If you’re planning a meal that needs a side with comfort, flavor, and maybe a little flair, this list has you covered. From smoky and cheesy casseroles to colorful veggie mash alternatives, there’s something here for every occasion.
These dishes range from classic to creative—some are quick, others work great for prepping ahead. You’ll find fun ways to use leftovers, like crispy cakes or fried bites, alongside holiday-ready casseroles that feed a crowd.
Whether you’re sticking with a traditional recipe or ready to try yuca, parsnip, or sweet potatoes with a twist, this roundup is packed with easy ideas to upgrade your side dish game. Tap through and find the one that fits your next dinner best.
Smoked Boursin Mashed Potatoes
These mashed potatoes are mixed with creamy Boursin cheese and finished with a touch of smoke for added depth. They’re rich, savory, and work well as a side for roasted meats or special dinners.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Boursin Mashed Potatoes
Twice Baked Loaded Potato Casserole
This casserole is made with mashed potatoes, cream, butter, and sour cream, then topped with cheddar, bacon, and green onions. It’s a flexible, make-ahead side that’s perfect for potlucks or using up leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Loaded Potato Casserole
Creamy Asian Mashed Potatoes (With Asian Twist)
A twist on the classic, these mashed potatoes are flavored with Asian seasonings for a savory, unexpected side. Easy to make and a fun way to switch things up at dinner.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Asian Mashed Potatoes (With Asian Twist)
Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Fluffy, buttery, and simple, this classic mashed potato recipe goes with everything from turkey and gravy to grilled meats. It’s a must-have side that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Traeger Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
This version of shepherd’s pie features smoked beef and veggies topped with mashed potatoes, all cooked on a Traeger for a smoky finish. It’s hearty, flavorful, and a solid choice for colder nights.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
Mashed Butternut Squash
Smooth and slightly sweet, this mash is made with butternut squash and works well alongside chicken, turkey, or pork. It’s a great fall side that’s simple to make and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Butternut Squash
Mashed Potato Casserole
Creamy mashed potatoes are layered with cheese and bacon, then baked until bubbly. Great for feeding a crowd and easy to prep ahead. A comfort food staple for holidays and family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Casserole
Traeger Colcannon
A smoky version of traditional colcannon, this dish blends mashed potatoes with cabbage and green onions, then gets a hit of flavor from the grill. It’s a cozy side with Irish roots and a modern twist.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Colcannon
Fried Mashed Potato Balls
These crispy bites are made from leftover mashed potatoes, rolled into balls, and fried until golden. Serve as a snack, appetizer, or an easy side with a little crunch.
Get the Recipe: Fried Mashed Potato Balls
Twice Baked Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are baked again with all your favorite toppings—cheese, bacon, and green onions—for a loaded casserole that’s big on flavor and easy to prep in advance.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Mashed Potatoes
Company Mashed Potatoes – Prep Ahead Recipe
These make-ahead mashed potatoes are perfect for holidays or large dinners. Prep the dish in advance, then just bake when you’re ready—saving time and oven space.
Get the Recipe: Company Mashed Potatoes – Prep Ahead Recipe
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes with plenty of garlic flavor. This go-to side dish is simple, satisfying, and pairs well with just about any main course.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Mashed Carrots
A simple and bright side, mashed carrots are quick to make and offer a slightly sweet alternative to the usual potato mash. Great with roasted or grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Carrots
Traeger Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
These mashed potatoes are infused with roasted garlic and cooked on a Traeger for a hint of smoky flavor. Rich, creamy, and ideal for BBQs or smoked mains.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Mashed Potato Cakes
Made from leftover mashed potatoes, these cakes are crispy outside and cheesy inside. Fry them up for a quick snack, lunch side, or breakfast option.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Cakes
Smoked Mashed Potatoes
Classic mashed potatoes with a smoky twist—perfect if you’re cooking outdoors or want to bring bold flavor to a simple side. Pairs especially well with grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mashed Potatoes
Parsnip Puree
Smooth and slightly earthy, this puree blends roasted garlic, butter, and rosemary with parsnips for a flavorful side. It’s a great alternative to mashed potatoes at dinner or holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Parsnip Puree
Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes
These vibrant mashed potatoes have a smooth texture and are finished with herb butter. A colorful and tasty side dish that stands out on any table.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes
Creamy Mashed Yuca
This mashed yuca is thick, creamy, and totally satisfying. A great swap for mashed potatoes when you’re craving something familiar but with a little twist.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Yuca
Goat Cheese & Spinach Mashed Sweet Potatoes
These mashed sweet potatoes are blended with tangy goat cheese and wilted spinach. A flavorful and colorful side that’s both hearty and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Goat Cheese & Spinach Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
This casserole packs in all the favorites—bacon, cheese, garlic, and creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a comforting, filling dish that’s easy to prep and hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
Red Skin Mashed Potatoes
These mashed potatoes leave the skins on for extra texture and flavor. Buttery, garlicky, and easy to make, they’re a great everyday side that still feels a bit rustic.
Get the Recipe: Red Skin Mashed Potatoes
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, buttery, and full of garlic flavor, this version of mashed potatoes is a must-have side that fits right in at weeknight dinners or holiday tables.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Potatoes