What Goes Good with Meatballs for Dinner?

Are you tired of serving your meatballs with the same old spaghetti? If that's the case, let's explore what food goes with meatballs for dinner with various delicious and creative options to elevate your meatball game. 

We've got you covered, from classic pairings like mashed potatoes and roasted veggies to more unexpected combinations like meatball sliders and meatball-stuffed peppers. 

Meatballs are a global culinary phenomenon found in diverse forms across numerous cultures. These savory spheres of ground meat, often mixed with seasonings, breadcrumbs, and binders, offer a taste of comfort and tradition. 

In Italy, they are known as “polpette” and are celebrated for their pairing with spaghetti and marinara sauce, while in Sweden, “köttbullar” are cherished with lingonberry sauce and potatoes. From Turkish “köfte” to the American classic meatball sub, these versatile morsels have carved their niche in the world of gastronomy, adapting to local tastes and preferences. 

So whether you're entertaining guests or simply looking to spice up your weeknight dinner routine, our blog is your go-to resource for inspiration and mouth-watering recipes. 

Get ready to discover the perfect accompaniments that will make your meatballs shine!

What can I serve with meatballs instead of pasta?

When it comes to serving meatballs, there are plenty of delicious options besides pasta. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

This creamy garlic mashed potatoes promises comfort in every bite. Boiled potatoes are mashed to velvety perfection and infused with fragrant garlic. A versatile side that complements meatballs, adding a savory touch to your meals.

Spicy Rice Pilaf

Add a kick to your meal with a tasty spicy rice pilaf. The combination of spices and fluffy rice will bring out the flavors in your meatballs.

Fried Cabbage and Egg Noodles

Create a unique and flavorful side dish by sautéing cabbage and tossing it with egg noodles. This combination adds a satisfying crunch and complements the meatballs well.

Peperonata

This Italian peperonata dish made with bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes is a fantastic accompaniment to meatballs. The sweet and tangy flavors of the peperonata pair perfectly with the savory meatballs.

Peanut Butter Noodles

For an unexpected twist, serve your meatballs with peanut butter noodles. The nutty flavor of the noodles adds an interesting contrast to the meatballs.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasting vegetables like carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and creates a flavorful side dish that compliments meatballs beautifully.

Quinoa Salad

Prepare a refreshing quinoa salad with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing. The light and fluffy quinoa pairs well with the heartiness of meatballs.

Garlic Bread

A classic choice, garlic bread adds a crunchy and garlicky element to your meatball meal. Serve it alongside a green salad for a complete and satisfying dinner.

Cauliflower Rice

For a low-carb option, substitute traditional rice with cauliflower rice. It's a healthy and tasty alternative that goes well with meatballs.

Caprese Skewers

Create bite-sized caprese skewers with mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil. These colorful and flavorful appetizers make a delightful accompaniment to meatballs.

What do Italians eat with meatballs?

When it comes to what Italians eat with meatballs, there are various options. Here are a few traditional Italian dishes and sides that are commonly served with meatballs:

• Quattro Formaggi Lasagna: A popular side dish to serve alongside meatballs in Italy.
• Greens Salad: A refreshing accompaniment.
• French Fries (Patatine Fritte): In some cases, meatballs are served with crispy French fries.
• Polpette Soup: Meatballs are used in various soups in Italy, and they can be enjoyed as a main component of the soup itself.
• Baked Timbales: Meatballs can be incorporated in this savory and flavorful Italian dish.
• Potato Puree: Some Italians enjoy meatballs with a side of creamy potato puree.
• Braised Greens: Meatballs can be served on top of braised greens, providing a delicious contrast in flavors.
• Tomato Sauce and Crusty Bread: Meatballs are commonly enjoyed with plenty of tomato sauce and crusty bread for dipping.
• Caprese Salad: A classic Caprese salad, made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, can be a light and refreshing accompaniment to meatballs.
• Sautéed Vegetables: Lightly sautéed vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, can be served alongside meatballs for a well-rounded meal.

What side dishes go with BBQ meatballs?

When serving BBQ meatballs, various side dishes can complement their flavors. Here are some popular options:

Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is a classic and delicious side dish that pairs well with BBQ meatballs.

Macaroni Salad

The creamy and tangy flavors of macaroni salad make it a great accompaniment to sweet and spicy BBQ meatballs.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes with garlic butter provide a comforting and flavorful side dish that enhances the BBQ meatball experience.

Greek Yogurt Coleslaw

The refreshing and tangy taste of Greek yogurt coleslaw balances the richness of BBQ meatballs.

Cheesy Horseradish Mashed Potatoes

Kick up the flavor with cheesy horseradish mashed potatoes, adding a zesty and creamy element to your meal.

Skillet Cornbread

Serve BBQ meatballs with skillet cornbread for a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors.

Grilled Veggies

Grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant, provide a fresh and smoky side dish option for BBQ meatballs.

Baked Beans

The rich and hearty flavors of baked beans make them a classic choice to serve with BBQ meatballs.

Coleslaw

Traditional coleslaw, with its crisp and tangy cabbage, adds a refreshing crunch to balance the richness of BBQ meatballs.

Savory Corn Muffins

Enjoy savory corn muffins with bacon, cheese, and onion as a delectable side dish option for BBQ meatballs.

What vegetables go with meatballs?

A medley of vegetables harmonizes beautifully with meatballs. Broccoli adds a refreshing bitterness, bell peppers infuse sweet crunch, and carrots offer earthy sweetness. Zucchini's mildness complements the meat, while spinach contributes an earthy essence. Tomatoes provide tangy juiciness, and mushrooms add hearty depth. 

Green beans bring a fresh snap, while onions offer aromatic warmth. Cauliflower is a neutral base, and the cabbage's crispness contrasts with meatball softness. These veggies amp up nutrition and create a flavorful ensemble that enhances the meatball experience.