If you’ve ever wondered what to serve with mac and cheese as a main dish, you’re in for a treat. Pairing this classic comfort food with the right side dishes can elevate your dining experience to a whole new level. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving a cozy meal, the perfect accompaniments can make all the difference. Let’s explore some delicious and complementary options that will take your mac and cheese to the next level.
What to Serve with Mac and Cheese as a Main Dish
Welcome, all you mac and cheese lovers out there! Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that is loved by both kids and adults alike. But sometimes, we want to jazz up this cheesy goodness by adding some delicious sides to make it a complete meal. In this blog post, we’re going to explore some fantastic options for what to serve with mac and cheese as a main dish. So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect accompaniments to elevate your mac and cheese experience!
1. Classic Side Salad
One of the easiest and healthiest options to pair with mac and cheese is a classic side salad. The crispness of the salad greens, along with your favorite veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots, provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy and cheesy macaroni. You can top it off with a tangy vinaigrette or creamy ranch dressing for that perfect balance of flavors. The combination of mac and cheese with a side salad is not only delicious but also adds a pop of color to your plate!
2. Roasted Vegetables
If you’re looking to add more vegetables to your meal, roasted veggies are a fantastic choice to serve alongside mac and cheese. The caramelization that happens as the veggies roast brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their flavors. Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, and zucchini work wonderfully with mac and cheese. Simply toss the veggies in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast in the oven until they are tender and slightly charred. The combination of creamy mac and cheese with roasted vegetables offers a delightful textural contrast and a boost of nutrition to your meal.
3. Garlic Bread
Who can resist a warm and buttery slice of garlic bread? The aroma of freshly baked bread infused with garlic and herbs is the perfect accompaniment to a creamy mac and cheese dish. You can easily make garlic bread at home by spreading a mixture of butter, minced garlic, and parsley on a baguette or sliced bread, then toasting it in the oven until golden brown. The crunchy exterior and soft interior of the garlic bread complement the rich and cheesy macaroni, making it a match made in food heaven!
4. Grilled Chicken
For those looking to add some protein to their meal, grilled chicken is an excellent option to serve with mac and cheese. The juicy and tender chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta, creating a well-rounded and satisfying dish. You can marinate the chicken in your favorite seasonings or sauces, then grill it to perfection. The combination of grilled chicken with mac and cheese offers a balance of flavors and textures that will surely please your taste buds.
5. Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad is another great side dish to serve alongside mac and cheese. The crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, savory Parmesan cheese, and tangy Caesar dressing create a flavor-packed salad that complements the richness of the macaroni and cheese. The combination of creamy pasta with a zesty Caesar salad provides a perfect harmony of tastes and textures that will leave you craving for more. Plus, the added protein from the chicken in a Caesar salad makes it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
6. Baked Beans
For a hearty and comforting side dish, baked beans are a delightful choice to pair with mac and cheese. The sweet and tangy flavors of the baked beans complement the creamy and cheesy macaroni, creating a delicious contrast of tastes. You can either make your own baked beans from scratch or opt for a canned version for convenience. The combination of mac and cheese with baked beans is a classic comfort food duo that is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your cravings.
7. Broccoli Cheddar Soup
If you’re a fan of both broccoli and cheese, why not combine them in a delicious broccoli cheddar soup to serve with your mac and cheese? The creamy and velvety texture of the soup, combined with the cheesy goodness of the macaroni, creates a double dose of comfort and flavor. You can make the soup from scratch using fresh broccoli, cheddar cheese, and other ingredients, or opt for a store-bought version for convenience. The pairing of mac and cheese with broccoli cheddar soup is a match made in cheesy heaven that will warm you up from the inside out.
8. Fruit Salad
For a refreshing and light side dish to balance the richness of mac and cheese, a colorful fruit salad is a perfect choice. You can mix and match your favorite fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, grapes, and kiwi to create a vibrant and flavorful salad. The natural sweetness of the fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the savory macaroni and cheese, making it a delightful combination for your taste buds. Whether served as a side dish or a dessert, a fruit salad adds a healthy and delicious element to your meal.
9. Cornbread
No list of sides to serve with mac and cheese would be complete without mentioning the beloved cornbread. The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread pairs perfectly with the creamy and cheesy macaroni, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. You can bake cornbread in a skillet or muffin tin, then serve it warm with a pat of butter. The combination of mac and cheese with cornbread is a classic Southern comfort food duo that will have you coming back for seconds!
10. Mixed Grilled Vegetables
If you’re looking for a healthier option to serve with mac and cheese, mixed grilled vegetables are a fantastic choice. You can grill an assortment of veggies such as asparagus, mushrooms, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes to create a colorful and flavorful side dish. The smoky char from the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables, providing a delicious contrast to the creamy pasta. The combination of mac and cheese with mixed grilled vegetables offers a nutritious and satisfying meal that is both tasty and wholesome.
So there you have it, folks! A mouthwatering array of side dishes to serve with your favorite mac and cheese as a main dish. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, these side dish options are sure to take your mac and cheese experience to the next level. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and enjoy a delicious meal that will satisfy your cravings and delight your taste buds!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular side dishes to serve with mac and cheese as a main dish?
Some popular side dishes that pair well with mac and cheese as a main dish include green salads, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, coleslaw, and grilled chicken or shrimp. These sides can complement the creamy and cheesy flavors of mac and cheese, providing a balanced and satisfying meal.
How can I add a healthy twist to my mac and cheese main dish?
To add a healthy twist to your mac and cheese main dish, consider serving it with a side of steamed broccoli or mixed vegetables. You can also incorporate whole wheat pasta or use a blend of different types of cheeses to increase the nutritional value. Additionally, adding a side of fresh fruit salad or a light vinaigrette-dressed salad can help balance out the richness of the mac and cheese.
Are there any additional protein options to serve with mac and cheese as a main dish?
If you’re looking to add more protein to your mac and cheese main dish, consider serving it with baked chicken breast, salmon fillet, or tofu. These protein-rich options can complement the creamy texture of the mac and cheese while providing a balanced and satisfying meal. You can also top the mac and cheese with crispy bacon or diced ham for an extra protein boost.
Final Thoughts
When deciding what to serve with mac and cheese as a main dish, consider complementary sides like a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. These options provide a balance of flavors and textures to enhance your meal. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite pairing that will satisfy your taste buds. Remember, the key is to have a mix of flavors and ingredients that will complement the richness of the mac and cheese as the main attraction. Enjoy exploring various side dishes to create a well-rounded and delicious meal!
