Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, loved by people of all ages. Its creamy, cheesy goodness is hard to beat, but if you want to make it part of a complete meal, knowing what to serve with mac and cheese is key. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or hosting guests, choosing the right sides can elevate the dish and make the entire meal more satisfying.
In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of delicious sides, meats, vegetables, and more that pair perfectly with mac and cheese. Whether you’re looking for something light and fresh or rich and indulgent, we’ve got you covered.
Why Pairings Matter for Mac and Cheese
While mac and cheese is delicious on its own, its creamy, rich texture can benefit from complementary sides. The cheesy, savory nature of the dish pairs well with lighter, crisp sides or heartier proteins to create a balanced meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side or the main attraction, finding the right pairings helps bring out the best in mac and cheese.
Adding Texture and Balance
The smooth, cheesy texture of mac and cheese can be enhanced by sides that add crunch, freshness, or acidity. For example, pairing it with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables can provide a contrast that balances the richness of the pasta.
Transforming Mac and Cheese into a Full Meal
On its own, mac and cheese may not always be filling enough, especially if served as a main dish. Adding proteins like grilled chicken or pulled pork makes the meal more substantial while adding variety to the plate.
Meat Pairings for Mac and Cheese
Adding meat to your mac and cheese dinner can take it from a side dish to a hearty meal. Here are some of the best meat options to serve with mac and cheese:
BBQ Pulled Chicken or Pork
If you’re a fan of smoky, tangy BBQ flavors, serve your mac and cheese alongside BBQ pulled chicken or pork. The sweet and savory sauce pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta, creating a balanced flavor experience.
Grilled Chicken
For a lighter option, grilled chicken is an excellent pairing with mac and cheese. The simple, clean flavors of the chicken help balance out the richness of the cheese sauce, making the meal less heavy.
Meatloaf
A classic comfort food in its own right, meatloaf complements the cheesy richness of mac and cheese. The combination of savory ground meat and cheesy pasta creates a filling, homey meal.
Bacon or Sausages
Serve crispy bacon or sausages with your mac and cheese for a hearty, indulgent combination. The salty, savory flavors of bacon or sausages add a delightful crunch and richness, making the dish feel even more indulgent.
Roast Beef or Brisket
If you want a more substantial pairing, try serving slow-cooked roast beef or brisket. These meats are tender, flavorful, and hearty, making them a perfect complement to mac and cheese.
Shrimp or Lobster
For a luxurious twist, pair your mac and cheese with seafood like shrimp or lobster. The sweetness of the seafood adds an elegant contrast to the savory cheese sauce, making this combination feel special and gourmet.
Vegetable Sides That Pair Well with Mac and Cheese
Balancing the richness of mac and cheese with vegetables can create a more nutritious and colorful plate. Here are some vegetable sides that serve well with mac and cheese:
Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or butternut squash brings out their natural sweetness and caramelization, which pairs beautifully with the creamy mac and cheese. The crispy edges of the roasted vegetables provide a great textural contrast to the soft pasta.
Steamed Broccoli
If you’re looking for a lighter side, steamed broccoli is an excellent choice. Its bright green color adds vibrancy to your plate, and its mild flavor complements the richness of the cheese sauce without overpowering it.
Sautéed Spinach or Kale
Earthy, leafy greens like spinach or kale sautéed with garlic add a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to mac and cheese. These greens help balance the heaviness of the cheese, making the meal feel less indulgent.
Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus adds a crisp, smoky flavor to your meal, which pairs nicely with the creamy pasta. A squeeze of lemon juice over the asparagus adds brightness that complements the richness of the cheese sauce.
Peas or Green Beans
Simple, steamed peas or green beans are classic vegetable sides that go well with mac and cheese. Their fresh, slightly sweet flavor balances the savory richness of the pasta.
Salads to Serve with Mac and Cheese
A fresh, light salad can be the perfect side dish to offset the creaminess of mac and cheese. Here are a few salads that serve well with this classic dish:
Mixed Green Salad with Light Vinaigrette
A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a refreshing way to balance the rich flavors of mac and cheese. The acidity in the vinaigrette helps cut through the heaviness of the cheese, providing a nice contrast.
Apple and Walnut Salad
For a more textured option, try an apple and walnut salad. The crisp sweetness of the apples and the crunch of the walnuts provide a delightful contrast to the soft, creamy pasta.
