22 Mac And Cheese Toppings To Try

Macaroni and cheese is a dish I have loved since childhood. It is the ultimate comfort food. Who doesn’t like pasta slathered in cheese sauce?

I make it for my kids now too. Whether made from the beloved box mix, a frozen box, from scratch, or ordered at a restaurant, mac and cheese is super versatile and can be made to anyone’s taste.

If you’re looking to add some additional protein, vitamins, flavor, or excitement, there are so many mac and cheese toppings to try. The possibilities are endless.

Here, I’ll review and give you some ideas for meat, vegetable, and other delicious ways to top your mac and cheese.

When you want to turn a bowl of macaroni and cheese into an indulgent treat or a satisfying, complete meal, try some of these toppings on their own or mix and match.

Lobster

Lobster brings a rich, delicate flavor to mac and cheese, adding a touch of seafood sweetness to the creamy dish. Its tender texture contrasts beautifully with the smooth, cheesy sauce, creating a satisfying bite every time. Using pre-cooked lobster from the store makes it easy to enjoy without the hassle of cooking it from scratch.

The natural sweetness of lobster balances the savory depth of the cheese, making each bite well-rounded. Whether paired with sharp cheddar or a creamy gouda, it blends effortlessly into the dish.

For extra texture, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs or a dash of paprika adds the perfect finishing touch.

Scallions

Scallions bring a fresh, mildly sharp flavor to mac and cheese, balancing the richness of the cheese with a hint of onion-like brightness. The white portion offers a gentle bite, while the darker green adds a subtle freshness that enhances every forkful. Their crisp texture contrasts with the creamy pasta, making the dish feel lighter and more flavorful.

This versatile topping works with any mac and cheese recipe, complementing both classic and bold variations. Whether paired with smoky bacon, spicy jalapeños, or savory mushrooms, scallions blend seamlessly.

For the best result, slice them thinly and sprinkle just before serving to maintain their crispness.

Corn

Corn brings a natural sweetness and slight crunch to mac and cheese, making it a deliciously simple way to enhance the dish. Whether using canned, fresh, or frozen, corn blends effortlessly with the creamy cheese sauce. Roasting fresh corn on the cob before cutting off the kernels adds a hint of smokiness, deepening the flavor and providing a satisfying contrast to the rich, cheesy base.

For an extra smooth and velvety consistency, stir in a can of creamed corn while mixing the ingredients. This adds a layer of creaminess that complements the melted cheese, making each bite even more satisfying. The combination of cheese and corn creates a well-balanced dish with just the right amount of sweetness and texture.

No matter how it’s prepared, corn is a versatile topping that pairs well with other ingredients like crispy bacon or fresh scallions. Whether mixed in or sprinkled on top, it brings warmth and depth to the dish, turning a simple bowl of mac and cheese into a comforting, flavorful meal.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes add a bright, tangy contrast to mac and cheese, helping to balance the richness of the cheese with their natural acidity. Their juicy texture and slight sweetness enhance the dish, creating a well-rounded bite. Whether using fresh, canned, or roasted tomatoes, they bring a refreshing element that lightens up the creamy base without overpowering it.

Baking sliced tomatoes on top of a pan of mac and cheese allows their juices to blend with the cheese sauce, adding depth and a slight caramelized flavor. For a chunkier texture, mixing in canned diced tomatoes provides bursts of flavor throughout the dish.

For a fresh and simple option, halved grape tomatoes tossed in salt, pepper, and oil make a great finishing touch. Their vibrant taste and slight firmness contrast beautifully with the smooth, cheesy pasta, making every bite more satisfying.

Cauliflower

Cauliflower is a versatile addition to mac and cheese, offering a mild, slightly nutty flavor that blends well with the creamy cheese sauce. Its texture provides a satisfying contrast, whether roasted, crumbled, or used as a pasta substitute. This nutrient-rich vegetable adds a subtle depth to the dish without overpowering the classic cheesy taste.

For a crispy topping, toast crumbled cauliflower florets with oil and sprinkle them over the mac and cheese like breadcrumbs. This adds a slight crunch while keeping the dish light. Roasting cauliflower with seasoning and spooning it on top enhances its natural sweetness, creating a delicious contrast.

