Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for family dinners. Whether you prefer it with a rich glaze or a simple seasoning, meatloaf is versatile and filling. But no meal is complete without the perfect side dishes! To balance the rich and savory flavors of meatloaf, you’ll want sides that complement its hearty texture while adding variety and freshness to your plate.
In this article, we’ve rounded up 12 of the best side dishes that pair perfectly with meatloaf. These sides cover a variety of flavors—from fresh salads to creamy mashed potatoes—ensuring that your meatloaf meal is both delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight family meal, these sides will elevate your meatloaf and make it even more memorable.
1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
No meatloaf meal is complete without a side of mashed potatoes. The creamy, velvety texture of mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with the savory richness of meatloaf. You can go classic with butter and cream or try adding roasted garlic, sour cream, or even cheese for extra flavor. The creaminess of mashed potatoes perfectly complements the dense, flavorful meatloaf, making it a timeless combination.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Potatoes
2. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables add a healthy and flavorful touch to any meal. A combination of root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips, along with seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers, are tossed in olive oil, herbs, and spices, then roasted until golden and tender. The natural sweetness of the roasted vegetables contrasts nicely with the savory meatloaf, making it a perfect side.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Vegetables
3. Green Bean Almondine
Green beans almondine is a classic side that’s both elegant and simple to prepare. Fresh green beans are sautéed with butter, garlic, and toasted almonds, creating a crunchy, nutty contrast to the richness of meatloaf. This dish adds a light, fresh element to the meal, balancing out the heavier flavors of the meatloaf while providing a beautiful pop of color on the plate. Get the Recipe: Green Bean Almondine
4. Mac and Cheese
If you’re craving something extra indulgent to accompany your meatloaf, mac and cheese is the way to go. Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, this side dish is a crowd-pleaser that complements the hearty meatloaf beautifully. The rich cheese sauce and tender pasta create a delicious, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the savory, juicy meatloaf.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese
5. Garlic Bread
For a classic touch, garlic bread makes an excellent side dish for meatloaf. The crispy, buttery bread with the aromatic flavor of garlic complements the meatloaf’s savory richness. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra gravy or sauce from the meatloaf, making it an irresistible addition to your plate. Serve it fresh out of the oven for a warm and satisfying side. Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread
6. Cauliflower Mash
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash is a great option. It has a similar texture to mashed potatoes but is lower in carbs. When blended with butter, garlic, and cream, it becomes smooth, rich, and delicious. Cauliflower mash is a healthy yet comforting side that pairs perfectly with meatloaf for a guilt-free version of this classic meal. Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Mash
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a fantastic side dish that adds a little crunch and a lot of flavor to your meatloaf meal. When roasted with crispy bacon, Brussels sprouts take on a smoky, savory taste that complements the richness of the meatloaf. The caramelized edges and tender interior of the Brussels sprouts create a wonderful contrast to the density of meatloaf. Get the Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
8. Coleslaw
Coleslaw adds a tangy, crunchy contrast to the soft and savory meatloaf. The refreshing and creamy texture of coleslaw balances the richness of the meatloaf, and the tangy dressing helps cut through the heaviness of the meat. With ingredients like cabbage, carrots, and a light vinegar-based or creamy dressing, coleslaw is a refreshing and delicious side dish that pairs beautifully with meatloaf.
Get the Recipe: Coleslaw
9. Baked Sweet Potatoes
Baked sweet potatoes provide a slightly sweet and savory balance to your meatloaf meal. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the hearty flavors of meatloaf. Simply bake the sweet potatoes until tender, and serve them with a dollop of butter, cinnamon, or even a sprinkle of brown sugar for an added layer of flavor. Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potatoes
10. Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a nostalgic side dish that pairs wonderfully with meatloaf. The sweet, juicy kernels provide a burst of flavor that contrasts nicely with the savory, meaty loaf. You can grill or boil the corn and serve it with a little butter, salt, and pepper, or add a sprinkle of chili powder and lime for an extra kick.
Get the Recipe: Corn on the Cob
11. Mixed Greens Salad
A simple mixed greens salad is a light and refreshing side dish that balances the richness of meatloaf. Fresh greens, such as spinach, arugula, and romaine, are combined with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing. The crunch and freshness of the salad provide a nice contrast to the heavy, savory meatloaf. Add a sprinkle of nuts or cheese for added texture and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Greens Salad
12. Potato Wedges
Potato wedges are a fun and satisfying side to serve with meatloaf. Seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, these crispy wedges make the perfect complement to meatloaf. The golden exterior and soft, tender inside of the wedges provide a hearty contrast to the meatloaf’s texture, and they can be dipped in ketchup, gravy, or your favorite sauce for added flavor. Get the Recipe: Potato Wedges
The right side dish can elevate a meatloaf meal, transforming it from a simple comfort food to a memorable dining experience. From creamy mashed potatoes to light salads, the options are endless, and each side adds a unique flavor and texture that complements the hearty, savory nature of meatloaf. Whether you’re serving meatloaf for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these 12 side dishes will ensure that your meal is balanced, satisfying, and full of flavor. Start experimenting with these sides, and find the perfect pairing for your next meatloaf dinner!