Coleslaw
Whether you prefer creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw, this crunchy, tangy side pairs perfectly with mac and cheese. Coleslaw’s acidity helps balance the richness of the cheese sauce, making it a refreshing companion to the dish.
Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad, with its crunchy croutons and creamy dressing, is a bold, flavorful option that pairs well with the cheesy richness of mac and cheese. The sharpness of the Parmesan cheese in the salad enhances the overall flavor.
Arugula Salad with Lemon Dressing
For something light and peppery, an arugula salad dressed with lemon is a great choice. The bitterness of the arugula and the brightness of the lemon provide a sharp contrast to the rich, creamy mac and cheese.
Bread Pairings with Mac and Cheese
Adding a bread option to your meal can make it more filling and provide a great vehicle for soaking up any extra cheese sauce. Here are some breads that pair well with mac and cheese:
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a flavorful and indulgent option to serve with mac and cheese. The buttery, garlicky bread complements the creamy, cheesy pasta, making it a winning combination.
Cornbread
For a Southern twist, serve sweet, moist cornbread alongside your mac and cheese. The sweetness of the cornbread contrasts with the savory pasta, making it a delightful pairing.
Dinner Rolls
Soft, fluffy dinner rolls are a classic side that works well with mac and cheese. They’re perfect for soaking up any extra cheese sauce and add a touch of lightness to the meal.
Sourdough Bread
Tangy sourdough bread offers a sharp contrast to the rich, cheesy flavors of mac and cheese. The crispy crust and chewy interior make sourdough an excellent choice for dipping into the cheese sauce.
Baguette or Crusty Bread
If you want something simple and classic, a crusty baguette or loaf of bread works wonders. The crunchy exterior and soft inside provide the perfect texture to accompany the creamy pasta.
Hearty Sides to Make Mac and Cheese a Full Meal
If you’re looking to turn mac and cheese into a complete, hearty meal, consider adding one of these sides:
Baked Beans
Baked beans are a classic pairing, especially for BBQ-style mac and cheese. The sweetness of the beans complements the savory flavors of the pasta and adds a hearty element to the meal.
Mashed Potatoes
For an extra indulgent meal, serve creamy mashed potatoes alongside your mac and cheese. The combination of two rich, buttery sides makes for a decadent dinner.
French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries
For a crunchy contrast, serve crispy French fries or sweet potato fries with your mac and cheese. The crispy exterior of the fries adds texture, while the sweetness of the sweet potato balances the savory pasta.
Mac and Cheese Toppings
Elevate your mac and cheese by adding toppings like crispy onions, jalapeños, or breadcrumbs. These additions can turn a simple side dish into a full-fledged main course.
Chili
For a heartier, more flavorful meal, try topping your mac and cheese with chili. The spicy, meaty flavors of the chili pair beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce, creating a comforting, filling dish.
Seafood Pairings for Mac and Cheese
If you’re a seafood lover, adding shrimp, lobster, or crab to your mac and cheese can elevate the dish to new heights. Here are some seafood pairings that work well:
Lobster Mac and Cheese
One of the most luxurious variations of mac and cheese is to add lobster. The sweetness of the lobster contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce, creating an indulgent, gourmet meal.
Shrimp Skewers
Grilled shrimp skewers are a light, flavorful pairing for mac and cheese. The smoky, slightly charred flavor of the shrimp complements the cheesy pasta without being too heavy.
Crab Cakes
Crispy, flavorful crab cakes are an excellent seafood pairing with mac and cheese. The rich, buttery crab cakes complement the creamy pasta, making for a decadent meal.
Grilled or Baked Salmon
For a healthier seafood option, try serving grilled or baked salmon with your mac and cheese. The flaky, tender fish pairs well with the richness of the cheese, offering a balanced and satisfying meal.
International Twists: Global Dishes to Serve with Mac and Cheese
Adding international flavors can take your mac and cheese dinner to the next level. Here are some global dishes that serve well with mac and cheese:
Tacos or Quesadillas
For a Mexican twist, try serving tacos or quesadillas alongside your mac and cheese. The spiced fillings add a flavorful contrast to the cheesy pasta.
Korean BBQ
The sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors of Korean BBQ pair wonderfully with the creamy richness of mac and cheese. Serve Korean-style beef or pork alongside the pasta for a dynamic, fusion meal.
Samosas or Naan
Indian sides like samosas or naan can add exciting flavors to your mac and cheese meal. The spices in the samosas and the soft, pillowy naan complement the cheesy pasta.