For a gluten-free twist, some people replace pasta entirely with cauliflower, making a lower-carb version of the dish. No matter how it’s prepared, cauliflower brings texture and flavor that complement mac and cheese in a unique and satisfying way.

Shrimp

Shrimp adds a delicate seafood flavor to mac and cheese, making it a great alternative to lobster for a more affordable yet equally delicious option. Whether using fresh or frozen, its slightly sweet and tender texture pairs well with the creamy cheese sauce. The mild taste of shrimp allows it to blend effortlessly with different seasonings, making it a versatile addition to the dish.

For a simple yet flavorful topping, try sautéing shrimp with garlic and butter before adding it to the mac and cheese. This enhances its natural sweetness while complementing the richness of the cheese. Fried or grilled shrimp can also add a bit of texture, creating a more dynamic bite.

If you’re looking for a seafood twist that the whole family will enjoy, shrimp is a great choice. It brings a unique depth to the dish without being too overpowering, making it a perfect addition for both kids and adults alike.

Beans

Beans add a hearty texture and rich flavor to mac and cheese, making the dish more filling and satisfying. Their soft yet slightly firm bite contrasts well with the creamy cheese sauce, creating a balanced and enjoyable texture. Whether mashed slightly or left whole, beans add a comforting element that enhances every bite.

Their natural earthiness pairs well with the savory depth of melted cheese, allowing the flavors to blend smoothly. As they absorb the sauce, beans take on a creamy consistency while still offering a bit of structure to the dish. This makes them a great addition without overpowering the classic mac and cheese taste.

For extra depth, try adding seasoned beans that bring a mild spice or smoky undertone. Whether stirred in or sprinkled on top, they provide a satisfying boost of flavor and texture, turning a simple dish into something heartier and more substantial.

Pulled Pork

Pulled pork brings a rich, smoky flavor to mac and cheese, creating a perfect balance between tender meat and creamy cheese. The slow-cooked texture of the pork melts into the dish, adding a satisfying heartiness that makes each bite more indulgent. Whether homemade or store-bought, it enhances the depth of flavor with its savory and slightly sweet taste.

For a delicious finishing touch, sprinkle sauced pulled pork over the top of oven-baked mac and cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. This allows the pork to crisp up slightly without drying out, adding a slight crunch that contrasts with the creamy pasta.

As the sauce mingles with the melted cheese, it creates an extra layer of flavor that ties everything together. The result is a comforting and flavorful dish that feels both familiar and indulgent, perfect for a cozy meal or special gathering.

Hotdogs

Hotdogs bring a nostalgic and satisfying twist to mac and cheese, adding a smoky, savory bite that pairs well with the creamy pasta. Their slightly salty flavor complements the richness of the cheese sauce, making for a comforting and familiar combination that appeals to all ages. Slicing them into bite-sized pieces ensures each forkful has the perfect balance of flavors.

For extra depth, fry the hotdog slices on the stovetop until they develop a golden-brown color. This enhances their taste and gives them a slightly crisp texture, adding contrast to the soft pasta. The caramelization also brings out a hint of sweetness, balancing the dish beautifully.

To finish, top the mac and cheese with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar after adding the hotdogs. The extra cheese melts into the dish, tying everything together for a warm, satisfying meal that’s both simple and delicious.

Bacon Bits

Bacon bits bring a smoky, salty crunch to mac and cheese, making each bite more flavorful and satisfying. Their crispy texture contrasts perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce, adding a delicious depth that enhances the dish. Whether using real bacon or an imitation alternative, they provide a savory boost that complements the richness of the pasta.

For the best flavor, cook thick-cut bacon until crispy, then crumble it over the mac and cheese just before serving. This ensures the bacon stays crunchy while its smoky aroma infuses the dish. The bits can be mixed in for an even distribution of flavor or sprinkled on top for a crispy finish.

Store-bought bacon bits are also a convenient option, offering a quick way to add texture and taste. No matter which type you choose, bacon bits bring a satisfying, savory touch that makes mac and cheese even more irresistible.

