What Sides To Have With Sloppy Joes
Sloppy Joes are a classic American favorite that bring back childhood memories while still being a go-to meal for busy families. Whether you’re serving them up for a weeknight dinner or at a casual get-together, they’re always a hit. If you’re wondering what sides to have with sloppy joes when you make them – you’re in the right place!
But to make them a complete meal, you need the perfect sides. The right sloppy joe side dish can complement the rich, saucy, ground beef filling and soft bun, making your meal even more satisfying. Below, I’m sharing a roundup of easy side dishes that pair perfectly with sloppy joes.
What Sides To Have With Sloppy Joes
Before diving into the best side dishes, let’s take a moment to understand what makes a great pairing. Since sloppy joes have a sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce, choosing sides that balance these flavors is key.
Some sides add crunch, others bring in freshness, and some enhance the comfort-food vibe.
What Is A Sloppy Joe?
A sloppy joe is a loose meat sandwich made with ground beef simmered in a tangy tomato sauce, typically served on a hamburger bun.
The taste is a mix of sweet, savory, and slightly smoky, depending on the seasonings used. It’s the ultimate comfort food—messy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.
The best sides to serve with sloppy joes enhance their rich flavor while adding variety to your plate.
What Sides Go With Sloppy Joes?
These are my go-to sides when I make sloppy joes for my family!
1. Onion Rings
Crispy, golden onion rings add the perfect crunch to balance out the soft texture of sloppy joes. The slight sweetness of the onions pairs well with the savory, tangy sauce of the sandwich. You can make them in the air fryer for a healthier twist.
2. Sweet Potato Fries
A slightly sweeter alternative to regular fries, sweet potato fries add a delicious contrast to the savory sloppy joe filling. Bake them or use the air fryer for a super easy way to get crispy fries without deep frying.
3. Dill Pickles
If you love a bit of tang, dill pickles are a must. Their sharp, briny flavor cuts through the richness of the sloppy joe, creating the perfect balance of flavors.
4. Pasta Salad
A cold pasta salad works great as a sloppy joe side dish, offering a refreshing contrast. Toss it with a light dressing, cherry tomato, and a mix of veggies for a flavorful addition to your meal.
5. Macaroni Salad
Creamy and slightly tangy, macaroni salad is a comfort-food staple that pairs well with sloppy joes. The smooth texture and mild flavor make it a great side option.
6. Roasted Vegetables
If you’re looking for a veggie side, roasted vegetables are a fantastic option. Toss them with salt and pepper, olive oil, and roast them until they caramelize. Their natural sweetness complements the hearty flavors of sloppy joes.
7. Corn Salsa
Corn salsa adds a bright, slightly sweet crunch to your meal. The mix of fresh corn, lime juice, and a little spice makes it a fun, flavorful side that pairs well with the rich sauce of sloppy joes.
8. Green Salad
A simple salad recipe featuring crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light dressing helps balance the richness of sloppy joes. A salad dressed lightly with olive oil and vinegar is a fresh, healthy option.
9. Air Fryer Potato Wedges
If you love fries but want something chunkier, air fryer potato wedges are a fantastic choice. They have a crispy outside and fluffy inside, making them a great alternative to classic fries.
10. Baked Beans
For a classic BBQ-style meal, baked beans are one of the best sides to serve with sloppy joes. Their smoky, slightly sweet flavor enhances the overall dish.
11. Cucumber and Cherry Tomato Salad
This refreshing salad is super easy to make and brings a burst of freshness. The juicy cherry tomato combined with crisp cucumbers makes for a great sloppy joe side dish.
12. Coleslaw
Creamy coleslaw adds a crunchy, tangy contrast to sloppy joes. You can go for a classic mayo-based version or a vinegar-based slaw for a lighter twist.
13. Garlic Bread
If you want an extra indulgent side, garlic bread is a fantastic option. The buttery, garlicky flavor pairs so well with the saucy, messy goodness of sloppy joes.
14. Tater Tots
Crispy, bite-sized, and fun to eat, tater tots are always a winner. They add a nostalgic touch to your sloppy joe meal.
15. Grilled Corn on the Cob
For a smoky, slightly sweet side, grilled corn on the cob is an excellent choice. Brush it with butter, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and enjoy a classic side dish.
For more side dish inspiration, check out these healthy sides for chicken tenders that might also work well with sloppy joes.
Final Thoughts
Sloppy Joes are a timeless favorite, and pairing them with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. Whether you prefer crispy onion rings, a refreshing salad recipe, or super easy sweet potato fries made in the air fryer, there are plenty of options to choose from. Try a few different joe sides and find your favorites! And if you’re looking for more easy side dishes, stay tuned for more recipes and meal ideas.
