Mac And Cheese: The Perfect Drink Pairing

Macaroni and cheese is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of drinks. While some might argue that nothing goes well with it, others suggest that a wide range of beverages can complement this dish. From milk and chocolate milk to beer, water, and wine, there are many options to explore. Wine enthusiasts, in particular, have suggested several varieties that pair well with macaroni and cheese, enhancing the dining experience.

Chardonnay

Classic Macaroni and Cheese

For a classic macaroni and cheese dish, be it with or without spice, an unoaked or lightly oaked Chardonnay is the perfect choice. The vibrant acidity and texture of the wine create a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the macaroni and cheese. The acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese, refreshing your palate and enhancing the overall flavour experience.

Seafood Extravaganza

If you're indulging in a decadent macaroni and cheese with seafood, such as lobster, crab, or truffles, reach for a Chardonnay with a bit more oak and depth. A posh white Burgundy or a Chardonnay from California with notes of vanilla, toast, butter, and smoke will beautifully complement the luxurious ingredients in your dish. The oak and minerality in these Chardonnays will also work in harmony with the subtle briny notes of seafood.

Vegetable Medley

When macaroni and cheese is loaded with vegetables, a Chardonnay with bright acidity and floral notes is ideal. Look for a Chardonnay that offers a combination of yellow flowers, peaches, and crisp apple flavours. These characteristics will enhance the freshness of the vegetables while still providing a rich and satisfying wine experience.

Simple and Creamy

For a simple, creamy macaroni and cheese, a light and unoaked Chardonnay is the safest bet. This style of Chardonnay often presents vibrant acidity and a smooth texture, creating a harmonious pairing with the creamy sauce and chewy pasta. It won't overpower the dish but instead highlight the sharpness of cheeses like aged cheddar or smoked gouda.

Indulgent and Rich

If your macaroni and cheese is an indulgent, rich creation, perhaps with a blend of dehydrated cheese, a French Chardonnay from Chablis is an excellent choice. Chablis combines richness with zippy acidity and minerality. The tangy, tart finish of Chablis contrasts the fatty, carby richness of the dish, creating a perfect balance. The flavours of Granny Smith apples and citrus in Chablis also beautifully balance the decadence of creamy casseroles.

So, the next time you're serving up a bowl of macaroni and cheese, remember that Chardonnay is a versatile and delightful pairing option. From classic to extravagant recipes, Chardonnay's acidity, texture, and oak characteristics will either complement or contrast your dish, ensuring a memorable and scrumptious dining experience.

Dry Riesling

Riesling is an aromatic white wine hailing from Alsace, the Grand-Est region of France that borders both Germany and Switzerland. It has been used in Alsacian cooking for centuries. It transforms chicken, bacon, and mushrooms in the aptly named coq au Riesling, and can help create a rich sauce for spaetzle, an Alsatian noodle dish very similar to macaroni and cheese.

Unlike Pinot Blanc or Chardonnay, Dry Riesling can give your mac and cheese a slightly acidic and zingy taste with a hint of citrus to balance out the creamy sauce. By replacing some of the full-fat milk or cream in your mac and cheese recipe with Dry Riesling, you can create a lighter cream sauce, perfect for serving in the summer.

A general rule of thumb when cooking with Dry Riesling or any alcohol is to boil off the alcohol content to mellow any harshness. This can be done by either deglazing the pan with Dry Riesling or setting the booze alight, also known as flambé, to evaporate the excess alcohol. According to Didier Roeckel, chef at restaurant La Couronne in Scherwill, Alsace, the addition of Dry Riesling produces acide résiduel, which essentially means achieving a slightly acidic taste. This technique can result in a light and slightly citrusy sauce for those looking to give their mac and cheese recipe a revamp.

Spanish Grenache

Macaroni and cheese is a versatile dish that can be paired with various drinks, depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. While some might enjoy a simple glass of white wine with their mac and cheese, others may prefer a more extravagant option like a bold red or a refreshing cocktail.

If you're looking for a wine that will complement the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese, a Spanish Grenache, also known as Garnacha, could be an excellent choice. Grenache is a grape variety native to Spain and is known for producing full-bodied, soft, and low-acidity wines. The grape is widely planted in Spain, with notable regions including Campo de Borja, Priorat, and Rioja.

When it comes to food pairings, Grenache shines with its ability to stand up to big flavours. It is an ideal companion for robust braises and stews, especially those with dark, winey sauces. The wine's full body and soft texture make it a perfect match for slow-cooked roasts, such as pork or lamb shoulder, or lamb shanks.

For a truly memorable mac and cheese experience, consider pairing it with an elegant, spicy, and mineral-laden Grenache. Old vine Grenache, produced from vines over 50 years old, yields a much fuller-bodied and concentrated wine that can elevate the flavours of your mac and cheese. Look for wines from regions like Campo de Borja, where the Bodegas Borsao Garnacha is produced, or opt for the Bernabeleva Garnacha de Navaherreros from the Vinos de Madrid region, which offers a pinot-esque feel with fine tannins and a fresh fruity palate.

Whether you choose a young, fruit-forward Grenache or a more complex, aged wine, this versatile Spanish varietal is sure to enhance your macaroni and cheese experience. So, the next time you're craving this classic comfort food, don't forget to grab a bottle of Spanish Grenache to take it to the next level!

Milk

One variation of milk that goes well with macaroni and cheese is chocolate milk. The sweetness of the chocolate can provide a nice contrast to the savoury dish. Additionally, the combination of chocolate and cheese can create a unique and indulgent flavour profile.

Another option is to add milk to the macaroni and cheese recipe itself. Some people stir in milk during the cooking process to create a creamier and richer sauce. This can be especially useful for boxed macaroni and cheese to enhance the flavour and texture.

While milk is a popular choice, it is important to note that it may fill you up quickly due to the high dairy content when paired with macaroni and cheese. However, for those who enjoy dairy, milk can be a comforting and satisfying drink to accompany a hearty dish like macaroni and cheese.

Soft drinks

For those who enjoy a sweet and tangy combination, a glass of lemonade or a raspberry cordial can be a refreshing choice. The sharpness of lemonade can help to balance the richness of the macaroni and cheese, while raspberry cordial offers a unique twist on traditional soft drinks.

For those who prefer a more subtle approach, apple or pear juice can be a good non-alcoholic option. These juices offer a mild sweetness that won't overpower the dish, providing a pleasant complement to the cheese.

In addition, some people may opt for a glass of cold milk to accompany their meal. Milk is a traditional choice, often enjoyed by those who appreciate the combination of dairy products. However, it is important to note that the combination of milk and macaroni and cheese can be too filling for some.

Other soft drink options mentioned include orange soda, chocolate milk, and even a glass of cold water. Ultimately, the choice of soft drink depends on personal preference, as there is no definitive answer to which drink goes best with macaroni and cheese.

Frequently asked questions