Easy Side Dishes for Mac and Cheese: 28+ Delicious Pairings

Hey, fellow cheese enthusiasts! I’m a mac and cheese fanatic, and I bet you are too. But even the most decadent mac and cheese can use a sidekick sometimes.

That’s why I’ve gathered incredible side dishes for mac and cheese to elevate your comfort food game.

Wondering what to serve with your cheesy masterpiece? From crispy air fryer creations to zesty salads, we’re about to embark on a flavor adventure.

By the end, you’ll have a new answer to “What’s for dinner?” that always includes the perfect sides for your mac and cheese.

Ready to dig in? Let’s go!

Why Pair Side Dishes with Mac and Cheese?

You might be thinking, “Why mess with perfection?” I get it. Mac and cheese is already a crowd-pleaser on its own. But here’s the deal:

• Balance is key: Mac and cheese is rich and creamy. Adding a side dish can bring some much-needed balance to your plate. Think crispy textures or tangy flavors to cut through that cheesy goodness.
• Nutritional boost: Let’s face it, mac and cheese isn’t exactly a superfood. By adding some veggie sides, you’re sneaking in extra nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
• Elevate your meal: Want to transform your simple mac and cheese into a feast fit for a king? The right side dishes can take your comfort food to gourmet levels.

I remember pairing my homemade mac and cheese with crispy Brussels sprouts—it was a game-changer! The creamy pasta and crunchy, charred sprouts created the perfect contrast. From that day on, I’ve been on a mission to find the best sides for mac and cheese.

Veggie Sides for Mac and Cheese

Let’s kick things off with some veggie options. These aren’t just any old sides – they’re the perfect companions to your cheesy pasta dish.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasting veggies brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a delicious crispy exterior. Here are my top picks:

• Roasted Broccoli: The crispy florets are perfect for scooping up extra cheese sauce. Plus, the slightly charred flavor complements the creaminess of the mac and cheese beautifully.

• Honey-Glazed Carrots: The sweetness of these carrots provides a lovely contrast to the savory mac and cheese. It’s like a flavor party in your mouth!

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Trust me on this one. The slight bitterness of the sprouts and the tangy balsamic glaze cut through the richness of the mac and cheese perfectly.

• Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: These little flavor bombs burst in your mouth, adding a fresh, acidic note to each bite of mac and cheese.

• Grilled Zucchini and Squash Medley: The smoky char from the grill adds depth to the overall flavor profile of your meal.

Pro tip: Toss your veggies with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting. For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking.

Sautéed and Steamed Veggies

If you’re short on time or oven space, these quick-cooking options are lifesavers:

• Garlicky Green Beans: The crunch of the beans and the punch of garlic make this a standout side.

• Sautéed Spinach with Garlic: This nutrient-packed side wilts down quickly, making it a super simple addition to your plate.

• Steamed Asparagus with Lemon Butter Sauce: The tender-crisp asparagus and zesty lemon sauce provide a refreshing contrast to the rich mac and cheese.

I once served these garlicky green beans at a potluck, and they disappeared faster than the mac and cheese! The secret? A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving. It brightens up the whole dish and makes the flavors pop.

Protein-Packed Sides for Mac and Cheese

Sometimes, you just need a little extra oomph to turn your mac and cheese into a full-fledged meal. That’s where these protein-packed sides come in handy. They’re not just delicious – they’ll keep you satisfied long after the last bite.

• Crispy Bacon Bits: Let’s be real, bacon makes everything better. Sprinkle some crispy bits on top of your mac and cheese for a salty, crunchy contrast. I like to bake my bacon in the oven for maximum crispiness and less mess.

• Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs can turn your mac and cheese into a restaurant-worthy dish.

• BBQ Pulled Pork: This is my go-to when I’m feeling extra indulgent. The tangy, sweet BBQ sauce pairs amazingly with the creamy mac and cheese. It’s like a flavor explosion in your mouth!

• Garlic Butter Shrimp: Feeling fancy? Try some garlicky shrimp. The delicate seafood flavor complements the cheese without overpowering it. Plus, it cooks up in minutes!

• Crispy Tofu Cubes: For my vegetarian friends, crispy tofu is a game-changer. Toss cubes in cornstarch before frying for that perfect crunch. It’s a great way to add protein without meat.

I remember the first time I paired BBQ pulled pork with my mac and cheese. It was for a potluck, and I was worried it might be too much. But let me tell you, it was a hit!

Unexpected but Delightful Sides for Mac and Cheese

Ready to think outside the box? These unexpected sides will take your mac and cheese game to the next level. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

• Tangy Coleslaw: The crunch and acidity of a good coleslaw cut through the richness of mac and cheese beautifully. I like to make mine with a vinegar-based dressing for extra tang.

• Spicy Jalapeño Poppers: If you like a bit of heat, these are a must-try. The spicy kick and the extra cheese (because who doesn’t want more cheese?) complement the mac perfectly.

