Meatloaf, the quintessential comfort food, is a staple in many households. It’s a versatile dish that can be made in various ways, from classic beef to turkey, pork, or even vegetarian options. However, a great meatloaf is only half the battle – the sides you serve with it can make or break the meal. In this article, we’ll explore the best sides to cook with meatloaf, from classic combinations to creative twists.
Classic Comfort Food Sides
When it comes to meatloaf, some sides are more traditional than others. These classic comfort food sides are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a meatloaf staple. They’re creamy, comforting, and pair perfectly with the rich flavor of meatloaf. To take your mashed potatoes to the next level, try adding some grated cheddar cheese, diced herbs, or a spoonful of caramelized onions.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a simple yet flavorful side dish that complements meatloaf nicely. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli are all great options. Simply toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized.
Green Beans
Green beans are another classic side dish that pairs well with meatloaf. You can steam them, sauté them with garlic, or even casserole them with cream of mushroom soup and french-fried onions.
Creative Twists on Classic Sides
While classic sides are always a hit, sometimes it’s nice to mix things up. Here are some creative twists on classic sides that will elevate your meatloaf game.
Sweet Potato Mash
Sweet potatoes are a delicious alternative to regular mashed potatoes. They’re sweeter, nuttier, and pair perfectly with the savory flavor of meatloaf. Try adding some brown sugar, cinnamon, or nutmeg to give your sweet potato mash an extra boost of flavor.
Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges
Sweet potato wedges are a fun twist on regular roasted vegetables. Simply slice sweet potatoes into wedges, toss with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, and roast in the oven until crispy.
Garlic and Herb Roasted Carrots
Carrots are a classic side dish, but they can get a bit boring. To mix things up, try roasting them with some garlic and herbs. Simply slice carrots into coins, toss with olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped herbs, and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized.
International Inspiration
Meatloaf is an American classic, but that doesn’t mean you can’t draw inspiration from international cuisine. Here are some international sides that pair perfectly with meatloaf.
Japanese-Style Stir-Fried Bok Choy
Bok choy is a delicious and underrated side dish that pairs perfectly with meatloaf. Simply stir-fry it with some soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, and serve alongside your meatloaf.
Korean-Style Kimchi Coleslaw
Kimchi coleslaw is a spicy and sour side dish that pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of meatloaf. Simply mix kimchi with some shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and lime juice, and serve alongside your meatloaf.
German-Style Braised Red Cabbage
Braised red cabbage is a hearty and comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with meatloaf. Simply sauté some onions and apples in butter, add in some shredded cabbage and vinegar, and braise until tender and caramelized.
Other Delicious Sides to Try
Here are some other delicious sides to try with your meatloaf:
Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with meatloaf. Try adding some crispy bacon or a sprinkle of paprika to give it an extra boost of flavor.
Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is a light and refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of meatloaf. Simply brush with olive oil and grill until tender and slightly charred.
Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic Southern side dish that pairs perfectly with meatloaf. Try adding some jalapenos or hot sauce to give it an extra kick.
Conclusion
Meatloaf is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides. Whether you’re in the mood for classic comfort food or something more adventurous, there’s a side dish out there for you. So next time you’re cooking up a meatloaf, don’t be afraid to get creative and try something new. Your taste buds will thank you!
| Sides | Description |
|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy and comforting, mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with meatloaf. |
| Roasted Vegetables | Roasted vegetables are a simple yet flavorful side dish that complements meatloaf nicely. |
| Green Beans | Green beans are another classic side dish that pairs well with meatloaf. |
| Sweet Potato Mash | Sweet potatoes are a delicious alternative to regular mashed potatoes. |
| Garlic and Herb Roasted Carrots | Carrots are a classic side dish, but they can get a bit boring. To mix things up, try roasting them with some garlic and herbs. |
In conclusion, meatloaf is a dish that can be paired with a variety of sides, from classic comfort food to international inspiration. Whether you’re in the mood for something traditional or adventurous, there’s a side dish out there for you. So next time you’re cooking up a meatloaf, don’t be afraid to get creative and try something new. Your taste buds will thank you!
