Mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food that satisfies cravings with its rich, creamy texture. This iconic dish has earned its place in many hearts as a go-to meal for when you need a little pick-me-up. While it’s sure to hit the spot on its own, there are times when a few strategically chosen side dishes can elevate the experience even further.
When selecting sides to pair with mac and cheese, consider options that provide a delightful contrast in texture, flavor, or color to balance out the dish’s indulgent nature. A medley of vibrant hues on your plate can also add visual appeal to the meal. Struggling for ideas? Fear not! This article will serve as a guide, providing inspiration for the perfect sides to accompany this comforting classic.
BBQ Ribs
When it comes to pairing a side dish with Mac and Cheese, one popular option stands out – BBQ ribs. The vibrant colors of the two dishes together create a stunning visual effect on your plate. The deep red hue of the ribs beautifully complements the golden tones of the pasta, making for a picturesque combination that’s sure to impress. But it’s not just about aesthetics – the smoky flavor of the ribs also perfectly balances out the creamy richness of the Mac and Cheese.
By combining these two beloved dishes, you’ll be serving up a satisfying meal that will leave your guests thanking you for days.
Meatloaf
Transforming this pasta dish into a satisfying meal is as easy as pairing it with a delicious meatloaf on the side (check out ’29 Scrummy Side Dish Ideas To Go With Meatloaf’ for inspiration). The combination of these two dishes creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, elevating your meal to new heights. You can even take it to the next level by incorporating meatloaf into mac and cheese recipes found online.
When you bring these two dishes together, you’ll be guaranteed to create a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to impress.
Sloppy Joes
The nostalgic appeal of a single bite from this iconic sloppy sandwich is undeniable, transporting us back to carefree childhood days. When paired with the warmth and familiarity of pasta, this comfort food combination is sure to become a new family favorite, satisfying loved ones on both weeknights and weekend evenings.
Meatballs
It’s intriguing that these two elements haven’t been naturally paired together initially. Yet, if you’re eager to elevate your Mac and Cheese game, incorporating meatballs as a complementary dish is an excellent move. Imagine the delightful harmony of flavors when you serve tender meatballs smothered in chili or tomato sauce alongside your creamy pasta. This unexpected combination will surely take your taste buds on a thrilling ride.
Coleslaw
If you’re looking for a crunchy contrast to your pasta dish, consider pairing it with creamy coleslaw. The good news is that this classic side dish is remarkably easy to prepare. Simply combine chopped carrots and cabbage with a blend of sugar, white vinegar, salt, poppy seeds, and onions, or opt for the convenience of a pre-made coleslaw mix from your local grocery store. This harmonious combination will delight your taste buds without requiring any sacrifice in flavor.
Roasted Broccoli
To elevate the indulgent flavors of this pasta dish, be sure to balance it with some crunchy green goodness on the side. Broccoli is a natural pairing with cheese, as they create a match made in heaven when combined. To bring out the best in your broccoli, consider roasting it to add a smoky depth to its natural sweetness.
Simply toss your broccoli with some sliced red onion and crumbled feta cheese before drizzling with olive or sesame oil, then roast at 450 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes. You can also amplify the cheesy goodness by sprinkling some grated Parmesan on top. When it comes to selecting a side dish, aim for freshness whenever possible, but don’t be afraid to use frozen broccoli as a convenient alternative that can bake alongside your Mac and Cheese for added convenience.
Side Salad
A simple yet satisfying side salad is the perfect accompaniment to Mac and Cheese, as well as other dishes that require a lighter touch. The sweetness of the corn kernels, crunch of walnuts, and freshness of herbs like tomatoes, radishes, cabbages, red onions, and carrots create a delightful contrast to the richness of your pasta. Add some protein to elevate the dish further, such as shredded chicken or crispy bacon bits, for added depth of flavor.
The beauty of this side salad lies in its versatility – it’s just as suitable for a backyard BBQ (be sure to check out our favorite recipes) as it is for a weeknight dinner. Finish it off with a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing and you’ve got a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Pigs In Blankets
Indulge in the delightful combination of savory hotdogs and sweet pastry as you create pigs in blankets using croissant dough, biscuit dough, or pancake. This bite-sized treat is designed to be devoured in one satisfying mouthful, making it an ideal companion for dipping into your favorite macaroni and cheese dish.
Smokies
Little smokies offer a delightful twist on traditional snacks, sure to delight both family and friends. For an added indulgence, try wrapping them in crispy bacon and serving alongside a creamy mac and cheese. To achieve the perfect balance of crunch and flavor, bake your little smokies in the oven until they’re nicely browned on the outside. The result is a harmonious union of smoky sweetness and rich pasta, leaving you feeling thoroughly satisfied.
Beef Chili
When it comes to satisfying your cravings for comfort food, pairing Mac and Cheese with beef chili can be a match made in heaven. The combination creates a harmonious blend of creamy, hearty, and meaty flavors that will leave you feeling cozy and content. The spicy kick from the chili also provides a delightful contrast to the rich, cheesy goodness of the macaroni and cheese.
If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s sure to hit the spot after a long day, consider serving these two dishes together – it’s a winning combination that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Brownies
The unconventional pairing of a sweet treat with mac and cheese may raise an eyebrow, but rest assured it’s a match made in heaven! The rich, velvety texture of the brownie beautifully contrasts with the comforting creaminess of the pasta dish. For a show-stopping dessert, serve the warm brownie alongside a generous scoop of cold vanilla ice cream. This unexpected combination will elevate your mac and cheese game to new heights.
Apple Pie
Serving apple pie alongside mac and cheese offers an unexpectedly delightful dessert option. This classic comfort food is renowned for its warm, inviting aroma and rich flavors that perfectly complement the savory mac and cheese. A dollop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a luxurious touch, ensuring your guests leave the table feeling satisfied and content. As a sweet conclusion to a hearty family meal, apple pie’s comforting charm is unmatched.
Simple Citrus Salad
Indulge in the vibrant fusion of citrusy goodness with this effortless salad recipe, where sweet oranges and tangy grapefruit harmonize with fresh mint and a zesty vinaigrette. This revitalizing creation provides the perfect contrast to rich mac and cheese, elevating your meal into a delightful symphony of flavors.
Sauteed Spinach
Savory sautéed spinach shines with a harmonious balance of flavors. The aromatic essence of garlic and the subtle tang of lemon juice meld seamlessly with the natural sweetness of the spinach, all heightened by a delicate drizzle of olive oil. This side dish excels at delivering bold, vibrant flavors without sacrificing texture – a perfect complement to any meal.
Conclusion
In wrapping up, the dozen scrumptious recipes highlighted earlier offer an ideal complement to a satisfying Mac and Cheese meal. For those seeking dishes that showcase a diverse range of textures and flavors, these side dishes provide the perfect accompaniment. It’s essential to remember that Mac and Cheese is a calorie-dense food with high sodium content, making it best enjoyed in moderation. This approach allows you to fully appreciate your meal without guilt.
