30 Perfect Sides to Pair with Your Sloppy Joes

Sides for sloppy joes add depth and balance to this beloved hearty dish, rounding out each savory bite.

From crisp vegetables to light salads, these sides are selected to complement the rich flavors of sloppy joes.

They bring variety and texture to your meal, ensuring a complete and enjoyable dining experience.

Whether you’re looking for something refreshing or filling, there’s a side dish here to enhance your meal.

Here’s a list of 30 sides to pair with your sloppy joes for a truly satisfying feast:

Caesar Salad

Caesar salad is a timeless side dish that pairs wonderfully with hearty meals like sloppy joes. This iconic salad showcases crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and savory parmesan cheese, all brought together by a creamy dressing.

Its refreshing texture complements the richness of your main course beautifully. The simple combination makes it a staple at gatherings and weeknight dinners alike.

With just four key ingredients, creating this classic dish becomes an effortless task in your kitchen. A bowl of Caesar salad adds both flavor and vibrancy to any plate you serve it alongside.

Steak Fries

Steak fries are thick-cut potato wedges that deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Seasoned to enhance their natural flavor, these baked delights pair seamlessly with various main dishes or can stand alone as a snack.

Preparing them is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy days or casual gatherings.

The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the soft inside, creating a comforting experience that's hard to resist.

Wedge Salad

A wedge salad is a timeless dish that combines crisp iceberg lettuce with rich toppings.

Its cool crunch pairs beautifully with creamy blue cheese dressing, making it an excellent companion for heartier meals like sloppy joes.

This salad not only adds color to your plate but also offers a refreshing contrast in texture and flavor.

The wedge salad is easy to prepare and elevates any dining experience effortlessly.

Three Bean Salad

Three bean salad is a vibrant medley that brings together fresh green beans, garbanzo beans, and kidney beans in one bowl. This dish shines at potlucks during warm months but remains a favorite throughout the year due to its versatility.

A tangy dressing elevates the flavors while keeping it budget-friendly and easy to prepare. It serves as an excellent side for hearty meals like sloppy joes, enhancing your dining experience with its colorful presentation and satisfying crunch.

Perfectly suited for gatherings or casual dinners, this salad makes healthy eating enjoyable anytime you crave something refreshing yet filling.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Fried green tomatoes are a cherished Southern dish, renowned for their crispy exterior and tangy flavor.

This recipe guides you through achieving that perfect crunch every time.

Slicing firm, unripe tomatoes creates the ideal base, which is then coated in seasoned cornmeal to enhance texture.

Frying them until golden brown results in a satisfying snack or side that's both crunchy and slightly tart.

Watermelon Salad

Watermelon salad is a refreshing dish that showcases the sweetness of watermelon paired with savory feta cheese and crunchy pistachios.

The addition of a zesty lemon-honey vinaigrette enhances the flavors, creating an exciting balance.

Ideal for warm weather gatherings, this salad serves as a light yet satisfying complement to heartier meals.

Latkes

Latkes are crispy potato pancakes that embody the essence of comfort food. Grated potatoes and onions come together, creating a delightful crunch with every bite.

These golden-brown treats feature lacy edges that add texture, making them stand out from regular fries. Seasoned to perfection, they offer a savory experience perfect for any meal or snack time.

You should enjoy these versatile bites alongside applesauce or sour cream for an added touch of flavor; they can transform your table into something special without much effort involved in preparation.

Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a traditional salad known for its refreshing crunch and creamy texture. This classic dish shines at cookouts and potlucks, complementing grilled meats and barbecue favorites seamlessly.

A simple chop of cabbage mixed with carrots creates the base, while a tangy dressing enhances every bite. Its versatility makes it an ideal accompaniment to any summer meal or gathering where good food takes center stage.

The balance of flavors in coleslaw adds both color and nutrition to your plate without complicating preparation time; it's all about quick assembly for maximum enjoyment.

Rainbow Pasta Salad

Rainbow pasta salad is a vibrant and eye-catching dish that adds flair to any gathering. Packed with an assortment of colorful vegetables, this salad not only pleases the eyes but also enhances your plate with fresh flavors.

Quick to prepare, it pairs wonderfully with hearty meals like sloppy joes, making it a versatile choice for potlucks or casual get-togethers. The combination of textures from crunchy veggies and tender pasta makes every serving enjoyable.

Perfect for those looking to brighten their dining experience without much effort, this recipe captures the spirit of fun in food.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to traditional fries, offering a deliciously sweet and savory flavor.

Baked instead of fried, these treats reduce excess grease while maintaining that satisfying crunch.

Perfect as a finger food side dish, they pair well with various dips or can stand alone for snacking.

