In this article, we will talk about different side dishes that go well with meatloaf. If you’re curious about what to serve with this classic dish, you’re in the right spot.
Classic Side Dishes
When serving meatloaf, classic sides are always a hit. They boost the taste of the dish and make a complete meal. You can pick from creamy, crispy, or fresh options, whatever you like best.
Mashed potatoes are a top choice with meatloaf. Their smooth, buttery feel goes great with the meatloaf’s taste. Add some butter or fresh herbs on top for extra yumminess.
Want something healthier? Try roasted veggies. Carrots bring sweetness, Brussels sprouts add earthiness, and green beans give crispiness. Roasting them enhances their flavors and gives them a nice, caramelized look.
A light green salad works well too. It brings freshness with your favorite veggies, balancing the meatloaf’s richness. You can dress it up with a tangy vinaigrette or a creamy dressing to make it even better.
Choose mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad with your meatloaf for a classic mix. Try different tastes, textures, and spices to find what you like best. This will surely please everyone at your table.
Baked Potatoes
Baked potatoes are a great addition to meatloaf. They have a soft inside and crunchy skin. This makes a nice contrast with soft meatloaf. You can top them with anything you like.
There are so many choices for toppings. Try sour cream and fresh chives for a classic taste. The sour cream’s coolness and chives’ mild flavor make meatloaf even better.
If you love cheese, add some cheddar or feta. This melty, tasty cheese makes every bite better.
Want something special? Add crispy bacon bits. Their salty flavor goes perfectly with meatloaf.
Baked potatoes are good for you too. They’re full of vitamins and low in calories. Eating them with the skin on adds fiber. This makes them a filling and healthy choice.
So, when you’re thinking about sides for meatloaf, pick baked potatoes. They match well with meatloaf. With your favorite toppings, they’re both comforting and tasty.
Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a creamy side that goes well with meatloaf. It adds cheesy goodness to your meal whether as a side or the main dish.
Every bite is packed with al dente macaroni and smooth cheese sauce. It combines well with meatloaf’s savory flavors. This dish is comforting, with the pasta and cheese melting together perfectly.
This dish is also highly versatile. You can add toppings like crispy breadcrumbs or bacon. These additions bring extra flavor and texture. You can stick to the classic recipe or experiment with new flavors.
So, when you’re making meatloaf, include macaroni and cheese in your plan. It’s a hit with both kids and adults. With this side, your meal will reach a new level of comfort. Enjoy the cheesy delight!
Garlic Bread
A warm slice of garlic bread is a fantastic addition to any meatloaf meal. Its crispy outside and buttery garlic flavor make it delicious. The taste compliments any dinner.
Garlic bread adds a delightful crunch and a burst of garlic. This enhances the savory flavors of meatloaf. The combination of soft bread and rich garlic taste is irresistible.
There are different ways to make garlic bread. You can spread garlic butter on French bread slices and toast them. Or, stuff a baguette with garlic and herbs before baking.
Whichever method you choose, garlic bread is always a hit. Serve it hot from the oven. Let the warm bread melt the butter for a perfect taste.
Pairing Suggestion: Garlic Bread and Meatloaf
Serve garlic bread with meatloaf to make the meal better. The bread’s crispiness with the soft meatloaf is a great mix. Add roasted garlic on the bread for more flavor. Each bite offers a mix of textures and tastes.
Try topping your garlic bread with grated Parmesan cheese or parsley. This adds flavor and looks great.
Include garlic bread with your next meatloaf dinner. It’s sure to be a hit with its great smell and taste.
Gravy
Adding a rich, savory gravy to your meatloaf can make it taste even better. Try serving it with mashed potatoes or drizzle it right over the meatloaf. You’ll love the mix of flavors.
Gravy is key in making your meatloaf moist and full of flavor. It’s made from meat drippings, broth, and spices. This smooth sauce brings out the meat’s natural taste and makes your meal extra special.
You can choose from many gravy types, like hearty brown gravy or tangy tomato sauce. A classic way to do it is to roast meatloaf with onions and garlic. Then, use the pan drippings for a tasty homemade gravy. This combo will wow your taste buds.
If you’re rushed for time, store-bought gravy is also an option. Just warm it up and pour it over your meatloaf for quick flavor.
Pairing Ideas:
Mashed potatoes are a great match for gravy and meatloaf. The creaminess of the potatoes and the rich gravy pair perfectly. It allows you to enjoy every mouthful.
Another idea is to pour the gravy right on top of the meatloaf. This way, each slice gets coated in delicious sauce, enhancing the flavor and look of your dish.
