35 Must-Have Delicious Dishes and Desserts Starting with M

Get ready for a yummy journey with 35 tasty dishes and desserts, starting with the letter “M”!

From delicious meals to sweet treats, this list will make your taste buds happy. Whether you like old favorites or want to try something new, there’s lots to enjoy here.

Explore different kinds of food and find your new favorite dish or dessert that starts with “M.”!

With a mix of familiar flavors and exciting options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

So, indulge in some tasty culinary delights and treat yourself to a delightful adventure through the letter “M”!

1. Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese, or simply mac and cheese, is a classic comfort food loved by many.

This dish consists of cooked macaroni pasta mixed with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, often made with cheddar or a blend of cheeses.

It can be baked or served as a stovetop dish, and variations may include additional ingredients like breadcrumbs, bacon, or vegetables.

Mac and cheese is popular in the United States and has become a staple in American cuisine.

2. Meatloaf

Meatloaf is a savory dish made from ground meat, usually beef, combined with breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, and various seasonings.

The mixture is shaped into a loaf and baked in the oven, often topped with a glaze or sauce for added flavor.

Meatloaf is a hearty and satisfying meal that can be served with various side dishes, such as mashed potatoes or vegetables.

This dish is particularly popular in the United States and Germany.

3. Moussaka

Moussaka is a traditional Greek dish consisting of layers of eggplant, ground meat (usually lamb or beef), and a creamy béchamel sauce.

The eggplant slices are typically fried or baked before being layered with the meat sauce, flavored with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and spices like cinnamon and allspice.

The dish is topped with a rich béchamel sauce and baked until golden brown.

Moussaka is a beloved dish in Greece and other parts of the Balkans.

4. Miso Soup

Miso soup is a traditional Japanese soup made with a base of dashi (a broth made from kelp and bonito flakes) and miso paste, which is made from fermented soybeans.

The soup often includes ingredients such as tofu, seaweed, and green onions, adding texture and flavor to the dish.

Miso soup is known for its savory, umami taste and is often served as a starter or side dish in Japanese cuisine.

This comforting soup is enjoyed throughout Japan and has gained popularity worldwide.

5. Mapo Tofu

Mapo tofu is a spicy and flavorful Chinese dish in Sichuan province. It consists of soft tofu cubes simmered in a savory and tangy sauce made with fermented bean paste (doubanjiang), chili oil, ground pork, and Sichuan peppercorns.

The dish is known for its bold flavors, balanced spiciness, and umami taste.

Mapo tofu is often served with steamed rice and is a popular dish in Sichuan cuisine and throughout China.

6. Meatballs

Meatballs are a versatile dish made from ground meat, typically beef or pork, mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, and various herbs and spices.

The mixture is shaped into small balls and cooked by frying, baking, or simmering in a sauce.

Meatballs are enjoyed in many cuisines worldwide, with variations like Swedish meatballs, Italian meatballs in tomato sauce, and Turkish kofte.

They can be served as an appetizer, main course, or added to soups and stews.

7. Manjū

Manjū is a traditional Japanese confection made from wheat flour, rice powder, and buckwheat. It is filled with sweet red bean paste (anko).

The dough is shaped into small, round buns and then steamed, resulting in a soft and slightly chewy texture.

Manjū can also be filled with other ingredients like chestnuts, sweet potato, or matcha-flavored bean paste.

This sweet treat is often enjoyed with green tea and is a popular snack in Japan.

8. Marzipan

Marzipan is a sweet confection made from ground almonds, sugar, egg whites, or glucose syrup.

The ingredients are mixed into a smooth paste, which can be molded into various shapes, used as a filling for chocolates, or rolled out to cover cakes.

Marzipan originated in the Middle East and has become popular in many European countries, particularly Germany and Spain.

It is often decorated with food coloring and used in traditional holiday sweets.

9. Mousse

Mousse is a light and airy dessert made from whipped egg whites or cream flavored with chocolate, fruit, or other ingredients.

The key to a perfect mousse is its smooth, creamy texture and delicate flavor. Chocolate mousse is a classic favorite, but other popular variations include lemon, raspberry, and caramel.

Mousse can be served independently or as a filling for cakes and pastries. It is a beloved dessert in French cuisine and is enjoyed worldwide.

