15 Best Side Dishes for Scalloped Potatoes

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Creamy, cheesy, and wonderfully comforting, scalloped potatoes pair well with a variety of side dishes that balance their rich flavor. Fresh vegetables, roasted meats, crisp salads, and lighter options help create a complete and satisfying meal.

These side dishes for scalloped potatoes are perfect for holidays, family dinners, or special celebrations throughout the year. Whether you’re planning a casual meal or an elegant gathering, you’ll find plenty of delicious pairings to inspire your next menu.

1. Garlic Green Beans

Garlic Green Beans are one of those simple side dishes that can make an everyday dinner feel much more complete. Fresh green beans are quickly cooked until tender-crisp, then tossed with butter, fragrant garlic, and a little seasoning. The result is bright, savory, and pleasantly fresh without being heavy. I love this recipe because it comes together quickly and works with almost any main course.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large skillet, cutting board, knife, tongs
No. of Ingredients: 7

Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Wash the green beans thoroughly and trim the stem ends. Pat them dry so excess water does not interfere with sautéing.
  2. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
  3. Add the green beans and water. Cover the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes, allowing the beans to steam slightly.
  4. Remove the lid and continue cooking for another 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender but still have a little bite.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

What to Serve With: Roasted chicken, grilled steak, baked salmon, or mashed potatoes.
What to Drink With: Iced tea, sparkling water with lemon, or a crisp white wine.

2. Roasted Asparagus

Roasted Asparagus brings out a wonderful combination of tenderness and lightly caramelized edges. The stalks need only a few basic ingredients before going into the oven, making this an especially convenient choice for busy evenings. A little olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper are enough to let the natural flavor shine. The finished asparagus is colorful, savory, and perfect beside almost any protein.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Baking sheet, parchment paper, mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
  2. Place the asparagus in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Add garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Toss thoroughly until every spear is lightly coated.
  4. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on the baking sheet, leaving some space between the pieces.
  5. Roast for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the stalks.
  6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with Parmesan while still warm.

What to Serve With: Chicken breast, pork chops, steak, or roasted potatoes.
What to Drink With: Lemon water, Sauvignon Blanc, or unsweetened iced tea.

3. Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey Glazed Carrots turn an ordinary vegetable into a sweet and buttery side that both kids and adults can enjoy. The carrots become tender while the honey creates a glossy coating that complements their natural sweetness. A touch of butter and cinnamon adds warmth without overpowering the vegetables. This recipe is particularly lovely for family dinners and holiday meals.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Saucepan, skillet, knife
No. of Ingredients: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Peel the carrots and cut them into evenly sized slices so they cook at the same rate.
  2. Place the carrots and water in a skillet over medium heat. Cover and simmer for 7–8 minutes.
  3. Remove the lid and add butter, honey, cinnamon, and salt.
  4. Stir gently to coat the carrots and cook uncovered for another 5–7 minutes.
  5. Continue stirring occasionally until the liquid thickens into a shiny glaze and the carrots are fork-tender.
  6. Serve warm.

What to Serve With: Roast turkey, baked ham, roasted chicken, or pork tenderloin.
What to Drink With: Apple cider, sparkling water, or a lightly chilled Riesling.

4. Steamed Broccoli

Steamed Broccoli is quick, dependable, and an easy way to add a nutritious vegetable to dinner. The gentle cooking method keeps the broccoli bright green while leaving it tender enough to enjoy without becoming mushy. Finish it with butter, lemon, and seasoning for a clean flavor that pairs beautifully with richer main dishes.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Steamer basket, saucepan, knife
No. of Ingredients: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan

Instructions

  1. Cut the broccoli into evenly sized florets and rinse well.
  2. Add about 1 inch of water to a saucepan and place a steamer basket inside.
  3. Bring the water to a gentle boil.
  4. Add the broccoli to the basket, cover, and steam for 5–6 minutes.
  5. Check the texture with a fork. The broccoli should be tender while retaining some firmness.
  6. Transfer to a serving bowl and toss with butter, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and Parmesan.

What to Serve With: Grilled chicken, baked fish, meatloaf, or pasta dishes.
What to Drink With: Lemon water, iced tea, or sparkling mineral water.

