What to Serve with Sloppy Joes (25+ Best Side Dishes)

Ah, Sloppy Joes.

The dish that never fails to bring a smile to everyone’s face (and get plenty of napkins on the table).

But let’s face it, no matter how much we love them, they can be quite monotonous if you don’t have some delicious side dishes to go along with them.

Well, don’t worry!

We’ve got 25+ delicious ideas for what to serve with your Sloppy Joes so that every bite is an adventure.

So read on for all the inspiration you need for tasty and creative sides to enjoy alongside your classic comfort food!

What to Serve with Sloppy Joes: 25+ Best Side Dishes

Sloppy Joe sandwiches are a classic meal, but they need sides to complete the meal.

We’ve put together 25 (and more) of the best side dishes that will complement sloppy joes and make any dinner unforgettable.

From salads to potatoes and everything in between, you’re sure to find something perfect for your next Sloppy Joe night!

Starchy Sides

Baked potatoes

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Ah yes, baked potatoes. The perfect sidekick to a messy Sloppy Joe sandwich. You’ve got your crispy potato skin with lashings of melted butter—the ultimate comfort food.

Plus, you can dress it up however you like and make it your own: chili and cheese? Bacon bits? Sour cream and chives? The possibilities are endless. It’s the side dish that stands out for all the right reasons.

French fries

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Ah, French fries. The one side dish that can truly make or break a Sloppy Joe sandwich. Sure, you don’t need ’em, but what’s the point of having a messy and sauce-filled sandwich if you don’t have something to sop up all that goodness?

Who wants their buns dry when they could be nice and crunchy with some perfectly cooked french fries? Let’s face it: French fries give Sloppy Joes the one thing we all crave—that salty deliciousness.

Sweet potato fries

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Sweet potato fries: the perfect balance between salty and sweet, crunchy and creamy. It’s kinda like having dessert with your dinner, only better!

Baked to perfection in the oven and served with a side of ketchup for dipping (or some spicy mayo if you’re feeling adventurous), these golden potatoes are practically irresistible. So go ahead, indulge yourself with this delicious indulgence-no guilt allowed!

Macaroni and cheese

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Macaroni and cheese; what’s not to love? It’s creamy, it’s cheesy, and it has enough carbs to keep you going for days.

Plus, with a few creative additions like bacon bits or hot sauce, you can take this classic comfort food from boring to gourmet in no time. Who said home cooking isn’t an art form? When it comes to mac and cheese, the more creative the better!

Coleslaw

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Coleslaw, the crème de la crudite. It’s got crisp cabbage, crunchy carrots and a tangy dressing—it’s like an all-in-one party in your mouth.

And while it often plays second fiddle to other salads, I think it deserves center stage. Sure, there are fancier salads out there, but none of them can compete with that creamy slaw flavor. All hail the King (or Queen!) of Salads!

Corn on the cob

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Corn on the cob, the perennial summertime favorite. It’s sweet, juicy goodness is a perfect companion to any barbecue or picnic feast.

It’s also incredibly versatile; you can eat it as-is, slathered with butter and salt, or dressed up in countless ways – creamed corn, chili lime corn, Mexican street corn …the list goes on.

Best of all? Corn doesn’t need much else to make it delicious; it really stands on its own.

Baked beans

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Baked beans, the ‘dish of champions’ for any summertime cookout. This classic side dish boasts a mix of sweet and smoky flavors that have been tantalizing taste buds for generations.

They’re the perfect accompaniment to all sorts of grilled goodies, from burgers to barbecue. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good ‘baked bean face’?

Potato salad

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Ah, potato salad. The picnic staple that always manages to bring a little bit of summer vibes to the table.

It’s like taking all the best flavors of an outdoor barbecue and cramming them into one convenient bowl.

And if you really want to be fancy about it, you can add some herbs and spices for even more flavor. Potato salad is the perfect example of comfort food done right – simple but delicious!

Vegetable Sides

Grilled vegetables

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Grilled vegetables, the MVP of any vegetarian feast. You can dress them up or down, pile them into a sandwich or top them with a savory sauce.

Not to mention, they make for an impressive presentation on the plate and offer loads of smoky flavor with minimal effort. And hey, even if you’re not one of those plant-based folks, grilled veggies are a great way to add some extra nutrition to your meal without sacrificing taste.

Roasted carrots

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Ah, roasted carrots. The perfect side for your sloppy joes. Roasting the carrots brings out their sweetness and gives them a texture that’s both crispy and tender.