10. Madeleines

Madeleines are small, spongy cakes with a distinctive shell-like shape, originating from the Lorraine region of France.

These delicate cakes are made with flour, sugar, eggs, and butter and flavored with lemon zest or vanilla.

Madeleines are known for their soft, buttery texture and slightly crisp edges. They are often enjoyed as a snack or paired with tea or coffee.

These charming little cakes have become an iconic French treat recognized and adored worldwide.

11. Macarons

Macarons are delicate French sandwich cookies made from almond flour, egg whites, and sugar. The cookies have a crisp exterior and a soft, chewy interior, with a smooth filling sandwiched between them.

Macarons come in various flavors and colors, ranging from classic vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous options like lavender, green tea, or passionfruit.

These elegant cookies have become a global sensation and are particularly associated with Parisian patisseries.

12. Muffins

Muffins are individual-sized, quick breads typically baked in a muffin tin. They can be sweet or savory and are often flavored with fruits, nuts, chocolate chips, or cheese.

Popular sweet variations include blueberry, banana nut, and chocolate chip muffins, while savory options might feature ingredients like bacon, cheddar, or herbs.

Muffins are a beloved breakfast treat or snack in many countries, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom.

13. Mulligatawny Soup

Mulligatawny soup is a curried soup that originated in India during British colonial rule. The soup typically contains chicken or lamb, vegetables like carrots and onions, and aromatic spices such as curry powder, cumin, and coriander.

The soup is often thickened with rice or lentils and finished with cream or coconut milk.

Mulligatawny soup has become popular in the United Kingdom and other parts of the world, with various regional adaptations.

14. Mole Sauce

Mole sauce is a complex and flavorful Mexican sauce made from ingredients that typically include chili peppers, nuts, seeds, spices, and chocolate.

The most famous variation is mole poblano, which originated in Puebla. Mole sauces can range in color from black to red and yellow, depending on the ingredients used.

They are often served over chicken, turkey, or pork and are a staple in Mexican cuisine, particularly during special occasions and holidays.

15. Masala Dosa

Masala dosa is a popular South Indian breakfast dish with a crispy, savory crepe from fermented rice and lentil batter stuffed with a spiced potato filling.

The crepe is typically served with coconut chutney and sambar, a lentil-based vegetable stew.

Masala dosas are known for their large size and are often enjoyed as a hearty and satisfying meal. This dish is beloved throughout South India and has gained popularity in other parts of the country and worldwide.

16. Mooncakes

Mooncakes are traditional Chinese pastries enjoyed during the Mid-Autumn Festival. These dense, round cakes are typically filled with sweet lotus seed paste or red bean paste and may contain salted egg yolks.

The cakes are often imprinted with intricate designs and Chinese characters symbolizing good fortune and longevity.

Mooncakes are given as gifts and shared among family and friends during the festival, which celebrates the full moon and the harvest season.

17. Mămăligă

Mămăligă is a traditional Romanian dish made from yellow cornmeal, similar to polenta. The cornmeal is boiled in water or milk until it thickens into a dense, porridge-like consistency.

Mămăligă is often served as a side dish alongside hearty stews, sausages, or cheese and can be sliced and fried for a crispy texture.

This humble yet comforting dish is a staple in Romanian cuisine and is also enjoyed in other parts of Eastern Europe.

18. Manti

Manti are small, savory dumplings popular in Turkish and Central Asian cuisines. They are typically filled with spiced ground meat, lamb or beef, and onions.

They are steamed or boiled and served with garlic yogurt sauce and hot paprika or chili oil sprinkled.

Manti are known for their delicate, tender texture and rich, flavorful filling. These comforting dumplings are enjoyed as a main course or a hearty appetizer.

19. Moo Goo Gai Pan

Moo Goo Gai Pan is a Chinese-American dish with stir-fried chicken, mushrooms, and vegetables in a light, savory sauce.

The name translates to “mushroom and chicken slices” in Cantonese. The dish typically features tender chicken breast, button mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and snow peas, quickly stir-fried in a wok with garlic, ginger, and a mild white sauce.

Moo Goo Gai Pan is a popular menu item in Chinese-American restaurants and is enjoyed for its simple yet satisfying flavors.

