61 Best Side Dishes to Serve with Meatloaf 🥗

The intoxicating aroma of meatloaf hot from the oven promises a hearty and comforting meal. But the real art is in pairing this homey classic with complementary sides to create a culinary masterpiece. Which side dish will you choose to accompany your meatloaf masterpiece?

Delve into the flavorful possibilities as we explore the ideal companions that will transform your meal into a magical blend of tastes and textures. Get set to uncover the perfect partner for your meatloaf's culinary dance!

Jump to:

• Easy Meatloaf Side Dishes
• 1. Mashed Potatoes
• 2. Vegetable Stir-Fry
• 3. Baked Mac and Cheese
• 4. Sweet Potato Fries
• 5. Cheesy Feta Tomato Slices
• 6. Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
• 7. Air Fryer Frittata
• 8. Beanless Chili
• 9. Tex Mex Egg Rolls
• 10. Cabbage Roll Soup
• 11. Smashed Brussels Sprouts
• 12. Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
• 13. Blistered Green Beans with Tomato-Almond Pesto
• 14. Red Potato Salad with Herbs
• 15. Twice Baked Potatoes
• 16. Low Carb Italian Egg Bake
• 17. Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Tahini
• 18.  Crispy Rice
• 19. Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
• 20. Garlic Knot Bread
• 🥗 Best Side Dishes to Serve With Meatloaf
• 21. Caesar Salad
• 22. Baba Ganoush
• 23. Chili Stuffed Bell Peppers
• 24. Buttery Peas and Mushroom
• 25. Cajun Baked Okra
• 26. Cilantro Pistachio Pesto
• 27. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
• 28. Crustless Asparagus Quiche
• 29. Ravioli with Browned Butter and Crispy Sage
• 30. Spanish Rice
• 31. Mexican Corn and Black Beans
• 32. Greek Artichoke Stew
• 33. Blue Cheese Biscuits
• 34. Lentil Curry Bowls with Cilantro Cashew Sauce
• 35. Beet Salad with Feta and Walnuts
• 36. Cold Cucumber Soup 
• 37. Red Cabbage Tofu Potstickers
• 38. Potato-Fennel Gratin
• 39. Sun Dried Tomato Chowder with Crispy Goat Cheese Croutons
• 40. Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi
• 40. Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi
• 41. Strawberry Spinach Salad
• 42. Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco
• 43. Marinated Mozzarella
• 44. Miso Eggplant
• 45. Fried Green Tomatoes with Goat Cheese Roasted Red Pepper Vinaigrette
• 46. Mediterranean Couscous Salad
• 🥗 Vegetable Sides for Meatloaf
• 47. Sweet and Sour Cabbage
• 48. Cranberry Sauce
• 49. Sweet Corn Pudding with Scallions
• 50. Zucchini Noodles with Tomato and Coconut Broth
• 51. Spinach & Mushroom Polenta Pie with Almond Ricotta
• 52. Hasselback Potatoes
• 53. Lemon Garlic Butter Bean Salad
• 54. Loaded Pumpkin Soup
• 55. Sesame Ginger Snap Peas
• 56. Daikon Radish Pancakes
• 57. Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Truffles
• 58. Cauliflower Wings
• 59. Smothered Bean Burritos
• 60. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
• 61. Stuffed Potato Cakes
• 62. Sour Cream Potato Salad
• 📖 Recipe
• 👩🏻‍🍳 Sarah Mock
• Comments

Easy Meatloaf Side Dishes

The mouthwatering aroma of a perfectly cooked meatloaf fills the air as you carry it to the table, ready to be the centerpiece of a savory dinner. Now the real fun begins - deciding which scrumptious sides will complement the star of the show. Will it be creamy mashed potatoes, their fluffy peaks just waiting to soak up the meatloaf's juices?

1. Mashed Potatoes

This mashed potato side recipe seamlessly combines Yukon Gold potatoes, cream cheese, and garlic, making it one of the one of the sides to serve with meatloaf.

