10 Sides That Keep the Whole Family Smiling

When it comes to family meals, sides are the secret to keeping everyone happy. A great side dish can complement any main course and bring extra flavor to the table. Whether you’re looking for something easy to make or a new idea to try, there are plenty of options that will keep the whole family smiling. The key is finding dishes that are simple, tasty, and loved by everyone. These sides are perfect for turning any meal into something special.

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.

Freshly baked croissants straight from the oven are a real treat. Their crisp outer layers and soft, buttery interior make them a great choice for breakfast, brunch, or even as a side to a main dish. These croissants are sure to impress any guest. Get the recipe: Homemade Croissants

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 combines the softness of homemade dough with the bold flavor of garlic and herbs. This savory bread adds extra depth to any meal, whether it’s a casual dinner or a weekend brunch. It’s the perfect choice when you want something with a bit more flavor. Get the recipe: Garlic Swirl Bread

Roasted Carrots

Roasted carrots are a simple side that brings a mix of sweet and savory flavors to your meal. The caramelized edges and tender center make them a perfect addition to any dinner table. A hint of cinnamon and thyme really make these carrots stand out. Get the recipe: Roasted Carrots

Crusty Walnut Loaves

If you’re craving a fresh loaf of bread, these crusty walnut rolls hit the mark. The rustic, crunchy exterior contrasts nicely with the nutty, hearty inside. These rolls are an easy way to elevate any meal with extra texture and flavor. Get the recipe: Crusty Walnut Loaves

Loaded Sweet Potatoes

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

These stuffed sweet potatoes are a perfect side dish with a sweet and savory filling. The cinnamon-spiced interior and topping of toasted marshmallows and pecans make this dish hard to resist. They’re perfect for adding a unique touch to your meal. 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 is a simple, hands-off side that gives you all the flavors of classic fried rice without the fuss. Just pop it in the oven and let it cook. It’s a great option when you want something quick and easy but still packed with flavor. 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.

These Greek lemon potatoes bring a fresh burst of flavor to your meal with their zesty lemon seasoning. The golden edges and soft, tender centers create a satisfying side that pairs well with nearly any main dish. It’s an easy way to add brightness to your plate. 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.

Truffle fries with Parmesan are a simple way to make regular fries stand out. The crispy texture, rich truffle flavor, and savory Parmesan give them a special touch. They’re a great side dish for adding a little luxury to your meal. Get the recipe: Parmesan Truffle Fries

Butternut Squash Soup

This smooth and creamy butternut squash soup is a cozy side dish that brings a sweet and savory flavor to the table. Perfect for fall, it’s a comforting option that’s easy to make. It’s a great addition to any meal, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering. Get the recipe: Butternut Squash Soup

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.

A bowl of broccoli cheddar soup makes for a comforting side dish with its creamy texture and rich cheddar flavor. This easy-to-make soup adds a satisfying touch to any meal. It’s a great choice when you’re looking for something filling and flavorful. Get the recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup