24 Irresistible Side Dishes for Sloppy Joes: Elevate Your Family Meal

Sloppy Joes hold a special place in the heart of American comfort food. This iconic dish, known for its deliciously messy nature, instantly transports many of us back to childhood. A true crowd-pleaser, Sloppy Joes are perfect for a fun family dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or even a lively party. They feature a savory, saucy ground meat mixture – traditionally beef, but equally delicious with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter touch – piled high on a toasted burger bun. The magic often lies in the sauce, which can range from classic BBQ to spicy chipotle, or a homemade Sloppy Joe sauce that bursts with flavor.

While the Sloppy Joe sandwich itself is a star, choosing the right accompaniment can transform a simple meal into an unforgettable feast. The ideal side dish complements the rich, saucy, and often sweet-and-tangy profile of a Sloppy Joe, offering balance in flavor and texture. Do you want something to cut through the richness, add a refreshing crunch, or simply double down on the comfort? The possibilities are truly endless!

To help you navigate the delicious dilemma of what to serve, we’ve compiled a list of 24 fantastic side dishes. From hearty potato-based options to light and crisp salads, and even some cheesy indulgences, these pairings are guaranteed to make your next Sloppy Joe meal a resounding success. Get ready to discover your new favorite way to complete this classic American sandwich!

1. Herb & Garlic Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, rich mashed potatoes are a quintessential comfort food, and they make an excellent partner for the savory goodness of Sloppy Joes. This particular recipe from Drizzle Me Skinny elevates standard mashed potatoes with a delightful infusion of fresh herbs and pungent garlic. Topped generously with melted cheese, these potatoes offer a smooth, velvety texture that contrasts beautifully with the chunky meat mixture, while the herbs and garlic add an aromatic depth. While any potato variety works, classic white potatoes are a popular choice for their fluffy texture. This side is pure indulgence and perfect for a hearty family meal.

2. Sweet Corn Salad

When your Sloppy Joe craving hits, you might find yourself wanting a lighter, fresher counterpart to balance the richness. A sweet corn salad, like this vibrant recipe from Drizzle Me Skinny, is an ideal choice. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and doesn’t require a long list of ingredients. Imagine the delightful crunch of fresh corn kernels combined with diced red onion, tangy feta cheese, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a kick from jalapeños, all tossed in a zesty homemade ranch dressing. This salad provides a refreshing sweetness and a much-needed textural contrast, making it a perfect, non-heavy side for your meal.

3. Creamy Cucumber Salad

Another excellent lighter option from Drizzle Me Skinny, this creamy cucumber salad offers a refreshing counterpoint to the robust flavors of Sloppy Joes. Cucumbers, often relegated to supporting roles, truly shine as the star in this dish. The cool, crisp slices of cucumber are enveloped in a luscious dressing made from a blend of yogurt, mayonnaise, and sour cream, brightened with fresh lemon juice and fragrant dill. This combination creates a delightful balance of tangy, creamy, and herbaceous notes that cleanse the palate and add a wonderful coolness to your plate. It’s an unexpectedly delicious and refreshing side that everyone will enjoy.

4. Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is undeniably one of the most versatile side dishes, capable of complementing almost any main course. This spinach and artichoke pasta salad recipe, also from Drizzle Me Skinny, is particularly well-suited for Sloppy Joes. It features tender pasta tossed with flavorful artichoke hearts, fresh spinach, and a generous amount of Parmesan cheese, all brought together with a garlicky dressing and savory seasonings. The creamy, tangy, and slightly nutty flavors of this pasta salad provide a wonderful balance to the hearty, saucy sandwich, making for a truly satisfying and complete meal. It’s substantial enough to feel like a proper side, yet light enough not to overwhelm.

5. Hasselback Potatoes

For those times when you’re craving potatoes but want something a little more special than traditional fries or a baked potato, Hasselback potatoes are the perfect answer. This visually appealing dish, featured by I Am Homesteader, offers a unique take on the humble spud. A trusty russet potato is artfully sliced almost all the way through, creating thin accordion-like layers that get wonderfully crispy on the outside while remaining tender within. Brushed with butter and seasoned perfectly, these baked potatoes provide a satisfying texture and a comforting flavor that pairs exceptionally well with the rich Sloppy Joe mixture. They look impressive but are surprisingly simple to prepare.

6. Potato Salad

A classic potato salad is a barbecue and potluck staple for a reason – and it’s a fantastic match for Sloppy Joes! This recipe from A Spicy Perspective captures all the delicious, creamy goodness of a traditional potato salad, with flavors reminiscent of a deviled egg. Expect a delightful blend of celery seeds, fresh dill, and a touch of paprika, all suspended in a wonderfully creamy dressing. This side provides a cool, tangy, and savory contrast to the warm, meaty sandwich. If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can easily substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with fat-free Greek yogurt without sacrificing flavor or creaminess.

7. Mac and Cheese

Why not unite two beloved childhood classics on one plate? Mac and cheese alongside Sloppy Joes creates an ultimate comfort food experience that’s hard to beat. The Chunky Chef offers a fantastic, classic recipe for this cheesy delight. With its gooey, rich, and utterly satisfying texture, mac and cheese provides a creamy, mild counterpoint to the bold, savory, and tangy Sloppy Joe. It’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a nostalgic gathering. Sometimes, the tried-and-true methods are simply the best, and this cheesy pasta dish certainly delivers.

8. Coleslaw

Coleslaw is another timeless side dish that brings a refreshing crunch and tangy creaminess to any meal, especially a Sloppy Joe. Its versatility means there are countless recipes out there, but this straightforward version from Joy Food Sunshine is a surefire winner. It’s a classic, simple coleslaw that takes just five minutes to prepare, making it incredibly convenient. The crisp cabbage and carrots tossed in a zesty, creamy dressing offer a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, warm Sloppy Joe filling. It helps cut through the richness and adds a satisfying textural element that elevates the entire meal.

9. Garlic Cajun Smashed Potatoes

If you’re looking to infuse a bit more flavor and excitement into your side dish, these Garlic Cajun Smashed Potatoes from I Am Homesteader are an absolute must-try. While they might require a little more effort than a simple boiled potato, the payoff is immense. Small potatoes are boiled until tender, then “smashed” to create a rustic, craggy surface that becomes incredibly crispy when baked or pan-fried. Infused with aromatic garlic and a vibrant Cajun spice blend, these potatoes offer a bold, spicy, and textural experience that perfectly complements the savory depth of a Sloppy Joe. Ideal for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests.

10. Air Fryer Onion Rings

For a crispy, savory side that feels indulgent without the guilt, air fryer onion rings are an excellent choice. This recipe from Wholesome Yum takes a keto-friendly approach, using only seven simple ingredients to create perfectly golden and crunchy rings. Cooking them in an air fryer means less oil and less mess, but all the delicious satisfaction. The slight sweetness of the onion, combined with its crispy coating, offers a wonderful textural and flavor contrast to the soft, saucy Sloppy Joe. Be sure to read the whole post, as it also includes a link to an air fryer Bloomin’ Onion recipe for even more onion-inspired deliciousness!

11. Sweet Potato Fries

Looking for a slightly healthier alternative to traditional potato fries? These baked sweet potato fries from I Heart Naptime are a fantastic solution. By baking instead of frying, you get a lighter side that’s still incredibly satisfying. Longer, smoother sweet potatoes work best for achieving those perfect fry shapes. The recipe post offers a plethora of seasoning options, allowing you to customize your fries from savory spicy garlic to delightfully sweet cinnamon sugar. Sweet potato fries provide a delightful blend of sweetness and earthy flavor, along with a satisfying crispness that beautifully complements the robust taste of Sloppy Joes. They’re a crowd-pleaser that adds a vibrant color to your plate.

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12. Refrigerator Dill Pickles

Prepare to have your taste buds awakened with these homemade refrigerator dill pickles! Kitchen Fun With My Three Sons shares a brilliant recipe that requires no canning, just simple refrigeration. If you’ve never made your own pickles, you’re in for a treat; they’re incredibly addictive and offer a burst of tangy, briny flavor that store-bought versions simply can’t match. The fresh dill and garlic provide a brilliant kick, making them an excellent palate cleanser and a crunchy, acidic contrast to the rich and savory Sloppy Joe. They add a zesty freshness that brightens the entire meal and cuts through any richness.

