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31 Potato Side Dishes – Easy Sides For Steak, BBQ or Cookouts

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Indulge your taste buds with these 31 delectable potato side dishes. These recipes encompass a variety of cooking methods, from roasting to frying, mashing to baking. Each dish delivers a unique blend of flavors and textures that are sure to enhance any meal.

Whether you’re a fan of the classic mashed potatoes, love a good potato salad, or want to explore exotic flavors like Aloo Tikki, there’s something for every palate in this collection. Perfect for everyday meals or special occasions, these potato side dishes are the ultimate comfort food. Dive into our curated list and discover new ways to enjoy this versatile vegetable.

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes

The Ultimate Comfort Food

Savor the rich flavor of garlic roasted potatoes, a classic side dish that offers the ultimate comfort food experience. Each bite provides a delightful crunch on the outside and fluffy softness on the inside, with garlic adding an enticing aroma and savory flavor.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These garlic roasted potatoes pair well with a variety of dishes, making them ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special holiday feast. They offer a versatile side that complements a wide range of main courses.

Add Your Personal Touch

Customize these potatoes to your liking by incorporating your favorite herbs and spices. A sprinkle of rosemary or thyme can add a layer of complexity to this delectable side dish.

Check this recipe.

2. Classic Mashed Potatoes

A Familiar Favorite

Indulge in the creamy delight of classic mashed potatoes. This side dish is an absolute staple, bringing back warm memories of home-cooked meals. Their buttery taste and silky texture make them a hit across age groups.

Versatile and Satisfying

Mashed potatoes serve as a delicious base for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re serving steak, chicken, or fish, this side dish ensures a satisfying, well-rounded meal.

Make It Your Own

Add your personal touch by adjusting the creaminess to your preference, or incorporating add-ins like roasted garlic, herbs, or cheese for additional flavor.

Check this recipe.

3. Parmesan Crusted Potatoes

An Enticingly Cheesy Delight

Discover the enticing crunch of Parmesan crusted potatoes. These crispy delights, coated in golden Parmesan cheese, offer a fantastic balance of textures and flavors, with the sharpness of the cheese perfectly enhancing the earthy potatoes.

Great for Sharing

These Parmesan crusted potatoes are an absolute crowd-pleaser, making them a great choice for dinner parties or family get-togethers. They’ll be gone before you know it!

Customizable Toppings

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses and herbs to make this side dish truly your own. Perhaps a sprinkle of fresh basil or a dusting of sharp cheddar?

Check this recipe.

4. Sweet Potato Fries

A Healthier Alternative

Opt for sweet potato fries for a healthier yet equally delicious alternative to traditional fries. These vibrant, sweet, and crispy fries offer a wealth of nutrients, including Vitamin A and fiber.

Perfect Snack or Side

Sweet potato fries are great as a standalone snack, or as a complement to burgers, sandwiches, or wraps. They bring a pop of color and a delightful crunch to your meal.

Flavor to Your Liking

Spice up your sweet potato fries by adding your preferred seasonings. A touch of paprika, garlic powder, or even cinnamon can elevate their flavor profile.

Check this recipe.

5. Potato Gratin

Indulgent and Rich

Dive into the rich layers of potato gratin, a side dish that oozes indulgence. This dish, laden with cream and cheese, offers a delectable combination of crispy edges, a creamy center, and a delightful depth of flavor from garlic and nutmeg.

A Celebratory Side

Due to its luxurious nature, potato gratin makes for a perfect side dish during celebrations or festive dinners. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats.

Your Personal Twist

Add your personal twist by playing around with different types of cheeses or adding in other vegetables for an extra nutritional boost.

Check this recipe.

6. Hasselback Potatoes

A Unique Presentation

Delight in the unique presentation of Hasselback potatoes. Their visually appealing fan-like structure allows for crisp edges while maintaining a fluffy interior, offering an eating experience that’s as enjoyable as its appearance.

Ideal for Special Occasions

Hasselback potatoes are perfect for special occasions or when you want to dress up a meal. They complement a range of proteins, from roasted meats to grilled fish.

Experiment with Flavors

Feel free to incorporate your favorite herbs and spices, or add cheese, bacon, or sour cream to suit your preferences.

Check this recipe.

7. Potato Pancakes

Crispy and Satisfying

Relish the satisfying crunch of potato pancakes. These golden, crispy delights serve as a versatile side dish that offers comfort and coziness with each bite.

Read also: 30 Meal Prep Ideas 

Perfect for Any Meal

Enjoy potato pancakes for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They’re fantastic with a dollop of sour cream or apple sauce, or alongside your favorite meat dish.

