Mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food that satisfies on its own. But adding the right side dish can take your meal to the next level.
The perfect pairing can balance out flavors and textures while adding nutrition.
There are many tasty options to serve alongside mac and cheese. From crisp veggies to hearty proteins, you can find sides that complement the creamy pasta.
This article will explore 12 delicious side dishes that go great with mac and cheese.
1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts make a great side dish for mac and cheese. They add a nice crunch and slightly bitter flavor that balances out the creamy pasta.
To roast Brussels sprouts, cut them in half and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until crispy on the outside.
For extra flavor, try adding garlic powder or balsamic vinegar before roasting. The caramelized edges of the sprouts pair perfectly with cheesy mac and cheese.
2. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a perfect match for mac and cheese. The warm, buttery slices complement the creamy pasta dish wonderfully.
The garlic adds a savory kick that cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce.
You can make garlic bread easily at home or buy it pre-made from the store.
For extra indulgence, try cheesy garlic bread. The melted cheese on top adds another layer of flavor to your meal.
Serve the bread warm and crispy for the best taste and texture.
3. Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is a great side for mac and cheese. The crisp romaine lettuce and crunchy croutons add texture to your meal.
The tangy, creamy dressing balances out the rich cheese flavors. It’s a refreshing contrast to the warm, gooey pasta.
You can easily make Caesar salad at home. Just toss lettuce with dressing and top with croutons and parmesan cheese.
This classic side brings a cool, crisp element to your plate. It’s a simple way to add some greens to your mac and cheese dinner.
4. Buttermilk Biscuits
Buttermilk biscuits are a perfect side dish for mac and cheese. Their flaky texture and slightly tangy flavor complement the creamy pasta wonderfully.
You can make them from scratch or use store-bought ones. For homemade biscuits, mix flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and buttermilk.
Cut them into rounds and bake until golden brown.
Serve the biscuits warm alongside your mac and cheese. You can split them open and spread butter inside for extra richness.
Their neutral taste makes them great for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce on your plate.
5. Coleslaw
Coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch to your mac and cheese meal. This cool, crisp side dish offers a nice contrast to the warm, creamy pasta.
You can make coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing. The dressing often includes mayo, vinegar, and a touch of sugar for balance.
For a lighter version, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayo. You can also add diced apples or raisins for extra sweetness and texture.
Coleslaw not only tastes great with mac and cheese, but it also adds color to your plate. The mix of green cabbage and orange carrots looks appealing next to the golden pasta.
6. Steamed Broccoli
Steamed broccoli is a great side dish for mac and cheese. It adds a healthy touch to your meal and provides important vitamins and minerals.
To prepare steamed broccoli, start by cleaning the head and cutting the florets into small pieces.
Then bring a pot of water to a boil and add a steamer basket.
Place the broccoli in the basket, cover, and steam for about 5 minutes until it’s bright green and tender-crisp. Season with a little salt and pepper to taste.
The mild flavor of steamed broccoli balances well with the rich, creamy mac and cheese. It’s a simple way to add some green to your plate.
7. Baked Beans
Baked beans make a tasty partner for mac and cheese. Their sweet and savory flavor adds contrast to the creamy pasta dish.
You can buy canned baked beans or make your own from scratch. Heat them up and serve alongside your mac and cheese for a comforting meal.
Try mixing some baked beans right into your mac and cheese for a fun twist. The beans will add extra protein and fiber to your plate.
For a quick dinner, serve mac and cheese with baked beans and some grilled vegetables. This combo gives you a balanced meal with minimal effort.
8. Sautéed Spinach
Sautéed spinach makes a great side dish for mac and cheese. It’s quick and easy to make in just a few minutes.
You can cook spinach in a pan with some olive oil and garlic. Add salt and pepper to taste. The spinach will wilt down as it cooks.
This green veggie adds nutrition to your meal. It has vitamins and minerals like iron.
The mild flavor of spinach goes well with creamy mac and cheese.
Sautéed spinach brings color to your plate too. The bright green leaves look nice next to the yellow pasta. This simple side helps balance out the richness of the main dish.
9. Green Peas
Green peas are a quick and easy side dish for mac and cheese. Their bright color and sweet flavor add a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.
You can simply steam or microwave frozen peas for a few minutes. Season them with a bit of salt and butter if you like.