What are some classic side dishes that go well with meatloaf?
Classic side dishes that go well with meatloaf include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and creamy coleslaw. These sides offer a comforting and familiar complement to the rich flavor of the meatloaf. They are also relatively easy to prepare, making them a great choice for a weeknight dinner.
Mashed potatoes, in particular, are a popular choice to serve with meatloaf. They provide a satisfying contrast in texture to the dense, meaty loaf. Roasted vegetables, such as carrots and Brussels sprouts, add a burst of color and flavor to the plate. Creamy coleslaw, made with shredded cabbage and a tangy dressing, provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.
How can I add some excitement to my meatloaf sides?
If you’re looking to add some excitement to your meatloaf sides, consider trying some new and unexpected ingredients. For example, you could try roasting sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes, or adding some diced pineapple to your coleslaw. You could also try making a side of braised greens, such as kale or collard greens, which add a depth of flavor and nutrition to the plate.
Another way to add some excitement to your meatloaf sides is to try some different seasonings and spices. For example, you could try adding some smoked paprika to your roasted vegetables, or some garlic powder to your mashed potatoes. You could also try making a side of spicy cornbread, which adds a nice crunch and a kick of heat to the plate.
What are some healthy side dish options that go well with meatloaf?
If you’re looking for some healthy side dish options to serve with your meatloaf, consider trying some roasted or grilled vegetables. Vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and bell peppers are all low in calories and rich in nutrients, making them a great choice to serve with meatloaf. You could also try making a side of quinoa or brown rice, which provide a nutritious and filling contrast to the richness of the meatloaf.
Another healthy side dish option is a salad. A simple green salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a great way to cut the richness of the meatloaf. You could also try making a more substantial salad, such as a grain salad or a roasted vegetable salad, which add some heft and nutrition to the plate.
Can I make my meatloaf sides ahead of time?
Yes, many meatloaf sides can be made ahead of time, which can be a big help on a busy weeknight. For example, you can make your mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables ahead of time and reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop. You can also make your coleslaw or salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Just be sure to follow safe food handling practices when making your sides ahead of time. Make sure to cool your sides to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing them, and reheat them to an internal temperature of at least 165°F before serving. This will help ensure that your sides are safe to eat and that they retain their flavor and texture.
How can I make my meatloaf sides more visually appealing?
There are several ways to make your meatloaf sides more visually appealing. One way is to use a variety of colors on the plate. For example, you could serve your meatloaf with a side of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts and red bell peppers, which add a pop of color to the plate. You could also try making a side of sautéed greens, such as kale or spinach, which add a burst of green to the plate.
Another way to make your meatloaf sides more visually appealing is to use different textures and heights on the plate. For example, you could serve your meatloaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and a side of crunchy coleslaw. You could also try making a side of roasted sweet potato wedges, which add a nice crunch and height to the plate.
What are some side dishes that are specifically designed to complement the flavors of meatloaf?
There are several side dishes that are specifically designed to complement the flavors of meatloaf. One example is a side of ketchup-glazed carrots, which add a sweet and tangy flavor to the plate. Another example is a side of brown sugar-glazed sweet potatoes, which add a rich and caramelized flavor to the plate.
You could also try making a side of bacon-braised greens, such as kale or collard greens, which add a smoky and savory flavor to the plate. Or, you could try making a side of caramelized onions, which add a sweet and depthful flavor to the plate. These sides are all designed to complement the rich and savory flavors of the meatloaf.
Can I serve meatloaf with sides that are not traditional comfort food?
Yes, you can definitely serve meatloaf with sides that are not traditional comfort food. In fact, serving meatloaf with non-traditional sides can be a great way to add some excitement and variety to your meal. For example, you could try serving your meatloaf with a side of stir-fried vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, which add a nice crunch and a burst of flavor to the plate.
You could also try serving your meatloaf with a side of grilled or roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, which add a nice char and a depth of flavor to the plate. Or, you could try making a side of quinoa or brown rice, which provide a nutritious and filling contrast to the richness of the meatloaf. These sides offer a nice change of pace from traditional comfort food sides.