Wondering what to serve with mac and cheese? I’ve got you covered with this handy guide of the best sides for your favorite comfort food dish!
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When the kids ask “What’s for dinner tonight?” and you answer “Mac & Cheese,” it’s guaranteed that you’re instantly upgraded to 🌟superstar🌟 status.
Macaroni and cheese can be super time consuming… So, often I’ll take a shortcut on weeknights and make this Instant Pot Mac & Cheese. However, I’ve also been known to make the boxed stuff too. I mean, it just evokes memories of childhood, right?
But no matter which type of mac & cheese you’re serving, you’re guaranteed to find a perfect side dish here.
Mac & Cheese + Amazing Side Dish = PERFECTION!
From classics such as meatloaf and brisket, to healthier options such as broccoli and sauteed spinach, there are so many options.
So, let’s dig in!
Keep reading to discover 30+ of the best side dishes to serve with mac and cheese!
The BEST Sides for Mac + Cheese
Air Fryer Meatloaf
This Air Fryer Meatloaf recipe is just as delicious as the classic baked version, but so much quicker. This recipe makes two tender meatloaves with crisp, caramelized surfaces and juicy, tender centers. Making homemade meatloaf has never been easier!
Air Fryer Pork Belly is absolutely irresistible! Seasoned with an easy dry rub, these pork belly bites are air fried until they’re crispy, tender + juicy.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders cook up golden & crispy on the outside, but juicy inside. The best part is they can be made in under 20 minutes with just 6-ingredients.
These homemade Shake and Bake pork chops are just like the classic dish you used to have as a kid. Pork chops are coated in a tasty breadcrumb mixture and baked until golden brown and delicious.
If you love cacio e pepe, this lightened-up Cacio e Pepe Cauliflower is for you! It puts a low-carb and gluten-free twist on the classic pasta dish but still has the same rich, cheesy, and peppery flavors you love.
Sous Vide Brisket comes out fall apart tender, juicy and delicious every time. Get the perfect “bark” by finishing it on your grill, smoker or even the oven!
This restaurant-quality Garlic Bread is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and slathered with homemade garlic butter and melted parmesan. It’s the perfect pairing for your pasta dinner!
This copycat Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad is bursting with flavor. Beautifully marinated cucumbers drizzled in chili oil is an outstanding vegetarian appetizer you can enjoy for any special occasion!
This Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham Recipe is simply the best! Made with brown sugar, mustard, pineapple juice, and honey, this glaze makes an addictive and moist ham every time.
This Arugula Salad recipe with red wine vinaigrette is my go-to green salad. The arugula has a peppery bite to it which pairs wonderfully with the acid in the vinaigrette. It’s the perfect salad for pairing with rich dishes.
Add a healthy boost of nutrients to your dinner with this easy Sauteed Spinach. Baby spinach is added to a skillet along with garlic and olive oil, then sauteed gently to create a simple side dish that pairs with any meal!
This delicious Radicchio Salad is dressed in a creamy lemon-vinaigrette and tossed with buttery calvestrano olives, tasty breadcrumbs and nutty parmesan cheese. And, a special tip ensures that your radicchio won't be bitter!
Smoked Pork Belly Strips are the only thing better than bacon! Seasoned with an easy dry rub, the pork is cooked low and slow until it’s tender, juicy, and melts in your mouth. It’s a smoky and deeply flavored cut of meat that must make an appearance at your next barbecue.
This Kale Caesar Salad is topped with crispy homemade croutons and parmesan cheese. Massaging the creamy garlic dressing into the kale makes it extra tender and delicious.
This simple Shirazi Salad recipe features fresh cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and crisp red onion. Dressed with plenty of fresh herbs and tossed with a tangy dressing made with lime juice and olive oil. Every bite is bursting with refreshing flavors!
Learn how to make perfectly tender and blistered Grilled Bell Peppers at home! It’s one of the best and easiest side dishes you can add to burrito bowls, fajitas, or pair with grilled meats.
This Tomato Cucumber Salad features fresh cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and crisp red onion. Dressed in a tangy homemade red wine vinaigrette, every bite is bursting with refreshing Mediterranean flavors!
Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Balsamic cook up crispy and delicious with minimal oil with the help of your air fryer! Dressed simply with balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of salt. You'll love these!
This Fennel Celery Salad comes together quickly and has such a delicious light lemon-parmesan vinaigrette and wonderful crunch. It's the perfect side salad for rich and hearty dishes like pasta or braised short ribs.
Many of these mac & cheese side dish recipes can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days or even in the freezer. Simply check the individual recipes for full storing instructions and details on how to make ahead.
Did you Make Any of These Mac and Cheese Side Dishes?
Please leave a comment and rating below, if you loved this round up of what to serve with mac and cheese. Also, be sure to snap a picture of your finished dish and share it with me on Instagram using the hashtag #platingsandpairings and tagging me @platingsandpairings.
Can I pour you a glass of wine? Let’s have some fun in the kitchen! Maybe some pasta? A juicy steak? I’ve got loads of yummy, easy recipes for you! Because cooking should feel as comfy as your favorite yoga pants. ♥
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