Plus, it adds a beautiful pop of color to the plate. And let’s be real, there’s nothing quite like biting into a juicy slice of carrot that’s been kissed by fire from the oven—it adds an extra bit of flavor to any meal!

Steamed green beans

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So you’ve decided to make Sloppy Joes but now you need the perfect side dish. Enter steamed green beans.

This classic veggie is the perfect pairing for your saucy sandwich, adding a hint of freshness and crunch that sets it apart from all the rest.

Plus, who can resist a little pop of color on their plate? So go ahead and show off your culinary repertoire with this classic combo – you won’t regret it!

Sauteed zucchini

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Zucchini, what can’t you do with this versatile veggie? Saute it up in some butter and garlic for a simple side dish that packs a flavor punch.

Add in some herbs or spices to take it to the next level. Or just eat it like an apple – no cooking required! Who said healthy has to be boring? Zucchini proves that you can enjoy nutritious food without sacrificing taste.

Broccoli salad

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Broccoli salad, the oft-forgotten side dish that always gets the short end of the stick. It’s like, why bother when you could just serve potatoes?

But don’t let its plain looks fool you; this salad has some serious flavor potential. With a few simple ingredients and a zesty dressing, it can easily go from boring to bold. Plus, all those crunchy vegetables make it oh so satisfying in a healthy kinda way.

Grilled corn salsa

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Grilled corn salsa is the perfect way to take your summer cookout up a notch. I mean, what could be better than grilled sweet corn stuffed with a zesty medley of peppers, tomatoes, onions and herbs?

Plus, it’s got that smoky flavor from the grill and the brightness of the fresh ingredients to make it irresistible. It’s like summer on a plate – or in a bowl!

Caprese salad

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Caprese salad, a thing of beauty. You’ve got to be pretty confident in your culinary skills to pull off something this elegant and simple. But let’s be honest, when you have the classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella and basil, it’s hard to go wrong.

Perfectly ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, bright basil and a slick of olive oil always make for an impressive plate presentation. Plus with such minimal ingredients there’s no need for fancy cooking techniques either; just assemble and enjoy!

Bread Sides

Garlic bread

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Garlic bread, the ultimate side dish. I mean, what could be better than a hot, buttery hunk of carb-loaded goodness with just enough garlic to keep things interesting? It’s like having your own little post-dinner snack without even trying.

Plus, it goes great with just about anything – soups, salads, pastas…the possibilities are endless!

Dinner rolls

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What better way to make your Sloppy Joe experience complete than with a side of dinner rolls?

Soft, fluffy, and perfectly charred around the edges, these buttery buns are sure to take your sloppy joe sandwiches from average to extraordinary.

Plus, their subtle sweetness will add a unique depth of flavor and texture that will have everyone begging for seconds…or even thirds! Sloppy joes just got a whole lot classier.

Ciabatta bread

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Sloppy Joes and Ciabatta bread? Talk about a match made in heaven. The soft, doughy texture of the ciabatta is the perfect vessel for containing all that messy meat mixture.

Plus, that lightly toasted crust adds just the right amount of crunch. It’s like an elevated version of the classic sloppy joe sandwich – still delightfully messy but with a bit more sophistication.

Cornbread

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Cornbread and Sloppy Joes. I mean, if that doesn’t scream ‘down-home comfort food’, then I don’t know what does.

It’s like a match made in heaven that brings together the messy, saucy goodness of the Sloppy Joe with the sweet, buttery crumbliness of Cornbread. It’s messier than most meals but oh so worth it!

Soft pretzels

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Soft pretzels are the perfect companion for Sloppy Joes. The crunchy exterior and doughy interior of a warm pretzel balances out the messy, gooey filling in the sandwich.

Plus, you can’t have a Sloppy Joe without something to sop up all that extra sauce. So why not use a soft and fluffy pretzel? I mean, who doesn’t love carbs?

Salad Sides

Caesar salad

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Sloppy Joes plus Caesar salad? Now that’s a match made in comfort food heaven. The cool and crisp lettuce counters the messiness of the Joes, while still providing all the same flavors you love.

Plus, it adds a bit of freshness to your meal so you don’t feel like you just ate a vat of ketchup. Who knew that salads could be just as comforting as burgers and fries?

Garden salad

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A Garden Salad? Why yes, why not? We certainly can’t have Sloppy Joes without a side of veggies. This salad will bring texture, freshness, and crunch to ensure your meal is fully balanced and delicious.

And since it’s health conscious too, you’ll be able to keep on top of those new year resolutions while still enjoying that classic sandwich. Who said comfort food can’t also be healthy?