• Crispy Onion Rings: There’s something magical about the combination of crispy, savory onion rings and creamy mac and cheese. Try making them in an air fryer for a healthier twist!

• Pickled Vegetables: The acidity and crunch of pickled veggies provide a perfect contrast to the rich, creamy mac and cheese. My personal favorite? Pickled red onions!

• Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: These pack all the flavor of buffalo wings without the meat. The spicy, tangy sauce is a perfect foil for the creamy mac and cheese.

I once served buffalo cauliflower bites alongside mac and cheese at a Super Bowl party. Even the die-hard meat lovers were coming back for seconds! The key is to get them nice and crispy in the oven before tossing in the sauce.

Bread and Rolls for Mac and Cheese

Let’s face it – one of the best parts of mac and cheese is that last bit of cheese sauce on your plate. And what better way to enjoy it than with some delicious bread? Here are my top picks:

• Garlic Bread: Is there anything better than garlic bread? The crispy, buttery, garlicky goodness is the perfect vehicle for scooping up mac and cheese.

• Buttery Cornbread: This southern classic pairs beautifully with mac and cheese. The slight sweetness of the cornbread complements the savory cheese sauce perfectly.

• Flaky Buttermilk Biscuits: Light, fluffy, and oh-so-comforting, these biscuits are great for making mini mac and cheese sandwiches with any leftovers (if there are any!).

• Pretzel Rolls: The chewy texture and salty exterior of pretzel rolls make them an excellent companion to creamy mac and cheese.

I have a secret trick for making the ultimate garlic bread: mix softened butter with minced garlic, grated parmesan, and a bit of fresh parsley. Spread this on your bread before toasting for an extra flavor punch!

Lighter Side Dishes for Mac and Cheese

I know, I know. Sometimes we want to indulge in our mac and cheese without feeling too guilty. That’s where these lighter options come in handy. They’re the perfect balance for your cheesy main dish!

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness of mac and cheese beautifully. I love using a mix of arugula and baby spinach for some peppery flavor.

• Cucumber Tomato Salad: This refreshing salad is super easy to throw together. Just chop some cucumbers and cherry tomatoes, add a bit of red onion, and toss with a light vinaigrette. It’s crisp, cool, and delicious!

• Citrus Fruit Salad: Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it! The sweetness and acidity of citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits can be a surprising but delightful contrast to savory mac and cheese.

• Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: This one’s a bit fancy, but trust me, it’s worth it. The earthiness of the beets and the tanginess of the goat cheese complement mac and cheese wonderfully.

I remember serving a citrus salad with my famous mac and cheese at a summer BBQ. My friends were skeptical at first, but by the end of the night, they were all asking for the recipe!

Soup and Stew Companions

Sometimes, you just want to double down on the comfort food. That’s where these soup and stew options come in. They’re like a warm hug for your taste buds!

• Tomato Soup: This classic pairing is popular for a reason. The acidity of the tomato soup balances out the richness of the mac and cheese perfectly. Plus, you can dip your mac and cheese in the soup for an extra flavor explosion!

• Butternut Squash Soup: The sweetness of butternut squash soup is a beautiful contrast to savory mac and cheese. I like to add a drizzle of cream and some crispy sage leaves on top for extra flavor.

Pro tip: Serve your mac and cheese in a bread bowl filled with soup. It’s the ultimate comfort food experience!

Beverage Pairings for Mac and Cheese and Its Sides

Don’t forget about drinks! The right beverage can elevate your mac and cheese experience to new heights.

• Wine suggestions: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir can cut through the richness of mac and cheese beautifully.
• Craft beer options: A hoppy IPA or a malty brown ale can complement the flavors of mac and cheese wonderfully.
• Non-alcoholic choices: For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with lemon or a crisp apple cider.

I once hosted a mac and cheese and wine pairing night with friends. We tried different combinations and voted on our favorites. It was a blast, and we discovered some amazing pairings!

How to Build the Perfect Mac and Cheese Plate

Ready to take your mac and cheese game to the next level? Here’s how to create a mac and cheese plate that will wow your guests:

 Balance of Flavors and Textures

The key to a great mac and cheese plate is variety. You want a mix of flavors and textures that complement each other. Here’s a sample plate:

• Creamy mac and cheese (of course!)
• Crispy bacon bits
• Roasted broccoli
• Tangy coleslaw
• Garlic bread

This combination gives you creamy, crispy, crunchy, and tangy all on one plate!

Portion Sizing Tips

Remember, mac and cheese is rich, so a little goes a long way. I usually aim for about 1 cup of mac and cheese per person, with smaller portions of the sides. This allows everyone to try a bit of everything without getting too full.

Presentation Ideas for the WOW Factor

Eat with your eyes first! Here are some presentation tips:

• Use a white plate to make the colors pop
• Arrange the mac and cheese in the center, with sides around it
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives
• If you’re feeling fancy, serve in individual ramekins

I once created a mac and cheese board for a party, similar to a charcuterie board but centered around mac and cheese. It was a huge hit!

FAQs: Sides for Mac and Cheese