Their vibrant orange color not only enhances the plate but also indicates their rich nutrient profile packed with vitamins A and C.

Corn Casserole

Corn casserole is a simple southern-style side dish that highlights the natural sweetness of corn. With just five ingredients, preparation involves mixing everything together and letting the oven do its magic.

This comforting dish pairs wonderfully with hearty meals like sloppy joes, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or weeknight dinners. The creamy texture complements savory flavors beautifully, creating a balance that enhances any plate.

Easy to make and full of flavor, this casserole quickly becomes a staple in your recipe collection.

Cucumber Avocado Tomato Salad with Pesto

Cucumber avocado tomato salad captures the essence of spring and summer.

This refreshing combination features crisp cucumbers, creamy avocados, and juicy tomatoes tossed in a zesty basil pesto dressing.

Ideal for warm days, this salad offers an appealing mix of textures and tastes while keeping things light yet satisfying.

It's perfect as a side or even as a stand-alone meal to brighten your table with its lively colors and delightful flavors.

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a comforting staple known for their creamy, buttery texture and fluffy consistency. This version introduces goat cheese, adding a tangy richness that elevates the traditional recipe.

With its familiar taste and smooth finish, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or holiday feasts. The addition of goat cheese not only enhances flavor but also provides a delightful creaminess that keeps you coming back for more.

Serve alongside your favorite dishes to create memorable meals that everyone will appreciate.

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican street corn salad, also known as elote salad, showcases the flavors of traditional Mexican street food in a fresh and accessible format.

This dish features roasted corn mixed with creamy dressing, tangy lime juice, chili powder, and crumbled cheese to create an irresistible side that complements various meals.

Ideal alongside hearty dishes like sloppy joes or grilled meats, it adds a zesty kick while bringing colorful textures to your plate.

The combination of sweet corn and bold seasonings makes this recipe an inviting choice for any occasion.

Lazy Sweet Potato Mash

Lazy sweet potato mash is a quick and uncomplicated dish that perfectly fits a busy lifestyle. By cooking the sweet potatoes in the microwave, you save time without sacrificing taste.

This creamy side offers a comforting flavor profile with minimal effort involved. Simply mash it up for an easy addition to your meal, bringing both nutrition and satisfaction to your table.

Ideal for those seeking convenience without compromising on quality, this recipe shines as a go-to solution when time is tight but good food still matters.

Squash Casserole

Squash casserole is a cherished southern dish, celebrated for its comforting taste and creamy texture. This recipe features tender sweet squash enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, complemented by a crunchy buttery cracker topping that adds an appealing contrast.

Ideal as a side, it pairs wonderfully with various main courses like sloppy joes. The combination of flavors makes this dish hard to resist, often leaving plates empty after just one serving.

Its simplicity allows anyone to enjoy preparing it while creating lasting memories around the table.

Antipasto Pasta Salad

Antipasto pasta salad is a satisfying dish that brings together the best elements of traditional antipasto. Featuring al dente pasta tossed with an assortment of cured meats, olives, cheeses, and fresh vegetables, this salad becomes a centerpiece for any meal.

The combination offers a medley of textures and tastes that complement each other beautifully. This recipe allows you to prepare it in advance for gatherings or as an easy side alongside favorites like sloppy joes.

With its robust flavors and colorful presentation, it's sure to enhance your dining experience while keeping things simple yet impressive.

Dirty Rice

Dirty rice is a traditional dish rooted in Creole and Cajun culinary heritage. This hearty meal features white rice that takes on a rich, savory hue from finely chopped meats like pork or chicken, combined with robust seasonings such as bell peppers, onions, and spices.

The result is a comforting blend of flavors that warms the soul while delivering satisfying nourishment. Often served alongside various proteins or enjoyed on its own, dirty rice showcases the vibrant essence of Southern cooking.

It's an excellent choice for those looking to experience authentic taste with every spoonful.

Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salad is a classic side dish that complements fried fish beautifully. This creamy and tangy rendition elevates the traditional recipe, making it a favorite for gatherings or casual meals at home.

Preparing a generous batch means savoring its rich flavors over several days, enhancing each serving as time goes on. The combination of smooth pasta with zesty ingredients creates an enjoyable texture that's hard to resist.

Whether it's served alongside seafood or enjoyed on its own, macaroni salad consistently delivers comfort in every spoonful while being easy to prepare and share.

Green Bean Almondine

Green bean almondine is a classic side dish that elevates ordinary green beans to something special.

This recipe features fresh French-style green beans sautéed in rich brown butter with crunchy toasted almonds for texture.

The addition of shallots and garlic enhances the flavor profile, while a squeeze of lemon adds a refreshing brightness that ties everything together beautifully.

