What to Serve with Steak Tacos: 25+ Delicious Side Dishes
I love planning a taco night at home, especially when I’m craving a flavorful steak taco recipe.
Sometimes, it’s hard to know exactly ‘what to serve with steak tacos’. I’ve learned that the right side dishes make each bite exciting.
When you gather your tortillas, marinated steak, and fresh toppings, think about simple extras that bring out the richness of the steak flavors.
So, I’ll share my favorite side dishes for steak tacos to create a fun feast that everyone will remember. Get ready to enjoy every moment and savor what’s on your plate.
What is Steak Tacos?
Steak tacos usually feature tender slices of beef, like flank steak or carne asada, seasoned with chili powder and lime juice. They are popular because they’re quick to assemble and burst with bold flavors everywhere.
What to Serve with Steak Tacos?
You can pair these tasty tacos with sides like rice and beans, dips and salsa, fresh salads, quick veggies, hearty cheesy plates, and refreshing drinks. Each choice balances the flavors.
Rice and Beans
Let’s explore easy rice or bean ideas that add a warm, comforting note on your plate without extra fuss. Everyone stays satisfied and happy here.
- Mexican Rice: I once tasted this flavorful dish at a friend’s backyard party, and it made me crave more with every bite. Warm seasonings and bright hints of tomato sauce feel cozy.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: There’s something surprising about tangy lime juice dancing with fresh cilantro that brightens any meal. This side keeps your plate light and breezy, like a sunshine hug on the tongue.
- Green Poblano Rice: Poblano peppers give this dish a mellow warmth, and I love how it spices up each spoonful. Creamy texture pairs so well with savory steak, especially when you’re craving comfort.
- Refried Beans: My aunt always served these at big family dinners, and I grew to love their smooth texture. A sprinkle of cheese turns them into the best side dish for comfort.
- Mexican Black Beans: A dash of chili powder and a hint of onion turn these beans into a tasty treat. They always bring gentle spice without overpowering your steak, making every bite sing.
Dips and Salsa
Sauces and dips bring life to every fiesta. You can dunk, top, or drizzle for extra tang, spice, or creaminess without much effort or cost.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado mash always makes me smile because it’s rich yet fresh. A squeeze of lime juice keeps it tangy, while salt and pepper bring balance to every single bite.
- Chimichurri Sauce: Chopped fresh herbs, garlic, and a splash of vinegar create a zingy topping. I enjoy how it sparks bright flavors, letting each bite of steak taco taste so extra lively.
- Taco Dip: Layers of beans, cheese, and spices cause me to dig in with excitement. It’s fun seeing everyone crowd around the bowl, scooping up big helpings during Taco Tuesday or anytime.
- Queso Dip: Velvety melted cheese with a kick of jalapeños makes this dip irresistible every time. I love dunking tortillas here, savoring a creamy rush that complements the richness of the steak.
- Pico de Gallo: Finely chopped tomatoes, onions, and fresh cilantro burst with color and brightness. I often toss in a little chili powder for subtle warmth. It’s perfect for easily topping your meal.
- Mango Salsa: Juicy mango chunks add a sweet pop that pairs beautifully with tender steak. I tried it last summer, and my taste buds danced with every vibrant mouthful. It’s surprisingly refreshing.
Fresh Salads
Crisp greens and colorful veggies create simple joy next to your tacos. They round out the meal with a bright crunch and keep things light overall.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: Roasted corn kernels meet creamy sauce plus a sprinkle of chili powder. I first tasted this at a carnival, and it hooked me instantly. Tangy, sweet, and a total crowd-pleaser.
- Black Bean and Corn Salad: Simple ingredients like black beans, corn, and diced peppers give this salad a hearty vibe. It’s also a great side dish for tacos because it stays bright and satisfying always.
- Jicama Slaw: Crunch is the highlight here, thanks to that lightly sweet root veggie. I love how it adds a clean snap to each mouthful, cutting through the savory steak taste perfectly.
- Cilantro Lime Slaw: Shredded cabbage tossed in zesty lime and fresh cilantro delivers a crisp tang. It never feels heavy, so I use your favorite toppings over it for extra flavor layering fun.
