Wondering What Goes with Mac and Cheese? Here Are 32 Sides That Make It a Meal

A spicy, crunchy vegetable side is a welcome accompaniment to all that gooey cheese.

No one will mind if these balsamic-laced vegetables mingle with the macaroni entrée.

The strawberries are macerated in vinegar and honey beforehand, so the dressing practically makes itself.

Since this side dish is cooked in a parchment parcel (aka en papillote), there’s almost no cleanup.

Take it a step further and serve the meatballs on top of the mac and cheese. (You’re welcome.)

It’s creamy, crisp and vegan-optional.

Slice it into strips then watch it disappear in a flash.

These are a few of our favorite things.

Lettuce is great, but we’re really here for the toppings.

Finger foods always have the edge—it’s just a fact.

These sweet and tangy flavors pair deliciously with gooey mac and cheese.

It’s saucy, savory and ready to eat in just 20 minutes. (Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up zucchini.)

Meat, vegetables and pasta? That’s what we call balanced.

Cheesy mac and crisp salad are a match made in heaven.

Psst: To shortcut this salad, seek out vacuum-packed cooked beets at the supermarket.

You’ll need something crispy to go with all that creamy.

We can’t get over these cuties. The pepper boats are optional but highly encouraged.

It’s ready in just 30 minutes.

This sharp, vinegary dressing was literally created to complement melty cheese.

We love a good high-low pairing, not to mention the sweet-savory combination of winter squash and macaroni.

Not today, dishes.

Potato chips won’t know what’s coming.

It’s impossibly easy and adds a boost of protein to your pasta dinner.

We love pairing pasta with something crunchy.

We love the combination of sweet, spicy and sour.

Tomatoes and cheese are a natural duo.

FYI, you can totally make it in advance.

We love no-cook recipes.

Bonus: They can be frozen for three months.

Cremini + garlic + salt + vinegar = bliss.

You can’t go wrong with something spicy and sautéed.

Even the kids will want seconds of this easy, saucy side.