Finding side dishes that kids will actually enjoy can be a challenge, but these 19 kid-friendly recipes are here to make mealtime easier. From veggie-packed options to fun twists on classic favorites, these sides are designed to please even the pickiest eaters. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, these recipes are simple, tasty, and sure to become household favorites.

Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe

Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Creamy, cheesy, and ready in no time! This stovetop mac and cheese is a classic that kids can’t get enough of. Toss in some fun-shaped pasta, and you’ve got a dish that’s almost too fun to eat…almost.
Get the Recipe: Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe

Air Fryer Acorn Squash

Acorn squash after air frying with some of the insides scooped up on a fork.
Air Fryer Acorn Squash. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This sweet and savory side brings out the best in acorn squash. Lightly caramelized with a tender texture, it’s a hidden veggie gem that even the little ones can dig into.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Acorn Squash

Air Fryer Asparagus

A plate of cooked asparagus spears garnished with sea salt and a lemon wedge.
Air Fryer Asparagus. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Crisp and vibrant, air-fried asparagus is a great way to get kids to eat their greens. It’s crunchy, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with just about any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus

Air Fryer Baby Potatoes

Golden roasted air fryer baby potatoes on a serving plate with a wooden and metal spoon.
Air Fryer Baby Potatoes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Tiny, golden, and irresistible! These crispy baby potatoes are seasoned to perfection and make for a fun, bite-sized treat everyone at the table will love.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Potatoes

Air Fryer Baked Potato

Three baked potatoes with seasoned skin in an air fryer basket.
Air Fryer Baked Potato. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Fluffy on the inside with the ultimate crispy skin, these air fryer baked potatoes are a game-changer. Add your kids’ favorite toppings, and watch them become potato fans in no time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baked Potato

Air Fryer Broccoli

Broccoli florets with seasoning in an air fryer basket, some lemon slices and a striped cloth nearby.
Air Fryer Broccoli. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Broccoli just became exciting! Air-fried broccoli has a crispy exterior and a tender bite, making it an all-star veggie side dish that’s easy to love.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Broccoli

Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower

air fryer broccoli and cauliflower on a white plate with a pink linen and thyme.
Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

This dynamic duo of veggies gets a delicious upgrade in the air fryer. With slightly charred edges and plenty of flavor, it’s a combo that even picky eaters can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Air fryer Brussel Sprouts in a white bowl with a spoon.
Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Crispy, caramelized, and packed with flavor, these air fryer Brussels sprouts might just convert the veggie skeptics in your family. A little crunch in every bite!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Buttery Dinner Rolls

Image shows a bowl filled with Buttery Dinner Rolls.
Buttery Dinner Rolls. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Soft, fluffy, golden, and oh-so-buttery, these dinner rolls are sure to disappear as soon as they hit the table. Perfect for soaking up sauces or just enjoying on their own.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Dinner Rolls

Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Buttery whole roasted cauliflower on a baking sheet.
Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

A showstopper if there ever was one! This whole roasted cauliflower is buttery, tender, and loaded with flavor. Slice it up, and watch the kids dig in.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Cabbage Fritters

Three cabbage fritters stacked on a plate with a dollop of sour cream on the right and a sprig of parsley on the left.
Cabbage Fritters. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of flavor, these cabbage fritters are a delicious twist on a humble veggie. Serve with a dipping sauce for extra fun!
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Fritters

Cheesy Rice

A bowl of cheesy grits on a table, with a striped napkin beside it and chopped cheese in the background.
Cheesy Rice. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting, this dish takes regular rice to a whole new level. It’s a surefire win for any kid who loves cheese (so, almost all of them).
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Rice

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Cheesy scalloped potatoes in a casserole dish on a blue wooden table.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Thinly sliced potatoes layered with gooey cheese and a creamy sauce? Yes, please! These cheesy scalloped potatoes are rich, indulgent, and impossible to resist.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Honey Garlic Carrots

Honey garlic carrots in a black dish.
Honey Garlic Carrots. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Sweet, sticky, and with a hint of zing, honey garlic carrots are a side dish with the perfect balance of flavors. A great way to make carrots the star of the meal!
Get the Recipe: Honey Garlic Carrots

Southern Mash

Mashed potatoes on a white plate.
Southern Mash. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy, buttery, and irresistibly smooth, Southern mashed potatoes are an absolute hit at the dinner table. Made with just the right amount of seasoning, these spuds pair perfectly with almost any main dish.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Popeyes Coleslaw

A picture of Popeyes coleslaw copycat recipe in glass bowl.
Popeyes Coleslaw. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Creamy, crunchy, and full of tangy goodness, this coleslaw is a refreshingly cool side dish that pairs well with just about anything on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Popeyes Coleslaw

Roasted Broccolini

A closeup of roasted tenderstem broccoli and garlic are shown on a white plate.
Roasted Broccolini. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Roasted to perfection with crispy edges, broccolini is a slightly sweeter take on traditional broccoli. Simple seasoning and a squeeze of lemon make it a standout.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Broccolini

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.

The nutty crunch of almonds and the tangy kick of feta take roasted Brussels sprouts to new heights. It’s a flavor-packed side dish your family will love.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Almonds and Feta

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

A closeup shot of roasted cherry tomatoes on the vine on a wooden cutting board surrounded by basil and garlic.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor, roasted cherry tomatoes bring a vibrant touch to the table. They’re simple, delicious, and a beautiful addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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