As the leaves start to change color and the air becomes crisp, it’s the perfect time to embrace the flavors of fall in your cooking. While main courses often take the spotlight, the right side dishes can elevate your meals to new heights of comfort and deliciousness. From roasted vegetables to hearty salads and savory grains, fall offers an abundance of ingredients that are perfect for creating memorable side dishes.
In this blog, we’ll explore nine fall side dishes that you absolutely need to make this season. These dishes celebrate autumn’s bounty with a mix of seasonal produce, warm spices, and comforting flavors. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, these recipes are sure to impress and add a touch of fall magic to your table. So, let’s dive in and discover the delicious side dishes that will make this fall season truly special.
1. Roasted Butternut Squash with Sage and Parmesan
If you’re looking for a comforting yet sophisticated side dish, look no further than roasted butternut squash with sage and Parmesan. The sweetness of the squash, the earthiness of sage, and the savory richness of Parmesan cheese come together beautifully in this dish. Simply toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, chopped sage, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender and caramelized. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan for a dish that’s sure to impress.
2. Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Brussels sprouts get a delicious makeover with this maple-glazed version that’s sure to convert even the staunchest sprout skeptics. The combination of sweet maple syrup, smoky bacon, and caramelized Brussels sprouts is irresistible. Simply cook bacon until crispy, then toss the sprouts in the rendered bacon fat along with maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Roast until golden and tender, then crumble the bacon on top before serving.
3. Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Upgrade your traditional mashed potatoes with creamy mashed sweet potatoes for a side dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. Simply peel and boil sweet potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, a splash of cream, salt, and pepper. For an extra touch of fall flavor, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. Serve alongside your favorite protein for a satisfying autumn meal.
4. Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad
This refreshing salad is a perfect complement to hearty fall dishes. Toss crisp apple slices, dried cranberries, and toasted walnuts with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. The combination of sweet, tart, and crunchy elements makes this salad a crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
5. Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme
Take simple carrots to the next level with a honey glaze and a hint of thyme. Roast whole carrots until caramelized and tender, then drizzle with a mixture of honey, butter, and fresh thyme leaves. The result is a side dish that’s both sweet and savory, with a touch of herbaceousness that pairs perfectly with fall flavors.
6. Creamy Pumpkin Risotto
Embrace the flavors of the season with creamy pumpkin risotto that’s sure to warm you up on chilly evenings. Arborio rice is cooked slowly with pumpkin puree, chicken or vegetable broth, shallots, garlic, and a touch of cream until creamy and luxurious. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a comforting dish that’s bursting with fall flavors.
7. Baked Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon
Acorn squash becomes a standout side dish when baked with brown sugar and cinnamon until caramelized and tender. Simply cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and brush with melted butter. Sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon, then bake until golden and fork-tender. This dish is a true celebration of autumn’s bounty.
8. Cranberry Pecan Cornbread Stuffing
Upgrade your traditional stuffing with the addition of tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and flavorful cornbread. Saute onions, celery, and garlic until softened, then mix with cubed cornbread, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, chicken or vegetable broth, and herbs like sage and thyme. Bake until golden and crisp on top for a stuffing that’s full of fall flavors and textures.
9. Sauteed Garlic Green Beans with Almonds
For a simple yet delicious side dish, saute fresh green beans with garlic and toasted almonds. Cook green beans in a skillet with olive oil and minced garlic until tender-crisp, then toss with toasted almond slices, salt, and pepper. This dish is a perfect balance of freshness, crunch, and savory goodness that pairs well with a variety of fall mains.
These nine fall side dishes are sure to elevate your autumn meals with their comforting flavors and seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these dishes are guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends alike.
