Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that many people love. It’s filling and tasty, but it can get boring if you always serve it with the same sides. That’s why it’s good to mix things up and try new side dishes.
You can make your meatloaf meals more exciting by pairing them with different sides. There are many options to choose from, like veggies, salads, and starches. These sides can add color, flavor, and nutrition to your plate. Let’s look at some tasty ideas for side dishes that go well with meatloaf.
Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with meatloaf. They add a creamy, savory element to your plate.
To make them, boil peeled potatoes until tender. Drain and mash them with butter, milk, and minced garlic. Add salt and pepper to taste.
For extra flavor, roast whole garlic cloves and mix them into the potatoes. You can also sprinkle some chopped chives or parsley on top for a pop of color.
These potatoes are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Their rich texture and garlicky taste complement the heartiness of meatloaf beautifully.
Honey glazed carrots make a sweet and colorful side dish for meatloaf. To prepare them, slice carrots into circles.
Cook brown sugar and honey in a pan until the sugar dissolves. Add the carrot slices and stir to coat them in the glaze.
The sweetness of the honey glaze balances the savory meatloaf. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for extra color and flavor.
This simple side dish is quick to make and looks impressive on your plate. The carrots stay crisp-tender, providing a nice texture contrast to the meatloaf.
Creamed spinach is a tasty side dish that goes well with meatloaf. You’ll love how the rich, creamy texture complements the hearty meatloaf.
To make it, cook fresh spinach until wilted. Then mix it with a sauce made from butter, cream, and garlic. Add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
This side dish is easy to prepare and adds a nice green element to your plate. It’s a great way to get more vegetables into your meal while still enjoying comfort food.
Baked macaroni and cheese is a comforting side dish that pairs well with meatloaf. You can make it from scratch or use a boxed mix for convenience.
The creamy, cheesy pasta provides a nice contrast to the savory meatloaf. For extra flavor, try adding breadcrumbs on top before baking.
To make it healthier, you can use whole grain pasta and add some veggies like broccoli or peas. This side dish is sure to please both kids and adults at your dinner table.
Brush the asparagus spears with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-5 minutes, turning once, until tender-crisp.
For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese after grilling. The smoky char from the grill pairs well with the rich meatloaf.
Grilled asparagus adds color, texture, and nutrition to your plate. It’s low in calories but high in vitamins and fiber.
Cauliflower gratin is a creamy, cheesy side dish that pairs perfectly with meatloaf. You’ll love how the tender cauliflower florets are enveloped in a rich sauce.
To make it, roast cauliflower until it’s lightly browned. Then create a sauce with butter, flour, milk, and cheese. Gruyere and Parmesan are great choices for their flavor.
Mix the roasted cauliflower with the cheese sauce and pour into a baking dish. Top with a mixture of breadcrumbs, butter, and more cheese for a crispy crust.
Bake until golden and bubbly. The result is a comforting side dish that elevates your meatloaf dinner.
Parmesan roasted broccoli is a tasty side dish for meatloaf. Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets and spread them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Roast the broccoli in a hot oven until the edges are crispy and the cheese is melted. The high heat brings out the broccoli’s natural sweetness. The Parmesan adds a savory, nutty flavor that complements meatloaf well.
This side dish is quick to prepare and cooks while your meatloaf rests. It’s a healthier option that still feels indulgent thanks to the cheese. Try it for your next meatloaf dinner.
Crispy fried onions add a tasty crunch to your meatloaf dinner. You can sprinkle them on top of the meatloaf before baking for a golden crust. They also work well as a side dish on their own.
Try mixing crispy fried onions into your meatloaf mixture for extra flavor and texture. You can buy pre-made crispy onions or make your own by frying thinly sliced onions until golden brown.
These crunchy toppings pair nicely with creamy sides like mashed potatoes too. The contrasting textures make each bite more interesting. Crispy fried onions bring a savory, slightly sweet taste that complements meatloaf perfectly.
Herbed wild rice adds a flavorful and nutritious side to your meatloaf dinner. This dish combines the nutty taste of wild rice with aromatic herbs.
To make it, cook wild rice according to package instructions. While it’s still warm, mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and chives.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The result is a fragrant, colorful side that complements meatloaf perfectly.
Southern cornbread is a perfect side dish for meatloaf. You’ll love its crispy edges and moist, crumbly interior. It’s made with cornmeal, giving it a distinct texture and flavor.
This bread is often cooked in a cast-iron skillet for an extra-crispy crust. You can add ingredients like corn kernels or jalapeños for more flavor and texture.
Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a comforting, homestyle touch. The slightly sweet taste of cornbread balances well with savory meatloaf. It’s also great for soaking up any leftover gravy or juices on your plate.
Steamed green beans are a simple and healthy side dish for meatloaf. They add a pop of color and freshness to your plate.
To prepare them, wash and trim the beans. Place them in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cook for 3-5 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
Season your steamed green beans with salt and pepper. For extra flavor, try adding a pat of butter or a squeeze of lemon juice. You can also sprinkle them with sliced almonds or minced garlic.
This versatile veggie pairs well with many meatloaf recipes. It’s a light option that balances out the richness of the main dish.
Cucumber tomato salad is a refreshing side dish that pairs well with meatloaf. You can make it easily with crisp cucumbers and ripe tomatoes.
To prepare, slice cucumbers and tomatoes, then toss them in a lemony dressing. Add some red onion for extra flavor and crunch.
This salad is perfect for hot summer days. It brings a cool, light contrast to the hearty meatloaf. The bright flavors and crisp textures complement the rich main dish nicely.
You can customize your salad by adding herbs like basil or dill. For a tangy twist, try adding some feta cheese crumbles.
Pesto pasta salad is a tasty and refreshing side dish for meatloaf. You can make it with cold pasta and a zesty pesto sauce. Add some cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and pine nuts for extra flavor and texture.
This salad is easy to prepare ahead of time. You can store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. The cool pasta pairs well with warm meatloaf, creating a nice contrast on your plate.
For a healthier option, use whole wheat pasta. You can also mix in some fresh spinach or arugula to add more greens to your meal.
Twice baked potatoes are a delicious side dish that pairs well with meatloaf. You start by baking whole potatoes until they’re tender. Then you scoop out the insides and mix them with cheese, butter, and seasonings.
After refilling the potato skins with this mixture, you bake them again. The result is a crispy outside with a creamy, flavorful inside. You can customize the fillings to your taste.
These potatoes are filling and rich, making them a great complement to meatloaf. They’re also easy to prepare ahead of time, which is helpful for busy meal planning.
Classic potato salad is a perfect side for meatloaf. You’ll love its creamy texture and comforting flavors.
Start with boiled potatoes, cut into bite-sized chunks. Mix them with mayonnaise, mustard, and a splash of vinegar for tang.
Add chopped celery and onions for crunch. Don’t forget hard-boiled eggs – they’re key to a traditional potato salad.
Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika. Chill before serving to let the flavors meld. This cool, creamy side balances the warmth of your meatloaf beautifully.
Zucchini fritters make a tasty side dish for meatloaf. These crispy patties are made with shredded zucchini, eggs, flour, and seasonings.
To make them, grate zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture. Mix with beaten eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Form into small patties and fry in oil until golden brown.
Serve your zucchini fritters hot alongside meatloaf. They pair well with creamy dips like tzatziki sauce or sour cream. The fritters add a nice veggie element and contrasting texture to complement your meatloaf dinner.
Broccoli cheese casserole is a tasty side dish that goes well with meatloaf. You’ll love the creamy, cheesy goodness mixed with tender broccoli florets.
To make it, steam fresh broccoli until crisp-tender. Mix it with a cheese sauce made from cheddar, cream cheese, and a bit of milk.
Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish. Bake until golden and bubbly.
This comforting casserole adds color and nutrition to your plate. It’s a great way to get kids to eat their veggies too.
Roasted garlic cauliflower is a tasty side dish for meatloaf. It’s easy to make and adds a flavorful veggie option to your plate.
To prepare, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast in the oven until golden brown and tender.
The roasting process brings out the cauliflower’s natural sweetness. The garlic adds a savory kick that complements the meatloaf nicely.
This side dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Cauliflower is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Balsamic glazed carrots make a tasty side dish for meatloaf. The sweet and tangy glaze adds flavor to the tender carrots.
To make them, start by peeling and slicing carrots into sticks. Cook them in boiling water until just tender.
In a pan, mix balsamic vinegar with honey or brown sugar. Add the cooked carrots and toss to coat. Let the glaze reduce and thicken as it coats the carrots.
The result is a colorful side dish with a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors. The carrots complement the savory taste of meatloaf well.
Sweet corn spoonbread is a tasty side dish that goes well with meatloaf. It’s a soft, creamy casserole that combines cornmeal and sweet corn.