20. Mochi

Mochi is a Japanese cake from glutinous rice pounded into a smooth, sticky paste. The paste is then molded into small, round cakes that can be enjoyed independently or filled with sweet ingredients like red bean paste, strawberries, or ice cream.

Mochi is often served during Japanese New Year celebrations and is a popular treat yearly.

Mochi’s soft, chewy texture and delicate flavor have made it a beloved confection in Japan and beyond.

21. Matzo Ball Soup

Matzo ball soup is a traditional Jewish dish consisting of a clear chicken broth with large, fluffy dumplings made from matzo meal, eggs, and fat.

The matzo balls are simmered in the broth until they puff up and become tender, creating a comforting and satisfying soup.

Matzo ball soup is often served during Passover but is a beloved comfort food year-round. It is a staple in Jewish-American cuisine and has gained popularity in delis and restaurants across the United States.

22. Muhammara

Muhammara is a spicy, tangy dip or spread originating from Aleppo, Syria. It is made from roasted red peppers, walnuts, breadcrumbs, and olive oil, flavored with garlic, lemon juice, and pomegranate molasses.

The ingredients are blended into a smooth, thick paste, often served as a mezze (appetizer) alongside pita bread or vegetables.

Muhammara is known for its bold, complex flavors and has become popular in various parts of the Middle East and beyond.

23. Murgh Makhani (Butter Chicken)

Murgh Makhani, or butter chicken, is a popular Indian dish of tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce.

The chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices, then grilled or roasted before being added to the sauce, flavored with butter, cream, and aromatic herbs like garam masala, cumin, and fenugreek.

Butter chicken is known for its mild, slightly sweet flavor and velvety texture. It is often served with naan bread or basmati rice and is a beloved dish in Indian cuisine.

24. Magdalenas

Magdalenas are small, fluffy Spanish cakes similar to French madeleines. They are made with flour, sugar, eggs, olive oil, or butter and are often flavored with lemon or orange zest.

Magdalenas have a soft, spongy texture and a slightly crisp exterior and are typically baked in small, individual molds.

They are a popular breakfast treat or snack in Spain and are often enjoyed with coffee or hot chocolate.

25. Ma’amoul

Ma’amoul are traditional Middle Eastern shortbread cookies filled with dates, nuts, or occasionally figs. The dough is made from semolina flour, butter, and rose water or orange blossom water, giving the cookies a delicate, aromatic flavor.

The filled dough is pressed into decorative molds and then baked until golden brown.

Ma’amoul is often served during religious holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Easter and is enjoyed as a sweet treat throughout the Middle East and in Arab communities worldwide.

26. Malva Pudding

Malva pudding is a beloved South African dessert. It is a soft, spongy cake drenched in a warm, buttery sauce.

The cake is made with flour, sugar, eggs, and apricot jam and is flavored with vinegar and baking soda, which help create its distinctive texture.

After baking, the cake is soaked in a rich sauce made from cream, butter, sugar, and vanilla.

Malva pudding is typically served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of cream, making it a comforting and indulgent treat.

27. Migas

Migas is a traditional Spanish and Portuguese dish made from leftover bread, garlic, and olive oil. The bread is torn into small pieces and fried with garlic, olive oil, and sometimes paprika until crispy.

In some regions, migas are made with chorizo, bacon, or other meats. The dish is often a hearty breakfast or brunch, accompanied by fried eggs or grilled vegetables.

Migas is a simple yet flavorful way to use stale bread and is enjoyed in various forms throughout Spain and Portugal.

28. Medovik

Medovik is a classic Russian honey cake made from thin, honey-infused cake layers alternating with sour cream frosting.

The cake layers are made with flour, honey, eggs, and butter and are baked until golden brown. The sour cream frosting is made with sweetened sour cream and spread between layers, creating a tall, impressive dessert.

Medovik is known for its tender, slightly chewy layers and creamy, tangy frosting. It is a popular treat for special occasions and is enjoyed throughout Russia and other parts of Eastern Europe.

29. Maafe

Maafe, also known as West African peanut stew, is a hearty and flavorful dish popular in many West African countries, particularly in Senegal and Mali.

The stew typically features chicken, beef, or lamb simmered in a creamy sauce made from ground peanuts, tomatoes, and a blend of cayenne pepper, ginger, and cumin.