Make It Your Own

Personalize your potato pancakes by adding in ingredients like onions, garlic, or even cheese. Feel free to experiment with various herbs and spices for an extra kick of flavor.

Check this recipe.

8. Baked Sweet Potato

A Nutrient-Rich Side

Enjoy the natural sweetness and nutrient-rich profile of baked sweet potatoes. Packed with fiber, vitamin A, and other essential nutrients, they offer a healthful and delicious side dish.

Simple Yet Versatile

Despite their simplicity, baked sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile, pairing well with a wide variety of main courses. Top with butter, cinnamon, or brown sugar for a sweet version, or opt for sour cream and chives for a savory treat.

Your Way

Experiment with different fillings and toppings to make this dish uniquely your own. Black beans, cheese, or even roasted vegetables can transform your baked sweet potato into a satisfying meal on its own.

Check this recipe.

9. Twice Baked Potatoes

A Decadent Treat

Savor the indulgence of twice-baked potatoes. These stuffed potatoes, loaded with butter, sour cream, and cheese, offer a rich and comforting side dish that’s bound to please.

Great for Sharing

Twice-baked potatoes are perfect for family gatherings or parties. Their self-contained nature makes them easy to serve and enjoy, and they’re sure to impress your guests.

Customize to Taste

Feel free to get creative with your fillings. From bacon and chives to different types of cheese and even vegetables, there are countless ways to make this dish your own.

Check this recipe.

10. Potato Skins

An All-Time Favorite

Indulge in potato skins, an all-time favorite side dish or appetizer. Loaded with melted cheese and crisp bacon, and served with a side of cool sour cream, they offer a perfect combination of textures and flavors.

Perfect for Game Day

Potato skins are a fantastic snack for game day or casual gatherings. They’re easy to eat, delicious, and pair excellently with a variety of dipping sauces.

Your Choice of Toppings

Customize your potato skins with your favorite toppings. Whether it’s a different type of cheese, chopped green onions, or even some chili, the possibilities are endless.

Check this recipe.

11. Scalloped Potatoes

Classic and Creamy

Dive into the creamy goodness of scalloped potatoes. This classic side dish features thinly sliced potatoes layered with a rich cream sauce and baked to perfection, creating a lusciously comforting dish.

Ideal for Family Dinners

Scalloped potatoes are a great side dish for family dinners or holiday meals. Their creamy richness pairs wonderfully with a range of meats and vegetables.

Add Your Twist

Feel free to incorporate additional flavors into your scalloped potatoes. Add-ins like garlic, cheese, or even ham can make this dish even more delectable.

Check this recipe.

12. Potato Salad

A Picnic Staple

Enjoy the creamy and tangy flavors of potato salad, a quintessential picnic and barbecue side dish. This cold salad, featuring potatoes, eggs, and a creamy dressing, offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Great for Gatherings

Potato salad is a fantastic side dish for outdoor gatherings, potlucks, and picnics. It’s versatile and crowd-pleasing, and can easily be made in large quantities.

Customize Your Salad

Make your potato salad your own by adding ingredients like pickles, mustard, or even bacon. Experiment with different types of potatoes and dressings to find your favorite combination.

Check this recipe.

13. Roasted Sweet Potato Cubes

A Sweet and Savory Side

Savor the sweet and savory balance of roasted sweet potato cubes. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory notes from olive oil, salt, and pepper, resulting in a flavorful and nutritious side dish.

Versatile and Satisfying

These roasted cubes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of proteins and vegetables. Their natural sweetness can also complement spicier main dishes.

Experiment with Spices

Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the sweet potato cubes before roasting. A sprinkle of cinnamon, rosemary, or even some chili powder can enhance their flavor profile.

Check this recipe.

14. Loaded Baked Potatoes

A Meal in Itself

Enjoy a loaded baked potato as a meal in itself. Stuffed with butter, cheese, sour cream, bacon, and chives, this hearty side dish is as filling as it is delicious.

Perfect for a Casual Dinner

Loaded baked potatoes make for a great casual dinner option. They’re also a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients from your fridge.

Make It Your Own

Customize your loaded baked potato with your preferred ingredients. Consider alternatives like chili, cooked broccoli, pulled pork, or even salsa for a different flavor profile.

Check this recipe.

15. Garlic Mashed Sweet Potatoes

A Flavorful Twist

Experience the blend of sweetness and savoriness with garlic mashed sweet potatoes. This dish pairs the natural sweetness of the potatoes with the bold, aromatic flavor of garlic, resulting in a flavorful side dish.

Great for Holiday Dinners

Garlic mashed sweet potatoes are a delightful addition to holiday dinners or special occasions. They pair well with a variety of proteins, adding a touch of sweetness and color to your meal.

