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The Best Side Dishes for Mac and Cheese Recipes

Discover the perfect companions for your mac and cheese! Dive into a world of perfect side dishes for mac and cheese. From classics to creative twists, find the ideal match to make a full meal of the ultimate comfort food.

5 ingredient instant pot mac and cheese

Get ready to take your mac and cheese experience to the next level with a lineup of mouthwatering side dishes that promise to complement and enhance the cheesy goodness. 

Whether you’re craving classic comfort food or seeking adventurous pairings, we’ve got a variety of ideas to suit every taste bud.

A perfect side dish is crafted to perfectly balance the rich and cheesy indulgence of your favorite macaroni and cheese recipe.

Embrace the versatility of mac and cheese with these creative side dishes that add a new dimension to your meal. 

From simple classics to bold flavors, there’s a side dish for every mac and cheese enthusiast. Savor the cheesy goodness with these delectable pairings to make the perfect meal.

Read on to see how you can transform mac and cheese from being one of the best side dishes to being the star of your dinner!

5 ingredient instant pot mac and cheese

What Can I Serve with Mac and Cheese?

Wondering what is a good side dish for mac and cheese? Here are a few delicious side dishes for mac and cheese:

Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups 

Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups make a fantastic side dish for macaroni and cheese, offering a delightful contrast in both texture and flavor. The flaky biscuit cups cradle the savory and saucy Sloppy Joes, providing a satisfying and handheld accompaniment that perfectly complements the creamy macaroni and cheese.

sloppy joe biscuit cups

Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Bacon

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon serve as an excellent side dish for macaroni and cheese, adding a burst of savory and crispy goodness to the meal. The caramelized Brussels sprouts, infused with the smoky essence of bacon, provide a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. 

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Air fryer sweet potatoes make an excellent side dish for macaroni and cheese, offers the perfect balance of sweetness and crispiness to complement the creamy flavor of the pasta dish. The air-frying process enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes while providing a satisfying, slightly crunchy texture.

air fryer sweet potatoes

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli:   

Roasted to perfection, broccoli with a garlic Parmesan kick adds a satisfying crunch and a burst of savory goodness that pairs harmoniously with homemade macaroni and cheese.

Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers:

Spice things up with bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers, bringing a perfect blend of heat and smokiness to your mac and cheese affair. The crispy bacon complements the velvety cheese for an irresistible combination.

Crispy Caesar Salad:

One of the most refreshing and crunchy mac and cheese side dish recipes is a classic Caesar salad made with crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and homemade croutons.

Homemade Caesar Salad dressing without Anchovies

Buttered Cornbread:

Serve buttered cornbread on the side to add a sweet and savory component that complements your mac n cheese meal. The soft texture of cornbread can balance the creaminess of the main dish.

Relevant Recipes 

FAQs About Mac and Cheese Side Dishes 

​What bread goes with mac and cheese?

Selecting the perfect bread to accompany mac and cheese involves considering textures and flavors that complement the dish. Options like garlic bread, crusty French bread, or soft dinner rolls provide delightful contrasts.

Can I prepare side dishes for mac and cheese in advance?

Yes, many side dishes for mac and cheese can be prepared in advance to save time. Consider prepping ingredients, such as chopping vegetables or making sauces, ahead of time, so the final assembly is quick and stress-free.

What dessert pairs well with macaroni and cheese for a complete meal?

Desserts like apple pie complement macaroni and cheese wonderfully. The sweet and spiced notes of apple pie provide a satisfying conclusion to the meal, balancing the savory flavors of the mac and cheese with a delightful touch of sweetness.

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