- Tomato Avocado Salad: Bright chunks of tomato mingle with creamy avocado bits. I like mixing red onion for bite, and a pinch of salt ties everything together. It’s light, fresh, and so soothing.
Quick Vegetable Sides
Speed is handy when hunger strikes. These veggie choices offer fast, healthy solutions that still taste fantastic. You won’t miss out on big flavor here.
- Grilled Vegetables: Sweet peppers, zucchini, and onions always taste incredible after a quick spin on the grill. I love how the slight char adds a smoky note, pairing well with the steak’s savoriness.
- Elotes (Mexican Street Corn): Smothered in a creamy sauce and dusted with cheese, these cobs make me grin with pure joy. That slightly sweet crunch from grilled corn is unbeatable, especially drizzled with tangy lime.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Soft chunks caramelize beautifully in the oven, and every forkful feels like warm comfort. This side dish also looks pretty on the plate, boosting any taco meal with natural sweetness.
- Spicy Pickled Carrots: Tangy crunch meets subtle heat, which delivers a lively contrast next to juicy steak. I always keep an extra jar handy because people often devour them quickly, especially at gatherings.
Hearty and Cheesy Side Dishes
Comfort food lovers cheer for these rich, gooey bites. They bring warmth, filling bellies with layers of cheese, meats, or bread. Tasty sides indeed shine.
- Loaded Nachos: Piled high with melted cheese, beans, and jalapeños, this crunchy treat is always a party starter. I love seeing folks dig right in, layering sour cream and cilantro on top.
- Birria Quesadillas: Shredded meat soaked in rich birria sauce then wrapped in warm tortillas makes me want seconds. The cheese stretch alone gets excited about dinner, especially when dipping into leftover broth.
- Chiles Rellenos: Peppers stuffed with gooey cheese become something magical once fried golden. I can’t forget that first bite: bold, savory, and nicely balanced. They turn an ordinary table into a fiesta.
- Taco Casserole: Layers of ground beef, tortillas, and cheese bake into a bubbling, hearty masterpiece. I remember slicing into it and smelling the chili powder right away, fueling big smiles all around.
- Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread: Soft bread with pops of spicy jalapeño and melty cheddar feels both comforting and thrilling. I like pairing it with steak tacos to soak up any extra sauce, tasting divine.
Beverages to Pair with Steak Tacos
Drinks help cool or enhance the spicy flavors. You can pick something tangy, sweet, or fizzy, matching every playful bite with refreshing sips that pop.
- Classic Margarita: Tequila, lime juice, and a touch of sweetness blend into a classic combo. I sip slowly to enjoy that tangy edge, which pairs nicely with the best steak tacos around.
- Horchata: Creamy rice milk with cinnamon always comforts my taste buds. It feels like dessert in a glass, soothing any spiciness and letting me loosen up and chat longer over dinner.
- Mexican Beer: A cold bottle of crisp cerveza refreshes the mouth, especially when bites get hot. I love the simple balance it creates, turning any taco dinner into a relaxed cheerful vibe.
- Agua Fresca: Light fruit-based drinks like watermelon or hibiscus help cleanse the palate. I find them fun for all ages, since they spark happy conversation while letting me appreciate the meal longer.
Best Toppings for Steak Tacos
My absolute favorite part is dressing each taco with crunchy vegetables, creamy cheese, or tangy extras. I topped mine with tomatoes, avocados, lettuce, feta cheese, and a fresh lime wedge. Those are my favorites! Here are extra ideas for you:
- Sour cream or Mexican crema
- Shredded cheddar
- Pickled red onions or radishes
- Jalapeño
- Corn
- Bell peppers
- Shredded cabbage
- Cilantro
Final Thoughts
When deciding what to serve with steak tacos, trust yourself and have fun mixing flavors. I’ve loved trying new combos, whether it’s a crunchy salad or cheesy casserole.
Each meal feels special when I share it around the table, and everyone can make their own steak tacos in unique ways.
Emotions run high with each bite, reminding me how simple ingredients turn into big memories.
Keep exploring these best side dishes, and watch friends or family light up over each savory creation. Some days, you crave variety; other days, comfort.