Ideal for complementing any main course, this elegant preparation transforms simple ingredients into an impressive culinary experience you can enjoy anytime.

Maque Choux

Maque choux showcases the rich culinary traditions of Louisiana.

This recipe features sweet corn sautéed in bacon grease, infused with Cajun or Creole spices for an aromatic experience.

Seasonal freshness shines through when prepared during peak corn months, making it a summertime favorite.

The addition of bell peppers and onions enhances its savory depth while creating a colorful presentation on your plate.

Creamed Corn

Creamed corn is a rich and comforting side dish that elevates any meal. Crafted from fresh or frozen corn, this recipe delivers an indulgent creaminess without the can.

Each spoonful bursts with natural sweetness and savory notes, making it a perfect companion to hearty dishes like sloppy joes. The ease of preparation allows you to whip up this delightful treat quickly, ensuring satisfaction at your table every time.

With its smooth texture and robust flavor profile, creamed corn transforms simple dinners into memorable feasts.

Cowboy Caviar (Chili Lime)

Cowboy caviar artfully combines elements of dip, salad, and bean salsa. This zesty creation features black beans, corn, tomatoes, onions, and peppers tossed in a chili lime dressing that adds an exciting kick.

The fresh ingredients offer both texture and color while delivering robust flavors that enhance any meal. Perfect alongside sloppy Joes or as a standalone appetizer at gatherings, this recipe caters to those seeking something refreshing yet hearty.

A burst of nutrients with every scoop makes it not just tasty but also health-conscious too; it's worth making for your next occasion!

Tater Tots

Tater tots are small, crispy potato bites that make an excellent accompaniment to various dishes. This air fryer recipe ensures you enjoy the crunchy texture and savory flavor reminiscent of traditional deep-frying while being a healthier option.

In just 15 minutes, you can serve up these golden morsels alongside sloppy joes or as a snack on their own. The ease of preparation combined with the satisfying crunch makes this dish a go-to for any meal or gathering.

With simple ingredients and minimal effort, it’s easy to see why they’re so popular in kitchens everywhere.

Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is a classic comfort dish known for its creamy, cheesy texture that warms the soul. This recipe stands out with its rich flavor profile, ensuring each forkful delivers satisfaction.

The combination of gooey cheeses creates a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to tender pasta. Ideal alongside hearty meals like sloppy joes, this mac and cheese elevates any dining experience without overwhelming the palate.

Simple yet fulfilling, it’s an essential addition to your culinary collection that's sure to please everyone at the table while offering versatility for different occasions.

Bacon Avocado Potato Salad

Bacon avocado potato salad is a hearty dish that brings together creamy avocados and crispy bacon for a satisfying experience. The richness of the eggs complements the potatoes, offering layers of salty and tangy flavors in every bite.

This recipe stands out with its well-balanced dressing that enhances each ingredient's natural taste while adding delightful texture. Perfect as a side or main course, this salad is sure to make an impression at your next meal.

Its combination of fresh ingredients ensures you enjoy both nutrition and flavor without compromise.

Pink Lemonade

Pink lemonade is a refreshing beverage that complements hearty meals like sloppy joes. This version stands out by incorporating cranberry juice, providing a natural hue without artificial additives.

The blend of tartness from lemons and the slight sweetness of cranberries creates an invigorating drink that's perfect for warm days or casual gatherings. Serve it chilled to enhance its thirst-quenching properties, making every sip enjoyable.

Ideal for those who appreciate simple yet flavorful drinks, this pink lemonade adds a cheerful touch to any occasion while keeping you cool and refreshed.

Bloomin Onion Garlic Bread

Bloomin onion garlic bread is a savory treat that brings together the richness of cheese and the comforting essence of freshly baked bread.

This dish features two kinds of melted cheese nestled within layers of soft, aromatic bread, creating an inviting aroma as it bakes.

Ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in, this creation stands out with its visually appealing presentation and indulgent flavor profile.

Pairing well with soups or salads, it complements various meals effortlessly while delivering warmth to any occasion.

Onion Rings

Onion rings are a classic snack featuring crispy, golden-brown breading that perfectly complements the tender onion inside.

This dish requires just a handful of simple ingredients, making it accessible for any home cook.

They serve as an ideal accompaniment to sloppy joes or burgers, enhancing your meal with their satisfying crunch and savory flavor.

The straightforward preparation means you can whip up this favorite side quickly whenever the craving strikes.

Baked Zucchini Fries

Baked zucchini fries are a crunchy snack that brings a satisfying twist to your vegetable intake.

This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of zucchini, enhanced by a crispy coating that perfectly contrasts its tender interior.

Preparation is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for both casual snacking and party appetizers.

These fries pair well with various dips or sauces, allowing you to customize each bite according to your taste preference.