Meatloaf is a beloved comfort food that many of you enjoy making for dinner. Its hearty flavor and versatility make it a staple in homes around the world. But what should you serve alongside this classic dish to create a truly satisfying meal? The right side dish can elevate your meatloaf dinner, adding varied textures, flavors, and nutritional balance.
In this article, you will discover 27 side dishes that perfectly complement meatloaf. From vibrant vegetables to creamy starches, these suggestions aim to enhance your dining experience. Get ready to explore new ideas and expand your culinary repertoire with these delicious pairings.
1) Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with meatloaf. They are creamy, flavorful, and easy to make.
To prepare, start by boiling peeled and cubed potatoes until tender. Drain and return them to the pot. Add minced garlic and butter to the hot potatoes.
Mash the potatoes until smooth. Mix in warm milk, salt, and pepper. You can adjust the garlic to your taste, adding more if you prefer a stronger flavor.
This side dish is both comforting and full of rich, savory taste. The garlic adds a nice depth without overpowering the potatoes.
For a bit of extra flavor, you can sprinkle some fresh chives or parsley on top. This will add a pop of color and a nice fresh taste.
Garlic mashed potatoes are not only tasty but also versatile. You can make them ahead of time and reheat before serving.
Serve these mashed potatoes with your meatloaf for a meal that feels like a warm hug. The creamy texture and garlic flavor balance the robust taste of the meatloaf.
2) Steamed Green Beans with Almonds
Steamed green beans with almonds are a perfect side dish for meatloaf. This dish is both easy to make and healthy.
First, rinse and trim the green beans. Use a steamer basket placed over a small amount of water in a saucepan. Cover and steam the green beans over high heat for 4-5 minutes.
While the beans steam, heat oil in a saute pan. Add slivered almonds and cook them until they are lightly browned. This usually takes about 2 minutes.
Once the beans are steamed, transfer them to the saute pan. Add a bit of butter and stir everything together. Season with salt and pepper.
For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice. This dish comes together quickly and adds a nice crunch to your meal.
3) Classic Caesar Salad
A Classic Caesar Salad pairs wonderfully with meatloaf. It’s light, crisp, and refreshing.
You start with romaine lettuce. The crunchiness complements the texture of meatloaf.
Add some croutons for an extra bite. These add a satisfying crunch and soak up the dressing.
The dressing is key. It’s made from egg yolk, lemon juice, mustard, olive oil, garlic, anchovies, and parmesan cheese.
Don’t forget freshly grated parmesan. It adds a salty, umami flavor.
Toss everything together until the lettuce is well-coated. Serve immediately for best results.
This salad provides a nice contrast to the rich meatloaf. It’s simple yet packed with flavor.
4) Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Baked macaroni and cheese is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with meatloaf. The creamy texture of the cheese sauce complements the hearty meatloaf, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
You can use a variety of cheeses for different flavors. Cheddar is a popular choice, but adding some mozzarella or Parmesan can enhance the taste.
To make it, cook your macaroni until al dente. Prepare a cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and your selected cheeses. Mix the sauce with the macaroni and transfer to a baking dish.
For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the macaroni before baking. Bake until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling. This will give you a delightful contrast between the creamy pasta and the crispy top.
Baked macaroni and cheese is also versatile. You can add ingredients like bacon, ham, or vegetables for extra flavor. This makes it not only a great side dish but also adaptable to different tastes.
5) Glazed Carrots
Glazed carrots bring a delightful sweetness to your meatloaf dinner. This dish is easy to prepare and adds a vibrant color to your plate. You can use either baby carrots or sliced regular carrots.
To make glazed carrots, cook the carrots until they are tender. Then, mix them with butter, brown sugar, and a touch of honey.
This combination creates a shiny glaze that coats each carrot piece. The buttery sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory meatloaf. Some people like to add a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
If you want to change it up, try using maple syrup instead of honey. This adds a different layer of sweetness.
Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also be added for a bit of freshness. Glazed carrots are a classic side dish that everyone will enjoy.
Keep an eye on the carrots as they cook to make sure they don’t get too soft. You want them to maintain a bit of firmness for the best texture.
6) Herbed Quinoa
Herbed quinoa is a delightful side dish that pairs well with meatloaf. It is light yet satisfying, making it a great addition to your meal. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, taking only about 20 minutes from start to finish.