To make it, you’ll mix cornmeal, sugar, and salt. Then beat eggs until fluffy and add them to the dry mix. Pour the batter into a greased casserole dish.
Bake the spoonbread at 375°F for about 40 minutes. It’s done when it turns golden brown on top and feels set in the middle.
This warm, comforting side dish adds a touch of sweetness to balance out your savory meatloaf. Its soft texture also provides a nice contrast to the meat.
Peas and pearl onions make a tasty side dish for meatloaf. This combo brings color and freshness to your plate.
To prepare, sauté the peas and pearl onions in butter or oil. The pearl onions add a sweet flavor that goes well with meat.
You can use frozen peas and onions for convenience. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, try adding a splash of cream or a sprinkle of herbs.
This simple side takes just minutes to cook. It’s a light option that balances out the richness of meatloaf.
Balancing Your Meatloaf Meal
A well-rounded meatloaf dinner includes sides that add nutrition and flavor variety. Choosing the right mix of sides can turn a simple meal into a satisfying feast.
Nutritional Value of Side Dishes
Veggies are key for boosting nutrition. Steamed broccoli or green beans add fiber and vitamins. A leafy salad gives you folate and vitamin K.
Whole grains like brown rice or quinoa offer B vitamins and minerals. They also help you feel full longer.
For healthy fats, try a side of avocado slices or a drizzle of olive oil on veggies. These fats help your body absorb nutrients from other foods.
Starchy sides like potatoes or corn can give you energy. But watch portion sizes if you’re watching carbs.
Complementing Flavors and Textures
Pair your meatloaf with sides that have different tastes and textures. This makes each bite more exciting.
Creamy mashed potatoes balance the firm texture of meatloaf. For crunch, try roasted Brussels sprouts or a crisp coleslaw.
Tangy sides like pickled veggies or a vinegar-based potato salad cut through the rich meatloaf flavor. Sweet glazed carrots or corn offer a nice contrast.
Garlic bread or dinner rolls are great for soaking up gravy or sauce. They also add a satisfying chew to your meal.
Mix hot and cold sides on your plate. This temperature contrast keeps things interesting as you eat.
Vegetable-Based Side Dishes
Vegetables pair perfectly with meatloaf. They add color, nutrition, and balance to your meal. Try these tasty options to round out your plate.
Seasonal Vegetables
Roasted root vegetables are great in fall and winter. Try a mix of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and herbs. Roast at 400°F for about 30 minutes.
In spring, asparagus is a classic choice. Grill or roast it for a crisp texture. Add a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Summer veggies like zucchini and bell peppers are delicious grilled. Slice them, brush with oil, and cook for 3-4 minutes per side. Season with salt and pepper.
Quick and Easy Options
Steamed broccoli is ready in minutes. Just add florets to a steamer basket over boiling water. Cook for 5-7 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
Green beans are another speedy side. Sauté them in a pan with garlic and olive oil for 5-6 minutes. Add sliced almonds for extra crunch.
Frozen mixed vegetables are a time-saver. Heat them in the microwave or on the stove. Add butter and your favorite seasoning for extra flavor.
Try a bagged salad kit for a no-cook option. Just open, toss, and serve. It’s an easy way to add fresh greens to your meal.
Starch and Grain Alternatives
Meatloaf pairs well with many starchy sides beyond just potatoes. You can try nutritious grain options or classic potato dishes for a satisfying meal.
Healthy Grain Options
Quinoa makes a great side for meatloaf. It’s protein-rich and cooks quickly. Mix in some diced vegetables and herbs for extra flavor and nutrition.
Brown rice is another healthy choice. Its nutty taste complements meatloaf nicely. You can add sautéed onions or garlic for more depth.
Barley offers a chewy texture that contrasts with tender meatloaf. Try it in a pilaf with mushrooms and thyme.
Farro is an ancient grain that’s becoming popular again. Its slightly sweet flavor works well with savory meatloaf. Toss it with roasted vegetables for a hearty side.
Classic Potato Sides
Mashed potatoes are a go-to side for meatloaf. For extra creaminess, add butter and milk. You can also mix in roasted garlic or herbs for more flavor.
Roasted potatoes are easy to make. Cut them into chunks, toss with oil and spices, then bake until crispy. They add a nice crunch to your plate.
Potato gratin layers thinly sliced potatoes with cheese and cream. It’s rich and indulgent – perfect for special occasions.
Baked sweet potatoes offer a healthier twist. Their natural sweetness balances the savory meatloaf. Top with a pat of butter or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
