Potatoes are a versatile, comforting staple that can elevate any meal, from a simple weeknight dinner to an elaborate holiday spread. With so many ways to prepare them, potatoes often become the star of the table.
Here are 11 delicious potato side dishes that are easy to make and sure to impress your guests. Each recipe showcases a different style and flavor, so you can find the perfect side for any occasion.
Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
Buttermilk mashed potatoes are silky smooth and full of tangy flavor. The buttermilk adds a pleasant acidity that balances the richness of butter and creates a creamy texture. This classic preparation pairs well with roasted meats, fried chicken, or a simple vegetable medley.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
Baked Mashed Potatoes
Baked mashed potatoes combine creamy mashed potatoes with a golden, cheesy top. The result is rich, buttery, and indulgent—perfect for holiday dinners or when you want a comforting side that feels special.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mashed Potatoes
Sweet Potato Casserole
This sweet potato casserole features creamy mashed sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy brown sugar and pecan praline. It’s a favorite at holiday tables because it tastes like dessert but serves as a comforting, sweet-savory side dish.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole
Crockpot Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
A slow-cooked hashbrown casserole combines shredded potatoes with creamy soup, sour cream, and melted cheese for a rich, satisfying side. Made in a crockpot, it’s an easy dish to prep ahead and keep warm for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
Crockpot Candied Sweet Potatoes (Yams)
Candied sweet potatoes slow-cooked in brown sugar and honey become tender and caramelized. Using a crockpot makes this dish effortless and ensures the sweet potatoes stay moist and flavorful—a classic for holiday menus.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Candied Sweet Potatoes
Southern Potato Salad
Southern potato salad blends tender potatoes with hard-boiled eggs, pickles, and a creamy mayonnaise dressing. A dusting of Creole seasoning adds a tangy, savory finish. It’s a staple at summer cookouts and potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Southern Potato Salad
Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Instant Pot garlic mashed potatoes deliver rich, garlicky flavor and tender potatoes in a fraction of the time. Pressure cooking speeds up the process while keeping the potatoes perfectly creamy—ideal when you need a quick, comforting side.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Crispy Potato Skins with Cheese & Bacon
Loaded potato skins are a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side. Crispy skins filled with fluffy potato, melted cheese, and crispy bacon make a flavorful, shareable dish that works for game day or casual dinners.
Get the Recipe: Fully Loaded Crispy Potato Skins
Easy Oven Baked French Fries
Oven-baked fries are tossed in olive oil, seasoned, and baked until crisp. They’re a healthier alternative to deep-fried fries but still deliver great texture and flavor. Serve them with burgers, sandwiches, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Get the Recipe: Easy Oven Baked French Fries
Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
This hearty breakfast casserole layers hash browns with sausage or bacon, bell peppers, and a cheesy egg mixture. Baked until golden, it’s perfect for brunch, holiday mornings, or feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
Air Fryer Potato Wedges
Air fryer potato wedges crisp up quickly and use less oil than traditional frying. Season them with your favorite spice blend—Cajun, garlic-parmesan, or a simple herb mix—for a flavorful side that pairs well with grilled meats and sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges