Stuffed Sweet Potatoes on a white plate.

10 Side Dishes That Practically Cook Themselves for You

Cooking side dishes can sometimes feel like a lot of work, especially when you’re already busy preparing the main meal. But what if you could set up your sides with little effort and let them cook on their own? With a few simple tricks, you can have sides that practically make themselves, saving you time and energy in the kitchen. These side dishes are perfect for busy days when you need to focus on other tasks but still want a great meal. Whether you’re looking to save time or just want something easy, these sides have you covered. Get ready for hands-off cooking that still delivers great results.

Crusty Walnut Loaves

Crusty walnut loaves next to a basket.
Crusty Walnut Loaves. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

These crusty walnut loaves bring a satisfying crunch and hearty flavor to your meal. The rustic, crisp crust pairs perfectly with the nutty interior, making them a great side dish for any occasion. They’re a fresh twist on homemade bread that everyone will love. Get the recipe: Crusty Walnut Loaves

Homemade Croissants

A plate of golden, freshly-baked croissants on a decorative dish. Surrounding the plate are small bowls containing butter, powdered sugar, and strawberry jam, all set on a light pink surface with a folded beige napkin nearby.
Homemade Croissants. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

These homemade croissants bring the perfect combination of flaky layers and buttery richness. They’re a great addition to breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish to complement your meal. The process may take a bit of time, but the end result is absolutely worth it. Get the recipe: Homemade Croissants

Roasted Carrots

A rectangular white platter holds roasted carrots topped with crumbled cheese, pecans, dried cranberries, and fresh thyme. The dish is placed on a maroon cloth napkin, with a wooden board in the background.
Roasted Carrots. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Roasted carrots are a simple yet flavorful side that can fit into nearly any meal. With caramelized edges and a soft center, they bring out a sweet and savory combination that everyone will enjoy. Seasoned with a hint of cinnamon and thyme, they’re the perfect addition to your dinner table. Get the recipe: Roasted Carrots

Garlic Swirl Bread

A loaf of homemade herb bread on a wooden cutting board, partially sliced. Fresh basil leaves are nearby, along with garlic cloves. A yellow cloth and a dark blue cloth are in the background. The marble surface adds a vibrant touch.
Garlic Swirl Bread. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Garlic swirl bread is a savory side that pairs perfectly with any meal. Its soft texture, combined with garlic and parsley, makes it an easy way to add flavor and warmth. Serve it as a side dish to enhance your family dinners or weekend brunch. Get the recipe: Garlic Swirl Bread

Loaded Sweet Potatoes

Stuffed Sweet Potatoes on a white plate.
Stuffed Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Loaded sweet potatoes are the perfect balance of sweet and savory in one dish. Filled with a buttery cinnamon-spiced center, then topped with toasted marshmallows and crunchy pecans, this side will definitely stand out. They’re perfect for holiday meals or any time you want something a bit different. Get the recipe: Loaded Sweet Potatoes

Baked Fried Rice

A bowl of fried rice with vegetables, including corn, peas, and carrots, on a green placemat. Wooden chopsticks rest on the bowl’s edge. A smaller bowl with more rice is partially visible in the background.
Baked Fried Rice. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Baked fried rice takes all the flavors of a classic fried rice but without the need for constant stirring. Simply put it in the oven for an easy, hands-off side dish that comes out perfectly every time. It’s a great option for busy nights when you need something quick and flavorful. Get the recipe: Baked Fried Rice

Greek Lemon Potatoes

A white oval dish filled with roasted potato wedges garnished with lemon slices and herbs. Fresh parsley, garlic bulbs, and lemon wedges are scattered around the dish on a white marble surface. A fork and knife are placed nearby.
Greek Lemon Potatoes. Photo credit: The Happy Body Project.

Greek lemon potatoes are a bright, flavorful side that can complement almost any meal. Their golden edges and soft texture are enhanced by the zing of lemon, making them both comforting and refreshing. Serve them to add some extra zest to your dinner. Get the recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes

Parmesan Truffle Fries

A heap of golden-brown fries topped with grated cheese and herbs sits on a newspaper-lined surface. A small bowl of ketchup is placed beside the fries, with parsley and cheese blocks nearby for garnish.
Truffle Fries. Photo credit: The Happy Body Project.

Parmesan truffle fries turn a classic side into something a bit more special. With their crispy texture and savory truffle flavor, these fries are perfect as a side dish for casual meals or even as a fun snack. Simple to make, but with a rich, flavorful twist. Get the recipe: Parmesan Truffle Fries

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

A spoonful of broccoli soup is being served from a bread bowl. The soup contains visible broccoli florets and shredded carrots. In the background, a fresh broccoli head is partially visible on a marble surface.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Broccoli cheddar soup is a creamy and comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with almost any meal. The cheddar adds richness, while the broccoli offers a nice bite. It’s an easy and filling choice for quick dinners or chilly nights. Get the recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Butternut Squash Soup

A bowl of creamy butternut squash soup, garnished with a sprig of cilantro and a sprinkle of black pepper, with a spoon in the bowl. A blue cloth is partially visible in the background.
Butternut Squash. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

This creamy butternut squash soup brings a comforting taste of fall. It’s a rich and savory side dish that adds a touch of warmth to any meal. It’s perfect when you need a quick, satisfying dish to complete your dinner. Get the recipe: Butternut Squash Soup

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