2. Vegetable Stir-Fry

Bursting with freshness, this vegetable extravaganza features an array of broccoli, bell peppers, and snow peas, bathed in a delectable soy-ginger sauce that effortlessly transforms it from a simple vegetable side dish into a main course sensation.

3. Baked Mac and Cheese

As the crisp textures of broccoli, bell peppers, and snow peas mingle with a tempting soy-ginger sauce, this easy side seamlessly transforms into a straightforward and delightful accompaniment.

4. Sweet Potato Fries

Whether crunchy or tender, these fries make for the perfect side for your meatloaf recipe, adding a wholesome and flavorful touch to your meal.

5. Cheesy Feta Tomato Slices

Succulent tomato slices, bathed in a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan, create a flavorful symphony that will undoubtedly be the highlight of your dining table. It's not just a recipe; it's a gastronomic masterpiece, undoubtedly the best side recipe you'll encounter.

6. Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

In any gastronomic gathering, these dinner rolls are a must, blending the warmth of fresh-baked goodness with the rich, savory notes of garlic butter.

7. Air Fryer Frittata

Brimming with a blend of fluffy eggs, vegetables, and a medley of savory cheeses, this frittata emerges from the air fryer with a perfect golden hue, making it a comfort that's worth a try.

8. Beanless Chili

This easy-to-make chili showcases a robust fusion of textures and tastes, from tender chunks of beef to paprika.

9. Tex Mex Egg Rolls

The egg rolls are the perfect side because of seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, and gooey melted cheese encased in a crunchy, golden-brown wrapper.

10. Cabbage Roll Soup

Treat yourself to the rich flavors of a hearty cabbage roll soup, a delicious side dish that effortlessly combines the essence of a classic stuffed cabbage roll with the simplicity of a soul-warming soup.

11. Smashed Brussels Sprouts

The key to perfecting this side lies in the artful combination of olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, which coats each sprout, creating a golden brown exterior that's irresistibly crispy on the outside.

12. Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

With the addition of diced red onion and fresh dill, this pasta salad not only makes a great side for any gathering but also stands out as a refreshing and savory main course.

13. Blistered Green Beans with Tomato-Almond Pesto

The green beans, perfectly blistered to a tender crispiness, serve as a canvas for the vibrant tomato-almond pesto, which is a mix of simple ingredients of sun-dried tomatoes, toasted almonds, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.

14. Red Potato Salad with Herbs

The finely chopped red onion and celery add a satisfying crunch, while the fresh dill and parsley contribute to its herbaceous brightness, resulting in a red potato side that is both comforting and refreshing.

15. Twice Baked Potatoes

To create this yummy meatloaf side dish, start by baking russet potatoes until their skins achieve a tantalizing crispness. Then, the mashed potato filling is enriched with a decadent blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and bacon bits.

16. Low Carb Italian Egg Bake

This recipe has savory sausage, bell peppers, and tomatoes, so it's a great side dish for your meatloaf dinner.

17. Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Tahini

This sweet potato recipe transforms these root vegetables into something magical through roasting, giving them caramelized edges and a soft, creamy interior.

18.  Crispy Rice

The star ingredient, short-grain rice becomes irresistibly golden and crunchy in this recipe. Flavors unfolds with the inclusion of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil.

19. Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

With the bold flavors of thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, and melted cheese, this casserole recipe is among the keto sides you shouldn't miss trying.

20. Garlic Knot Bread

This savory twist on traditional bread offers a perfect balance of soft, buttery layers infused with aromatic garlic flavors, so it's an easy side recipe for a classic meatloaf recipe.

🥗 Best Side Dishes to Serve With Meatloaf

21. Caesar Salad

This classic side combines crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and croutons, all tossed together in a creamy Caesar dressing that perfectly complements the freshness of the greens.

22. Baba Ganoush

With roasted eggplants as the star ingredient, this simple side captures the essence of Middle Eastern flavors, combining smoky undertones with the richness of tahini and the brightness of lemon.

