Macaroni cheese, the quintessential comfort food that never fails to put a smile on our faces. It’s a dish that evokes memories of childhood, of warm hugs, and of cozy nights in. But, have you ever wondered what goes nice with macaroni cheese? In this article, we’ll explore the best combinations to take your macaroni cheese game to the next level.
Classic Combinations
When it comes to pairing macaroni cheese with other foods, there are some classic combinations that are hard to beat. Here are a few of our favorites:
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a match made in heaven for macaroni cheese. The crispy, buttery bread provides a perfect contrast to the creamy pasta, while the pungency of the garlic complements the richness of the cheese. Simply slice a baguette, spread garlic butter on each slice, and bake until crispy.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables add a pop of color and a burst of flavor to your macaroni cheese. Try roasting broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots with some olive oil, salt, and pepper. The bitterness of the vegetables cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a beautifully balanced dish.
Grilled Meats
Grilled meats, such as bacon, ham, or chicken, add a smoky flavor to your macaroni cheese. Try grilling some bacon until crispy, then crumbling it into your macaroni cheese. The smokiness of the bacon pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the cheese.
International Inspirations
Macaroni cheese is a dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways, depending on the culture and cuisine. Here are a few international inspirations to try:
Italian-Style Macaroni Cheese
In Italy, macaroni cheese is often made with parmesan and mozzarella cheese, and served with a side of garlic bread. Try adding some Italian seasonings, such as basil and oregano, to your macaroni cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
Spanish-Style Macaroni Cheese
In Spain, macaroni cheese is often made with chorizo and Manchego cheese. Try adding some spicy chorizo to your macaroni cheese for a bold and spicy flavor.
French-Style Macaroni Cheese
In France, macaroni cheese is often made with Gruyère and Emmental cheese, and served with a side of steamed vegetables. Try adding some French herbs, such as thyme and rosemary, to your macaroni cheese for a sophisticated twist.
Breakfast Macaroni Cheese
Why not try making macaroni cheese for breakfast? Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Macaroni Cheese with Bacon and Eggs
Try making macaroni cheese with crispy bacon and scrambled eggs. The smokiness of the bacon pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the cheese, while the eggs add a burst of protein.
Macaroni Cheese with Sausages and Toast
Try making macaroni cheese with sausages and toast. The spicy flavor of the sausages pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the cheese, while the toast adds a crunchy texture.
Dessert Macaroni Cheese
Yes, you read that right – dessert macaroni cheese! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Macaroni Cheese with Fruit and Nuts
Try making macaroni cheese with fruit and nuts. The sweetness of the fruit pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the cheese, while the nuts add a crunchy texture.
Macaroni Cheese with Chocolate and Marshmallows
Try making macaroni cheese with chocolate and marshmallows. The richness of the chocolate pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the cheese, while the marshmallows add a fun and playful texture.
| Combination | Description |
|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | A classic combination that pairs crispy, buttery bread with creamy macaroni cheese. |
| Roasted Vegetables | A healthy and flavorful combination that pairs roasted vegetables with creamy macaroni cheese. |
| Grilled Meats | A hearty and satisfying combination that pairs grilled meats with creamy macaroni cheese. |
In conclusion, macaroni cheese is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic combination or something more adventurous, there’s a macaroni cheese combination out there for you. So next time you’re feeling hungry, why not try making some macaroni cheese and see what delicious combinations you can come up with?
What is the best type of pasta to use for macaroni cheese?
The best type of pasta to use for macaroni cheese is, of course, macaroni. However, other types of pasta can also be used as substitutes. Some popular alternatives include shells, elbow macaroni, and even cavatappi. The key is to choose a pasta shape that holds onto the cheese sauce well.
When choosing a pasta shape, consider the texture and size. Macaroni is a classic choice because its tube shape allows the cheese sauce to coat it evenly. Shells and elbow macaroni also work well because they have a similar shape to macaroni. Cavatappi, on the other hand, has a more rustic texture that pairs well with a chunky cheese sauce.
What are some popular toppings for macaroni cheese?
There are many popular toppings for macaroni cheese, depending on personal preference. Some classic toppings include crispy bacon, ham, and cooked vegetables such as broccoli or carrots. Other popular options include grilled chicken, steak, or even lobster for a more luxurious twist.
When choosing a topping, consider the flavor profile you want to achieve. If you want a smoky flavor, bacon or ham might be a good choice. If you want to add some freshness, cooked vegetables or a sprinkle of herbs like parsley or thyme could work well. For a more indulgent option, grilled meats or seafood can add a rich and satisfying flavor to the dish.
Can I make macaroni cheese ahead of time?
Yes, macaroni cheese can be made ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and bake it just before serving. You can cook the pasta and prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to combine them and bake the dish in the oven just before serving.
If you do need to make macaroni cheese ahead of time, consider assembling the dish and refrigerating it overnight. Then, bake it in the oven the next day. You can also freeze the dish for up to a month and bake it straight from the freezer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What is the best type of cheese to use for macaroni cheese?
The best type of cheese to use for macaroni cheese is a matter of personal preference. Some popular options include cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan. A combination of cheeses can also work well, such as a mix of cheddar and mozzarella or parmesan and gouda.
When choosing a cheese, consider the flavor profile you want to achieve. Cheddar has a sharp, tangy flavor that works well in macaroni cheese. Mozzarella has a milder flavor and a creamy texture that can add richness to the dish. Parmesan has a nutty, salty flavor that can add depth to the cheese sauce.
Can I add other ingredients to the cheese sauce?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the cheese sauce to give it more flavor. Some popular options include diced ham or bacon, cooked vegetables, and even a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper. You can also add a splash of milk or cream to give the sauce a creamier texture.
When adding ingredients to the cheese sauce, consider the flavor profile you want to achieve. If you want a smoky flavor, diced ham or bacon might be a good choice. If you want to add some freshness, cooked vegetables or a sprinkle of herbs like parsley or thyme could work well. For a spicy kick, a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper can add a nice heat to the dish.
How do I prevent the macaroni cheese from becoming too dry?
To prevent the macaroni cheese from becoming too dry, make sure to cook the pasta al dente and use a generous amount of cheese sauce. You can also add a splash of milk or cream to the cheese sauce to give it a creamier texture.
Another tip is to cover the dish with foil while it’s baking to prevent the top from becoming too brown. This will also help to retain moisture in the dish. If you do find that the macaroni cheese is becoming too dry, you can try adding a splash of milk or cream to the dish and stirring it in.
Can I make macaroni cheese in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make macaroni cheese in a slow cooker. Simply cook the pasta and prepare the cheese sauce, then combine them in the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours. You can also add other ingredients to the slow cooker, such as diced ham or cooked vegetables, to give the dish more flavor.
When making macaroni cheese in a slow cooker, make sure to stir the dish occasionally to prevent the pasta from becoming too sticky. You can also add a splash of milk or cream to the dish if it becomes too dry. The slow cooker is a great way to make macaroni cheese because it allows the flavors to meld together slowly and evenly.