Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food beloved by many. It’s creamy, cheesy, and simply delicious. But sometimes you might wonder: what goes with macaroni and cheese to elevate it to the next level? Whether you’re preparing a hearty family meal or a sophisticated dinner party, knowing the right sides, meats, and additions can make your macaroni and cheese a complete dining experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything from vegetables that pair perfectly with macaroni and cheese to the best meats that complement its rich flavors. By the end of this article, you’ll have plenty of ideas to make your next meal a memorable one.
Why Macaroni and Cheese Needs Pairings
Macaroni and cheese is rich and filling, but its creamy nature can sometimes leave your palate craving something different to add variety to each bite. Adding complementary sides, proteins, or vegetables can enhance the experience and make the meal more satisfying. Additionally, pairing it with lighter or fresher flavors can help cut through the richness of the cheese.
For more details on perfect pairings, you can explore expert opinions on food pairings for comfort dishes or learn from trusted chefs at Food Network.
The Best Foods to Pair with Macaroni and Cheese
To understand what goes with macaroni and cheese, let’s break it down into categories. Below, we’ll cover different pairings and additions that can transform this classic dish into an exciting meal.
1. Vegetables that Go with Macaroni and Cheese
Adding vegetables to macaroni and cheese provides a fresh balance to the cheesy richness. Here are some of the best vegetables that go well:
1.1 Roasted Broccoli
Roasted broccoli’s slight bitterness and crispiness are perfect to balance the creaminess of macaroni and cheese. Roasting it in olive oil and garlic adds an extra depth of flavor, making it an ideal companion.
1.2 Green Beans
Blanched green beans provide a crunchy texture that contrasts well with the creamy sauce. Adding a dash of lemon juice can also bring a refreshing zing to the meal.
1.3 Spinach or Kale
Leafy greens like spinach or kale, whether steamed or sautéed with a little garlic, add a nutritious punch to macaroni and cheese. They blend perfectly with the cheesy flavors.
1.4 Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts, when roasted until they are golden and slightly caramelized, add a depth of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of macaroni and cheese. The crispy outer leaves and tender center provide both texture and taste.
1.5 Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is another great vegetable to serve alongside macaroni and cheese. The slight char from grilling and the earthy flavor of asparagus add a fresh contrast to the dish’s creaminess. A sprinkle of parmesan over the asparagus makes it even better.
1.6 Roasted Bell Peppers
Roasted bell peppers add a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory mac and cheese. Their bright colors also add visual appeal to the dish, making it more appetizing.
1.7 Sautéed Mushrooms
Mushrooms, when sautéed with a little butter and garlic, bring an earthy, umami flavor that complements the creamy, cheesy pasta. The texture of mushrooms also adds a nice contrast to the smoothness of the dish.
2. Salads to Serve with Macaroni and Cheese
A fresh salad can add much-needed brightness to the plate, balancing the richness of the cheese sauce.
2.1 Simple Garden Salad
A garden salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a light vinaigrette makes an excellent choice. It’s light, fresh, and won’t overpower the macaroni and cheese.
2.2 Apple Walnut Salad
The sweetness of apples and crunchiness of walnuts, along with a honey-mustard vinaigrette, provides a great contrast to the savory macaroni.
2.3 Caesar Salad
A Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing provides both texture and flavor that pairs wonderfully with macaroni and cheese.
2.4 Arugula and Pear Salad
Arugula’s peppery notes combined with the sweetness of sliced pears and a light balsamic dressing make this salad an ideal pairing. Adding a sprinkle of goat cheese or blue cheese can further enhance the flavor profile.
2.5 Greek Salad
A Greek salad with cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and a lemon-oregano vinaigrette offers a zesty and refreshing pairing. The salty feta and tangy olives provide a nice contrast to the creamy mac and cheese.
3. What Meat Goes Well with Macaroni and Cheese
Adding protein can elevate mac and cheese from a side dish to a full, hearty meal.
3.1 Crispy Bacon
What meat to eat with mac and cheese? Bacon! Bacon’s smoky and salty profile adds an incredible layer of flavor to the dish. Whether sprinkled on top or served on the side, crispy bacon is a popular pairing.
