What to Serve with Birria Tacos: 30+ Easy Side Dishes
Wondering what to serve with birria tacos? I’ve got you covered with amazing sides that’ll make your meal complete!
These juicy, meaty tacos are already incredible, but the right side dishes take them to new heights.
From traditional Mexican rice to fresh salsas, you’ll find perfect pairings for any occasion.
My family loves mixing and matching these sides when we have taco nights. These options work great for both casual dinners and special gatherings.
What is Birria?
Birria is a magical Mexican dish that started in Jalisco. The tender meat slowly cooks with rich chilies and spices until it’s super juicy. People love these tacos more than regular ones because you can dip them in that amazing consommé broth!
What to Serve with Birria Tacos?
Your birria tacos deserve amazing company! I’ve gathered the best sides and toppings, from classic Mexican rice dishes to fresh salsas and crunchy snacks. You’ll find traditional favorites and some creative new ideas.
Quick Traditional Toppings
These quick sides are essential for any birria taco feast. They add freshness, creaminess, and tang that perfectly balance the rich meat.
- Guacamole with Tortilla Chips: Creamy avocados mashed with lime and cilantro create the perfect dip. The salty chips add crunch to your taco experience. It disappears fast at parties!
- Mexican Crema: This tangy, smooth cream sauce cools down spicy bites. A drizzle makes everything better. You can make it yourself or buy it ready-made.
- Pickled Red Onions: Bright pink rings add zip and crunch to each bite. The vinegar cuts through rich flavors perfectly. I always keep a jar in my fridge.
- Jalapeño Slices: Fresh or pickled jalapeños bring welcome heat to each taco bite. The spicy kick wakes up your taste buds. These green rings add both color and excitement!
- Lime Wedges: Fresh citrus squeezed over tacos brightens every bite. These tiny flavor bombs are so important. Don’t skip this simple but crucial addition!
Rice Variations
Rice is your perfect starting point for birria tacos. These filling options soak up all that delicious consomé and add substance to your meal.
- Mexican Red Rice (Arroz Rojo): I love how the tomatoes and spices give this rice its beautiful color. The tiny vegetables mixed in make it both pretty and tasty. My grandma taught me this recipe!
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro make plain rice exciting. The bright flavors cut through the rich birria perfectly. It’s so easy to make!
- Yellow Rice with Corn: Sweet corn kernels pop against the golden rice. The turmeric adds such a lovely color and subtle flavor. Your kids will definitely ask for seconds.
- Black Beans and Rice: This protein-packed combo never disappoints. The beans get creamy while the rice stays fluffy. It’s my go-to when I need something filling.
Bean Dishes
Beans are a must-have with birria tacos! These protein-packed sides bring comfort and tradition to your plate. From creamy to brothy varieties, you’ll find the perfect bean dish here.
- Refried Beans: The smooth, creamy texture makes these beans irresistible. I mash them with onions and spices until they’re perfectly smooth. You’ll love scooping them up with your tacos!
- Charro Beans (Frijoles Charros): Swimming in a bacon-flavored broth, these cowboy beans pack tons of flavor. The chunks of meat and vegetables make it almost like a meal itself.
- Mexican Black Beans: Simple yet satisfying, these beans simmer with garlic and cumin. Every time I make them, my kitchen smells amazing. They’re perfect for scooping up with tortillas.
- Drunken Beans (Frijoles Borrachos): Beer gives these pinto beans their unique taste. The liquid cooks down into a rich, flavorful sauce. My friends always ask for this recipe!
Fresh Salsas
No taco feast is complete without vibrant salsas! These homemade versions bring color, heat, and freshness to your birria tacos. Mix and match to create your perfect combination.
- Pineapple Salsa: Sweet chunks of pineapple dance with spicy jalapeños and red onions. The tropical twist makes birria tacos extra special. My guests always ask for extra!
- Pico de Gallo: Diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro create this classic fresh salsa. The lime juice makes everything pop. You’ll want this on every taco.
- Salsa Verde: Tangy tomatillos and green chilies create this zesty sauce. The bright flavor cuts through the rich birria perfectly. I roast the ingredients for extra depth.
- Salsa Roja: Smoky red chilies blend into this traditional sauce. The deep flavors complement birria’s richness wonderfully. Your taste buds will thank you!
