bites are crispy with a tender center that everyone loves. They bring a fun texture that fits perfectly alongside all the rich and creamy dishes. Not just for burgers, this is a side worth making room for.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings
Southern Cornbread
Nothing beats fresh-baked Southern Cornbread when it comes to comfort food. Slightly crumbly with a hint of sweetness, it pairs well with hearty dishes and soups. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauces or gravy left on your plate. You’ll be reaching for seconds before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Southern Cornbread
Mac and Cheese
You can’t go wrong with a dish like Mac and Cheese at a holiday meal. Creamy, cheesy, and fulfilling, it’s a classic that everyone knows and loves. It’s the kind of side that brings warmth to the table and works well with anything. No surprise that it’s a favorite for kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese
Broccoli Casserole
Everyone needs a side dish like Broccoli Casserole in their lineup. It’s got that perfect mix of cheesy goodness and tender vegetables baked to perfection. Great for those who want to incorporate veggies without skimping on comfort. This dish is both familiar and filling.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole
Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
For something roasted and wholesome, try Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables. They bring a slight sweetness and earthy tones that work great with the other savory dishes. It’s an easy way to add colorful variety to the table. Plus, it’s always nice to have some veggies that are simple and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
Cucumber Salad Jar (Asian Style)
A jar of Cucumber Salad Jar (Asian Style) brings a refreshing twist to your spread. Crisp, tangy slices offer a nice balance to richer dishes. It’s light, easy to serve, and adds a bit of crunch to the table. A great option if you want something simple but still memorable.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad Jar (Asian Style)
Ravioli Casserole
Nothing beats a hearty baked dish for a gathering. Ravioli Casserole is perfect for any holiday table, offering layers of cheesy, comforting goodness. It’s filling, easy to pair with other sides, and a great option for feeding a crowd. Perfect for when you want something delicious and simple to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole
Egg Fried Rice
Rice works well with almost anything. Egg Fried Rice is quick to make, mix-and-match friendly, and perfect for adding variety to your spread. Its combination of richness and texture works with almost every type of main dish. Great option when you need a versatile side that keeps everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Egg Fried Rice
Corn Casserole
Corn dishes seem to bring people together. Corn Casserole blends creamy richness with a touch of sweetness that makes it comforting and indulgent. It’s easy to scoop, serve, and pairs perfectly with the rest of any holiday spread. Keep it in mind for when you need a dependable, crowd-pleasing addition.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole
Leek and Potato Soup
Soups are classic for chillier days. Leek and Potato Soup is smooth, filling, and warms you up without being too heavy. It fits any mood and pairs well with any bread or fall-inspired side. Such a great choice when you want a cozy dish everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup
Spaghetti Casserole
Pasta is always a hit. Spaghetti Casserole kicks things up with cheesy, baked goodness that feels satisfying and homey. It’s compact enough for sharing yet bold enough to stand out on its own. Everyone at the table will be coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole
Pumpkin Soup
Holidays call for something warm and welcoming. Pumpkin Soup brings seasonal charm while being deliciously creamy and comforting. It’s the perfect addition when you want something light but still flavorful and filling. Works well with breads, salads, or heartier sides nearby.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Soup
Twice Baked Potatoes
Potatoes come in so many crowd-pleasing variations. Twice Baked Potatoes add that buttery texture and melt-in-your-mouth feel with a crispy finish everyone loves. Their rich, layered appeal makes them hard to resist on any holiday table. You can always count on these to be one of the first dishes to disappear.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes
Hamburger Casserole
Weeknight comfort meals can inspire better holiday spreads. Hamburger Casserole brings hearty, cheesy goodness to balance out lighter sides. It’s both classic and filling, making it an easy fix for big gatherings. Just the kind of dish you’d want to complement a special dinner and keep everyone coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole
Focaccia Bread
Something fresh from the oven works every time. Focaccia Bread is the perfect soft, chewy bread to offer alongside soups or casseroles. Hot and golden with a slight crunch on the outside, it’s hard to resist grabbing another slice. A no-fuss option that always rounds out a fall spread beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread
Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Potato dishes tend to steal the show. Mississippi Mud Potatoes mix creamy, cheesy layers with just the right amount of crisp on the top. Perfect for balancing out lighter salads or mains with a rich, indulgent bite. Everyone always loves when they see this classic on the table.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Spanish Rice
Sometimes, a simple rice dish can balance out all the main course madness. Spanish Rice is a timeless choice, adding just the right amount of heat and depth to the lineup. It complements almost any dish and helps keep things balanced and filling. Serve it to round out any rich and heavy holiday spread for a nice change.
