Perfect Sides Made for Sharing with Your Favorite People

Jenny deRemer

Nov 24, 2025

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Sharing good food with great company is one of life’s simplest pleasures. I believe that the right sides can transform any meal into a memorable feast, making every gathering feel special. These recipes are perfect for bringing people together around the table, creating moments filled with laughter and connection. With a variety of flavors and textures these sides can complement any main dish ensuring everyone finds something they love. Let’s explore these perfect sides that will elevate your next meal and make sharing even more enjoyable!

Table of Contents

Autumn Cranberry Apple Chutney

A white bowl filled with mixed fruit, featuring chunks of apple, cherries, and berries, in a light syrup. A spoon rests on the rim of the bowl. The bowl is placed on a textured white wooden surface.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Autumn Cranberry Apple Chutney is a vibrant side that adds a burst of flavor to any gathering. This tangy and sweet blend of cranberries and apples pairs perfectly with roasted meats, making it a fantastic choice for sharing. Plus, its beautiful color and rich taste will impress your guests, enhancing your holiday feast or fall potluck. Serve it alongside cheese or as a condiment on sandwiches for added flair!
Get the Recipe: Autumn Cranberry Apple Chutney

Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, chopped chives, and a dollop of sour cream. A spoon is placed in the bowl, and the dish appears to be served on a dark wooden surface.
Image Credit: The Cookie Rookie

The Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole takes comfort food to new heights, making it an ideal option for sharing at family gatherings. Creamy mashed potatoes are topped with cheese, bacon, and green onions, creating a rich and hearty dish everyone will love. This casserole not only satisfies cravings but also brings everyone together, making it the perfect side to complement your main courses. Just imagine the smiles as people dig in!
Get the Recipe: Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole

Tasty and Kid-Friendly Pickle Macaroni Salad

Close-up of creamy macaroni and cheese garnished with chopped red and green peppers, served in a white dish. The pasta is swirled and coated in a rich, cheesy sauce.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

If you’re looking for a fun side that pleases all ages, Tasty and Kid-Friendly Pickle Macaroni Salad is a winner. Packed with crunchy pickles and creamy dressing, this dish is not only delicious but also a great way to get kids excited about veggies. Its playful flavor makes it an excellent choice for potlucks or family BBQs, ensuring there’s plenty to share around the table. It’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Get the Recipe: Tasty and Kid-Friendly Pickle Macaroni Salad

Slow Cooker Polenta

A bowl of creamy yellow polenta topped with grated cheese, garnished with herbs. In the background, there is a plate with sausages and a pressure cooker. A black fork lies nearby on the light-colored surface.
Image Credit: xoxoBella

For a comforting and creamy side dish, Slow Cooker Polenta fits the bill perfectly. This dish cooks to a smooth consistency, and you can easily adapt it with herbs and cheeses for added flavor. Its warm, comforting nature makes it a great addition to any meal, especially when you’re expecting a crowd. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and keeps well, making it one of the best sides for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Polenta

Jamie Oliver’s ‘Mothership’ Tomato Salad

A vibrant Caprese salad on a white rectangular dish featuring red and yellow cherry tomatoes, slices of fresh mozzarella cheese, red onion rings, and fresh basil leaves. Three forks and a cork are placed beside the dish, set on a white marble surface.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Bright and refreshing, Jamie Oliver’s ‘Mothership’ Tomato Salad is the perfect side to elevate any meal. Loaded with ripe tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing, this salad offers a burst of flavor that complements everything from grilled meats to hearty pasta dishes. It’s not just visually appealing but also a crowd-pleaser, making it a top choice for sharing at summer gatherings. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up, too!
Get the Recipe: Jamie Oliver’s ‘Mothership’ Tomato Salad

Classic Southern Potato Salad

A rustic bowl filled with creamy potato salad, garnished with vibrant green parsley leaves and generously sprinkled with red paprika powder. The bowl is placed on a wooden surface, and two whole eggs are visible in the background.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