13. Zucchini Potato Bake

For lovers of creamy sauces and bubbling cheese, Natasha’s Kitchen delivers with this mouthwatering zucchini potato bake. This recipe skillfully transforms a classic potato gratin into a garlicky, vegetable-rich casserole that’s utterly irresistible. Layers of thinly sliced zucchini and potatoes are baked in a rich, creamy sauce, often infused with garlic, and topped with a generous blanket of melted cheese. The tender vegetables, luxurious sauce, and crispy cheese topping create a comforting side dish that is both hearty and flavorful, providing a delicious counterpoint to the saucy Sloppy Joes. It’s a decadent option that will surely make your day.

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14. Garlic Parmesan Asparagus

When in doubt, add garlic and cheese – a culinary philosophy that proves particularly true with this delightful Garlic Parmesan Asparagus from About A Mom. These tender asparagus spears are oven-baked until beautifully crisp-tender, then coated in fragrant garlic and savory Parmesan cheese. The result is a vibrant, flavorful, and slightly crunchy side dish that offers a wonderful freshness and a hint of sophistication. The earthy notes of asparagus, combined with the pungent garlic and salty cheese, provide a sophisticated contrast to the rustic charm of Sloppy Joes, making it a surprisingly elegant yet easy pairing.

15. Mushroom Rice

Rice is a versatile staple that can accompany almost any meal, and this mushroom rice recipe from The Tortilla Channel offers a flavorful upgrade from plain white rice. Beyond just adding a side of grains, this dish incorporates earthy mushrooms and often other vegetables, enriching your meal with both flavor and nutrients. The secret to its elevated taste? Cooking the rice in broth instead of water, which infuses it with a deeper, more savory foundation. This fragrant, umami-rich mushroom rice provides a softer texture and a grounding element to the meal, soaking up any delicious stray Sloppy Joe sauce that escapes the bun.

16. Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice (Copycat Recipe)

For a side dish with a bit of a kick and a familiar, restaurant-quality taste, this copycat Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice from Eating On A Dime is an excellent choice. This isn’t just plain rice; it’s a flavor explosion. The rice is first lightly fried in butter, giving it a rich, nutty foundation, before being boiled in savory chicken broth. A robust seasoning blend featuring paprika, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder elevates the dish, adding warmth and depth. The distinct flavor and slightly firmer texture of this seasoned rice make it a perfect complement to the sweet and savory profile of Sloppy Joes, adding an exciting, aromatic dimension to your meal.

17. Melting Potatoes

Prepare for a potato experience like no other with these “melting potatoes” from Family Fresh Meals. Hailing from the South, these potatoes earn their name because they are so incredibly tender they quite literally melt in your mouth. Achieving this sublime texture involves a few more steps than your average potato side, but the delicious results are absolutely worth the effort. Roasted until golden and then braised in a flavorful broth, these potatoes become unbelievably soft and infused with savory goodness. Their rich, tender texture provides a luxurious contrast to the hearty Sloppy Joe, making for a truly memorable and indulgent pairing.

18. Crispy Fried Zucchini Bites

These crispy fried zucchini bites from Natasha’s Kitchen are a guaranteed hit with all ages, making them a safe bet even for the pickiest eaters at your table. Each bite offers a delightful textural contrast: a super crunchy, golden-brown exterior gives way to a moist, tender interior of fresh zucchini. Often served with a delightful aioli dipping sauce, these bites are packed with flavor and provide a wonderful, lighter “fried” element without being overly heavy. Their mild, fresh taste and satisfying crunch perfectly complement the rich, saucy Sloppy Joes, offering a refreshing and addictive side that everyone will love.

19. Roasted Vegetables

For an effortlessly healthy and customizable side, a medley of roasted vegetables is always a winner. It’s an easy side to prepare for Sloppy Joes: simply gather whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand – ideally a colorful variety including some hearty root vegetables for substance – toss them with olive oil and seasonings, and roast until tender and slightly caramelized. This recipe from Two Peas And Their Pod offers excellent guidance for roasting vegetables to perfection, providing tips for optimal flavor and texture. The natural sweetness and slight char of roasted vegetables offer a wholesome and flavorful contrast to the rich Sloppy Joe, adding vital nutrients and appealing textures to your plate.