Ground Beef

Ground beef adds a hearty, savory element to mac and cheese, creating a dish reminiscent of a classic cheeseburger. Its rich, meaty flavor blends well with the creamy cheese sauce, making the meal more filling and satisfying. The slightly crispy, browned bits of beef provide a delicious contrast to the smooth texture of the pasta.

For the best results, cook the ground beef while the macaroni boils, breaking it up into small pieces to ensure even distribution. Once fully cooked, drain the excess fat before mixing it with the mac and cheese. This step keeps the dish from becoming too greasy while allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.

Mushroom

Mushrooms bring a deep, earthy flavor to mac and cheese, adding a rich umami taste that enhances the creamy cheese sauce. Their tender texture pairs well with the soft pasta, creating a balanced bite with every forkful. Whether using fresh, canned, or frozen mushrooms, they add an extra layer of flavor that makes the dish even more satisfying.

For a quick and easy addition, sprinkle canned or cooked frozen mushrooms over mac and cheese before serving. Their mild, savory taste blends seamlessly with the cheese, making for a comforting and flavorful combination. If you prefer a heartier texture, sauté fresh mushrooms in butter until golden brown before adding them in.

For a creamy twist, try pan-frying baby Bella mushrooms and stirring them into mac and cheese with a jar of Alfredo sauce. This adds a velvety, rich layer to the dish, making it even more indulgent and perfect for a cozy meal.

Bean Sprouts

Bean sprouts add a crisp, refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of mac and cheese. Their mild flavor allows them to blend seamlessly into the dish while providing a satisfying crunch. This unexpected topping brings a light and fresh element, making the dish feel less heavy without taking away from its comforting richness.

For a simple addition, toss a handful of fresh bean sprouts over the finished mac and cheese just before serving. Their crisp texture stands out against the smooth cheese sauce, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. If you prefer a warm topping, lightly sauté them for a softer texture while maintaining their signature crunch.

For a baked variation, spread a layer of bean sprouts over the mac and cheese before adding extra cheese on top. This method lets the sprouts absorb some of the cheesy goodness while keeping a slightly crisp bite. It’s a unique way to bring texture and freshness to a classic dish.

Crumbled Cheez-Its

Crumbled Cheez-Its bring an extra layer of cheesy flavor and a satisfying crunch to mac and cheese. Their bold, salty taste enhances the creamy sauce, creating a dish that’s even more rich and flavorful. The crisp texture of the crackers makes every bite more interesting, adding a bit of contrast to the smooth pasta.

For a baked version, crush Cheez-Its and use them as a topping in place of breadcrumbs. Sprinkle them over mac and cheese before popping it in the oven for a crispy, golden crust. The crackers toast slightly as they bake, deepening their flavor while keeping a crunchy bite.

If you prefer a quicker option, simply crumble Cheez-Its and sprinkle them over a finished bowl of mac and cheese. This keeps them extra crisp and lets everyone add as much or as little as they like. It’s a fun topping that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Kielbasa

Kielbasa is a flavorful addition to mac and cheese, bringing a smoky, savory taste that complements the creamy cheese sauce. Its rich, meaty texture contrasts well with the soft pasta, making every bite more satisfying. This sausage offers a slightly more refined take on the classic hotdog-and-mac combination, perfect for those looking to enhance their dish with a deeper flavor.

For the best results, slice the kielbasa into bite-sized coins and pan-fry them until they develop a golden, slightly crispy exterior. This step intensifies the smoky flavor while adding a bit of texture. The caramelized edges create a delicious contrast to the smooth cheese sauce.

Once cooked, mix the kielbasa into the mac and cheese or layer it on top for a bold, hearty twist. It pairs well with both traditional cheddar-based sauces and unique varieties like gouda or spicy pepper jack. This simple addition transforms mac and cheese into a more filling, flavorful meal.

Fried Chicken

Fried chicken and mac and cheese make for a comforting, flavor-packed pairing. The crispy, seasoned coating of the chicken contrasts perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce, creating a satisfying balance of texture and taste. The savory, well-seasoned chicken enhances the richness of the dish, making each bite more indulgent.

Shred leftover fried chicken and sprinkle it over a warm bowl of mac and cheese. The crunchy coating blends into the dish while the juicy meat soaks up the cheesy goodness. It’s an easy way to repurpose leftovers into something new and exciting.