A true staple at any southern gathering, Classic Southern Potato Salad brings comfort and nostalgia to the table. Creamy, tangy, and loaded with flavor, it pairs beautifully with barbecued meats and sandwiches, making it an essential side for sharing. This recipe combines tender potatoes with crunchy veggies, giving everyone something to enjoy. Plus, it’s the perfect dish to make ahead of time for those busy summer picnics!
Get the Recipe: Classic Southern Potato Salad

Carrot Pineapple Jello Salad

A colorful gelatin salad sits on a white plate, featuring a transparent dome filled with fruit pieces and garnished with small green herbs. Surrounding the gelatin is a ring of shredded carrots, all set on a yellow table.
Image Credit: Jellojoy

Carrot Pineapple Jello Salad is a fun and vibrant side that brightens up any meal. Its sweet and tangy flavor makes it a refreshing addition, perfect for family gatherings and potlucks. This colorful salad is easy to prepare and serves a crowd, making it a hit at any party. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a conversation starter that adds a playful touch to your table!
Get the Recipe: Carrot Pineapple Jello Salad

Creamed Pearl Onions

A bowl filled with small, round vegetables covered in a thick, glossy brown sauce. A spoon rests on the edge of the bowl. The dish is served in a decorative bowl with floral patterns on its rim.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

For a classic side that’s creamy and comforting, Creamed Pearl Onions is an excellent choice for sharing. These tender onions are smothered in a rich, velvety sauce that enhances their natural sweetness. This dish pairs well with a variety of mains, making it a versatile option for holiday dinners and gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, allowing you to focus on enjoying the meal with your guests.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Pearl Onions

Hearty Penna Dutch Potato Salad

A close-up of a large white bowl filled with creamy potato salad, garnished with a sprinkle of black pepper. On the side, there are sliced cherry tomatoes and lettuce leaves, placed on a white, ornate plate. A spoon rests nearby.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Hearty Penna Dutch Potato Salad is a filling and flavorful option that brings a taste of tradition to any gathering. This salad features a rich dressing and crunchy vegetables, making it a delightful side that pairs well with grilled meats and BBQ. Its hearty nature means there’s always enough to share, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. This classic dish is perfect for family reunions and potlucks alike!
Get the Recipe: Hearty Penna Dutch Potato Salad

Creamy Sweet Potato and Muenster Gratin

A casserole dish with red handles on each side contains a baked sweet potato gratin. The sweet potatoes are sliced thinly and layered, covered in a creamy sauce with herbs and browned cheese on top. A portion of the gratin is scooped out, revealing the layers.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Elevate your side dish game with Creamy Sweet Potato and Muenster Gratin. This rich and cheesy gratin features layers of sweet potatoes and creamy sauce, creating a comforting dish that everyone will want to try. It’s a unique addition to any meal and is perfect for sharing at dinner parties or holiday feasts. Your guests will appreciate the depth of flavor and the comforting nature of this delightful side!
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sweet Potato and Muenster Gratin

Creamy Southern Coleslaw

A bowl of creamy coleslaw with shredded green cabbage, carrots, and a few pieces of purple cabbage, served in a light green dish on a table with a pink and white patterned cloth.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Creamy Southern Coleslaw is the perfect side dish that brings a classic crunch to any meal. With its crisp cabbage and creamy dressing, it pairs wonderfully with barbecued meats and sandwiches, making it a hit at summer gatherings. This dish is not just refreshing but also easy to whip up in advance, ensuring you have more time to enjoy sharing with family and friends. It’s a must-have for any potluck or picnic!
Get the Recipe: Creamy Southern Coleslaw

Pumpkin Pull Apart Bread

A close-up of a freshly baked loaf of cinnamon swirl bread on a wooden cutting board. The bread has a golden-brown crust with visible swirls of cinnamon and sugar, creating a glossy, caramelized texture on the surface.
Image Credit: Will Cook for Smiles