Vegetables such as sweet potatoes, okra, and eggplant are often added to the stew, creating a rich and satisfying meal. Maafe is usually served over rice or couscous and is a comforting and nourishing dish.

30. Machboos

Machboos is a traditional Gulf Arab rice dish popular in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates. It is a flavorful combination of spiced rice and meat, typically chicken or lamb.

The rice is cooked with a blend of aromatic spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and saffron, giving it a distinct and fragrant flavor. The meat is simmered with onions, garlic, and various spices until tender and then layered with the partially cooked rice.

The dish is then cooked further, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors of the meat and spices. Machboos is often garnished with roasted nuts, such as almonds or cashews, and served with a side of yogurt or a tomato-based sauce.

This hearty and comforting dish is a staple in Gulf cuisine and is often served during family gatherings and celebrations. Its rich flavors and satisfying combination of meat and rice make it a beloved comfort food in the region.

31. Moqueca

Moqueca is a traditional Brazilian seafood stew originating from Bahia and Espírito Santo.

This flavorful dish features a variety of seafood, such as fish, shrimp, and crab, simmered in a savory and aromatic broth made with coconut milk, palm oil, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.

The seafood is gently cooked in the broth until tender, absorbing the rich flavors of the ingredients.

Moqueca is typically served with rice, farofa (toasted cassava flour), and lime wedges on the side. This comforting and satisfying stew is a beloved dish in Brazilian cuisine, particularly in coastal regions.

32. Machacado con Huevo

Machacado con huevos is a classic Mexican breakfast dish with shredded dried beef, scrambled eggs, and various seasonings and vegetables.

To make this dish, dried beef (typically salted and shredded) is rehydrated and then sautéed with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and spices like cumin and chili powder. The seasoned beef mixture is combined with scrambled eggs, creating a flavorful and hearty dish.

Machacado con huevo is often served with warm tortillas or tortilla chips, refried beans, and salsa or pico de gallo on the side. It’s a popular and satisfying way to start the day in Mexican cuisine, especially in regions with strong ranching traditions.

The combination of savory dried beef, fluffy scrambled eggs, and a medley of vegetables and spices makes Machado con huevos a delicious and protein-rich breakfast. It’s a beloved dish showcasing Mexican culinary traditions’ bold flavors.

33. Mücver

Mücver are Turkish zucchini fritters made with grated zucchini, eggs, flour, and herbs like dill and parsley. The ingredients are mixed into a batter and then fried until golden brown and crispy.

Mücver is often served as a meze (appetizer) or snack and can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature.

They are usually accompanied by a yogurt dip or a squeeze of lemon juice, which helps balance the cake’s richness.

Mücver is a popular and delicious way to enjoy seasonal zucchini in Turkish cuisine.

34. Murtabak

Murtabak is a savory stuffed pancake or pan-fried bread popular in Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.

The dough is made from flour, egg, and water and is filled with minced meat (usually beef or chicken), onions, garlic, and spices like curry powder and cumin.

The stuffed dough is then folded into a square or rectangle and pan-fried until crispy and golden brown.

Murtabak is often served with a side of curry or a spicy dipping sauce and is enjoyed as a hearty snack or meal.

35. Mansaf

Mansaf is a traditional Jordanian dish consisting of tender lamb cooked in a fermented, dried yogurt sauce called jameed and served over a bed of rice and thin flatbread.

The lamb is slow-cooked until it falls off the bone, and the jameed sauce is rich, tangy, and slightly salty.

Mansaf is often garnished with toasted pine nuts or almonds and is served communally, with guests gathering around a large platter to enjoy the meal together.

This hearty and flavorful dish is considered Jordan’s national dish and is often prepared for special occasions and celebrations.

Final Thoughts

This delightful collection of 35 must-have dishes and desserts that start with the letter “M” has taken us on a flavorful journey worldwide.

These recipes showcase the incredible diversity of global cuisine, from classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and meatloaf to exotic delights such as manti and mansaf.

Whether you’re a fan of tangy main courses or sweet treats, this list has something for everyone.

So, what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and start whipping up these tasty dishes today!

Don’t forget to share your favorite “M” recipes in the comments below, and be sure to check out our other culinary adventures for more tasty inspiration.

Happy cooking and bon appétit!