For extra flavor, drizzle a bit of hot sauce or honey over the top. The slight kick of spice or a touch of sweetness can bring out the flavors even more, making this combination an irresistible twist on two comfort food favorites.

Diced Ham

Diced ham is a simple yet flavorful addition to mac and cheese, bringing a salty, slightly smoky taste that balances well with the creamy cheese sauce. The soft yet firm texture of ham adds a bit of chew, making each bite more satisfying. It’s an easy way to enhance a basic dish with minimal effort.

Leftover ham from a holiday meal or brunch works perfectly for this topping. Cut it into bite-sized pieces and mix it into the mac and cheese for an even distribution of flavor. The heat from the dish will warm the ham, blending it seamlessly into the cheese.

If you’re short on ingredients, even thinly sliced deli ham can do the trick. Just chop it up and toss it in for an extra boost of protein and saltiness. Whether using leftovers or something straight from the fridge, diced ham is an easy, delicious upgrade to mac and cheese.

Grated Parmesan

Grated Parmesan is a simple yet effective way to enhance mac and cheese with extra richness and depth. Its salty, nutty flavor cuts through the creaminess of the sauce, creating a balanced bite. Whether using pre-grated Parmesan or fresh shavings from a wedge, this topping brings a satisfying contrast to classic cheddar or American cheese-based dishes.

A generous sprinkle of Parmesan melts slightly into the warm mac and cheese, adding another layer of texture. Its fine, crumbly consistency ensures every forkful has a hint of its distinct taste.

For an even bolder flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan. The delicate shavings will dissolve into the dish, adding both saltiness and a slight umami kick. It’s a simple way to turn an everyday mac and cheese into something even more flavorful.

Grilled Onions

Grilled onions bring a deep, caramelized sweetness to mac and cheese, balancing out the richness of the cheese sauce. Their slightly smoky, charred edges enhance the dish, adding both flavor and texture. Whether you use red, white, or yellow onions, grilling them softens their sharpness while bringing out their natural sugars.

Adding grilled onions is also a great way to use up extras from a cookout or leftover slices from a previous meal. Their soft, buttery consistency blends well with the creamy pasta, making each bite more flavorful.

They pair well with many other toppings, from bacon to ground beef, or can be enjoyed on their own for a simple yet satisfying twist on classic mac and cheese.

Jalapeños

Jalapeños bring a bold, spicy kick to mac and cheese, adding contrast to the creamy, cheesy base. Whether fresh or canned, their bright heat enhances each bite without overpowering the dish. Slicing them thinly allows for just the right amount of spice, while roasting or sautéing them can mellow their intensity.

For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and inner ribs before adding them to your mac and cheese. This keeps the pepper’s zesty taste while toning down the heat. Their crisp texture also provides a pleasant contrast to the softness of the pasta.

To elevate the dish further, pair jalapeños with toasted breadcrumbs for crunch or add dollops of cream cheese for a jalapeño popper-inspired twist.

Roasted Red Peppers

Roasted red peppers bring a touch of sweetness and a hint of smokiness that complement the creamy richness of mac and cheese. Their soft texture blends seamlessly with the pasta, adding a subtle depth of flavor. Whether store-bought or homemade, they provide a mild contrast to the savory cheese sauce.

For a homemade version, roast whole red peppers in the oven or over a gas flame until the skin blackens, then peel and slice them. This enhances their natural sweetness and makes them even more flavorful.

They work well on their own but also pair beautifully with Kielbasa and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a heartier dish.

Truffle Oil

Truffle oil adds a rich, earthy depth to mac and cheese, turning a simple dish into something luxurious. Its intense aroma enhances the creamy cheese sauce, creating a bold yet balanced flavor. A drizzle of truffle oil can make even the most basic mac and cheese feel gourmet.

This ingredient pairs exceptionally well with a white cheese sauce made from a mix of white cheddar and Gruyère. The sharp, nutty flavors of the cheese complement the deep, umami notes of truffle oil beautifully.

Since truffle oil is quite potent, use it sparingly. It also works wonderfully with mushrooms and chicken for an extra indulgent touch.