What To Know
- For a lighter and more balanced meal, consider incorporating fresh, vibrant sides that add a touch of acidity and freshness to your meatloaf feast.
- A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing and light counterpoint to the richness of meatloaf.
- A vibrant fruit salad with a touch of sweetness can be a delightful addition to your meatloaf dinner.
Ah, meatloaf. A comforting classic that evokes memories of family dinners and cozy nights in. But what truly elevates a meatloaf meal from good to great? The answer, my friends, lies in the sides! Knowing what goes with meatloaf for dinner is key to creating a well-rounded and delicious experience.
Beyond Mashed Potatoes: Expanding Your Meatloaf Side Dish Horizons
Let’s face it, mashed potatoes are a meatloaf staple. But there’s a whole world of deliciousness waiting to be explored! We’ll delve into various side dish categories, from classic comfort foods to fresh and seasonal options, to create a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing.
The Classic Comfort Food Pairings
These sides are the tried-and-true companions of meatloaf, offering familiar flavors and textures that complement the hearty main dish.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery, and oh-so-satisfying, mashed potatoes are a classic meatloaf pairing. Get creative with your mash by adding herbs, cheese, or even a dollop of sour cream.
- Gravy: Rich, savory gravy is the perfect way to enhance the flavor of meatloaf and soak up all the delicious juices. You can make your own gravy from scratch or use a store-bought variety.
- Green Bean Casserole: Creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy fried onions, green bean casserole is a nostalgic side dish that’s perfect for a meatloaf dinner.
- Macaroni and Cheese: A cheesy, comforting classic that’s always a crowd-pleaser. You can make it from scratch or use a boxed variety for a quick and easy side.
Bringing in the Greens: Fresh and Vibrant Sides
For a lighter and more balanced meal, consider incorporating fresh, vibrant sides that add a touch of acidity and freshness to your meatloaf feast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and creates a delicious caramelized flavor. Try roasting asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing and light counterpoint to the richness of meatloaf. You can add other vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, or onions to your salad.
- Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad with a touch of sweetness can be a delightful addition to your meatloaf dinner. Choose a variety of fruits like berries, melon, and grapes for a colorful and flavorful salad.
Beyond the Usual Suspects: Unique and Exciting Side Dishes
Ready to step outside the box? These unique and exciting side dishes will take your meatloaf meal to the next level.
- Sweet Potato Casserole: A sweet and savory side dish that’s perfect for fall. You can top your sweet potato casserole with marshmallows, pecans, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Cornbread: A Southern classic that pairs perfectly with meatloaf. Serve it warm with butter or honey for a sweet and savory treat.
- Rice Pilaf: A flavorful and fluffy rice dish that’s easy to make and complements the richness of meatloaf. You can add herbs, vegetables, or nuts to your rice pilaf for extra flavor.
The Sweet Finale: Delicious Desserts for Your Meatloaf Feast
No meal is complete without a sweet ending! These desserts are the perfect way to round out your meatloaf dinner.
- Apple Pie: A classic American dessert that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: A simple and satisfying dessert that’s always a crowd-pleaser. You can bake your own cookies or pick up a bag from the store.
- Ice Cream: A refreshing and cool dessert that’s perfect for ending a hearty meatloaf meal. Choose your favorite flavor or try a unique combination like chocolate chip cookie dough or salted caramel.
A Final Word on What Goes with Meatloaf for Dinner
The beauty of meatloaf is its versatility. You can pair it with classic comfort food sides, fresh and vibrant options, or even unique and exciting dishes. The key is to choose sides that complement the flavor of the meatloaf and create a well-balanced meal. So, get creative and experiment with different combinations until you find your perfect meatloaf pairings.
What You Need to Learn
Q: What are some quick and easy side dishes for meatloaf?
A: For quick and easy sides, consider:
- Store-bought mashed potatoes: Add a dollop of sour cream or butter for extra flavor.
- Frozen vegetables: Steam or microwave for a simple and healthy side.
- Salad: Use pre-washed salad greens and a simple vinaigrette dressing.
Q: What kind of salad goes well with meatloaf?
A: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a classic choice. You can also add other vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, or onions to your salad for extra flavor.
Q: What are some healthy side dishes for meatloaf?
A: For healthier options, consider:
- Roasted vegetables: Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and creates a delicious caramelized flavor.
- Quinoa salad: A protein-packed and flavorful salad that’s a great alternative to rice.
- Steamed vegetables: A simple and healthy way to enjoy your favorite vegetables.
Q: Can I serve fruit with meatloaf?
A: Absolutely! A fruit salad with a touch of sweetness can be a delightful addition to your meatloaf dinner. Choose a variety of fruits like berries, melon, and grapes for a colorful and flavorful salad.
Q: What is the best way to cook meatloaf?
A: Meatloaf can be cooked in the oven, on the stovetop, or in a slow cooker. The best method depends on your personal preference and the recipe you are using. For a moist and tender meatloaf, it is important to cook it slowly and evenly.