You will need quinoa, fresh herbs, and some basic seasonings. First, you’ll want to rinse the quinoa to remove any bitterness. Then, cook it in a pot with water or broth for added flavor.
While the quinoa is cooking, you can chop your herbs. Parsley, cilantro, and dill are good choices. Once the quinoa is done, fluff it with a fork and mix in the herbs.
Adding a bit of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors. You can also include a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Serve it warm alongside your meatloaf.
Herbed quinoa not only complements the meatloaf but also adds a nutritious element to your dinner. It is high in protein and loaded with vitamins. This makes it a healthy choice for you and your family.
7) Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a tasty and healthy side dish for meatloaf. When roasted, Brussels sprouts develop a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. The caramelized exterior adds a nice crunch.
Preparing them is simple. Toss the Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Roast the Brussels sprouts at 400°F for about 20 to 30 minutes. Shake the pan halfway through to ensure even cooking.
You can add garlic or balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. These additions balance well with the richness of meatloaf.
This side dish works well for any meal. It provides a healthy serving of vegetables without much fuss. Your family will enjoy this change from the usual sides.
8) Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Cheesy scalloped potatoes make a great side dish for meatloaf. The creamy and cheesy layers complement the savory flavors of the meatloaf perfectly.
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×9 or 2-quart baking dish with some oil or non-stick spray.
To prepare the potatoes, use a mandoline or a sharp knife to thinly slice them. Place the slices in a large mixing bowl.
For the cheese sauce, melt some butter in a pan and sauté garlic until it becomes fragrant. Then, add onions, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onions are soft.
Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth. Add the sliced potatoes to the pan and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook until the potatoes are nearly fork-tender.
Transfer the potato mixture to the prepared baking dish. Layer the potatoes, pouring some of the sauce between the layers. Sprinkle plenty of cheese on top.
Bake at 350°F for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving with your meatloaf. This side dish is a comforting and flavorful addition to your meal.
9) Parmesan Roasted Asparagus
Parmesan roasted asparagus makes a great side dish for meatloaf. It’s simple to prepare and pairs well with the rich flavors of your main dish.
Start by rinsing and trimming your asparagus stalks. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Toss them gently to coat evenly.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the asparagus. Make sure each piece gets some of the cheesy goodness.
Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes. The asparagus should be tender and the Parmesan should be golden and crispy.
The delightful crunch and cheesy flavor will complement your meatloaf perfectly.
10) Sautéed Spinach with Garlic
Sautéed Spinach with Garlic is a quick and tasty side that goes great with meatloaf. You only need a few simple ingredients: fresh spinach, garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. The garlic adds a lot of flavor without overpowering the spinach.
Start by heating olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add sliced garlic cloves and cook until they turn golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will taste bitter.
Next, add the fresh spinach to the pan. Use tongs to mix the spinach with the garlic and oil. This ensures that all the leaves are coated well. Cover the pan for about one to two minutes.
The spinach will wilt quickly. Once it’s wilted, stir it again to make sure everything is evenly mixed. Add a pinch of salt, if you like.
This side dish comes together in just minutes and adds a nice, light touch to your meal. The freshness of the spinach paired with the rich flavor of garlic makes it a perfect companion for meatloaf. Enjoy this simple yet delicious side with your next dinner.
11) Honey Butter Corn
Honey butter corn is a delightful side dish that pairs wonderfully with meatloaf.
You start by melting butter and honey together in a skillet over medium-high heat. This creates a rich and sweet base.
Once the butter and honey are melted, add frozen corn to the skillet. Cook the mixture for about 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the corn is heated through.
After the corn is cooked, mix in some cream cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
The cream cheese will make the corn creamy and delicious. Serve the honey butter corn immediately for the best flavor.
This simple yet tasty dish adds a sweet and buttery flavor that complements the savory meatloaf perfectly.
12) Buttermilk Biscuits
Buttermilk biscuits are a classic side dish that pairs wonderfully with meatloaf. They are fluffy, tender, and have a slightly tangy taste from the buttermilk.
These biscuits are great for soaking up any gravy or sauce from the meatloaf, making every bite even more delicious. You can make them from scratch with simple ingredients like flour, butter, buttermilk, and baking powder.
Serving warm buttermilk biscuits straight from the oven adds a homemade touch to your meal. They are also versatile; you can add herbs, cheese, or garlic to the dough for extra flavor.
For added convenience, you can use store-bought biscuit mix and just add buttermilk to get that classic taste. These biscuits are perfect for a comforting and hearty dinner.
13) Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a classic side dish that pairs well with meatloaf. It offers a creamy and rich texture that complements the hearty flavor of the meat.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh spinach, butter, garlic, and heavy cream. Start by sautéing the spinach in butter until it wilts. Add minced garlic for extra flavor.
Next, pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer. This will thicken the sauce and coat the spinach leaves. Season with salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg if you like.
Creamed spinach is not just delicious, but also nutritious. Spinach is high in iron and other essential vitamins. This makes it a healthy addition to your meatloaf meal.
It’s easy to prepare and can be made in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, creamed spinach is sure to be a hit.
14) Brown Sugar Baked Beans
Brown Sugar Baked Beans are a perfect side for meatloaf. They are sweet and savory, making a great companion to the rich flavor of the meat.
You can cook these beans in the microwave or in the oven. If using the oven, set it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for about 30 minutes.
Adding brown sugar gives the beans a deep, sweet taste. For extra flavor, you can mix in some chopped, cooked bacon.
If you like less spicy dishes, you can skip the smoked paprika and garlic powder. You can also heat the beans on a grill or stove top if you prefer.
Brown Sugar Baked Beans are easy to prepare and do not take a lot of time. This dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
15) Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce adds a burst of tart sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of meatloaf. This bright, zingy side dish can elevate a classic meatloaf dinner by balancing its richness.
Making cranberry sauce is simple. You typically combine cranberries, sugar, and water, then simmer until the berries burst and the sauce thickens.
If you want to add some depth to your cranberry sauce, consider mixing in orange zest or a splash of orange juice. This adds a citrusy twist that can make the sauce even more flavorful.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can provide a warm, cozy flavor. Just a small amount can transform the sauce into something special.
You can serve cranberry sauce warm or chilled, depending on your preference. It’s a versatile side that holds up well with various styles of meatloaf.
16) Brussels Sprout Slaw
Brussels sprout slaw is a fresh and crunchy side dish that pairs well with meatloaf. It’s easy to make and adds a vibrant touch to your meal.
To start, thinly slice or shred the Brussels sprouts into small strips. You want them to be thin and delicate, just like coleslaw.
Next, add some extra elements for flavor and texture. Combine the shredded Brussels sprouts with red onions, pecans, and cranberries. This mix gives the slaw a nice balance of sweet and savory.
For the dressing, whisk together apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Slowly add olive oil while whisking to create a smooth blend.
Once the dressing is ready, pour it over the Brussels sprouts mixture. Toss everything together to ensure that the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add some grated carrots or green onions for extra crunch and color.
This Brussels sprout slaw not only tastes great but also brings a burst of freshness to your meatloaf dinner.
17) Cauliflower Gratin
Cauliflower gratin pairs perfectly with meatloaf. This dish combines tender cauliflower with a rich, cheesy sauce that brings a comforting balance to your meal.
To prepare, steam or boil cauliflower florets until they’re just tender. While the cauliflower cooks, make a simple cheese sauce using butter, flour, milk, and grated cheddar.
Pour the cheese sauce over the cauliflower in a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and more cheese for a crunchy, golden finish. Bake until bubbly and browned on top.
For added flavor, you can mix in garlic, nutmeg, or even a sprinkle of paprika. This side dish is creamy, comforting, and elevates any meatloaf dinner.
18) Twice-Baked Potatoes
Twice-baked potatoes are a classic side dish that brings comfort and flavor to your meatloaf dinner. They are simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time.
First, bake the potatoes until they are tender. Then, scoop out the insides and mix them with cheese, sour cream, and butter. Add some chopped chives or bacon for extra taste.
Refill the potato skins with the mixture. Place them back in the oven until the tops are golden and crispy. This makes them perfect alongside a hearty serving of meatloaf.
Twice-baked potatoes also offer a pleasing texture contrast. The crispy skin and creamy filling balance each other out.
They are a hit with both kids and adults, making your meal even more enjoyable. Plus, the leftovers, if there are any, reheat well for a quick snack or lunch.
19) Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Garlic butter mushrooms are a delicious and simple side dish to serve with meatloaf. The flavors complement each other well, adding a savory touch to your meal.
Start by trimming the stems and cutting the mushrooms into even pieces. Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the mushrooms in a single layer and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes without stirring. This helps them brown nicely on one side.
After that, give them a stir and cook until all sides are browned and the mushrooms release their moisture. This usually takes a few more minutes.
