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Italian & takeout · Wine pairing

What wine goes with mac and cheese?

Cheesy, comforting mac loves a crisp white or sparkling wine to cut the richness, or a buttery Chardonnay to match it.

The rule: Cut it (acid, bubbles) or match it (creamy Chardonnay).

By Rate This Wine editors · Updated · How we rate

Mac and cheese

The 3 best wines with mac and cheese

  1. Chardonnay

    1 Chardonnay Full-bodied white (oaked) or crisp (unoaked)

    Creamy, buttery Chardonnay doubles down on the comfort.

    Serve 48-55°F Good bottles from $12; top Burgundy $50+

  2. Champagne

    2 Champagne Dry sparkling wine

    Bubbles slice through the cheese: a great high-low pairing.

    Serve 43-48°F Non-vintage from $35; vintage $70+

  3. Sauvignon Blanc

    3 Sauvignon Blanc Light, crisp white

    Zesty acidity refreshes between rich bites.

    Serve 45-50°F From $10; Sancerre $25+

Best on a budget: Cava or a Chilean Sauvignon Blanc.

Also good

CavaPinot NoirRosé

What to avoid

  • Big, tannic reds. Cheese and tannin can clash.

It depends how you cook it

If you’re having…Pour
With baconPinot Noir or rosé.
Lobster macOaked Chardonnay.

Frequently asked questions

What wine goes with mac and cheese?

Chardonnay or sparkling wine. For a red, choose a light Pinot Noir.

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