Get the Recipe: Spanish Rice
Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes
Looking for a fresh twist on traditional sides? Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes bring a hearty and casual vibe to the holiday table. Perfect for a grab-and-go option, they’re filling and easy to enjoy. These are a great addition to spreads meant for sharing with a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes
Marry Me Chicken Casserole
When you need something creamy and shareable, look no further. Marry Me Chicken Casserole offers comforting layers perfect for group gatherings. It blends hearty ingredients with just the right amount of richness. Toss it on the table, and you’ll have guests coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Casserole
Big Mac Sliders
There’s something fun about bite-sized options during big meals. Big Mac Sliders deliver that crowd-pleaser feel everyone loves, making them ideal for holiday spreads. They hit the spot for anyone craving something hearty yet manageable. Plus, they work well next to other larger sides and dishes.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Sliders
Pizza Casserole
It’s easy to bring comfort food into a holiday setting without it feeling out of place. Pizza Casserole combines everything great about pizza, reshaped into a shareable dish. This can pair well with fresh bread or salad and brings that laid-back energy to festive meals. Everyone, no matter their age, will be reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole
Egg Roll
A fun option for gatherings, especially when you want something interactive. Egg Roll packs everything into a crispy wrap that’s perfect for any plate. It’s a welcome addition when mixing textures and flavors at the table. Shareable and easy to grab, this one fits seamlessly into any lineup.
Get the Recipe: Egg Roll
Taco Pasta Salad
Want something fresh and filling to mix things up? Taco Pasta Salad is a blend that works fantastically during big meals. It’s light but hearty and adds variety to typical spreads. This dish pairs nicely with heavier items and gives guests a balanced option.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad
Crack Chicken Casserole
Versatility is key when you want dishes to stand out in the crowd. Crack Chicken Casserole is creamy and packed with layers that feel spot-on during a holiday spread. It offers just the right touch to hearty holiday dinners without being overwhelming. Guests can’t resist scooping up seconds of this staple.
Get the Recipe: Crack Chicken Casserole
Asian Slaw
Sometimes you need something bright and crunchy to mix into heavier meals. Asian Slaw is a great choice to lighten up the table and add some texture without overpowering other dishes. It blends well with traditional spreads and helps refresh the overall lineup. Easy to serve, it’s a standout addition to any collection.
Get the Recipe: Asian Slaw
Fluffy Naan Bread
Warm bread at a holiday meal is a must. Fluffy Naan Bread is an easy side option that’s soft with just the right amount of chew. It’s perfect for soaking up gravies and sauces or even piling with leftovers. You’ll never feel like there’s too much bread with this on the table.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Naan Bread
Million Dollar Casserole
When hearty dishes are on the menu, something creamy always balances things out. Million Dollar Casserole layers rich, cheesy goodness in every bite. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels right at home on any holiday table. Everyone’s bound to come back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Casserole
Honeycrisp Salad
Fall meals deserve something fresh to lighten the spread. Honeycrisp Salad brings a balance of crunch and sweetness that complements heavier dishes. It’s a bright touch that pairs well with almost anything on the menu. Even those who skip salad might reach for this one.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad
Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe
Carrots that shine with a touch of sweetness are always a win. Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe transforms this vegetable into something you might just find yourself craving. They add both color and texture to any plate without overcomplicating things. They’re straightforward but still feel special.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe
Funeral Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy goodness packed into every bite. Funeral Potatoes bring that warm, comforting texture everyone wants from a side dish. They’ve got a filling depth that makes them a favorite at gatherings. It’s hard to go wrong with something this classic and rich.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes
Dinner Rolls
It’s not just bread; it’s a must-have addition to meals. Dinner Rolls offer a soft and tender texture that goes well with nearly anything served. They’re ideal for pairing with spreads, butter, or just enjoying on their own. Fresh, warm rolls feel like a staple for holiday tables.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls
Mexican Rice
Side dishes with a bold kick are always welcome. Mexican Rice adds the kind of flavor that pairs effortlessly with heavier dishes. It’s a colorful option that’s far from boring and brings some spice without overwhelming. Serve it hot for the best combination of taste and texture.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice
Yellow Squash Casserole
Comfort food is better when it’s this mellow and satisfying. Yellow Squash Casserole fits easily into a holiday table, bringing a mix of textures that balance nicely. It’s light enough to accompany heavier dishes without overshadowing them. You’ll appreciate the subtlety it brings to the spread.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Squash Casserole
Sweet Potato Cubes
This simple side dish knows how to stand out. Sweet Potato Cubes are perfectly portioned for easy serving and pack a hearty vibe. They bring color, warmth, and just enough sweetness without trying too hard. They’re a go-to option for every fall gathering.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cubes
Baked Rice
Simple, straightforward, and easy to serve. Baked Rice ties everything together as a side nobody can overlook. It’s neutral yet comforting, always ready to pair with rich or flavorful mains. Whether paired with stew or roasted meats, it just works.
Get the Recipe: Baked Rice