5. Caesar Salad

Caesar Salad is a classic for a reason: crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, Parmesan, and crunchy croutons create a combination that is difficult to resist. This version is simple enough for a weeknight meal but polished enough for entertaining. The lemon and Parmesan add brightness while the dressing brings everything together.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large bowl, small bowl, whisk, knife
No. of Ingredients: 9

Ingredients

  • 2 large romaine lettuce hearts, chopped
  • 1 cup croutons
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Wash and thoroughly dry the romaine lettuce before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, olive oil, and black pepper.
  3. Place the lettuce in a large salad bowl.
  4. Pour the dressing over the lettuce gradually, tossing as you go so the leaves are evenly coated.
  5. Add the croutons and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Toss once more and serve immediately to preserve the crunch.

What to Serve With: Grilled chicken, shrimp, steak, or garlic bread.
What to Drink With: Sparkling water, lemonade, or a dry white wine.

6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels Sprouts become wonderfully golden and slightly crisp around the edges while remaining tender inside. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and gives them much more character than simply boiling them. A little olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan creates a savory finish that makes these vegetables surprisingly addictive.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Baking sheet, mixing bowl, knife
No. of Ingredients: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
  2. Trim the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half.
  3. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  4. Arrange them cut-side down on a baking sheet.
  5. Roast for 20–25 minutes until browned and tender.
  6. Sprinkle with Parmesan immediately after removing them from the oven.

What to Serve With: Roast beef, chicken, pork chops, or mashed potatoes.
What to Drink With: Apple cider, iced tea, or a medium-bodied red wine.

7. Sautéed Spinach

Sautéed Spinach is a fast vegetable side that takes only a handful of minutes from pan to table. Fresh spinach wilts down beautifully with garlic and olive oil, creating a tender, flavorful dish that works especially well when you want something light. A squeeze of lemon at the end keeps the flavor fresh.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large skillet, tongs, knife
No. of Ingredients: 6

Ingredients

  • 10 oz fresh spinach
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Wash the spinach and drain thoroughly.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
  4. Add the spinach in handfuls, allowing each portion to wilt before adding more.
  5. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
  6. Season with salt and pepper, then finish with lemon juice.

What to Serve With: Grilled fish, chicken, steak, or pasta.
What to Drink With: Lemon water, green tea, or Sauvignon Blanc.

8. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled Corn on the Cob is a warm-weather favorite with lightly charred kernels and a naturally sweet flavor. Cooking the corn directly on the grill gives it those delicious toasted spots that make every bite more interesting. Butter, salt, and a little chili powder can turn this simple vegetable into an unforgettable side.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Outdoor grill, tongs, small bowl
No. of Ingredients: 5

Ingredients

  • 4 ears corn, husked
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Brush each ear of corn with melted butter.
  3. Place the corn directly on the grill.
  4. Cook for about 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes so all sides develop light char marks.
  5. Remove from the grill and brush with any remaining butter.
  6. Sprinkle with salt, chili powder, and cilantro before serving.

What to Serve With: Burgers, grilled chicken, steak, or barbecue ribs.
What to Drink With: Iced tea, lemonade, sparkling water, or a cold lager.

9. Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cucumber Tomato Salad is fresh, colorful, and wonderfully refreshing on warm days. Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes are tossed with red onion, herbs, and a simple vinaigrette. There is no heavy dressing here, so the vegetables remain the star of the plate. It is an excellent side when the main course is rich or grilled.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large bowl, small bowl, knife
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients

  • 2 cups chopped tomatoes
  • 1 large cucumber, sliced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Chop the tomatoes and slice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Thinly slice the red onion.
  3. Combine the vegetables and parsley in a large bowl.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  5. Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
  6. Toss gently and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes before serving if desired.

What to Serve With: Grilled chicken, kebabs, burgers, or grilled fish.
What to Drink With: Lemonade, sparkling water, or a crisp white wine.

10. Glazed Baby Carrots

Glazed Baby Carrots are tender, glossy, and naturally sweet, making them an effortless addition to a family dinner. The carrots are simmered until soft and then coated with butter and brown sugar for a simple glaze. A little parsley gives the finished dish a fresh contrast.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Skillet, knife, spoon
No. of Ingredients: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb baby carrots
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Rinse the baby carrots and trim them if necessary.
  2. Place them in a skillet with water and salt.
  3. Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes until almost tender.
  4. Remove the lid and add butter and brown sugar.
  5. Cook uncovered for another 4–5 minutes, stirring gently until the carrots are shiny and coated.
  6. Finish with parsley and serve warm.

