10 Show-Stealing Side Dishes for the Fall

By Vicky McDonald

The next time you’re tasked with making the side, try one of these top-rated recipes that are guaranteed to wow your friends and family. Transform humble veggies like cabbage and broccoli into glorious, creamy, cheesy dishes that your guests will be fighting over. If you don’t believe us, read the reviews from our home-cooks, who are only sorry they didn’t make extra!

1. Garlic Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Bacon

Rave Review: “Everyone enjoyed this, even the kids!! I used precooked bacon and homemade broth. I added a dose of crushed red pepper for some heat. Delicious, easy and a bit of a treat with the bacon — something we don’t use much.” — What’s for dinner, mom?

Photo by Naples34102

2. Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic

Rave Review: “The only way to eat cabbage in my house from now on, according to the 6 critics I feed daily! Easy, no exotic ingredients, just down-home deliciousness. Bacon and garlic makes a poor man’s veg into something special.” — Yummy Mummy

Photo by SunnyByrd

3. Rich and Creamy Potatoes Au Gratin

Rave Review: “These potatoes are AMAZING. I made the recipe as is with no changes. These were perfect, just the right amount of seasoning, nice and creamy and great texture. The cheese and nutmeg really bump up the quality of the dish.” — Susan

Photo by abbaplez

4. Parmesan Roasted Acorn Squash

Rave Review: “This is absolutely delicious. It was my first time making acorn squash and it will now be in the regular rotation throughout fall. I didn’t change a thing. Perfect!” — valeriek12234

Photo by Allrecipes Magazine

5. Garlic Parmesan Monkey Bread

Rave Review: “This is an excellent monkey bread recipe. I would highly recommend it to compliment any dinner, but especially pasta!” — catlac

Photo by Allrecipes Magazine

6. Cauliflower Au Gratin

Rave Review: “One of my favorite ways to make cauliflower. I omit the nutmeg and add a dash of Frank’s Hot Sauce and a little dijon mustard. There’s never any leftovers–we usually eat the whole casserole dish full. I like to serve this with meatloaf.” — Sarah Jo

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7. Broccoli Cornbread with Cheese

Rave Review: “This recipe is great as written. All the flavors come together tastefully. So many compliments when they were served at a party. This will become a go-to recipe for casual gatherings.” — Angela T.

Photo by Allrecipes Magazine

8. Bacon Feta Beans

Rave Review: “Excellent. Real easy. Real quick. Real good. My family likes feta cheese, so I used the full amount. Got rave reviews. Heats well too.” — JOLLYROGERS