- Mango Habanero Salsa: Sweet mango meets fiery habanero in this exciting combo. The heat builds slowly while tropical flavors shine. Be careful – it’s addictively spicy!
Fresh Salads
Light, crisp salads balance the richness of birria tacos. These fresh combinations add crunch and brightness to every bite.
- Avocado Tomato Salad: Creamy avocados and juicy tomatoes create a refreshing mix. The simple dressing lets natural flavors shine. It’s like guacamole in salad form!
- Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites): Charred corn kernels tossed with mayo, lime, and cotija cheese. All the flavors of elote in an easy-to-eat form. Everyone loves this crowd-pleaser.
- Black Bean Salad: Colorful beans mixed with bell peppers and corn create a fiesta. The cumin-lime dressing ties everything together. Perfect for make-ahead meals.
- Nopales Salad (or Cactus Salad): Tender cactus paddles tossed with tomatoes and onions. The unique texture adds interest to your plate. Try this authentic Mexican favorite!
Easy Vegetable Sides
Grill, sauteed vegetables add color, nutrients, and amazing flavors to your birria taco spread. These cooked veggie sides bring warmth and comfort to the table.
- Grilled Peppers and Onions: Sweet bell peppers and onions get smoky char marks on the grill. The natural sugars caramelize beautifully. These remind me of summer cookouts!
- Roasted Poblano Peppers: These mild green peppers develop a deep flavor in the oven. The slight heat works great with birria’s richness. I love stuffing them with cheese too.
- Sauteed Zucchini with Corn: Fresh zucchini chunks dance with sweet corn kernels in the pan. Simple seasonings let the vegetables shine. It’s my favorite summer side dish.
Sweet & Crispy Snacks
Sometimes you need something fun and crispy with your tacos! These playful sides add excitement and sweet touches to your meal.
- Mexican Street Corn(Elote): Grilled corn slathered with mayo, cheese, and chili powder. Every bite brings joy and messiness. You haven’t lived until you’ve tried this!
- Tostilocos: Crunchy tortilla chips topped with spicy sauce and fresh veggies. The mix of textures makes snacking exciting. Kids go crazy for these!
- Churros: Crispy fried dough sticks rolled in cinnamon sugar. The sweet ending your taco feast needs. My family fights over the last one.
- Mexican Street Corn Fries: Super easy to make! crispy fries, melted cheese, and roasted corn add additional sweet and spicy kick to your tacos . It better than regular french fries.
Hearty and Filling Sides
When you’re super hungry, these substantial sides will fill you up your birria taco plate. Perfect for big appetites and festive gatherings!
- Chorizo and Potatoes: Spicy sausage mixed with crispy potato cubes creates magic. The flavors blend perfectly while cooking. This combo never disappoints.
- Queso Fundido: Melted cheese with spicy chorizo makes this dip irresistible. Grab it with warm tortillas while it’s hot. Watch it disappear quickly!
- Taco Soup: Rich broth loaded with meat, beans, and vegetables. It’s like a taco in soup form! Perfect for cold days.
Drinks to Pair with Birria Tacos
Every great taco feast needs refreshing drinks! From traditional Mexican beverages to ice-cold beers, these drinks perfectly complement your birria tacos.
- Horchata: This creamy rice drink soothes your taste buds between spicy bites. The cinnamon and vanilla notes make it extra special. I always make extra because it vanishes fast!
- Classic Margarita: Tequila, lime, and triple sec create this perfect cocktail. The salt rim complements birria’s rich flavors. Nothing beats this classic pairing!
- Agua Fresca: Fresh fruit blended with water creates these refreshing drinks. Choose from tamarind, hibiscus, or mango flavors. They’re like summer in a glass!
- Mexican Beer: Cold Corona, Modelo, or Pacifico complement these tacos perfectly. The light, crisp taste cuts through rich flavors. Don’t forget the lime wedge!
Final Thoughts
Birria tacos are amazing on their own, but the right side dishes take your meal from good to unforgettable! Mix and match these sides based on what you love.
Try traditional sides like Mexican rice and beans for an authentic experience, or get creative with fresh salads and modern twists.
The best part about these combinations is making them your own. Remember, there’s no wrong way to enjoy birria tacos.
I’d love to hear about your favorite combinations. What sides do you serve with your birria tacos? Share your tasty selections or new findings in the comments below!