Cucumber tomato salad

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Oh, Cucumber Tomato Salad. You are the epitome of summertime dining: bright, fresh and oh-so crispy. There’s just something special about the combo of juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers and pungent onions that gives it that unique ‘summer salad’ flavor we all love so much.

And let’s face it, sometimes a light and refreshing salad is just what you need to give your taste buds a break from all that heavy holiday cooking.

Pasta salad

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If pasta salad isn’t the queen of side dishes, then I don’t know what is. This classic dish is always a crowd pleaser and its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re bringing it to potluck brunch or a midnight snack, pasta salad has got you covered.

Plus, with all sorts of colorful vegetables and protein-packed beans mixed in, you can almost delude yourself into thinking it’s healthy too! Delicious and nutritious – now that’s one winning combo.

Waldorf salad

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Waldorf salad, the not-so-humble dish that combines traditional flavors with a refreshing crunch.

Sure, it might appear to be nothing more than apples, celery, and walnuts all slathered in mayonnaise; but in reality, it’s a surprisingly delightful combination of sweet and savory.

And let’s face it – this is one salad where you can’t help but feel good about eating your vegetables.

Dips and Sauces

Ketchup

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Ah, Ketchup. It’s like the glue that holds Sloppy Joes together. Without it, these classic sandwiches would be woefully deficient in flavor and texture. Let’s face it, ketchup is a kitchen staple for a reason — it adds depth and brightness to an otherwise lackluster meal.

So don’t skimp on the ketchup! A little bit goes a long way when it comes to making Sloppy Joe dinners extra special.

Mustard

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Mustard: It’s the unsung hero of a Sloppy Joe dinner. Sure, it doesn’t get top billing in this classic dish, but what’s a Sloppy Joe without a generous coating of mustard? It adds an extra layer to all that saucy goodness and gives your palate something to be thankful for.

Plus, its sharp flavor helps cut through all the sweet and savory flavors you’ll find in a Sloppy Joe. Without it, you might as well just call them ‘Soggy Joes’ instead!

Ranch dressing

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Why, it’s like a horse without a saddle! That beloved Ranch dressing adds the perfect finishing touch to that saucy sandwich.

It tantalizes the taste buds with its creamy goodness, enhancing all of that juicy flavor. Without it, your Sloppy Joe just isn’t complete. Ranch or bust!

BBQ sauce

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BBQ Sauce – the key ingredient to any Sloppy Joe dinner. After all, what’s a Sloppy Joe without a good slathering of BBQ sauce?

It adds an unexpected kick of flavor that takes it from being just-okay to ah-mazing.

Because let’s face it, there are times when you don’t want something too fancy and just need something warm, delicious and uncomplicated. And BBQ sauce is here to rescue you in those moments!

Hot sauce

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Hot sauce, something even the most timid of eaters can’t resist. It’s like a flavor enhancer for all your favorite dishes.

Without it, sloppy joes are just sloppy buns filled with ground beef and ketchup. But add a few drops of hot sauce and you’ve got a whole different level of flavor in your taco-style meal. Hot Sauce: Because there’s always room for spice in our lives!

Fruit Sides

Apple slices

Ah, apple slices. They get a bad rap for being the healthy option that nobody wants to choose, but let’s face it—they can be really tasty when given the chance.

And they make a great snack on their own or as an accompaniment to something sweeter. Plus, sliced apples look picture-perfect in any fruit platter. So go ahead and give ’em a try!

Grapes

Grapes as a side dish, now that’s fancy! Not exactly reinventing the wheel, but it definitely adds a touch of sophistication to an already indulgent feast.

Bite into those juicy sweet globes and you’ll be in flavor heaven. Plus, grapes will leave your stomach feeling light and fresh so you won’t be too weighed down after all the heavy eating throughout the night. Grapes are always a win-win!

Watermelon

Watermelon, the summery indulgence that’s sure to turn any dinner party into a festive event. This sweet and juicy fruit is like dessert in a bite and will bring plenty of smiles with its refreshingly delightful flavor.

Nothing beats cooling off with a few wedges of watermelon after an evening meal. So don’t be shy, go ahead and add it to your post-dinner festivities for a little refreshment!

Pineapple

Pineapple, the MVP of sandwich and burger toppings. No matter what you’re putting between two slices of bread or bun, this tropical fruit plays an essential role.

Sure it might not be as glamorous as cheese or pepperoni, but pineapple adds a delicious sweet and tart flavor to any savory meal.

