What to Serve with Sloppy Joes: Delicious Side Dishes, Toppings & Beer Pairings

Introduction

Sloppy joes are a classic American meal. They are easy to make, delicious and always a hit with the family. But what do you serve with sloppy joes? Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or just looking for some ideas to make your weeknight meals more interesting, having a few sides and toppings on hand will take your sloppy joes to the next level.

Side Dishes

When it comes to side dishes, there is no shortage of options. Here are five delicious side dishes that will go perfectly with your sloppy joe sandwiches:

1. Cornbread

Cornbread is a staple in many households, and it pairs perfectly with sloppy joes. It’s easy to make from scratch or you can buy it pre-made. Serve it warm with butter and honey for an extra special touch.

2. French Fries

French fries are always a hit, and they go great with sloppy joes. Choose your favorite type of potatoes (sweet, russet, etc.) and fry them up in oil for a salty treat. For a healthier option, try baking them instead.

3. Potato Salad

Potato salad is a classic side dish that goes well with almost any meal. You can make it with mayonnaise, mustard, celery, onions, pickles and other ingredients. Or, if you want something a little different, try making a Greek potato salad with feta cheese and olives.

4. Baked Beans

Baked beans are a tasty side dish that goes great with sloppy joes. You can buy them canned or make your own from scratch. There are lots of recipes out there, so find one that suits your taste buds.

5. Green Salad

A green salad is always a good choice when you’re looking for something light and healthy. Top it with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions and your favorite dressing. You can also add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra boost.

Toppings

Toppings are a great way to customize your sloppy joes and make them your own. Here are ten unique toppings to try on your next sloppy joe:

1. Pickles

Pickles add a nice crunch and flavor to any sandwich. Try adding some thinly sliced dill pickles or relish for a tangy twist.

2. Salsa

Salsa is a great topping for sloppy joes. Choose your favorite variety and top your sandwich with a spoonful for an extra kick of flavor.

3. Guacamole

Guacamole is a delicious topping for sloppy joes. Mash up some avocados with lime juice, cilantro and garlic for a creamy and flavorful addition.

4. Cheese

Cheese is always a crowd pleaser. Grate some cheddar or pepper jack cheese over your sloppy joe for added creaminess and flavor.

5. Bacon

Bacon makes everything better! Fry up some bacon strips and crumble them over your sloppy joe for a smoky and salty finish.

6. Caramelized Onions

Caramelized onions add a sweet and savory flavor to any sandwich. Slice up some onions and cook them slowly in butter until they’re golden brown and tender.

7. Fresh Veggies

Fresh veggies are always a good choice. Slice up some lettuce, tomatoes, onions and peppers and top your sloppy joe with them for a fresh and crunchy bite.

8. Hot Sauce

Hot sauce adds a spicy kick to any sandwich. Choose your favorite variety and add a few drops to your sloppy joe for a fiery finish.

9. Chutney

Chutney is a sweet and savory condiment made with fruits, sugar and spices. Try adding a spoonful of your favorite chutney to your sloppy joe for a unique flavor.

10. Sour Cream

Sour cream adds a cool and creamy element to any sandwich. Top your sloppy joe with a dollop of sour cream for an extra layer of flavor.

Beer Pairings

Pairing beer with sloppy joes is a great way to enhance the flavor of the meal. Here are four types of beer that go well with sloppy joes:

1. Lagers

Lagers are light and refreshing, making them perfect for pairing with sloppy joes. Choose a lager with notes of citrus or floral hops for a bright, balanced flavor.

2. IPAs

IPAs are hoppy beers that pair well with the bold flavors of a sloppy joe. Look for an IPA with notes of pine and citrus for a refreshing and flavorful combination.

3. Stouts

Stouts are dark and malty beers that go great with sloppy joes. Look for a stout with notes of coffee, chocolate and caramel for a rich and complex flavor.

4. Wheat Beers

Wheat beers are light and slightly sweet, making them a great choice for pairing with sloppy joes. Look for a wheat beer with notes of banana and clove for a fruity and spicy flavor.

Salads and Coleslaws

Salads and coleslaws are great side dishes for a sloppy joe dinner. Here are five salads and coleslaws that go great with sloppy joes:

1. Classic Coleslaw

Classic coleslaw is a mix of cabbage, carrots and onion mixed with a creamy dressing. Add a bit of sugar, vinegar and mayonnaise to bring out the flavor.

2. Broccoli Slaw

Broccoli slaw is a mix of shredded broccoli and carrots, tossed with a creamy dressing. Add some raisins and sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture.

3. Spinach Salad

Spinach salad is a light and healthy side dish. Toss it with some crumbled bacon, red onions, mushrooms and hard-boiled eggs for extra flavor.

4. Tomato and Arugula Salad

Tomato and arugula salad is a simple and delicious side dish. Add some feta cheese and balsamic vinaigrette for a flavorful finish.

5. Kale Caesar Salad

Kale Caesar salad is a hearty and flavorful side dish. Top it with some parmesan cheese, croutons and homemade Caesar dressing for a delicious meal.

Comfort Food Combos

For a truly indulgent meal, try combining sloppy joes with macaroni and cheese. Here are four cheesy recipes to try:

1. Classic Macaroni & Cheese

This classic macaroni and cheese recipe is sure to be a hit. Boil some elbow macaroni, mix it with cheese sauce and bake until bubbly and golden brown.

2. Chili Mac

Chili mac is a comforting and filling meal. Cook up your favorite chili recipe and top it with macaroni and cheese for an extra cheesy twist.

3. Gouda Mac & Cheese

Gouda mac and cheese is a delicious and gourmet twist on the classic. Use smoked gouda for a nutty and smoky flavor.

4. Cheesy Macaroni Bake

This cheesy macaroni bake is a hearty and flavorful meal. Combine macaroni, cheese sauce, vegetables and breadcrumbs and bake until golden brown and bubbly.

Baked Potato Sides

Baked potatoes are a great side dish for sloppy joes. Here are five creative recipes for baked potato sides to enjoy alongside your sandwich:

1. Loaded Baked Potatoes

Loaded baked potatoes are a delicious and filling side. Stuff them with cheese, bacon, chives, sour cream and butter for a satisfying meal.

2. Twice-Baked Potatoes

Twice-baked potatoes are a classic side dish. Mix mashed potatoes with cheese, bacon and chives and bake until golden brown and crispy.

3. Mashed Potato Casserole

Mashed potato casserole is creamy and comforting. Mix mashed potatoes with sour cream, cheese, butter and seasonings and bake until hot and bubbly.

4. Roasted Potato Wedges

Roasted potato wedges are a tasty and easy side dish. Cut potatoes into wedges, toss with olive oil and spices and roast until golden brown and crispy.

5. Garlic Herb Potato Wedges

Garlic herb potato wedges are flavorful and delicious. Toss potatoes with garlic, herbs and olive oil and bake until golden brown and tender.

Conclusion

Sloppy joes are a classic American meal that is sure to please the whole family. With the right sides and toppings, you can turn a simple sandwich into a delicious and memorable meal. Try adding sides like cornbread, french fries, potato salad and baked beans. And don’t forget the toppings – pickles, salsa, guacamole, cheese, bacon and more. For an extra special touch, pair your sloppy joes with a beer and finish off the meal with a salad or coleslaw. Comfort food combos like macaroni and cheese or loaded baked potatoes are also great options. No matter what you choose, you’re sure to have a delicious dinner.