Old-Fashioned Sides Your Family Will Ask for Again

Old-fashioned side dishes have a special way of bringing everyone back to the table. Whether it’s a creamy potato salad or perfectly baked cornbread, these classics never fail to spark memories of Sunday dinners and family gatherings. They remind us that some flavors never go out of style.

These time-tested recipes are loved for their simplicity and comfort. They pair well with nearly any main dish and are often the first to disappear from the table. Each one carries a bit of nostalgia that connects generations through familiar tastes and traditions.

From hearty casseroles to buttery rolls, these old-fashioned sides prove that comfort food will always have a place in family meals. Their warmth and flavor make every gathering feel a little more special, something your family will surely ask for again and again.

Cauliflower Potato Salad

This light and creamy salad blends tender cauliflower and potatoes for a comforting side dish that’s perfect for any meal. It’s a fresh spin on a picnic classic, offering a great balance of crunch and creaminess. Tossed with a tangy dressing, it pairs well with grilled meats or stands out all on its own.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Potato Salad

Easy One Pot Stewed Potatoes

This cozy dish is all about simplicity, just one pot and a handful of ingredients. Soft potatoes simmer in a flavorful broth until they’re perfectly tender. It’s a quick way to bring warmth to your table without much fuss or cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Easy One Pot Stewed Potatoes

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

A hearty bake filled with cheesy goodness, this casserole combines broccoli and cauliflower under a golden topping. It’s the kind of dish that makes even veggie skeptics ask for seconds. Ideal for holidays or weeknight dinners when you want something filling and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes get a nutty, rich upgrade with browned butter. The deep flavor adds a little something extra to every bite. Serve it with your favorite main dish for a side that’s creamy, aromatic, and hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes

Spicy Jalapeño Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy pasta with a kick, this version adds jalapeños for just the right amount of heat. It’s indulgent, bold, and perfect for anyone who loves comfort food with personality. Great as a main course or alongside grilled favorites.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Jalapeño Macaroni and Cheese

Twice Baked Potato Casserole

All the flavors of twice-baked potatoes, made easier in casserole form. It’s cheesy, creamy, and packed with bacon and green onions. The kind of dish that disappears fast at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Irish Nachos

Crispy potato slices take the place of chips in this pub-style favorite. Topped with melted cheese, bacon, and a dollop of sour cream, it’s the perfect snack to share. Ideal for game nights or casual get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Irish Nachos

Garlic Knots

Soft, golden rolls brushed with garlic butter and herbs, simple yet irresistible. They’re the perfect partner for pasta, soup, or pizza night. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy warm from the oven.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Creamy and flavorful, this risotto uses cauliflower rice for a lighter take on a classic. The mushrooms bring earthiness and depth that make it feel rich and comforting. It’s a perfect option for cozy dinners without feeling too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Risotto with Mushrooms

Garlic Smashed Potatoes

Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, these smashed potatoes are seasoned with butter and garlic. They’re rustic, flavorful, and easy to make for any meal. Serve them hot for the best texture and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Smashed Potatoes

Old Fashioned Homemade Egg Noodles

These tender, hand-rolled noodles bring a touch of nostalgia to the table. They cook up soft and delicious, perfect for soups or hearty stews. Making them from scratch is simpler than you’d think and well worth it.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Homemade Egg Noodles

Slow Cooker Corn Pudding

Sweet, creamy, and comforting, this corn pudding practically makes itself in the slow cooker. It’s a crowd favorite during holidays and potlucks. Every spoonful is warm, rich, and perfectly balanced.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Corn Pudding

Mashed Potato Cakes

A clever way to use leftover mashed potatoes, these cakes are crispy on the outside and soft inside. They’re great for breakfast, lunch, or as a side. Add a dollop of sour cream or chives to make them shine.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Cakes

Buttered Sautéed Leeks

Delicate and flavorful, leeks turn wonderfully tender when sautéed with butter. They bring a subtle sweetness that complements meats or grains beautifully. A simple dish that adds elegance to any plate.
Get the Recipe: Buttered Sautéed Leeks

Hearty Penna Dutch Potato Salad

This version has a rich, tangy flavor with a touch of sweetness. The dressing is creamy and comforting, coating every bite of potato perfectly. A traditional favorite that feels like home.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Penna Dutch Potato Salad

Amish Potato Salad

Smooth, creamy potatoes mixed with a slightly sweet and tangy dressing, it’s a timeless recipe. The texture is comforting and the flavor perfectly balanced. Great for picnics or family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Amish Potato Salad

Creamy Whipped Potatoes

Light, fluffy, and smooth, these whipped potatoes are the ultimate comfort side. A bit of cream and butter give them a melt-in-your-mouth texture. They pair perfectly with anything from roast chicken to grilled veggies.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Whipped Potatoes

Creamy Aubergine Curry

Tender eggplant pieces simmered in a rich, spiced sauce create a dish full of flavor and warmth. It’s comforting and pairs beautifully with rice or flatbread. Ideal for cozy nights when you want something hearty yet wholesome.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Aubergine Curry

Green Bean Casserole

A beloved classic that brings together tender green beans, creamy sauce, and a crispy topping. It’s a must-have on many dinner tables for a reason. Simple, reliable, and always hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Cabbage and Sausage

Savory sausage and tender cabbage come together for an easy, hearty skillet meal. It’s packed with flavor and ready in no time. Great for a quick weeknight dinner that still feels wholesome.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage