Meatloaf is a timeless comfort food that has earned a place on dinner tables for generations. Its savory, rich flavor and tender texture make it a satisfying main course, but what truly elevates a meatloaf meal is the perfect side dish. While mashed potatoes and gravy are often the go-to pairing, there’s a whole world of other options that can complement your meatloaf in exciting and delicious ways. Whether you’re looking to switch up your weeknight dinner routine or impress guests at a gathering, here are nine delicious sides that go beautifully with meatloaf – none of which involve mashed potatoes or gravy.
1. Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and intensifies their flavor, making them an ideal companion to the rich and savory meatloaf. The caramelization process adds a delicious depth of flavor, and the variety of textures provides a nice contrast to the meatloaf’s soft texture. You can roast almost any vegetable, but some of the best options include:
- Brussels sprouts: Their crispy outer leaves and tender centers provide a perfect crunchy counterpart to the meatloaf.
- Carrots: Roasted carrots offer a hint of natural sweetness, bright color, and a soft but satisfying texture.
- Cauliflower: With its ability to take on seasonings well, roasted cauliflower adds a mild flavor and a crunchy texture to balance out the meatloaf.
Simply drizzle your vegetables with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized.
2. Creamed Corn
Creamed corn offers a sweet, creamy side that pairs surprisingly well with meatloaf. The velvety texture of the corn contrasts with the meatloaf’s savory flavor, creating a balanced and indulgent meal. Whether you make your creamed corn from scratch or opt for a store-bought version, its smooth consistency and sweet taste can elevate any meatloaf dinner.
For a twist, you can add crumbled bacon, a sprinkle of cheese, or a dash of hot sauce to give the creamed corn extra flavor.
3. Baked Beans
Baked beans are a classic accompaniment to many hearty dishes, and meatloaf is no exception. The smoky, slightly sweet, and savory flavors of baked beans harmonize beautifully with the robust taste of meatloaf. The creamy texture of the beans also contrasts well with the firmer texture of the meatloaf, creating a satisfying and filling meal.
To enhance the flavor of store-bought baked beans, consider adding a little brown sugar, mustard, or barbecue sauce to give them a sweet and tangy kick.
4. Sweet Potato Fries
For those looking for a healthier and equally tasty alternative to mashed potatoes, sweet potato fries are a fantastic option. Their natural sweetness and slightly crispy texture add a fun twist to a meatloaf meal. Sweet potatoes are also packed with nutrients, including vitamin A, fiber, and potassium, making them a more nutritious choice.
You can bake sweet potato fries in the oven or air fry them for a healthier, low-oil version. For added flavor, sprinkle them with smoked paprika or cinnamon.
5. Green Beans with Bacon
Green beans sautéed with crispy bacon offer the perfect mix of freshness and indulgence. The crunchiness of the green beans combined with the salty, smoky bacon creates a balanced dish that complements the hearty meatloaf. The vibrant green color also adds visual appeal to your plate.
To make this side dish, simply sauté fresh or frozen green beans in a pan with olive oil, garlic, and crumbled bacon. For a kick, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or red pepper flakes.
6. Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a rich and creamy side that can make any meal feel like the ultimate comfort food. Its cheesy, gooey goodness contrasts wonderfully with the firm texture of the meatloaf, and the flavors complement each other perfectly. You can opt for a classic mac and cheese or get creative by adding extra toppings like breadcrumbs, bacon, or caramelized onions.
Whether baked or stovetop, mac and cheese adds a touch of indulgence to a meatloaf dinner and is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
7. Cornbread
Cornbread is a slightly sweet, crumbly side that pairs wonderfully with savory meatloaf. The flavors of cornmeal add a unique dimension to the meal, and its soft, tender crumb contrasts nicely with the texture of the meatloaf. Plus, cornbread can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile option for any meal.
For a more exciting version, try adding ingredients like jalapeños, cheddar cheese, or even a drizzle of honey to your cornbread batter. This sweet and savory combination will take your meatloaf dinner to the next level.
8. Coleslaw
Coleslaw may not be the first thing that comes to mind when pairing sides with meatloaf, but its cool, tangy flavor offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meat. The crisp, crunchy cabbage and carrots, combined with a creamy or vinegar-based dressing, provide a lighter, refreshing side dish that balances out the heavier flavors of the meatloaf.
For added flavor, try incorporating shredded apples or dried cranberries into the coleslaw, or opt for a spicy dressing to give it an extra kick.
9. Sautéed Mushrooms
Sautéed mushrooms are a simple yet elegant side dish that pairs exceptionally well with meatloaf. The earthy, savory flavor of mushrooms adds depth to the meal, while their tender texture complements the density of the meatloaf. Mushrooms are also a great source of vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy addition to your dinner plate.
To prepare sautéed mushrooms, cook them in butter or olive oil with garlic, thyme, and a splash of white wine for added flavor. You can use a variety of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, or portobello, to create a side that’s both flavorful and visually appealing.
Conclusion
While mashed potatoes and gravy may be the traditional sidekick to meatloaf, there are countless other delicious and creative options to explore. Whether you prefer the sweetness of roasted vegetables, the indulgence of mac and cheese, or the tangy crunch of coleslaw, these nine sides offer variety and flavor that will take your meatloaf dinner to new heights. Try incorporating one of these sides the next time you make meatloaf, and enjoy a meal that’s not only comforting but also bursting with new and exciting flavors.