For a final touch, top your meatloaf and gravy with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. They add freshness and contrast the rich flavors nicely.
Remember to add gravy when you make meatloaf. It adds a silky texture and savory flavor that turns the meal into something unforgettable.
Steamed Vegetables
Looking to add freshness to your meal? Steamed vegetables are a great choice. Their vibrant colors, tender texture, and natural flavors go perfectly with meatloaf. You can choose from a mixture of broccoli, carrots, and green beans. Or just pick your favorite vegetable. These options are not only delicious but also nutritious, making your plate healthier.
Steaming vegetables keeps their colors bright and their textures crisp. This gentle cooking method keeps vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants intact. By steaming, you get the most health benefits from your meal.
Preparing steamed vegetables is easy. First, trim, wash, and chop them into small pieces. Then, put them in a steamer basket or a colander above boiling water. Cover them and let them steam for a few minutes. They should be tender but still colorful and crunchy.
Steamed vegetables are also versatile. You can try different combinations based on your taste or what’s in season. Feel free to add herbs, spices, or olive oil to make them taste even better.
So, when making meatloaf, remember to include steamed vegetables on the side. They make a delightful and healthy addition to your meal. Both your taste buds and body will be happy!
Cornbread
Cornbread is a favorite side dish that goes great with meatloaf. Its sweet taste works well with the savory meatloaf, making a perfect pair. It’s tasty whether warm or cold, adding a nice touch to your meal.
Coleslaw
Want to add a fresh and tangy touch to your meatloaf? Coleslaw is a perfect choice. It’s ideal alongside the rich taste of meatloaf.
The crunchy coleslaw with its creamy dressing contrasts well with meatloaf. Crisp cabbage and carrots in a tangy mayo dressing make your meal exciting.
Creamy or vinegar-based, coleslaw can be made to fit your tastes. You can tweak its sweetness or spice it up with jalapeños. Try various herbs and spices to make it uniquely yours.
So, when you have a delicious meatloaf, pair it with coleslaw. This combo enhances your dining experience. Enjoy your meal!
Sweet Potato Fries
Want to try something new with your meatloaf? Serve sweet potato fries with it. These fries are crispy and full of flavor. They mix well with meatloaf’s rich taste.
Sweet potato fries offer a natural sweetness unlike regular fries. They have a bright orange color and edges that turn a bit caramel-like. This makes your meal look and taste better.
These fries are not just tasty but also healthy. Sweet potatoes are full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. With meatloaf, they make a meal that’s both satisfying and good for you.
To make sweet potato fries, cut the potatoes into thin strips. Mix them with olive oil, salt, and any seasonings you like. Lay them on a baking sheet with parchment paper. Bake until they’re crispy and golden.
For extra flavor, sprinkle with sea salt or cinnamon before serving. These fries are great on their own or with your favorite sauce.
Try sweet potato fries with meatloaf to boost your meal. This mix of flavors will delight your guests. Adding this side dish makes your menu more exciting.
Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad can make your meal feel special. It has crunchy romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and croutons. This mix is very refreshing when paired with meatloaf.
The salad’s vibrant flavors offer a great contrast to meatloaf. Crisp romaine gives a satisfying crunch. The Caesar dressing adds a zesty kick. Parmesan cheese brings a rich taste, and crispy croutons offer a nice texture.
A Caesar salad matches meatloaf’s hearty taste. It introduces a light and fresh touch to the meal. It is perfect for those wanting a lighter side.
Making a Caesar salad is easy and fast. Toss romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing. Then, add Parmesan cheese and croutons on top. It goes well with your tasty meatloaf, creating a fulfilling meal.
To make your plate look great, place the Caesar salad next to the meatloaf. The green lettuce, dressing, cheese, and croutons add color to your dish. This makes your meal more inviting.
Considering what to serve with meatloaf? Try a classic Caesar salad. It’s a choice your taste buddies will love.
Conclusion
These side dish ideas give you many options for your meatloaf meals. You can stick with classics or try something new. These sides will make your meatloaf dinner even better.
Think about serving classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a simple salad. These choices never go out of style. For something hearty, try baked potatoes, creamy macaroni and cheese, or warm garlic bread. These are sure to please everyone.
Want something lighter? Steamed vegetables or a crisp Caesar salad are great choices. They balance out the meatloaf’s richness nicely. Sweet potato fries or coleslaw add a fun twist with their tangy flavors.
Have fun mixing and matching these ideas to find what you like best. No matter what you choose, these sides will enhance your meatloaf. They’ll make your meal memorable and enjoyable for all. Bon appétit!