23. Chili Stuffed Bell Peppers

The combination of ground beef, black beans, and corn, seasoned with a blend of spices promises to please both meat lovers and vegetarians alike.

24. Buttery Peas and Mushroom

Elevate your cooking game with this easy recipe for your homemade meatloaf by combining green peas and mushrooms in a rich and buttery sauce that's flavorful in every bite.

25. Cajun Baked Okra

Infused with a blend of smoky paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder, this dish with bold Cajun flavors is simple to make if you need a quick weeknight dinner.

26. Cilantro Pistachio Pesto

Try this recipe with your favorite meatloaf dish if you want freshness and nutty goodness to your meal.

27. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms

The robust umami of the portobello mushrooms, enhanced by a marinade of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and olive oil, creates a savory profile that makes it an ideal meatloaf side.

28. Crustless Asparagus Quiche

If you're wondering what to serve when you make meatloaf, consider this quiche recipe. Filled with flavorful mushrooms and crisp asparagus, you'll never go wrong adding this to your usual meal planning.

29. Ravioli with Browned Butter and Crispy Sage

What makes this recipe among the yummiest sides for meatloaf is the pillowy ravioli, filled with ricotta and spinach, complemented by a rich and nutty browned butter sauce infused with fragrant sage leaves.

30. Spanish Rice

The tomatoes, onions, and garlic creates a rich base, while the combination of spices like cumin and paprika give amazing flavors in this easy Spanish rice.

31. Mexican Corn and Black Beans

This Mexican corn and black beans recipe offers a flavor profile that would go well with your mom's meatloaf. The sweet corn, black beans, and spices creates a satiating dish.

32. Greek Artichoke Stew

The recipe is a testament to the versatility of artichokes in Mediterranean cuisine. This super simple side dish ensures both novice and experienced cooks can recreate this savory dish.

33. Blue Cheese Biscuits

Whether served as a savory addition to a brunch spread or enjoyed alongside your favorite main course, these tasty biscuits are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

34. Lentil Curry Bowls with Cilantro Cashew Sauce

Packed with protein-rich lentils and a medley of colorful vegetables, the curry brings many flavors, so it's a solid option if you want a healthy side for your meatloaf meal.

35. Beet Salad with Feta and Walnuts

The sweet, roasted beets provide a rich base complemented by the creamy tang of feta cheese, while the crunchy walnuts add a wonderful texture.

36. Cold Cucumber Soup 

The soup's velvety texture and vibrant taste make it a versatile addition to any meal and add a touch of coolness to the table while complementing well with meatloaf.

37. Red Cabbage Tofu Potstickers

These red cabbage potstickers provide a creative and delicious alternative for those seeking a plant-based option, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians or anyone looking for a partner for their best meatloaf.

38. Potato-Fennel Gratin

Creamy and crispy, this gratin not only serves as a comforting and flavorful main course but also stands out as a unique and memorable fennel and potato dish that levels up any dining experience.

39. Sun Dried Tomato Chowder with Crispy Goat Cheese Croutons

As you savor this dish, the sweet corn, smoky bacon, and aromatic herbs come together, transforming your leftover meatloaf into a surprise in this soul-warming bowl of goodness.

40. Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi

The earthy flavors of pumpkin with the pillowy texture of gnocchi present a comforting and indulgent option for those seeking a cozy fall meal.

40. Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi

The velvety sauce, with pumpkin puree, coconut milk, and aromatic spices, gives you a rich and indulgent coating for the pillowy gnocchi.

41. Strawberry Spinach Salad

Drizzled with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, this salad offers a refreshing and healthy choice that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

42. Charred Broccoli with Hazelnut Romesco

Discover your next favorite side with this charred broccoli recipe. The method involves roasting broccoli florets until they achieve the ideal crispiness and tenderness.

43. Marinated Mozzarella

Bring the classic cheese to a new flavorful and aromatic level with fresh mozzarella balls bathed in a blend of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices in this recipe.

44. Miso Eggplant

The succulent eggplant slices, coated in a flavorful miso glaze is the best comfort food to have with an easy meatloaf recipe.

45. Fried Green Tomatoes with Goat Cheese Roasted Red Pepper Vinaigrette

The crispy green tomato slices are elevated with the addition of creamy goat cheese. The dish reaches its pinnacle with a drizzle of roasted red pepper vinaigrette that perfectly complements the goat cheese and fried green tomatoes.

46. Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Tossed in a zesty lemon herb dressing, this salad is not only visually appealing but also a burst of Mediterranean goodness in every bite.

🥗 Vegetable Sides for Meatloaf

Or maybe some buttery sautéed green beans, their crisp snap contrasting with the tender loaf. Don't forget the options of fluffy dinner rolls, ready to soak up any remaining sauce, or a fresh salad with a zingy vinaigrette. The possibilities are endless, so savor the anticipation as you ponder which combination will create a meal truly worthy of the sublime meatloaf you've crafted. The table is set, the choices are ripe - now go forth and turn your meatloaf into a masterpiece!

47. Sweet and Sour Cabbage

Using readily available ingredients, this side dish is easy to make, making it a convenient choice for busy days when you want a flavorful and satiating addition to your meal.

48. Cranberry Sauce

Its red hue, sweetness and tartness make it a versatile condiment that tastes well with pork meatloaf.

49. Sweet Corn Pudding with Scallions

This easy and delicious side for hearty meatloaf skillfully combines wholesome ingredients, such as coconut milk and almond flour, resulting in a comforting casserole that caters to dietary restrictions without compromising on flavor.

50. Zucchini Noodles with Tomato and Coconut Broth

The inclusion of garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, which makes the overall taste better and wholesome, ideal for those seeking a healthy and flavorful side.

51. Spinach & Mushroom Polenta Pie with Almond Ricotta

The vegan polenta pie is a yummy plant-based dish thatlets you enjoy the earthy flavors of spinach and mushrooms with the creamy richness of polenta.

52. Hasselback Potatoes

The recipe guides you through the meticulous process of slicing each spud accordion-style. The result is a satisfying side dish that boasts a perfect balance of crunchy edges, creamy centers, and flavorful toppings.

53. Lemon Garlic Butter Bean Salad

With its colorful presentation and the wholesome goodness of butter beans, this side salad is a versatile and flavorful option for lunch and dinner.

54. Loaded Pumpkin Soup

The rich blend of seasonal flavors from this holiday side, including pumpkin, bacon, and sage, creates a comforting and flavorful dish that is sure to please a festive crowd.

55. Sesame Ginger Snap Peas

The crisp snap peas are tossed in a blend of sesame and ginger, which results in a balance of nuttiness and spice. Remember to serve immediately with your instant pot meatloaf.

56. Daikon Radish Pancakes

These flavorsome delights, crafted with grated daikon radish, scallions, and seasonings, offer a unique twist on your usual pancakes.

57. Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Truffles

These delightful bites strike a perfect balance between sweet and savory, making them an ideal companion for various occasions.

58. Cauliflower Wings

The cauliflower florets are coated in a flavorful batter, baked to crispy perfection, and then generously drenched in a luscious sticky sesame sauce.

59. Smothered Bean Burritos

When savoring these bean burritos, one discovers a fusion of flavors that matches well with the best meatloaf recipes. The burritos, filled with a savory blend of beans, spices, and a luscious smothering sauce are truly among the most comforting sides.

60. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

This classic Italian dish elevates humble ingredients, combining al dente spaghetti with a luscious blend of garlic sautéed in golden olive oil, red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, and a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley.

61. Stuffed Potato Cakes

These vegan and gluten-free stuffed potato cakes are one of the best sides for meatloaf thanks to their crunchy exterior and soft texture.

62. Sour Cream Potato Salad

Tender potatoes are boiled to perfection and mixed with a rich combination of sour cream, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard, creating a smooth dressing.

📖 Recipe