Customize Your Mash

Feel free to adjust the flavors according to your preference. Add more garlic for a stronger flavor, or incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme for added depth.

Check this recipe.

16. Potato Soup

Comfort in a Bowl

Relish the comforting warmth of potato soup. Creamy, hearty, and flavorful, this soup is perfect for cold days or when you need a little comfort food.

Ideal for Light Dinners

Potato soup can serve as a light dinner option, especially when paired with a fresh salad or crusty bread. It’s satisfying without being too heavy.

Experiment with Ingredients

Personalize your potato soup with your favorite ingredients. Add-ins like bacon, cheddar cheese, or green onions can make it even more delightful.

Check this recipe.

17. Potato Tacos

A Veggie Delight

Savor the vegetarian-friendly goodness of potato tacos. Loaded with seasoned, cooked potatoes and your favorite toppings, these tacos offer a satisfying meal that’s full of flavor.

Ideal for a Casual Meal

Potato tacos are perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. They’re fun, easy to eat, and customizable to everyone’s preferences.

Customize Your Tacos

Feel free to add your favorite taco toppings to your potato tacos. Consider options like lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for added flavor and texture.

Check this recipe.

18. Sweet Potato Casserole

A Sweet Treat

Delight in the sweet, rich flavors of sweet potato casserole. This dish, often topped with a crunchy pecan and marshmallow topping, makes for a delicious side that can double as a dessert.

Perfect for Holidays

Sweet potato casserole is a staple at many holiday tables, especially during Thanksgiving. Its sweetness perfectly balances out the savory dishes on the menu.

Make It Your Own

Customize your sweet potato casserole with your preferred ingredients. Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or incorporate different topping options like oats or other nuts.

Check this recipe.

19. Potato Bread

A Soft and Flavorful Loaf

Enjoy the soft texture and slightly sweet flavor of potato bread. This bread, made with mashed potatoes or potato flour, offers a delightful twist to your regular loaf.

Great for Sandwiches

Potato bread is perfect for making sandwiches or toast. Its soft texture and unique flavor make it a fantastic alternative to regular bread.

Try Making It At Home

Making potato bread at home can be a fun and rewarding process. You can even use leftover mashed potatoes in your recipe.

Check this recipe.

20. Baked Potato Wedges

A Crispy Delight

Indulge in the crispy exterior and fluffy interior of baked potato wedges. This healthier alternative to fried potatoes is just as delicious and perfect for satisfying your potato craving.

Perfect Pairing

These wedges make a great side for a variety of dishes. Whether it’s alongside a juicy burger, steak or just a dipping sauce, their versatility will impress.

Add Your Flavors

Season your potato wedges according to your preference. A simple combination of salt, pepper, and garlic powder works wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices.

Check this recipe.

21. German Potato Salad

A Tangy Change

Experience the tangy and savory flavors of German potato salad. Unlike American potato salad, the German version uses vinegar and mustard for a bold, tangy dressing and often includes bacon for a smoky touch.

Great for Picnics

As it’s served warm or at room temperature, German potato salad is a fantastic option for picnics or outdoor gatherings. It’s a refreshing change from the usual mayo-based salads.

Customize Your Salad

Adjust the flavors to your liking. Add more vinegar for extra tanginess, or include more mustard for a sharper flavor. You can even add fresh herbs like parsley for a fresh twist.

Check this recipe.

22. Creamed Peas and Potatoes

A Creamy Side Dish

Savor the creamy, comforting flavors of creamed peas and potatoes. This dish combines tender potatoes and sweet peas in a rich cream sauce, creating a perfect side for your main course.

Pairs Well with Many Dishes

Creamed peas and potatoes go well with a variety of proteins, making it a versatile side. Whether served alongside a steak, roasted chicken, or grilled fish, this creamy side dish is always a hit.

Personalize Your Creamed Dish

Play around with flavors and textures by adding ingredients like cooked ham or bacon, or herbs like thyme and parsley.

Check this recipe.

23. Roasted Red Potatoes    

A Rustic Treat

Enjoy the simple, rustic flavors of roasted red potatoes. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes, while the crispy exterior adds a delightful crunch.

Ideal for Dinner

Roasted red potatoes make an excellent side dish for dinner. They pair well with a variety of proteins, including beef, chicken, and fish.

Add Your Favorite Flavors

Season your roasted red potatoes with your favorite herbs and spices. Rosemary and garlic are classic choices, but feel free to experiment with other options.

Check this recipe.

24. Papas Rellenas (Stuffed Potato Balls)

A Latin American Favorite

Discover the deliciousness of Papas Rellenas, a popular Latin American dish. These stuffed potato balls feature a crispy exterior and a savory filling, often made with seasoned meat.