20. Pesto Pasta Salad

A vibrant pesto pasta salad is a delightful and easy-to-make side dish, perfectly suited for the hearty nature of Sloppy Joes. This particular recipe from Real + Vibrant elevates the classic with additional ingredients like chopped fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion, adding layers of flavor and texture. For those with a little extra time, the recipe even includes instructions for making homemade basil pesto from scratch, which delivers an unparalleled freshness. However, a good quality store-bought pesto works beautifully too. The bright, herbaceous flavors of basil pesto and the tangy ingredients provide a refreshing, Mediterranean-inspired twist that complements the American classic wonderfully.

21. Rainbow Macaroni Salad

Cooking Classy takes a beloved classic macaroni salad and transforms it into a nutritious and visually appealing “rainbow” version by incorporating a colorful array of finely chopped vegetables. This side dish is packed with nutrients and antioxidants, making it a healthier yet still incredibly satisfying option. The creamy dressing, a delicious blend of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, mustard, honey, and vinegar, ties all the vibrant vegetables and tiny macaroni pieces together. You can easily customize this salad with whatever vegetables you have on hand – just remember to chop them finely so they don’t overpower the delicate macaroni. It’s a refreshing, tangy, and crunchy side that adds a burst of color and freshness to your Sloppy Joe meal.

22. Roasted Sweet Potato Salad

This roasted sweet potato salad from 40 Aprons offers a warm and earthy twist on traditional potato salad. The sweet potatoes are roasted to perfection in avocado oil, bringing out their natural sweetness and creating a slightly caramelized exterior. Once cooled, they are gently tossed with a vibrant dressing typically featuring creamy mayonnaise, a sharp red onion, and fresh chopped cilantro for an unexpected burst of flavor. A mouthwatering seasoning blend of salt, garlic powder, onion powder, basil, dried thyme, and oregano further elevates the taste. This salad is recommended to be served immediately or at room temperature, as it truly shines when not straight from the fridge. It provides a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and herbaceous notes, offering a hearty yet unique side dish.

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23. Vegetarian Sweet Potato Hash

A simple yet utterly delicious side dish, vegetarian sweet potato hash is a versatile accompaniment that pairs wonderfully with Sloppy Joes. Two Kooks In The Kitchen shares a clever shortcut for this recipe: microwaving the sweet potatoes slightly before roasting significantly reduces the cooking time, making it a quick weeknight option. This hash is also a fantastic way to utilize any leftover veggies you have in your fridge; simply chop them up and add them to the pan with the sweet potatoes. The earthy sweetness of the potatoes, combined with any added vegetables and savory seasonings, creates a satisfying and wholesome side that adds both flavor and texture to your meal, while being naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients.

24. Honey Mustard Potatoes

These Honey Mustard Potatoes from Eating Well 101 make for a truly tasty and complementary side to your Sloppy Joes, and they’re so delicious you’ll want to serve them with many other dishes too! The core ingredients are exactly as you’d expect: tender potatoes, sweet honey, and tangy mustard. Instead of baking or roasting, these potatoes are often cooked to perfection in a skillet, developing a delightful golden crust and a tender interior. Additional ingredients like garlic and onion are typically thrown in to amp up the flavor profile, creating a savory-sweet and tangy side that beautifully echoes and contrasts the flavors of the Sloppy Joe. They are quick to prepare and packed with irresistible taste.

With these 24 amazing side dish ideas, your Sloppy Joe meal will never be boring again! Whether you prefer something light and refreshing, hearty and comforting, or a little bit spicy, there’s a perfect pairing waiting for you. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own favorite combinations that elevate this classic American sandwich to new heights.

And if you’re craving even more Sloppy Joe goodness beyond the bun, be sure to check out related recipes like the Sloppy Joe Casserole or the Sloppy Joe Bubble Up for creative twists on this beloved dish!