Greek Salad with Feta and Olives
For a Mediterranean twist, pair your mac and cheese with a Greek salad. The salty feta and briny olives add a fresh contrast to the richness of the pasta.
Japanese Teriyaki Chicken
Teriyaki chicken, with its sweet and savory glaze, pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy flavors of mac and cheese.
Kid-Friendly Pairings for Mac and Cheese
If you’re looking for kid-friendly sides to serve with mac and cheese, these options are sure to please:
Hot Dogs
A classic pairing for kids, hot dogs are easy to prepare and pair well with mac and cheese for a fun, satisfying meal.
Chicken Nuggets
Crispy chicken nuggets are a favorite among kids and pair perfectly with the creamy pasta, adding crunch and protein to the meal.
Fish Sticks
For a seafood option, try pairing fish sticks with mac and cheese. The crispy coating of the fish sticks contrasts nicely with the soft, cheesy pasta.
Tater Tots
Tater tots are always a hit with kids. Their crispy, bite-sized goodness makes them a perfect side for mac and cheese.
Carrot and Celery Sticks with Ranch
For a healthier option, serve carrot and celery sticks with ranch dressing. The fresh, crunchy vegetables balance the creamy pasta, making it a fun and nutritious addition to the meal.
Beverages That Pair Well with Mac and Cheese
Choosing the right beverage can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some refreshing drinks to serve with mac and cheese:
Lemonade or Iced Tea
Lemonade or iced tea offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese sauce. The acidity in the lemonade and the tannins in the tea help cleanse the palate between bites.
Sparkling Water
For a light, fizzy option, sparkling water is perfect for cutting through the creamy texture of the pasta. Add a slice of lemon or lime for extra freshness.
Crisp White Wine
For adults, a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with mac and cheese. The acidity in the wine complements the rich cheese sauce without overpowering it.
Light Beer
A light, crisp beer is an ideal pairing for mac and cheese. Its carbonation and subtle bitterness balance the richness of the dish, making each bite feel lighter.
Sparkling Cider
If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, sparkling cider offers a sweet, refreshing contrast to the cheesy pasta.
Desserts to Serve After Mac and Cheese
After a rich, cheesy meal, you might want a lighter, refreshing dessert or a classic sweet treat. Here are a few dessert ideas to serve after mac and cheese:
You Can Serve Apple Pie After Mac and Cheese
A slice of warm apple pie is a perfect way to end a comforting meal. The sweetness and slight tartness of the apples contrast nicely with the savory mac and cheese.
You Can Serve Chocolate Chip Cookies After Mac and Cheese
For a simple, sweet dessert, chocolate chip cookies are always a hit. The rich, buttery cookies provide a sweet ending to the meal.
Fruit Salad
If you’re looking for something lighter, a fresh fruit salad is a great option. The bright, juicy fruits cleanse the palate and provide a refreshing finish.
You Can Serve Cheesecake After Mac and Cheese
For an indulgent dessert, try serving creamy cheesecake. The rich, tangy flavor complements the creamy pasta, making for a decadent end to the meal.
Brownies or Blondies
Chewy, chocolatey brownies or blondies are a great option for those with a sweet tooth. These classic desserts are a crowd-pleaser and a satisfying way to finish the meal.
FAQs
What do you eat with mac and cheese?
You can serve a variety of sides with mac and cheese, including roasted vegetables, grilled meats, fresh salads, or even seafood like shrimp or lobster. Bread, like garlic bread or cornbread, also pairs well.
What is a good addition to mac and cheese?
Adding crispy bacon, sautéed spinach, or roasted vegetables can elevate mac and cheese. You can also top it with breadcrumbs or jalapeños for extra texture and flavor.
Should mac and cheese be eaten with a fork or spoon?
Mac and cheese can be eaten with either a fork or spoon, depending on personal preference. A fork is typically used for thicker, baked versions, while a spoon works well for creamier, stovetop mac and cheese.
Conclusion: What to Serve with Mac and Cheese?
Mac and cheese is a versatile dish that pairs well with a wide variety of sides, meats, vegetables, and more. Whether you prefer a lighter salad, hearty meat, or crispy bread, there are countless ways to elevate this classic comfort food into a complete, satisfying meal. By choosing the right pairings, you can enhance the creamy, cheesy flavors of mac and cheese while adding texture, freshness, and balance to your plate.
So, the next time you make mac and cheese, consider trying one of these delicious pairings to turn a simple dish into a memorable meal.