What to Serve With: Roast chicken, turkey, ham, or pork loin.
What to Drink With: Apple cider, iced tea, or sparkling water.

11. Roasted Bell Peppers

Roasted Bell Peppers have a soft texture, concentrated sweetness, and beautifully caramelized edges. The oven does most of the work, making this a low-effort side that can also be used in sandwiches, pasta, salads, and grain bowls. Different colored peppers make the finished dish especially attractive.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Equipment: Baking sheet, mixing bowl, knife
No. of Ingredients: 6

Ingredients

  • 3 bell peppers, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
  2. Remove the stems and seeds from the bell peppers and slice them into strips.
  3. Toss the peppers with olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  4. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
  5. Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
  6. Remove when tender and lightly browned around the edges.

What to Serve With: Grilled chicken, pasta, steak, or crusty bread.
What to Drink With: Sparkling water, lemonade, or Pinot Grigio.

12. Buttered Peas

Buttered Peas are wonderfully uncomplicated and perfect when you need a side dish in a hurry. Sweet green peas are warmed gently with butter and seasoned simply, allowing their fresh flavor to remain front and center. A touch of parsley and black pepper adds just enough extra character.

Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Saucepan, colander, spoon
No. of Ingredients: 5

Ingredients

  • 3 cups frozen green peas
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Bring a saucepan of lightly salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the frozen peas and cook for 3–4 minutes.
  3. Drain the peas thoroughly.
  4. Return them to the warm saucepan and add butter.
  5. Stir until the butter melts completely.
  6. Season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with parsley before serving.

What to Serve With: Meatloaf, roast chicken, mashed potatoes, or baked ham.
What to Drink With: Iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water.

13. Coleslaw

Coleslaw adds a cool, crunchy element to a meal and is especially popular alongside grilled and barbecue dishes. Shredded cabbage and carrots are coated in a creamy dressing with a pleasant balance of sweetness and tang. It can be prepared ahead of time, which makes it useful when you’re feeding a crowd.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Course: Salad / Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large bowl, small bowl, whisk, knife
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients

  • 4 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Place the shredded cabbage and carrots in a large bowl.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
  4. Toss thoroughly until the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  6. Stir once more just before bringing it to the table.

What to Serve With: Pulled pork, burgers, fried chicken, barbecue ribs, or grilled sausages.
What to Drink With: Iced tea, lemonade, sparkling water, or a cold beer.

14. Garlic Butter Mushrooms

Garlic Butter Mushrooms are rich, savory, and incredibly easy to prepare. Fresh mushrooms soak up the buttery garlic sauce while developing beautifully browned edges in the skillet. They make a fantastic accompaniment to steak, but they are versatile enough to serve with chicken, pasta, rice, or toasted bread.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large skillet, knife, wooden spoon
No. of Ingredients: 7

Ingredients

  • 1 lb mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Wipe the mushrooms clean and slice them evenly.
  2. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the mushrooms in a single layer and cook for 4–5 minutes without stirring too frequently.
  4. Once the mushrooms begin to brown, add the garlic.
  5. Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and coated in the butter.
  6. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with parsley.

What to Serve With: Steak, grilled chicken, pork chops, mashed potatoes, or rice.
What to Drink With: Cabernet Sauvignon, iced tea, or sparkling water.

15. Fresh Garden Salad

Fresh Garden Salad is the kind of side dish that can brighten an entire dinner table. Crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, cucumber, carrots, and red onion come together with a simple homemade dressing. Because the ingredients are fresh and uncomplicated, it is easy to customize with whatever vegetables you already have available.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large salad bowl, small bowl, whisk, knife
No. of Ingredients: 10

Ingredients

  • 4 cups chopped lettuce
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry all of the vegetables thoroughly.
  2. Chop the lettuce and place it in a large salad bowl.
  3. Add tomatoes, cucumber, carrots, and red onion.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Pour the dressing over the vegetables just before serving.
  6. Toss gently until everything is lightly coated.
  7. Serve immediately for the freshest texture.

What to Serve With: Grilled chicken, baked salmon, pasta, sandwiches, or roasted meats.
What to Drink With: Lemon water, iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp white wine.

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