15 Mains and Sides So Good, You’ll Need a Bigger Plate

Some meals are so good they deserve a spot on a bigger plate. These mains and sides are packed with flavor and made to satisfy any appetite. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or weeknight meals, they bring variety and heartiness to the table. You’ll want to try every recipe and maybe even go back for seconds.

Closeup of crispy beef in a bowl with green onions and sesame seeds. — Air Fryer Mongolian Beef. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are tossed in a tangy balsamic glaze for a flavorful side dish. The slight sweetness of the glaze balances the earthy sprouts perfectly. Ready in about 35 minutes, it’s a simple addition to any meal. It pairs well with mains like roasted chicken or beef.
Get the Recipe: Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta

Stuffed shells in a cast iron skillet. — Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Large pasta shells are filled with creamy ricotta and spinach and then baked in marinara sauce. The cheesy filling and savory sauce create a comforting, hearty dish. Ready in about 45 minutes, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or family gathering. A vegetarian option that’s satisfying and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Shells with Spinach and Ricotta

Lamb Shepherd’s Pie

Ground lamb is simmered with vegetables and topped with creamy mashed potatoes for a rich, comforting main course. The flavors of rosemary and thyme enhance the dish, making it deeply flavorful. Ready in about 75 minutes, it’s a great choice for a chilly evening. It is a classic dish that feels timeless.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Shepherd’s Pie

Beef Tenderloin Recipe with Winter Vegetables

A blue roasting dish containing a cooked beef roast with a red center is surrounded by perfectly roasted potatoes and vegetables, making it one of those dinner ideas that elevate your meal. — Beef Tenderloin Recipe with Winter Vegetables. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Tender roast beef pairs beautifully with roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips in this dish. Sage-infused brown butter adds depth to the flavors, making it perfect for special occasions. It takes about 90 minutes to prepare and is a hearty, elegant meal. It is ideal for entertaining or family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Beef Tenderloin Recipe with Winter Vegetables

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Juicy chicken is cooked in a creamy balsamic sauce with hints of garlic and herbs for a flavorful main dish. The sauce is rich yet balanced, pairing well with sides like mashed potatoes or rice. Ready in about 40 minutes, it’s a quick and satisfying dinner option. A versatile dish for weeknights or gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are taken to the next level with nutty brown butter and fragrant garlic. The rich, savory flavors make this a standout side dish. Ready in about 45 minutes, it’s perfect for holidays or special dinners. It’s a comforting classic with an upgraded twist.
Get the Recipe: Brown Butter Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Grandma’s Cornbread

Overhead shot of cornbread in a cast iron skillet with a single slice cut out. — Grandma’s Cornbread. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This cornbread is fluffy on the inside with a golden, slightly crisp crust. It’s slightly sweet and pairs well with everything from chili to roasted meats. Ready in about 35 minutes, it’s a simple yet satisfying side. It is a timeless recipe that brings a taste of home to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Cornbread

Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots

Red, yellow, and orange honey glazed carrots on a slate board. — Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Sweet honey-glazed carrots are roasted until tender with caramelized edges. The honey enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots, making them a family favorite. Ready in about 35 minutes, it’s a quick and easy side dish for any occasion. Great with roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian spread.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots

Loaded Cauliflower Mash

Mashed cauliflower in a white bowl. — Loaded Cauliflower Mash. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Creamy mashed cauliflower is topped with cheese, bacon, and chives for a flavorful, low-carb side. It has all the richness of loaded mashed potatoes without the heaviness. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a satisfying option for any meal. It’s a great way to add more veggies to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Cauliflower Mash

Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions

A delightful side dish of green beans topped with crispy fried onions, perfect for pleasing both adults and kids alike. — Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Crisp green beans are sautéed with garlic and topped with crispy fried onions for added crunch. The flavors are simple yet bold, making it a versatile side dish. Ready in about 30 minutes, it pairs well with mains like roasted chicken or steak. It is a fresh twist on a classic holiday favorite.
Get the Recipe: Garlicky Green Beans with Fried Onions

Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Grilled pork pieces with brown gravy served on a bed of mashed potatoes, presented on a decorative plate with a colorful floral pattern. A meal even the most picky eaters will enjoy, making moms' lives easier at dinnertime. — Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Juicy pork chops and tender potatoes are roasted with a fragrant blend of garlic and herbs. The result is a hearty, flavorful main dish that’s easy to prepare. Ready in about 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a casual family dinner. It is a classic combination that always satisfies.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Herb Pork and Potatoes

Oven Roasted Root Vegetables

A dish of beets, sweet potatoes, and parsnips roasted in the oven with sprigs of sage. — Oven Roasted Root Vegetables. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

A mix of root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes are roasted until caramelized and tender. The natural sweetness of the vegetables shines through with simple seasoning. Ready in about 50 minutes, it’s a colorful and healthy side dish. Perfect for pairing with roasted meats or fish.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Root Vegetables

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

A serving of chicken pot pie with golden crust, diced chicken, peas, and potatoes on a black plate—an ideal choice for budget recipes and cheap meals. — Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This pot pie features a flaky crust filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy tarragon-infused gravy. The gravy adds a subtle herbal note that enhances the comforting flavors. Ready in about an hour, it’s a satisfying one-dish meal. A perfect option for cozy weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Almonds and Feta

A bowl of roasted brussels sprouts. — Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Almonds and Feta. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Crispy Brussels sprouts are paired with crunchy almonds and tangy feta cheese for a flavorful side. The mix of textures and flavors makes it stand out. Ready in about 40 minutes, it’s a simple yet impressive addition to any meal. Great for holidays or everyday dinners.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Almonds and Feta

Air Fryer Mongolian Beef

Thin slices of beef are cooked in an air fryer and coated in a sweet and savory Mongolian sauce. The beef is tender and flavorful, with a hint of ginger and garlic. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a quick and easy main dish. Perfect for serving with rice or steamed vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mongolian Beef