Read also: 28 Caramel Dessert Recipes 

Perfect for Parties

Papas Rellenas make a great appetizer or snack for parties. They’re bite-sized, easy to eat, and guaranteed to impress your guests.

Experiment with Fillings

Feel free to play around with different fillings for your Papas Rellenas. Vegetables, cheese, or different types of meat can all make fantastic alternatives.

Check this recipe.

25. Potato Curry

A Flavorful Indian Dish

Experience the rich, complex flavors of potato curry. This Indian dish features potatoes cooked in a mixture of aromatic spices and tomatoes, resulting in a hearty and flavorful side dish.

Ideal for Vegetarian Meals

Potato curry is a fantastic vegetarian option. It’s filling, satisfying, and pairs well with a variety of other Indian dishes, like naan bread or rice.

Adjust the Heat

Customize your potato curry by adjusting the level of heat to your preference. You can add more or fewer chili peppers, or play around with different spices.

Check this recipe.

26. Potato Croquettes

A Crispy Snack

Experience the crunchy exterior and creamy interior of potato croquettes. These deep-fried balls of mashed potatoes are a tasty snack or side dish that’s sure to please.

Great for Parties

Potato croquettes are a great finger food for parties or gatherings. They’re small, easy to eat, and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces.

Customize Your Croquettes

You can customize your croquettes by adding different ingredients to the mashed potatoes. Cheese, herbs, bacon, or even finely chopped vegetables can add extra flavor and texture.

Check this recipe.

27. Gnocchi (Italian Potato Dumplings)

An Italian Delicacy

Savor the soft, pillowy texture of gnocchi, Italian potato dumplings. They’re often served with a simple butter and sage sauce or a hearty tomato sauce.

A Versatile Dish

Gnocchi can be a main dish or a side dish, depending on how it’s served. They’re a great alternative to pasta and can be used in a variety of Italian dishes.

Make It Homemade

Making gnocchi at home can be a fun and rewarding cooking project. Plus, homemade gnocchi often have a better texture and flavor than store-bought ones.

Check this recipe.

28. Vichyssoise (Cold Potato Leek Soup)

A French Classic

Cool down with a bowl of Vichyssoise, a classic French soup made with pureed potatoes and leeks. It’s typically served cold, making it a refreshing option for warm weather.

A Sophisticated Dish

Vichyssoise is a great way to impress your guests. Its creamy texture and subtle flavors are sophisticated and delicious.

Garnish It Your Way

Garnish your Vichyssoise with fresh herbs, a drizzle of cream, or a sprinkle of black pepper. You can also add a touch of truffle oil for a luxurious finish.

Check this recipe.

29. Potato Fritters

A Crispy Snack

Enjoy the crunchy texture and savory flavor of potato fritters. These deep-fried potato patties are a tasty snack or side dish that’s sure to please.

Perfect for Picnics

Potato fritters are a great option for picnics or outdoor gatherings. They can be eaten warm or at room temperature and go well with a variety of dipping sauces.

Personalize Your Fritters

Feel free to customize your fritters by adding different ingredients to the mix. Cheese, herbs, or finely chopped vegetables can add extra flavor and texture.

Check this recipe.

30. Creamy Potato Leek Gratin

A Luxurious Side

Indulge in the rich, creamy layers of potato leek gratin. With thinly sliced potatoes, tender leeks, and a luxurious cream sauce, it’s a side dish that’s sure to impress.

Perfect for Special Occasions

Potato leek gratin is ideal for special occasions or Sunday dinners. It’s a step up from regular mashed or roasted potatoes and pairs well with a variety of main dishes.

Add Your Favorite Cheeses

While traditional gratin recipes often use Gruyère cheese, feel free to mix it up with your favorites. Sharp cheddar, nutty Parmesan, or creamy mozzarella can all work beautifully.

Check this recipe.

31. Potato Knishes

A Jewish Delicacy

Enjoy a taste of Jewish cuisine with potato knishes. These savory pastries are filled with mashed potatoes and onions, making them a satisfying snack or side dish.

Great for Sharing

Knishes are a great finger food for parties or family gatherings. They can be served warm or at room temperature and are sure to be a hit with guests.

Personalize Your Knishes

Add your own twist to the classic knish recipe by incorporating different fillings. From sautéed mushrooms to ground meat or cheese, the options are endless.

Check this recipe.

Conclusion

From comfort food classics to unique culinary creations, there’s a potato dish to suit every preference and occasion. Remember, each recipe is adaptable, so feel free to customize them to your taste. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weekday dinner addition or an impressive dish for your next gathering, these potato side dishes are sure to satisfy. So go ahead, get cooking, and elevate your meals with these irresistible potato side dishes.


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