For a sweet and delightful side, look no further than Pumpkin Pull Apart Bread. This warm, fluffy bread is swirled with a luscious pumpkin and caramel filling, making it an irresistible addition to any brunch or gathering. It’s not only perfect for sharing but also adds a festive touch to your table. Your guests will love pulling apart this delicious bread and enjoying its sweet, spicy aroma!
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pull Apart Bread

Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with mashed potatoes topped with melted cheese and chopped green onions, with a spoon resting inside and a serving missing.
Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Casserole takes comfort food to a new level, making it an ideal choice for sharing at any meal. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden crust, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. It’s a fantastic side that pairs well with everything from roasted chicken to steak. Prepare it ahead of time, and let your guests indulge in this comforting favorite!
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Casserole

Cranberry Apple Sauce

A person holds a spoon above a bowl of cranberry sauce with apple chunks. The bowl is on a light blue surface next to a striped cloth and three cinnamon sticks.
Image Credit: Culinary Hill

Add a pop of flavor to your holiday spread with Cranberry Apple Sauce. This sweet and tart sauce combines the best of both fruits, creating a fresh and zesty side that brightens up any meal. It’s a versatile accompaniment that pairs beautifully with turkey or pork, making it a delightful option for sharing at festive gatherings. Plus, its vibrant color makes your table look even more inviting!
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Apple Sauce

Tex Mex Cucumber Boats

Cucumber boats filled with quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, and red onions, garnished with fresh herbs. Lime wedges are placed on the side on a white plate.
Image Credit: Spabettie

Looking for a fresh and fun side? Tex Mex Cucumber Boats offer a crisp and crunchy twist that everyone will enjoy. Filled with a zesty mix of beans, corn, and spices, these boats are not only colorful but also packed with flavor. They make for an excellent sharing dish at picnics or parties, ensuring everyone can grab a bite of this tasty and healthy treat!
Get the Recipe: Tex Mex Cucumber Boats

Orange Sesame Noodle Salad

A close-up of a dish featuring spaghetti, fresh spinach, orange slices, and sesame seeds. Chopsticks are resting on the noodles, highlighting the vibrant colors and textures in the meal.
Image Credit: The Herbeevore

Refresh your table with Orange Sesame Noodle Salad, a bright and vibrant dish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. With its tangy orange dressing and crunchy veggies, this salad is not only visually appealing but also a fantastic side for sharing at gatherings. It pairs well with grilled meats and makes for a light, refreshing option during warmer months. Your guests will appreciate this delightful twist on traditional salads!
Get the Recipe: Orange Sesame Noodle Salad

The Best Easy Potato Salad with Spring Onions

A bowl of creamy potato salad topped with chopped green onions and crispy bacon bits. A spoon rests inside the bowl, and the dish is placed on a surface with a hint of a cutting board and a striped napkin visible in the background.
Image Credit: Bless this Meal

The Best Easy Potato Salad with Spring Onions is a classic side that everyone loves. This creamy salad features tender potatoes and fresh spring onions, making it a flavorful addition to any picnic or BBQ. It’s super simple to prepare and can easily be made ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time with your guests. This dish is a must-have for any gathering, ensuring there’s always enough to share!
Get the Recipe: The Best Easy Potato Salad with Spring Onions

Deviled Egg Whole30 Potato Salad

A close-up of creamy potato salad topped with sliced boiled eggs, chopped chives, and a sprinkle of black pepper. The salad appears rich and textured, with a generous coating of dressing. The ingredients are mixed evenly, creating an appetizing appearance.
Image Credit: Mary’s Whole Life

