Popular Food Pairings

Some foods taste like they were made to be eaten together. While each food can be eaten and enjoyed on its own, some foods are better when paired with another food. The following food combinations might be a tradition in your family.

Spaghetti and Meatballs

Some people feel like something is missing from their meal if they have spaghetti without meatballs or meat sauce. The pasta is delicious, but even better when paired with meatballs or meat sauce.

Burger and Fries

If you order a burger at some restaurants, the waitress will ask you, “Would you like fries with your burger?” There is just something about the two flavors that go well together. It doesn't even matter what type of burger you order or what type of fries you choose. This salty-and-savory comfort combo shows up together like best friends at the table.

Corned Beef and Cabbage

You do not have to be Irish to enjoy corned beef and cabbage together. You don't have to wait until St. Patrick's Day, which is celebrated on March 17. Not only that, but you can feast on the combination whenever you have a taste for both foods.

Peanut Butter and Jelly

The peanut butter and jelly sandwich is very popular among young children. They seem to never get tired of eating it. They love eating it at home for a snack and taking the sandwich to school for lunch.

Kids and some adults love the combination so much that families keep their shelves stocked with both foods. The combination is so popular that you can purchase the two foods in the same jar.

Bacon and Eggs

There are many combinations that people eat for breakfast. For instance, some people love bacon and eggs, while others love ham and eggs. Even others love sausage and eggs. Eggs seem to be the staple while paired with different meats. Corned beef hash is a good food to eat along with boiled or scrambled eggs.

Very seldom do people eat just eggs without eating something else along with them.

Fried Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Many side dishes are good to eat with chicken. For instance, some people who live in the South love to eat chicken with mashed potatoes and gravy. Add some biscuits, and you will have a finger-licking meal.

Fried chicken can also be paired with waffles. That sweet-and-savory Southern classic combination is a favorite for many consumers.

Steak and Baked Potato

Whether you like your steak well done, medium, or rare, you probably want a baked potato to eat with it.

Liver, Onions, and Gravy

Some consumers like onions and gravy, whether they are eating beef, pork, or chicken livers. Liver can be eaten alone, but the dish is so much more enhanced when onions and gravy are added.

Fish and Chips

Fish and chips is a hot dish consisting of battered and fried fish, served with chips. This pairing is often considered the national dish of the United Kingdom.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich and Tomato Soup

The grilled cheese sandwich is nice and cheesy, with a crispy outer crust. The tomato soup is warm and comforting, with a hint of acidity from the tomatoes. Together, they make the perfect comfort food, sure to please anyone at any age.

Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese (known as mac and cheese) is a pasta dish of macaroni covered in cheese sauce. The dish transcends generations, social classes, and geographical boundaries, holding a special place in the hearts and stomachs of the young and old.

Apple Pie and Cheddar Cheese

Some people love a slice of cheddar cheese on their apple pie. It's a surprising but beloved combo, especially in parts of New England and the Midwest. The sharp, savory bite of the cheese balances the sweet, spiced apple filling in a way that feels both rustic and indulgent.

Younger consumers prefer a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of their warm apple pie. In that case, the combination is called apple pie à la mode.

Add Your Favorite Pair of Foods

Do you have a favorite pair of foods? If so, feel free to add it in the comment section below. Perhaps your combination will entice someone else to try it.