Mac and cheese, a timeless comfort food, is beloved for its creamy, cheesy goodness. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a main course, this versatile dish can be enhanced by a variety of accompaniments. In this article, we will explore some delicious pairings that elevate mac and cheese to a whole new level, answering the question: what goes with mac and cheese?
1. Protein Options
Adding a protein to your mac and cheese not only makes it more filling but also balances the dish’s richness. Here are some fantastic protein options that answer the question of what goes with mac and cheese:
Grilled Chicken
Juicy grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with mac and cheese. The smoky flavor of the chicken complements the creaminess of the cheese sauce, creating a satisfying contrast. You can season the chicken with herbs like rosemary or thyme for an added layer of flavor.
Crispy Bacon
Crispy bacon is a classic topping for mac and cheese. The salty crunch of the bacon adds texture and depth, enhancing the overall experience. For an extra kick, try using flavored bacon, such as maple or peppered.
Shrimp
For a touch of elegance, consider adding sautéed shrimp to your mac and cheese. The sweetness of the shrimp, combined with a hint of garlic, creates a delightful balance. A sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten the dish, making it perfect for a summer dinner.
2. Vegetables
Incorporating vegetables into your mac and cheese can elevate its nutritional value and add vibrant colors. Here are some great vegetable choices that fit the theme of what goes with mac and cheese:
Broccoli
Broccoli and mac and cheese are a classic combination. The slight bitterness of the broccoli complements the rich cheese sauce, making for a well-rounded dish. Steam or roast the broccoli for added flavor, and toss it into your mac and cheese just before serving.
Spinach
Adding fresh spinach to mac and cheese not only enhances its nutritional profile but also adds a lovely pop of green. Sauté the spinach until wilted, then mix it into your cheese sauce for a creamy, delicious combination.
Roasted Red Peppers
Roasted red peppers introduce a sweet and smoky flavor to mac and cheese. Dice the peppers and stir them into the pasta before baking, or use them as a garnish on top for a colorful presentation.
3. Salads
A fresh salad can provide a crisp contrast to the creamy texture of mac and cheese. Here are a couple of salad ideas that pair well:
Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad, with its crunchy romaine, tangy dressing, and croutons, offers a refreshing balance to the richness of mac and cheese. The garlic and Parmesan in the dressing harmonize with the flavors of the cheese, making for a delightful meal.
Arugula Salad
An arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette is a great option for those who enjoy a peppery bite. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and shaved Parmesan for added flavor. The acidity of the vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess of the mac and cheese, creating a well-balanced plate.
4. Breads
Bread can enhance your mac and cheese experience, whether as a side or a crunchy topping. Here are some delicious bread options to consider when thinking about what goes with mac and cheese:
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a fantastic accompaniment to mac and cheese. The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the dish beautifully. Plus, you can use the bread to scoop up every last cheesy bite!
Cheesy Breadsticks
For the cheese lovers out there, cheesy breadsticks can be the ultimate pairing. The gooey cheese and soft texture of the breadsticks match perfectly with the mac and cheese, making for a truly indulgent meal.
5. Sauces and Condiments
Adding sauces or condiments can elevate the flavor profile of mac and cheese, providing a kick that enhances the dish. Here are a few sauces that answer what goes with mac and cheese:
Hot Sauce
A dash of your favorite hot sauce can add a fiery twist to mac and cheese. The heat from the sauce contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the cheese, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.
BBQ Sauce
For a unique twist, drizzle some BBQ sauce over your mac and cheese. The smoky, tangy flavors of the sauce create a delicious fusion that’s sure to impress. This pairing works especially well with meat toppings like pulled pork or chicken.
6. Seasonal Additions
Depending on the season, you can introduce seasonal ingredients that enhance the dish. This is another way to consider what goes with mac and cheese:
Fall: Pumpkin
In the fall, consider adding pureed pumpkin or roasted pumpkin chunks to your mac and cheese. The natural sweetness of the pumpkin pairs beautifully with the savory cheese, creating a cozy, autumnal dish.
Summer: Corn
In the summer, fresh corn adds sweetness and crunch to mac and cheese. Grilled or roasted corn can bring a smoky flavor that complements the cheese perfectly.
Conclusion
Mac and cheese is a wonderfully versatile dish that serves as the perfect canvas for a variety of flavors and textures. Whether you’re adding proteins, vegetables, salads, breads, or sauces, there are countless ways to enhance this classic comfort food. Experiment with different pairings to discover your perfect mac and cheese companion, and enjoy this timeless dish in new and exciting ways! So next time you find yourself wondering what goes with mac and cheese, remember these delicious options that will take your meal to the next level.
