What to Serve with Beef Enchiladas: 20+ Easy Side Dishes
Wondering what to serve with beef enchiladas? Don’t worry, I’ve got some great suggestions!
This tasty Mexican dish needs some tasty sides to make the meal extra special. Every time I make enchiladas, my family gets super excited about the yummy sides that go with them.
You can pick things like soft rice, creamy beans, fresh salads, or tangy salsas. The right mix of sides can turn a regular enchilada dinner into something really special.
I’ll share my go-to side dishes that will make your enchiladas the highlight of a fantastic meal.
What Are Beef Enchiladas?
These rolled corn tortillas stuffed with seasoned ground beef and smothered in red enchilada sauce are pure magic on a plate. I love how the melted cheese creates that perfect golden-brown crust on top.
What to Serve with Beef Enchiladas?
You’ve got so many delicious options to choose from! From fluffy rice and creamy beans to fresh salads and zesty salsas, I’ll show you how to build the perfect plate.
Rice Dishes
Rice is my go-to foundation for any Mexican feast. These options soak up all those amazing enchilada sauce flavors while adding their own special touch to your meal.
- Mexican Rice: Tomatoes and chicken broth give this rice its signature orange hue. I love how the carrots and peas add pops of color and extra nutrition. It’s my family’s absolute favorite!
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro transform plain white rice into something spectacular. The bright, zesty flavors cut through the richness of the enchiladas perfectly.
- Spanish Rice: Sauteed onions and garlic create an aromatic base, while diced tomatoes add a sweet tang. The subtle spices make this version extra special.
- Arroz Verde (Mexican Green Rice): Fresh poblano peppers and cilantro give this rice its beautiful green color. The mild heat and herb-forward taste add an exciting dimension to every bite.
Bean Dishes
Nothing complements enchiladas better than a side of perfectly cooked beans. They’re filling, nutritious, and absolutely delicious!
- Refried Beans: Creamy, smooth, and topped with melted cheese, this classic side dish never disappoints. I always make extra because everyone wants seconds.
- Black Beans: Seasoned with cumin and garlic, these whole beans offer a hearty texture. The slight smokiness pairs beautifully with the enchilada sauce.
- Charro Beans: Bacon adds a smoky punch to these soup-like beans. The brothy consistency is perfect for soaking up with warm tortillas.
- Borracho Beans: Beer gives these pinto beans their unique flavor. Mixed with tomatoes and spices, they’re surprisingly addictive.
Salads and Slaws
Fresh, crispy salads add a wonderful contrast to the warm, saucy enchiladas. These cool and crunchy sides bring balance to your plate.
- Avocado Tomato Salad: Chunks of ripe avocado mixed with juicy tomatoes, cucumber, and red onions in a lime dressing. I love how the creamy avocados complement the beef enchiladas.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: Sweet corn kernels tossed with creamy mayo, tangy lime juice, and crumbly cotija cheese. The chili powder adds a perfect kick that reminds me of street fairs.
- Cilantro Lime Slaw: Crisp shredded cabbage and carrots in a tangy lime-cilantro dressing. The crunch factor makes every bite more exciting and refreshing.
- Black Bean and Corn Salad: A colorful mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and cilantro in cumin-lime dressing. It’s like a party in your mouth!
Salsas and Dips
No Mexican feast is complete without some amazing salsas and dips. They add extra layers of flavor that make each bite better than the last.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh chopped tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños with lime juice and cilantro. The raw, chunky texture adds a fresh pop to every bite.
- Guacamole: Creamy mashed avocados mixed with lime, cilantro, and diced tomatoes. My secret ingredient is a tiny pinch of cumin for extra depth.
- Queso Dip: Melted cheese blended with green chiles and spices. When it’s warm and gooey, I can’t resist dipping my enchiladas in it.
- Salsa Verde: Tangy tomatillos and green chilies create this zesty sauce. The bright, acidic flavors cut through the rich enchiladas perfectly.
Breads and Tortillas
Extra bread options might seem unnecessary, but trust me – you’ll want something to soak up all those delicious sauces!
- Homemade Flour Tortillas: Soft, warm circles of comfort perfect for scooping up loose fillings. I always warm them slightly on the stovetop for the best texture.
- Cornbread: Sweet, crumbly bread with a hint of honey makes an unexpected but delicious pairing. The sweetness balances the savory enchiladas beautifully.
- Mexican Bolillo Rolls: Crusty on the outside, soft inside – these rolls are perfect for sauce-soaking. They remind me of tiny French bread loaves.
- Gorditas: Thick corn patties with a pocket perfect for stuffing. The hearty texture adds another dimension to your meal.
Vegetable Sides
Adding some veggies brings color, nutrition, and fantastic flavors to your beef enchiladas plate. These sides make the meal feel complete.
- Grilled Peppers and Onions: Charred bell peppers and sweet onions with a splash of lime juice. The smoky flavor adds depth to the whole meal.
- Roasted Zucchini and Squash: Seasoned with Mexican oregano and garlic, these roasted veggies are tender-crisp perfection. The natural sweetness shines through.
- Sauteed Spinach with Garlic: Fresh spinach wilted with garlic and a squeeze of lime. It’s amazing how such a simple side can add so much.
- Elotes (Grilled Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn slathered with mayo, chili powder, and cotija cheese. This street food favorite steals the show every time!
Refreshing Drinks
The right beverage can make your enchilada feast even more memorable. These drinks complement the flavors perfectly.
- Horchata: Rice-based drink with cinnamon and vanilla. This creamy, sweet beverage cools down spicy bites perfectly.
- Agua Fresca: One of my favorite drinks! Fresh fruit blended with water and a touch of sugar. My favorite is watermelon – it’s like summer in a glass!
- Classic Margaritas: Tequila, lime juice, and triple sec over ice. Nothing beats this traditional pairing with Mexican food.
- Mexican Hot Chocolate: Rich chocolate with cinnamon and a hint of chili. Perfect for cooler evenings when you want something warm.
Final Thoughts
I consider balance for the perfect beef enchilada plate. Mix and match these sides based on what you love.
I always include something fresh like pico de Gallo, and creamy sides like refried beans. Also, I choose salads like avocado tomato salad or cabbage slaw for my plate.
Remember, these sides aren’t just extras; they’re what transform your enchiladas from a simple dish into an unforgettable feast.
The best part? You can switch things up every time for a new experience. Now go ahead and start planning your next enchilada night.
