Sides

Honey Cornbread

This honey butter cornbread has been a regular on our table for years. It’s sweet without tipping into dessert territory, soft in the middle, and gets a proper crisp edge from baking it in a cast iron skillet. All it takes is a handful of pantry staples and about half an hour, so it’s an […]

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Traeger Smoked Baked Beans

I’ve made baked beans every way possible and nothing comes close to what happens when you put a foil tray on a pellet smoker for a couple of hours. That low, steady smoke working through the bacon, molasses, and BBQ sauce is something you just can’t replicate any other way. These have become the dish

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Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

Cottage cheese mac and cheese has become one of my favorite ways to make this classic dish. The blended cottage cheese melts into the sauce, creating something genuinely rich, creamy, and satisfying — with a protein boost that makes it a proper meal. Still gets that golden, cheesy crust on top, too. Perfect for weeknight

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Smoked Mac and Cheese

I’ve been making smoked mac and cheese for years, and it’s become one of those dishes people expect at gatherings. I usually throw this on the smoker when I’ve already got ribs or pulled pork going, but honestly, it’s good enough to fire up the smoker just for this. The crispy panko topping gives you

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Roasted Whole Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes are my go-to side dish because they’re incredibly forgiving and always delicious. Roasting them whole is the simplest method—no peeling or chopping required. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or Sunday suppers. Serve them as a simple side with butter and salt, or load them up with toppings for an easy vegetarian

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Cheesy Potato Casserole

There’s something about a bubbling pan of cheesy potatoes that just feels like home. This cheesy potato casserole has become my go-to whenever I need something comforting and crowd-pleasing. Tender potato chunks get coated in a rich, creamy sauce with sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and crispy bacon, then everything bakes until golden and bubbly. It’s easy

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Smoked Baked Beans

Smoked baked beans are a barbecue staple for good reason. Starting with canned beans and adding bacon, onions, and seasonings creates a hearty side dish that complements any meal. The slow smoking process transforms ordinary ingredients into something with deep, smoky flavor. I’ve found that these beans are perfect for backyard cookouts, family reunions, or

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Maple Glazed Carrots

I’ve been making these maple glazed carrots for years, and they never fail to disappear from the dinner table. What started as a way to get my kids to eat more vegetables has become one of our most requested side dishes. They’re perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner, Sunday family roasts, weeknight dinners, or holiday

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