3.2 Grilled Chicken Breast
Grilled chicken is lean and provides a hearty addition without overpowering the cheese flavors. A light herb seasoning on the chicken makes it a delicious, complementary protein.
3.3 Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak with a mushroom gravy adds an extra layer of comfort and pairs well with the creaminess of macaroni and cheese. The flavors mesh together for a cozy, hearty meal.
3.4 Barbecue Ribs
Barbecue ribs, with their smoky, tangy sauce, are a fantastic pairing for macaroni and cheese. The bold flavors of the ribs contrast beautifully with the creamy, mild cheese sauce.
3.5 Meatloaf
Classic meatloaf with a ketchup glaze is another comforting option that pairs well with mac and cheese. The savory meatloaf and creamy pasta make for a satisfying, hearty meal.
3.6 Fried Chicken
Crispy fried chicken brings a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy mac and cheese. The combination is a Southern classic that’s always a hit.
3.7 Sausages
Grilled or pan-fried sausages, whether pork, chicken, or turkey, bring a savory, spicy element that pairs perfectly with the rich, cheesy pasta. The flavors meld together beautifully for a well-rounded meal.
4. Seafood Pairings for Macaroni and Cheese
Seafood can add a sophisticated twist to a traditional dish like macaroni and cheese.
4.1 Lobster
Lobster mac and cheese is a luxurious option. The tender, buttery lobster meat complements the creamy cheese sauce, turning a simple comfort food into an elegant dish.
4.2 Shrimp
Grilled or sautéed shrimp add a delightful seafood flavor that pairs well with cheesy pasta. The slight sweetness of shrimp enhances the dish without overwhelming it.
4.3 Crab Cakes
Crab cakes served alongside macaroni and cheese provide a tasty seafood element that adds variety in both texture and flavor.
4.4 Scallops
Pan-seared scallops, with their delicate sweetness and crispy seared edges, are a wonderful pairing. The lightness of the scallops balances the richness of the mac and cheese.
4.5 Smoked Salmon
Smoked salmon adds a salty, smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mac and cheese. It’s a unique pairing that adds elegance to the dish.
5. What Are Good Additions to Macaroni and Cheese?
Sometimes, it’s about adding a few extra ingredients to elevate your macaroni and cheese.
5.1 Caramelized Onions
Caramelized onions add sweetness and depth of flavor that enhance the cheesy, creamy dish.
5.2 Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives can add a burst of freshness. They’re simple yet effective additions to cut through the rich flavor.
5.3 Bread Crumbs
Adding crispy bread crumbs to the top of your macaroni and cheese gives it a delightful crunch, adding texture to the otherwise creamy dish.
5.4 Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes provide a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that contrasts nicely with the richness of the cheese. Chop them up and mix them in for a burst of flavor.
5.5 Truffle Oil
Drizzling a small amount of truffle oil over your macaroni and cheese can add an earthy, sophisticated flavor. It’s an easy way to elevate the dish for special occasions.
5.6 Jalapeños
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding sliced jalapeños can give your mac and cheese a kick. The heat from the peppers balances the creaminess of the cheese.
5.7 Crumbled Blue Cheese
For a bold twist, sprinkle some crumbled blue cheese into your mac and cheese. The tangy, sharp flavor of blue cheese adds complexity and depth to the dish.
6. Bread Options to Serve with Macaroni and Cheese
Bread is a classic side that can help soak up the creamy cheese sauce and provide additional texture.
6.1 Garlic Bread
Garlic bread, with its buttery and garlicky flavor, pairs wonderfully with mac and cheese. The crispy edges and soft center make it an ideal side.
6.2 Cornbread
Cornbread adds a sweet, crumbly contrast to the savory macaroni and cheese. It’s a popular choice, especially in Southern cuisine.
6.3 Dinner Rolls
Soft dinner rolls are perfect for scooping up every last bit of cheesy goodness. Their mild flavor complements the richness of the dish.
6.4 Baguette Slices
Toasted baguette slices provide a crunchy texture that contrasts well with the creamy mac and cheese. Serve them with a bit of butter or olive oil for added flavor.
