What to Serve with Tacos (Besides Rice and Beans)
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If you’re tired of serving the same old side dishes with your beloved tacos we’ve got you covered! While rice and beans are classic Mexican side dishes for tacos, they can get boring after a while. And tacos deserve more than that, right?!
Longtime readers know my love of tacos runs deep. But it’s not just me – they’re a beloved staple in many households.
And for good reason – this Mexican food favorite is easy to make, simple to customize and tastes oh-so-delicious.
Over the years I’ve made them with a variety of different taco fillings. And I’ve made other main course dishes that feature that delicious taco flavor like taco salad, taco soup, walking taco bake and walking tacos. And one of my favorite ways to feed a crowd is the taco bar party. Did I mention my love of tacos?
There’s no need to stick with traditional Mexican sides like rice and refried beans when there are so many tasty side dishes to complement your favorite tacos. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, cheesy, or zesty, we’ve got side dishes to please the whole family.
More taco flavored recipes…
If you’re looking to mix things up and add variety to your Taco Tuesday nights or Cinco de Mayo menu, you’re in luck. I’m sharing a variety of tasty side dishes to serve with tacos that go beyond the traditional Mexican rice and refried beans.
Expand your taco night horizons and skip the rice and beans with these creative and delicious taco sides to round out your Mexican meal.
MORE EASY
Mexican Inspired Recipes
While rice and beans are delicious side dishes for tacos, there are so many other flavorful and exciting options to make a complete meal. With a bit of creativity you can take your taco meals to the next level by pairing them with unique and complementary sides.
Whether you opt for refreshing salads, zesty salsas, or cheesy quesadillas, the possibilities are endless. So next time you’re planning a taco night, don’t be afraid to switch things up and try something new!
**Save What to Eat with Tacos Besides Rice and Beans for Later**
Sides to Go With Tacos Besides Rice and Beans
Sides for Taco Night That Aren't Rice and Beans
Round out your Mexican dinner, taco party or Taco Tuesday meal with these delicious sides that aren't rice and beans.
Sweet Potato Wedges
Tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, these scratch-made sweet potato wedges are ready in about 30 minutes.
Fruit Cocktail Salad
This easy fruit salad is made with a combination of fresh and canned fruits and is a tasty addition to your taco dinner.
Homemade Cornbread Muffins
This easy recipe is made with basic ingredients and requires just 5 minutes of prep. Sometimes I add diced jalapeno peppers or green chiles for a little heat.
6-Ingredient Fiesta Salad
A hearty salad made with bell peppers, red onion, chopped tomato, corn, and black beans and takes just 10 minutes to prepare. Serve with tortilla chips for a quick side dish.
Mexican Street Corn
This beloved Mexican dish features roasted sweet corn slathered in mayonnaise and Parmesan or Cotija cheese and sprinkled with cayenne pepper for a little heat.
Ambrosia Salad with Cool Whip
Cool off your taste buds with this creamy fruit salad. Just 5 minutes to prep and then chill for an hour.
Homemade Taco Bell Baja Sauce
This fast food favorite copycat recipe is a great way to top off your tacos. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for tortilla chips and corn chips.
Easy Crudite Board (with Veggie Dip)
There's nothing easier to put together than a veggie tray and it complements any main dish meal. A homemade sour cream based dip recipe is included.
Country Style Potato Salad
This Southern classic is a great option to serve with tacos. The mayo-based dressing is the perfect counterpart to spicy dishes.
Roasted Pineapple Rings
Serve as a side dish or add chopped pineapple to mango salsa or put it on top of your tacos.
Quinoa Chickpea Salad
A hearty salad made with brown rice, quinoa, garbanzo beans, fresh chopped vegetables and a scratch-made dressing.
Jalapeno Poppers
Spicy jalapenos stuffed with a creamy filling and wrapped in crescent roll dough or bacon. Leave the eyes off for a less spooky version.
California Slaw
Made with simple ingredients, this refreshing slaw is a nice change from traditional mayo-based coleslaw recipes.
Crispy Tater Tots
Tater tots go with everything! And making frozen tots in the air fryer means you don't have to turn on the oven.
Favorite Pasta Salad
Tender pasta mixed with tomatoes, onions, black olives, cheese cubes and a homemade vinaigrette.
The BEST Simple Southern Coleslaw Recipe
This simple coleslaw recipe is made with fresh cabbage and carrots and includes a homemade creamy, tangy dressing.
Katie's Cornbread Casserole
An oldie but a goodie, this is a longtime family favorite side dish. It can also be made ahead of time.
Tequila Sunrise Jello Shots
Make these pretty shots ahead of time and serve to your adult guests. A non-alcoholic version is included for younger guests.
Coconut Lime Sugar Cookies
You'll love the combination of creamy coconut and zesty lime in this easy sugar cookie recipe.
Strawberry Marshmallow Cookies
These easy semi-homemade cookies remind me of those yummy Mexican marshmallow cookies you find at the grocery store.
