Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food dish that's beloved by people of all ages. It's simple to make and can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish.
But what should you serve with macaroni and cheese? Here we'll explore some great accompaniments that will take your macaroni cheese to the next level. From light salads to hearty proteins, there are plenty of tasty options to choose from.
You're sure to find something that everyone at the table will love!
Just when you thought macaroni and cheese couldn't get any better, something amazing happened.
Fresh pasta salads and fruit salsas have been added to the mix. These two additions bring a unique flavor to complement the cheesy classic while providing a healthy boost of vitamins and minerals.
Plus, they add a nice crunchy texture that's sure to please! The perfect marriage of savory and sweet is just what your next meal needs as you transition into the next course...vegetables & legumes.
A delicious accompaniment to macaroni cheese are sautéed mushrooms and broccoli florets. These vegetables can be cooked in a skillet with butter and garlic for an added flavor. They also add texture and color to your dish, making it a more inviting meal.
To take it one step further, try roasting the broccoli florets in the oven for a crunchy contrast that pairs perfectly with the creamy macaroni cheese.
Moving on from vegetables, grilled meats make for a hearty side to macaroni cheese that will please everyone at your dinner table.
The sizzle of the grill is music to the ears, and when it comes time to serve something with your macaroni cheese, why not try some grilled meats?
There's nothing quite like a spicy kebab or some tender barbecue ribs - the flavor of the char really adds something special.
And for those who prefer something a bit lighter, there are still plenty of options. With a few ingredients and some creativity, you can easily prepare an array of delicious dishes that will pair perfectly with your macaroni cheese.
As we move away from grilled meats and towards baked fish...
Grilled meats provide a delicious and savory accompaniment to mac and cheese, however there are also many lighter options to consider.
Baked fish is an excellent spicy variation that can bring a unique flavor profile to the dish. Additionally, it is a healthy alternative compared to the richer meat options.
For an even healthier option, there are plenty of vegetarian recipes that can be served with mac and cheese.
Roasted potatoes are another great option for adding texture and crunch to the meal, while still providing nutrients that make it feel like a complete dinner.
Crispy, golden-brown roasted potatoes are the perfect side dish to pair with macaroni and cheese. Preparing them is a breeze; simply slice into cubes or wedges, season with salt and pepper, toss in olive oil, and bake until they are golden brown.
They are an easy prep, quick fix that will add a delicious crunch to any meal. Plus, you can customize them however you'd like with garlic powder, paprika, rosemary – get creative!
Roasted potatoes are the ideal accompaniment to your cheesy pasta that everyone will love.
Baked beans are a great side dish to serve with macaroni cheese. They provide an extra layer of flavor and texture to the dish, and can easily be varied depending on the season. In the summer months, you could add some fresh herbs or a splash of lime for a bright, tangy twist.
In the winter, creamy variations like white beans with cream make for a delicious accompaniment to the cheesy pasta. Baked beans also make for an excellent source of protein and fiber. With all these options, baked beans are sure to be a hit when served alongside macaroni cheese.
Now let's move onto another tasty side dish option: breads & rolls.
Adding a delicious bread or roll to your macaroni and cheese can really elevate the entire dish.
For example, why not try something crunchy like a crusty French baguette? Alternatively, you could go for something more subtle, like some garlic toast.
According to recent statistics, over 95% of people who tried adding either of these two options to their macaroni and cheese said it improved the taste tenfold.
So if you're looking for an easy way to make your macaroni and cheese stand out, definitely consider giving one of these two a try!
To continue building on this flavorful dish, let's take a look at some sauces and toppings that will bring it all together.
Adding sauces and toppings to macaroni cheese dishes can take them to a whole new level of deliciousness.
For a tangy taste, consider adding dressings such as Caesar or Ranch, or for something more creamy, Alfredo or béchamel sauces will do the trick.
To make it even more indulgent, try sprinkling some crispy bacon bits on top!
With so many options to choose from, you're sure to find something that will satisfy your cravings.
Bon Appétit!
When it comes to serving macaroni cheese, there are so many delicious options. From fresh salads to grilled meats, baked fish to roasted potatoes, and sauces and toppings that add a special touch - you can't go wrong.
With the variety of dishes available, you can create a delightful meal that everyone will savor. I love to serve macaroni cheese with:
These combinations make the perfect meal that's sure to satisfy every taste bud!
Related Articles