For a healthier spin on a classic favorite, try Deviled Egg Whole30 Potato Salad. This dish combines the creamy goodness of deviled eggs with tender potatoes for a tasty side everyone can enjoy. It’s perfect for gatherings and offers a unique twist that sets it apart from traditional potato salads. Plus, it’s great for sharing, ensuring all your guests can savor this satisfying option!
Get the Recipe: Deviled Egg Whole30 Potato Salad

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes (Hash Brown Casserole)

Close-up of a wooden spoon holding a serving of cheesy potato casserole topped with crushed cornflakes and sliced green onions. A baking dish with more casserole is in the background.
Image Credit: Blackberry Babe

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes (Hash Brown Casserole) is a comforting and hearty side dish that’s perfect for sharing at any gathering. This creamy casserole, loaded with cheese and crispy hash browns, is sure to please a crowd. It’s a classic choice for potlucks and family reunions, providing warmth and satisfaction to everyone at the table. Serve it alongside your favorite mains for a truly delightful meal!
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes (Hash Brown Casserole)

Frog Eye Salad

A bowl of fluffy fruit salad topped with whipped cream, a cherry, and a mint sprig. The salad contains pastel-colored marshmallows. Surrounding the bowl are oranges and a small dish of cherries, all placed on a patterned tablecloth.
Image Credit: Baking Beauty

Bring a unique touch to your gathering with Frog Eye Salad. This whimsical side dish features acini di pepe pasta, fruit, and a sweet, creamy dressing that everyone will love. Its fun texture and colorful presentation make it an excellent choice for sharing, especially at potlucks and picnics. Your guests will enjoy the delightful surprise of flavors in this classic salad!
Get the Recipe: Frog Eye Salad

Vegan Southern Potato Salad (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)

Close-up of creamy potato salad topped with chopped chives and a sprinkle of paprika. The salad features chunks of potatoes mixed in a rich, herb-infused dressing, served in a white bowl.
Image Credit: Strength and Sunshine

Enjoy a twist on a classic with Vegan Southern Potato Salad (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free). This creamy and flavorful side dish brings all the traditional taste without any dairy or allergens, making it a safe choice for gatherings. It’s a perfect accompaniment to summer barbecues and potluck events, ensuring everyone can dig in and enjoy. Plus, it’s simple to prepare ahead of time, letting you focus on having fun with your guests!
Get the Recipe: Vegan Southern Potato Salad (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)

Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy baked macaroni and cheese dish topped with melted golden cheese and sprinkled with black pepper. The pasta is coated in a rich, cheesy sauce, forming a comforting and appetizing texture.
Image Credit: Chenée Today

Indulge in comfort food with Southern Baked Mac and Cheese that brings a rich, cheesy flavor to your table. This dish features creamy pasta baked to perfection, making it a heartwarming side everyone will love. It’s great for sharing at family gatherings and potlucks, where it’s bound to steal the show. Whether paired with fried chicken or served on its own, this mac and cheese is sure to please!
Get the Recipe: Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Mexican Street Corn Slaw

Close-up of a creamy Mexican street corn salad topped with crumbled cheese, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of spices. A lime wedge is visible on the side, adding a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish.
Image Credit: M.A. Kitchen

Brighten your meal with Mexican Street Corn Slaw, a zesty and refreshing side that combines the best of summer flavors. With sweet corn, creamy dressing, and a hint of lime, this slaw is perfect for sharing at picnics and barbecues. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and adds a colorful touch to your table. Your guests will appreciate the unique twist this salad brings to their plates!
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Slaw

Easy Cherry Fluff Salad

A bowl of pink fruit salad topped with whipped cream and a cherry. Pieces of fruit are visible in the creamy mixture. The background includes a pink napkin and a small bowl of pineapple chunks.
Image Credit: Lauren Fit Foodie

Easy Cherry Fluff Salad is a delightful sweet treat that doubles as a light side dish. This fluffy, fruity salad combines cherries, whipped cream, and marshmallows for a fun and refreshing option. It’s perfect for sharing at potlucks and family gatherings, where it adds a pop of color and sweetness. Everyone will love digging into this delightful dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy!
Get the Recipe: Easy Cherry Fluff Salad

