What Meat Goes With Mac and Cheese For Dinner?

What Meat Goes With Mac and Cheese For Dinner?

Mac and cheese is delicious, but it needs some accompaniments to become a complete meal. These side dishes will not only give the dish more variety, but also add extra flavor and nutrition.

A favorite pair with mac and cheese is ham or bacon. These meats have a strong flavor that stands up to the richness of the pasta and help make it more filling.

Beef

When you want something heartier than shredded chicken or ground beef, try bacon-wrapped filet mignon. This savory option pairs beautifully with mac and cheese, adding a bit of saltiness that complements the richness of the dish.

Side meats like ham and sausage are another great choice. Whether you opt for classic little smokies or bourbon glazed ham, these bite-sized snacks go perfectly with creamy macaroni and cheese.

Lastly, rabbit is an unexpected protein that can give your mac and cheese dinner a unique flavor. Served with a tangy sauce, this dish will have your friends and family asking for more. It’s the perfect way to make a regular meal feel special and new. You can even try mixing in some roasted vegetables for an extra-healthy and filling side dish.

Pork

Mac and cheese is a hearty entree on its own, but it can be made even more satisfying with the addition of a meaty dish. One of the best proteins that goes well with mac and cheese is pork. Its tender texture works nicely with the creamy pasta. A side of smoky barbecue ribs also makes the perfect pairing.

Another lean protein that goes well with mac and cheese is turkey. It is a versatile option that can be prepared in many different ways, including baking it with macaroni and cheese for a delicious twist.

For a dinner that’s a little more indulgent, try serving steak with mac and cheese. It is a classic combination that will turn any frown upside down. Choose a cut of meat with plenty of flavor, such as a ribeye or New York strip.

Chicken

Adding chicken to your mac and cheese makes it a heartier meal. Try boneless skinless chicken thighs, which are easy to cook and pair well with a variety of flavors. They also have a satisfyingly tender texture that pairs nicely with mac and cheese. For added flavor, dry rub the chicken with spices like chili powder and cumin.

A side of steamed vegetables is the best way to balance out this carb-heavy dish. A simple slaw is one option, or you can roast a veggie medley in the oven for added color and flavor.

For those who cannot eat dairy, crumbled tofu is a great alternative. You can find pre-crumbled tofu at most grocery stores, but you can also make it yourself by boiling extra-firm tofu and mashing it with a fork.

Shrimp

For a delicious seafood twist on mac and cheese, try adding cooked shrimp to your recipe. This combination is sure to impress and will make a wonderful meal for guests at a dinner party or family gathering.

For vegetarians, a cheesy dish made with tofu can be just as delicious as one with meat. You can even add a dash of paprika for a slightly smoky flavor, or sauté your tofu with yellow onion or caramelized onions to create a sweet and savory taste.

Other tasty additions to your mac and cheese are smoked salmon, tuna, cod or fried fish. These dishes can be drizzled with a tangy sauce, like the amazing honey lime dressing made famous by Disney’s ‘Ohana restaurant. A side of sticky ribs or BBQ chicken will also compliment this creamy comfort food perfectly.

Steak

Although mac and cheese is a stand-alone entree, it can also be served with a main dish. This is especially true when you add meat, and it’s a great option for a hearty meal that can be eaten on weeknights or at holiday gatherings.

If you’re looking for a protein that has a strong flavor and goes well with cheesy pasta, try steak. Whether you serve it grilled, roasted or on the stovetop, steak pairs wonderfully with macaroni and cheese for dinner.

Another great option is shrimp, which offers a light taste that pairs well with mac and cheese. It’s best to cook shrimp a bit longer than you would with other proteins, so that it has a more robust flavor. Serve it on top of a big bowl of mac and cheese for a tasty, satisfying dinner.