Plus it looks gorgeous on top! Don’t underestimate the power of a little pineapple surprise with your next sandwich – trust me, you won’t regret it.

Berry mixture (strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)

Talk about a party on a plate! This colorful combination of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries makes any sandwich or burger look and taste like it came straight from the pages of Food & Wine Magazine.

Not only is it visually appealing, it’s also an explosion of fruity flavor that will energize your lunchtime experience. Serve this delicious dish alongside your favorite meaty main and you’ll be sure to make all your friends jealous!

Desserts

Brownies

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Brownies, the ultimate sign that it’s time to indulge. When you want something sweet and decadent but still fast and easy?

Brownies are your answer. Not to mention they make a perfect post-dinner snack and can easily be enjoyed while enjoying a hot cup of tea or coffee. Plus, who doesn’t love a dessert that’s almost as fun to say as it is delicious?!

Ice cream

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Ice cream. No other dessert says ‘I’m done with dinner, but don’t worry – the fun’s just getting started!’ It’s like a bowl of liquid happiness that will make all your worries melt away.

Whether you’re in the mood for something simple and classic, or an over-the-top sundae piled high with toppings, there’s no wrong way to do ice cream. So go ahead – treat yourself!

Fruit cobbler

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Fruit Cobbler, the perfect way to end a meal. What better way to finish off a delicious dinner than with some warm, gooey fruit cobbler? It’s sweet and simple yet surprisingly sophisticated. The crunchy crumble topping gives it that extra special touch you know your guests will love.

Not only is it yummy, but thanks to its cute crumble topping, it’s almost too pretty to eat! So pour yourself a scoop of vanilla ice cream and dig in — you won’t regret it!

Chocolate chip cookies

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Ahhh, Chocolate chip cookies. Is there any better way to mark the end of a meal? Crispy and chewy on the outside, with that perfect gooey center…it’s like heavenly bliss in every bite!

Chocolate chip cookies take us back to simpler times and remind us that sometimes all you need is some milk and a few of these sweet treats to make it through the day. Yes, chocolate chip cookies are really that good—the ideal endnote for any occasion.

Cheesecake

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Cheesecake, the only acceptable way to end a meal. It’s like dessert was invented just for you and this heavenly treat. Let’s face it, even when your stomach is about burst from all the food you’ve consumed; somehow there’s always room for some sweet, creamy cheesecake.

Plus who doesn’t love a little added bonus with their dinner? Cheesecake never fails to tantalize the taste buds and make everyone feel extra special.

Beverages

Soft drinks

Now let’s talk about the perfect complement to those Sloppy Joes – soft drinks! Whether it’s a Root Beer Float or an Orange Creamsicle, these bubbly beverages will add just the right amount of sweetness and refreshment to balance that saucy sandwich.

Or if you really want to take your meal up a notch, try some craft soda. Sure, they’re not quite as indulgent as a milkshake, but ever so slightly classier than classic sodas. Cheers!

Iced tea

Sloppy Joes and Iced tea? Now that’s a match made in messy-eater heaven! There’s nothing quite like the refreshing and delicious combination of sweet, tart and creamy all in one cup.

Whether you prefer classic sweet tea or opt for something more special like an Arnold Palmer, iced tea is the perfect complement to any sloppy joe sandwich. Plus, it might help cut the mess from eating such a saucy dish!

Lemonade

Ah, Lemonade. The perfect beverage to wash down those sloppy joes. Nothing says ‘refreshing’ quite like a cold glass of lemonade on a hot day.

But let’s be honest, if you really want to upgrade that classic lemon flavor, try adding some fresh herbs or berries for an extra zing – and you’ve got yourself an undeniably delicious drink to go with your messy sandwich feast!

Milkshakes

Ah, Milkshakes. The perfect sweet and creamy accompaniment to a sloppy joe. Not only do milkshakes add a delicious complexity to the dish, but they also offer the perfect balance of richness.

Plus, if you really want to get fancy with it, there are plenty of creative topping ideas that will take your taste buds for an exciting ride! Crazy straws not required – but encouraged anyway.

Craft beer or hard cider (for the adults)

The perfect pairing for a messy Sloppy Joe? Why, it’s gotta be craft beer or hard cider, of course! A good brew can add some much-needed sophistication and sophistication to your meal.

Plus, let’s face it – there’s nothing quite like the tangy sweetness of a hoppy IPA or the crisp tartness of a hard cider with such an unrefined dish. When in doubt, go for something light but flavorful – you won’t regret it!