Best Deviled Eggs

Close-up of deviled eggs topped with paprika and chopped green onions on a white plate. The yolk mixture is creamy and piped in swirls, with vibrant colors contrasting the white egg halves.
Image Credit: Wholesome Yum

Elevate your appetizer game with Best Deviled Eggs, a classic side dish that never goes out of style. Creamy and packed with flavor, these eggs are perfect for parties and family gatherings, making them an ideal choice for sharing. They pair beautifully with a variety of dishes, ensuring they will be a hit at any meal. Serve them up, and watch them disappear in no time!
Get the Recipe: Best Deviled Eggs

Brown Butter French Green Beans With Toasted Pecans

A plate of green beans topped with roasted pecans. The beans are bright green and slightly charred, with the pecans adding a crunchy texture. A yellow napkin is in the background.
Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

Experience a new take on green beans with Brown Butter French Green Beans With Toasted Pecans. This elegant side features tender green beans sautéed in nutty brown butter and topped with crunchy pecans, adding a rich flavor to your table. It’s a wonderful addition for sharing at holiday meals and special occasions. Your guests will appreciate this sophisticated yet simple side that elevates any main dish!
Get the Recipe: Brown Butter French Green Beans With Toasted Pecans

Seven Layer Salad

A close-up of a salad topped with shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and halved cherry tomatoes. The salad is layered with a dressing, visible around the edges.
Image Credit: Small Town Woman

Seven Layer Salad is a visually stunning side dish that’s perfect for sharing at potlucks and gatherings. Each layer brings a burst of flavor and color, making it an appealing option for your guests. Packed with fresh vegetables, cheese, and a creamy dressing, this salad is as delicious as it is beautiful. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with almost any meal!
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

The Best Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe

A wooden spoon scooping creamy macaroni and cheese with green onions from a green bowl. The dish is rich in texture and appears freshly prepared.
Image Credit: Blackberry Babe

Treat your taste buds to The Best Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe, a delightful blend of creamy and savory flavors. This dish features macaroni, veggies, and a signature dressing that creates a unique side perfect for sharing at barbecues and gatherings. It’s a classic addition that complements grilled meats beautifully, ensuring your guests keep coming back for more!
Get the Recipe: The Best Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe

Roasted Baby Potatoes

A close-up of a dish of golden, roasted baby potatoes garnished with fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme. The potatoes are crispy and slightly charred, suggesting they have been roasted to perfection.
Image Credit: The Cookie Rookie

Roasted Baby Potatoes are a simple yet satisfying side that everyone can enjoy. With their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, these potatoes are seasoned to perfection, making them a great addition to any meal. They’re easy to prepare and perfect for sharing at family dinners and gatherings. Serve them up alongside your favorite main dishes, and watch them disappear!
Get the Recipe: Roasted Baby Potatoes

Quick Olive Hummus

A close-up of a creamy dip with chopped olives and a drizzle of olive oil on top. A hand is dipping a piece of pita bread into the mixture. Other pieces of pita are visible around the bowl.
Image Credit: Whole New Mom

Dive into the bold flavors of Quick Olive Hummus, a tasty dip that’s perfect for sharing at gatherings. This simple recipe combines olives and chickpeas for a unique twist on traditional hummus, making it a standout choice for any appetizer or side table. Pair it with fresh veggies or pita chips, and let your guests enjoy this delicious, healthful option that everyone can savor together!
Get the Recipe: Quick Olive Hummus

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About Jenny deRemer

I am a Charleston, South Carolina-based culinary novice, an ardent authority on all things travel, a designer by trade, and the creator of Not Entirely Average. I have a weakness for farmers' markets, delight in adventures way off the beaten path, enjoy documenting my many moods through photography, and have been known to conquer the occasional yard sale with gusto!

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