For extra flavor, add plenty of minced garlic and butter to the skillet. Allow the garlic to cook for about a minute, being careful not to burn it.
Once the mushrooms are tender and the garlic is fragrant, your garlic butter mushrooms are ready to serve. They are a perfect match for the rich taste of meatloaf.
20) Roasted Butternut Squash
Roasted butternut squash makes a great side dish for meatloaf. It’s simple to prepare and adds a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs well with the savory taste of meatloaf.
First, peel the squash and cut it in half lengthways. Scoop out the seeds and cut the squash into cubes. Toss the cubes in olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Spread the cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30 minutes until they are fork-tender. You can add other seasonings like cinnamon or rosemary for additional flavor.
Roasted butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and fiber, making it a healthy option to serve alongside your meatloaf.
21) Tomato Basil Salad
Tomato basil salad is a refreshing side dish that pairs wonderfully with meatloaf. The flavors of juicy tomatoes and aromatic basil create a bright and vibrant taste.
Use ripe tomatoes for the best results. Cherry or grape tomatoes work well, but any ripe tomato will do. Slice them into bite-sized pieces.
Add fresh basil leaves. Tear them by hand instead of chopping to release more flavor.
Mix tomatoes and basil in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a simple dressing.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a bit of garlic or mozzarella if you like.
Serve immediately or let it sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld. This salad is light but flavorful, making it a perfect complement to rich meatloaf.
22) Maple Glazed Sweet Potatoes
Maple glazed sweet potatoes are a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with meatloaf.
You can start by peeling and slicing the sweet potatoes into thick rounds.
In a baking dish, arrange the slices in a single layer.
Pour a mixture of maple syrup, melted butter, and a pinch of salt over the sweet potatoes.
Roast them in the oven until they are tender and caramelized.
The maple syrup brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
This dish has a rich, sweet flavor that complements the savory meatloaf.
For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped pecans on top before serving.
This adds a bit of crunch and enhances the taste.
It’s an easy and satisfying side that your family will love.
23) Lemon Garlic Broccoli
Lemon garlic broccoli is a fantastic side dish to complement your meatloaf.
Start by steaming or boiling fresh broccoli until it is tender but still crisp.
In a separate pan, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until it’s golden and fragrant.
Add the cooked broccoli to the pan and toss it with the garlic.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the broccoli and sprinkle it with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Mix everything until the broccoli is well-coated with the lemon and garlic.
Serve warm for a bright and zesty addition to your meal.
This easy dish brings a refreshing flavor that pairs well with the rich taste of meatloaf.
24) Parmesan Crusted Zucchini
Parmesan Crusted Zucchini is a tasty and easy side dish. The zucchini is sliced into thin rounds, then sprinkled with a mix of Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
Before baking, drizzle the zucchini slices with olive oil. This helps the Parmesan mixture stick and adds flavor. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake the zucchini at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes. When they turn crisp and golden brown, they’re ready. These zucchini rounds pair well with meatloaf, adding a crunchy texture and a savory taste.
25) Ginger Glazed Carrots
Ginger glazed carrots are a perfect mix of sweet and spicy flavors. They bring a unique twist to your meal with their vibrant taste.
First, peel and slice your carrots into even pieces. This helps them cook uniformly.
In a pan, melt butter and add fresh ginger. Stir until fragrant.
Next, add the carrots and toss them in the ginger butter.
Drizzle a bit of honey or brown sugar. This provides the glaze and enhances the sweetness.
Cook until the carrots are tender but still have a slight crunch.
These ginger glazed carrots complement meatloaf beautifully. The sweetness balances the savory meatloaf, while the ginger adds a bit of zing.
Serve them warm for the best flavor experience.
26) Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is a tasty and nutritious side dish for your meatloaf dinners. It combines the flavors of two popular vegetables, broccoli and cauliflower, with a creamy cheese sauce.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat an 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish with oil or butter.
Boil some water in a large pot, and add your broccoli and cauliflower florets. Cook them for about five minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
In a saucepan, melt some butter and stir in flour to create a roux. Slowly add milk, stirring until the sauce thickens. Mix in your favorite shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine the broccoli and cauliflower with the cheese sauce, then pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Top with bread crumbs or panko for a crunchy finish. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown.
This casserole is not only delicious but also easy to make. The combination of cheesy goodness with nutritious veggies makes it a fantastic choice.
27) Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasted root vegetables are a perfect side dish for meatloaf. They are easy to prepare and full of flavor. You can use carrots, potatoes, parsnips, and sweet potatoes.
Cut the vegetables into even pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Toss them in olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the oven at 400°F for about 30-40 minutes. Turn them halfway through to get a nice, even roast.
Roasted root vegetables bring a hearty, earthy taste to your meal. Their natural sweetness complements the savory meatloaf, making each bite satisfying.
The crispy edges and tender insides of the vegetables add a pleasant contrast in texture. This dish requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Try this simple yet delicious side next time you make meatloaf.
Understanding Flavor Pairings
When choosing sides for meatloaf, it’s essential to think about the balance between savory and sweet and the textures that complement the dish. These factors help in creating a meal that is harmonious and satisfying.
Balancing Savory and Sweet
Balancing flavors is key to making your meal enjoyable. Pairing the rich, hearty taste of meatloaf with sides that have contrasting flavors can enhance the overall dining experience. For example, you might choose fried green tomatoes with a tangy remoulade sauce to bring a fresh, acidic note.
Fruit-based sides can also balance flavors well. Applesauce or glazed carrots add sweetness that contrasts nicely with meatloaf’s savory taste. Using maple-glazed sweet potatoes can introduce a hint of sweetness without overpowering the main dish.
Complementary Textures
Combining different textures in your meal makes it more interesting. The soft, tender texture of meatloaf benefits from crunchy or crisp sides. For instance, oven-baked green beans provide a delightful crunch, making them an excellent side.
Creamy dishes can also complement meatloaf. Mashed potatoes are a classic, offering a smooth texture that pairs well with meatloaf’s dense consistency. Alternatively, succotash, with its mix of creamy and crunchy elements, can add a variety of textures to your plate.
Incorporating coleslaw brings in a crisp, refreshing element, which can be a nice contrast to the meatloaf’s warmth and softness.
Nutritional Considerations
When planning side dishes for meatloaf, consider options that add nutritional value. Healthy side dishes and incorporating vegetables are essential for a balanced meal.
Healthy Side Dish Options
Choosing healthy side dishes can boost the nutritional profile of your meal. Whole grains like quinoa or brown rice are excellent choices.
They provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Roasted sweet potatoes make a great alternative to regular potatoes and are rich in vitamins A and C.
You can also opt for legume-based sides. Lentil salad or chickpea stews add protein and fiber, which can help keep you full longer. Avoid sides that are high in saturated fats and sugars, like creamy casseroles or marshmallow-topped yams, to maintain a healthier balance.
Incorporating Vegetables
Incorporating vegetables into your side dishes is crucial for adding vitamins, minerals, and fiber to your diet. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and green beans are simple yet nutritious additions.
You can prepare a fresh vegetable salad with a variety of colorful veggies for more nutrients. Vegetables like brussels sprouts or asparagus can be roasted with a light drizzle of olive oil and herbs for extra flavor without adding unnecessary calories.
Adding vegetables to your sides not only boosts nutritional content but also enhances the overall flavor of your meal, making it more enjoyable and satisfying.
Tips for Cooking and Serving
Achieving a delicious meal involves careful planning and presentation. To complement your meatloaf perfectly, it’s important to prepare your side dishes ahead of time and pay attention to how you present the meal.
Preparing Side Dishes in Advance
Timing is key. Cooking side dishes ahead of time ensures everything is ready to serve when the meatloaf is done. Many sides like mashed potatoes and green beans can be made a few hours in advance and kept warm in a low oven.
You can prepare ingredients for dishes like salads or roasted vegetables the night before. Chop veggies, mix dressings, and marinate anything needed. This reduces stress and makes the cooking process smoother.
Have a plan for reheating. Use your microwave or stovetop to reheat items quickly without losing their flavor or texture. Wrap dishes in foil to keep them warm in the oven if needed.
Presentation Ideas
The way you present your meal can make it more appealing. Use colorful vegetables like carrots, peas, and broccoli for a bright and eye-catching platter. Arrange the dishes neatly around the meatloaf for a balanced look.
Consider using garnishes such as fresh herbs like parsley or chives, which can add a touch of green and enhance the appearance. Don’t overcrowd the plate; leave space for each dish to shine.
Serving in separate dishes can also make your meal more organized and easy to serve. Use small bowls or platters for sides like potato salad or succotash, and place them around the main dish for easy access.
