Complement Mac and Cheese with Delicious Pairings

Elevating Mac and Cheese with Delicious Pairings

Mac and cheese makes for satisfying comfort food, but serving it solo can feel a bit plain. Luckily, this cheesy pasta pairs wonderfully with many dishes that complement and elevate it. Whether enjoying mac and cheese as a main meal or side, incorporating items like crispy breadcrumbs, roasted veggies, or spiced meats makes for meals that are nutritious and delicious.

Add Crunch with Toppers

Crunchy toppers give mac and cheese highly craveable textural contrast. Options like:

Breadcrumbs or Crushed Crackers

Coating mac and cheese in crispy, toasted panko or crushed crackers right before serving infuses each bite with delightful crunch.

Onion Rings

For an indulgent twist, top creamy mac and cheese with crispy fried onion rings. Sweet onions contrast beautifully with the rich cheese.

Pork Rinds

Crushed, sprinkled pork rinds lend bites of airy crispness. Buy unflavored ones or match barbecue flavor with smoked cheddar mac.

Incorporate Hearty Proteins

Proteins pair splendidly to make macaroni and cheese a complete meal. Great options include:

Pulled Chicken, Beef, or Pork

Shredded smoked or roasted meat makes mac feel like true comfort food. Mix in or serve on top for bonus heartiness.

Bacon

Chopped, crumbled bacon lends delightful salty flavor along with crispy texture to each creamy, cheesy bite.

Shrimp or Lobster

For special occasions, fancy up mac and cheese with sweet sauted shrimp or lobster pieces stirred in or placed on top.

Roast Veggies for Fresh Contrast

Roasting vegetables like brussels sprouts, broccoli, tomatoes, or peppers caramelizes their natural sugars. Their sweet, tender goodness balances wonderfully when paired with cheesy pasta. Try:

Blistered Tomatoes

Charred grape or cherry tomatoes offer bright bursts of juicy acidity between gooey bites.

Roasted Broccoli Florets

Crispy, browned broccoli florets add wholesome depth alongside creamy comfort.

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts

Nutty, sweet brussels sprouts play perfectly against ultra-rich dishes like mac and cheese.

Incorporate Savory Accents

Umami-rich ingredients also make excellent mac and cheese companions by building on its savory flavor. Think:

Sauted Mushrooms

Meaty mushrooms lend even more satisfying savoriness when paired with ooey-gooey pasta.

Crispy Pancetta

Salty, crispy Italian bacon makes a phenomenal topper for all that cheesy richness.

Caramelized Onions

Slow cooked onions develop a sweet depth that melds beautifully with cheddar and bchamel.

So instead of serving plain mac and cheese, incorporate contrasting tastes, textures, and nutrients by pairing with items like crunchy toppers, hearty proteins, roasted veggies, or savory accents. The combinations result in next-level comfort food!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.