6.5 Pretzel Bread
Pretzel bread, with its slightly salty crust and soft interior, pairs deliciously with mac and cheese. The saltiness enhances the flavors of the cheese sauce.
7. Is Macaroni and Cheese a Full Meal or a Side Dish?
Macaroni and cheese can be either a full meal or a side dish, depending on how you prepare it and what you serve with it.
- Full Meal: If you add proteins such as grilled chicken or vegetables like broccoli, it can be filling enough to be a complete meal.
- Side Dish: If you’re serving it with other mains like steak, roasted chicken, or ribs, then macaroni and cheese works beautifully as a side.
8. Creative Twists on Traditional Macaroni and Cheese
For those looking to put a creative spin on the classic, here are some fun twists to try:
8.1 Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Adding shredded buffalo chicken and a drizzle of blue cheese or ranch dressing gives your mac and cheese a spicy kick. It’s perfect for those who love bold flavors.
8.2 Jalapeño Popper Mac and Cheese
Adding chopped jalapeños and cream cheese gives this version a spicy, creamy twist. Top it with crispy bacon for an extra layer of flavor.
8.3 BBQ Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese
Mixing in BBQ pulled pork provides a smoky, tangy contrast to the creamy cheese sauce. It’s a hearty option that’s sure to please.
8.4 Mac and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Stuff bell peppers with mac and cheese and bake them for a fun and colorful twist. The peppers add sweetness and a bit of crunch, making each bite exciting.
8.5 Spinach and Artichoke Mac and Cheese
Incorporate spinach and artichoke hearts into your mac and cheese for a twist inspired by the classic dip. The vegetables add texture and flavor, making it a more sophisticated dish.
9. Desserts That Go Well After Macaroni and Cheese
After a rich and creamy meal like macaroni and cheese, a light dessert can be the perfect way to end your meal.
9.1 Fruit Salad
A simple fruit salad with berries, melons, and a hint of mint is refreshing and light, providing a contrast to the heaviness of mac and cheese.
9.2 Lemon Sorbet
Lemon sorbet is light, tart, and cleanses the palate after a cheesy meal. Its acidity helps balance the richness of the main dish.
9.3 Apple Crisp
Apple crisp, with its sweet and slightly tart flavor, along with a crunchy oat topping, is a comforting dessert that pairs well with a hearty meal.
9.4 Berry Parfait
A berry parfait with layers of Greek yogurt, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey is a simple yet elegant dessert. It’s light and offers a sweet contrast to the savory main course.
9.5 Chocolate Mousse
For those who want a richer dessert, a light chocolate mousse can be a great choice. Its airy texture makes it less heavy, while the chocolate flavor satisfies any sweet cravings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What foods go well with mac and cheese?
Vegetables like roasted broccoli or green beans, salads, and proteins like grilled chicken or crispy bacon are great pairings.
What meat to eat with mac and cheese?
Grilled chicken, crispy bacon, barbecue ribs, Salisbury steak, and fried chicken are popular meats that pair wonderfully with mac and cheese.
What is a good addition to mac and cheese?
Caramelized onions, fresh herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, jalapeños, and bread crumbs are great additions to elevate the dish.
Is macaroni and cheese a full meal or a side dish?
It can be both, depending on what you add to it or what you serve alongside it.
What is Salisbury steak?
Salisbury steak is a ground beef patty cooked with onions and a savory gravy, often served as a comforting main dish.
Tips for the best Salisbury steak
Use high-quality ground beef, don’t overmix the meat, and let it rest after cooking for the best flavor.
Can I substitute ground beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for a leaner version of Salisbury steak.
What seafood goes well with macaroni and cheese?
Lobster, shrimp, scallops, crab cakes, and smoked salmon are excellent seafood options that pair well with the creamy flavors of mac and cheese.
How can I make my macaroni and cheese healthier?
Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli, use whole wheat pasta, and reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat version.
What bread goes well with mac and cheese?
Garlic bread, cornbread, dinner rolls, baguette slices, and pretzel bread are all great options to serve with mac and cheese.
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