For extra flavor, try sautéing the peas with some garlic and herbs. This brings out their natural sweetness.
Green peas also boost the nutritional value of your meal. They’re packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins.
10. Cornbread
Cornbread makes a great side for mac and cheese. Its slightly sweet flavor balances out the savory cheese sauce.
The crumbly texture of cornbread contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta. You can make cornbread from scratch or use a mix for convenience.
Try cutting your cornbread into small squares or wedges. Serve it warm alongside your mac and cheese for a comforting meal.
For extra flavor, add some jalapeños or cheddar to your cornbread batter before baking. This gives a spicy or cheesy kick that complements the mac and cheese well.
11. Caramelized Onions
Caramelized onions make a tasty topping for mac and cheese. You can cook sliced onions over medium heat until they turn golden brown and soft. This process brings out their natural sweetness.
Add butter to your pan and cook the onions for about 30-35 minutes. Stir them occasionally to prevent sticking. A splash of water can help if they start to stick to the pan.
For extra flavor, you can add a bit of garlic or thyme while cooking the onions. A dash of Worcestershire sauce or sherry can also enhance their taste.
Sprinkle these sweet, savory onions on top of your mac and cheese just before serving. They add a nice contrast in texture and flavor to the creamy pasta dish.
12. Fried Okra
Fried okra is a tasty Southern side dish that pairs well with mac and cheese. The crispy, golden-brown coating on the okra provides a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.
The slightly earthy flavor of okra complements the rich cheese sauce. You can serve fried okra alongside mac and cheese for a delicious comfort food combo.
To make fried okra, slice fresh okra into rounds, coat in seasoned cornmeal, and fry until crispy. The crunchy texture adds interest to your meal.
Try dipping the fried okra in ranch dressing or a spicy remoulade sauce for extra flavor. This Southern favorite brings a fun, finger-food element to your mac and cheese dinner.
Pairing Principles
Choosing the right sides for mac and cheese can make your meal more enjoyable. Good pairings balance flavors and textures to create a satisfying dish.
Balancing Flavors
When picking sides for mac and cheese, think about flavors that complement its richness. Try adding tangy or acidic foods to cut through the creaminess. Lemon-dressed salads or pickled vegetables work well.
Spicy dishes can also pair nicely with mac and cheese. The heat contrasts with the mild cheese flavor. Consider serving buffalo wings or jalapeno poppers on the side.
For a healthier option, go for roasted vegetables. Their natural sweetness balances out the salty cheese sauce. Roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts are good choices.
Considering Textures
Texture is key when pairing sides with mac and cheese. The pasta dish is soft and creamy, so add some crunch to your plate.
Crispy foods like fried chicken or bacon bits can add a pleasant contrast. They give your mouth something to work on between bites of pasta.
Raw vegetables are another way to add crunch. Try a simple side salad with cucumbers and carrots. Or serve celery sticks for dipping in the cheese sauce.
For a mix of textures, consider breaded and baked items. Chicken tenders or fish sticks offer both crunch and softness in one bite.
Enhancing the Dining Experience
The right drinks and table setup can take your mac and cheese meal to the next level. Here are some tips to make your dining experience more enjoyable and impressive.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
A good drink can complement the flavors of mac and cheese. For white wine lovers, try a crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines cut through the richness of the cheese. If you prefer red, go for a light Pinot Noir or Beaujolais.
Beer fans might enjoy a wheat beer or pale ale. The crisp taste works well with the creamy dish. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lemon or a tart lemonade. These drinks can cleanse your palate between bites.
Don’t forget about warm drinks. A cup of black tea or coffee can balance out the meal, especially if you’re having mac and cheese for lunch.
Table Presentation Tips
A well-set table can make your mac and cheese look even more tempting.
Start with a clean, ironed tablecloth or placemats.
Choose plates that contrast with the color of the mac and cheese. White plates often work well.
Use proper silverware placement:
- Fork on the left
- Knife and spoon on the right
- Dessert spoon above the plate
Add a centerpiece like a small vase of flowers or a bowl of fruit. This adds color to the table. Make sure it’s not too tall, as you want to see the person across from you.
Cloth napkins can make the meal feel more special.
Fold them neatly and place them to the left of the fork or on the plate.