Nothing completes a meatball sub quite like the perfect side dish. Whether you’re prepping for game day, a cosy dinner, or a quick lunch, the right side dish makes every bite better. In this guide, we’ll explore 25 of the best sides for meatball subs. Get ready to create a meal you won’t forget.
Why Pairing Matters: Sides For Meatball Subs Done Right
Meatball subs are rich, cheesy, and saucy. A good side helps balance the flavours and textures. You want something crunchy, fresh, creamy, or acidic to complement the sandwich. The right pairing enhances the overall experience, keeps the palate excited, and turns a sandwich into a full meal.
Top 25 Sides For Meatball Subs
Here are the best sides categorised for every preference, from crisp salads to indulgent comfort foods:
| Category | Side Dish | Flavor Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh & Crisp | Caesar Salad | Creamy, tangy crunch |
| Caprese Salad | Juicy and fresh with balsamic kick | |
| Greek Salad | Briny feta and olives cut richness | |
| Arugula & Pear Salad | Peppery and sweet contrast | |
| Coleslaw | Crunchy and creamy or vinegar sharp | |
| Crispy & Fried | French Fries | Classic salty crunch |
| Onion Rings | Sweet and crispy | |
| Mozzarella Sticks | Extra cheesy goodness | |
| Sweet Potato Fries | Sweet and earthy contrast | |
| Garlic Parmesan Tots | Garlicky, cheesy bite-sized snacks | |
| Cheesy & Carby | Garlic Bread | Buttery and perfect for sauce dipping |
| Cheesy Breadsticks | More cheese, more joy | |
| Baked Mac & Cheese | Creamy indulgence | |
| Stuffed Garlic Knots | Doughy, garlicky, cheesy | |
| Mini Calzones | Portable and packed with flavor | |
| Warm Veggie | Roasted Zucchini | Herby and slightly charred |
| Baked Potato Wedges | Crisp outside, fluffy inside | |
| Tomato Basil Soup | Dipping-friendly and tangy | |
| Grilled Corn on the Cob | Sweet, juicy, and slightly smoky | |
| Baked Beans | Smoky-sweet and hearty | |
| Snackable & Easy | Bruschetta | Light, tomato-basil freshness |
| Antipasto Skewers | Savory and fun to eat | |
| Deviled Eggs | Creamy, bite-sized indulgence | |
| Chips (Kettle) | Crunchy and salty | |
| Dill Pickles | Sharp, vinegary contrast |
Fresh & Crisp Sides For Meatball Subs
Fresh sides cut through the heaviness of meatball subs. Caesar Salad brings crunch and tang. Caprese Salad adds creamy mozzarella with acidic tomatoes. Greek Salad contributes briny olives and feta. Arugula & Pear Salad offers a sweet-peppery balance. Coleslaw, whether creamy or vinegary, adds a chilled contrast. These sides refresh your plate and palate.
Crispy Fried Favorites
French Fries are the all-time favourite. Onion Rings give a sweet crunch that complements saucy bites. Mozzarella Sticks echo the cheesy filling in a new form. Sweet Potato Fries bring natural sweetness. Garlic Parmesan Tots combine two great flavours. These crispy sides for meatball subs add exciting textures to every bite.
Cheesy & Carby Comforts
Garlic Bread is a sub’s best friend. It soaks up leftover sauce and adds a buttery bite. Cheesy Breadsticks double down on the cheese. Mac & Cheese offers creamy, indulgent satisfaction. Stuffed Garlic Knots are shareable and rich. Mini Calzones mimic the main dish in mini form. Perfect for carb lovers.
Warm Veggie & Hearty Sides
Roasted Zucchini provides a light and earthy side. Baked Potato Wedges are crispy, warm, and hearty. Tomato Basil Soup is great for dipping. Grilled Corn adds sweetness and a slight char. Baked Beans bring a smoky-sweet flavour. These hearty sides complement the bold flavours of meatball subs perfectly.
Snackable & Quick Bites
Bruschetta adds a fresh tomato and basil crunch. Antipasto Skewers are savoury, colourful, and fun. Deviled Eggs provide a creamy contrast. Chips bring a salty snap. Dill Pickles or Giardiniera add sharpness. These snackable sides for meatball subs are perfect for casual meals and crowd-pleasing platters.
Creative Ways to Serve Sides For Meatball Subs
Build a sub platter with varied sides. Mix crunchy chips, fresh salad, and something warm like soup. Add pickles for a zesty touch. Serve sliders with small bowls of sides. For parties, toothpick skewers and cups of slaw are great. Include dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or spicy mayo to boost flavour.
FAQs About Sides For Meatball Subs
What chips go well with meatball subs?
Kettle-cooked, sea salt, or BBQ chips add the right crunch and contrast. Avoid overly flavoured ones.
Can I serve pasta with meatball subs?
Yes. Pasta salad or orzo with lemon vinaigrette is light enough to work well.
What’s a healthy side for meatball subs?
Roasted vegetables, Greek salad, or coleslaw with vinegar are light and nutritious.
Are soups a good side option?
Absolutely. Tomato Basil Soup or Minestrone makes an excellent pairing.
Can I make sides ahead of time?
Yes. Salads, beans, and even fried items can be prepped early and reheated or chilled.
Final Thoughts: Build the Perfect Plate with Sides For Meatball Subs
Choosing the right side turns a meatball sub into a full experience. Whether crisp, creamy, fresh, or fried, the perfect side enhances flavour and balance. Think about texture, colour, and contrast. Experiment with combinations to find your favourite. With the right side, meatball subs go from simple to spectacular.
