Are you trying to figure out what to serve with meatloaf to turn into a delicious, nutritious dinner? I’ve got you covered! These are the best healthy meatloaf sides – from roasted veggies to creamy gratins to low-carb cauliflower mash. There’s something for everyone.
We eat meatloaf quite a bit! Just about every week, we have meatloaf on our meal plan. It’s quick and easy, healthy, and super tasty.
Now, I wasn’t always a fan of this American classic. Nope, I used to dread meatloaf night when I was younger. But over the years, I created healthy meatloaf recipes and meatloaf sides that have turned all of us into raving fans.
This Italian Meatloaf is the one I make most often; it tastes like a giant meatball. Cheeseburger meatloaf comes in as a close second; the flavors are outstanding.
Turkey meatloaf is a hearty savory meal that deserves equally delicious side dishes to complement its flavors. With the right sides you can create a well-rounded dinner that satisfies. In this article, I’ll recommend my top 20 side dish ideas to serve with turkey meatloaf.
An Overview of Turkey Meatloaf
Meatloaf is a classic American comfort food, but turkey meatloaf offers a healthier twist. Ground turkey provides lean protein with less fat and calories compared to beef. The meat is mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices like garlic powder, onion, parsley, salt and pepper.
Turkey meatloaf can be baked plain or topped with a sweet glaze or tangy ketchup sauce. The meat has a soft tender texture when cooked through. Mild in flavor it benefits from bold, intensely flavored side dishes with contrasting textures.
20 Delicious Sides for Turkey Meatloaf
Here are my favorite side dish recommendations to complement tasty turkey meatloaf:
1. Mashed Potatoes
Creamy smooth mashed potatoes are the perfect match for meatloaf. Russets or Yukon Golds work well. Jazz them up with sour cream, cheese or roasted garlic.
2. Dinner Rolls
Warm, soft dinner rolls are great for serving sliced meatloaf sandwiches. Brush rolls with melted butter or garlic butter.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Roast carrots, Brussels sprouts, broccoli or cauliflower tossed in olive oil and seasoning for a pop of color.
4. Creamed Spinach
Rich, creamy spinach makes a comforting side. Sauté spinach in butter then mix with cream cheese or heavy cream.
5. Mac and Cheese
What kid doesn’t love mac and cheese with meatloaf? Top with crispy breadcrumbs or baked with cheese for extra indulgence.
6. Green Salad
A fresh green salad with vinaigrette dressing adds a light, healthy balance to the meal.
7. Baked Beans
Savory baked beans, homemade or canned, pair perfectly with classic meatloaf flavors.
8. Cornbread
Buttery cornbread with a hint of sweetness stands up well to meatloaf drippings and sauces.
9. Glazed Carrots
Roasted carrots glazed in brown sugar, honey or maple syrup complement meatloaf with natural sweetness.
10. Potato Wedges
Crispy, oven-baked potato wedges are easy to make. Season with your favorite herbs and spices.
11. Quinoa Pilaf
Fluffy quinoa tossed with fresh herbs, garlic and citrus adds texture and nutrition.
12. Fried Pickles
For something unique, make quick fried pickles coated in flavorful breadcrumbs or cornmeal.
13. Coleslaw
Cool, crunchy coleslaw with shredded cabbage and a zesty dressing completes the hearty meal.
14. Garlic Bread
Warm, garlic-infused bread is perfect for dipping in any gravy or drippings.
15. Roasted Broccoli
Charred, roasted broccoli florets offer bold flavor and texture. Toss in olive oil, salt and pepper.
16. Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob makes a fun, tasty summer side dish with meatloaf.
17. Caprese Salad
Bite-sized fresh mozzarella, tomatoes and basil drizzled with olive oil and balsamic makes a tasty salad.
18. Twice Baked Potatoes
Scoop out baked potatoes, mash the insides with cheese, cream and bacon, then bake again for a decadent side.
19. Succotash
This southern mix of corn, lima beans and red pepper looks beautiful next to meatloaf slices.
20. Cheddar Biscuits
Flaky, savory cheddar biscuits sop up any gravy or drippings left on the plate after meatloaf.
Tips for Making Moist Turkey Meatloaf
-
Use a combo of white and dark ground turkey for best moisture and texture.
-
Don’t overmix the meatloaf – it can toughen the texture. Handle gently.
-
Fold in breadcrumbs, cheese or sauteed veggies to add extra moisture.
-
Brush the top with oil or sauce and tent loosely with foil to prevent drying out.
-
Let it rest 5-10 minutes before slicing for juicier meatloaf.
Craft a Delicious Meatloaf Meal
Serving turkey meatloaf with flavorful sides like buttery potatoes, fresh vegetables or warm bread creates a satisfying home-cooked meal the whole family will love.
By choosing complementary textures, colors and aromas, you can craft a well-rounded dinner that’s comforting and crave-worthy. So next time meatloaf is on the menu, reference these side dish suggestions to round out the meal deliciously.
Reasons to Eat More Meatloaf
- Super easy to make. All you need to do is mix the ingredients, form them into a loaf, and cook in the oven.
- Healthy. I use ground turkey in all of my meatloaf recipes. This creates a low fat, low calorie, and high-protein recipe. It fills you up without feeling full and bloated.
- Flavorful and versatile. Meatloaf has come a long way since the classic recipe of ketchup and breadcrumbs. It can absorb all the flavors you add. If you can dream it, then you can turn it into a healthy meatloaf recipe.
- Meal prep champion. Meatloaf reheats perfectly, making it perfect for preparing on Sunday to eat during the week for meals. You can also assemble the ingredients ahead of time and refrigerate them for a couple of days to make dinner during the week. You can also freeze meatloaf (cooked and raw) to have ready for meals later on.
Of course, choosing meatloaf sides is just as important as the recipe itself. A good side dish can transform boring meatloaf into an unforgettable meal.
Chef Millie Peartree Makes Her Famous Southern Turkey Meatloaf | Delish
FAQ
What does Ina Garten serve with meatloaf?
How long can you eat turkey meatloaf?