What to Serve with Nachos: 40+ Delicious Pairing Ideas

Hey there, nacho lovers! I’m thrilled to dive into one of my favorite topics: what to serve with nachos.

As someone who’s hosted countless taco nights and game-day parties, I’ve learned a thing or two about creating the ultimate nacho experience.

Whether you’re looking to elevate your nacho game or simply wondering what to serve alongside this beloved appetizer, I’ve got you covered.

Classic Nacho Toppings and Accompaniments

Let’s start with the basics. When I think about what to serve with nachos, I always begin with the essential toppings. These are the building blocks that transform a simple plate of tortilla chips into a mouthwatering feast.

Essential Nacho Toppings

1. Cheese: The heart and soul of any nacho plate. I prefer a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for that perfect melt and flavor combo.
2. Meat: Seasoned ground beef is my go-to, but shredded chicken or pork are fantastic options too.
3. Beans: Refried beans or black beans add protein and a creamy texture.
4. Vegetables: Diced tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños bring freshness and heat.
5. Sour Cream and Guacamole: These cool, creamy toppings balance out the spiciness.

Pro tip: To ensure your nachos stay crispy, I recommend serving wet ingredients like sour cream and guacamole on the side. This way, your guests can customize their nachos without worrying about soggy chips!

Sauces and Dips to Serve with Nachos

No nacho experience is complete without a variety of sauces and dips. Here are my favorites:

• Salsa: Offer a few different options like classic pico de gallo, salsa verde, and a spicier chipotle salsa.
• Queso: A gooey, warm cheese sauce is always a hit. Try this homemade queso recipe for an extra special touch.
• Bean Dip: A smooth, flavorful bean dip complements the crispy chips perfectly.
• Avocado Cream Sauce: Blend ripe avocados with sour cream, lime juice, and cilantro for a tangy, creamy topping.

Remember, the key to great nachos is offering a variety of flavors and textures. Mix and match these toppings and dips to create your ultimate nacho platter!

Main Dishes to Pair with Nachos

While nachos can certainly be a meal on their own, pairing them with a main dish can turn your nacho night into a full-fledged fiesta. Let’s explore some delicious options that complement your nachos perfectly.

Mexican-Inspired Main Courses

When I’m serving nachos at a party, I love to offer a few Mexican-inspired main courses. These dishes share similar flavor profiles with nachos, creating a cohesive and satisfying meal:

1. Tacos: Set up a DIY taco bar alongside your nachos. I like to offer both soft and crispy tortillas with a variety of fillings.
2. Burritos: Large, filling burritos make a great contrast to the bite-sized nature of nachos.
3. Enchiladas: The saucy goodness of enchiladas pairs wonderfully with the crunch of nachos.
4. Fajitas: The sizzle and aroma of fajitas always get my guests excited. Plus, they’re a healthier option for those watching their calorie intake.

Pro tip: To save time, I often use the same seasoned meats and toppings for both the nachos and these main dishes. It’s all about working smarter, not harder!

Non-Mexican Options that Complement Nachos

Don’t feel limited to Mexican cuisine when deciding what to serve with nachos. Here are some non-traditional options that still make for a perfect pairing:

• BBQ Pulled Pork: The sweet and tangy flavors of BBQ pork offer a delicious contrast to spicy nachos.
• Buffalo Chicken: For a fusion twist, try serving buffalo chicken alongside your nachos. The flavors are surprisingly complementary!
• Sloppy Joes: These messy sandwiches share a similar casual vibe with nachos and offer a fun American twist.
• Chicken Wings: Another crowd-pleaser that pairs well with nachos, especially for game day gatherings. For more ideas on delicious sides to serve with chicken wings, check out this guide.

Here’s a quick comparison table of these main dishes:

Remember, the best main dish to serve with nachos is one that you and your guests will enjoy. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and experiment with different combinations!

Side Dishes to Serve with Nachos

When I’m planning what to serve with nachos, I always include a variety of side dishes. These not only round out the meal but also offer lighter options for those who might not want to fill up on chips and cheese alone.

Vegetable-Based Sides

Adding some veggie-based sides to your nacho spread is a great way to incorporate more nutrients and fresh flavors. Here are my top picks:

• Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This is always a crowd-pleaser at my nacho parties. The combination of grilled corn, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime is irresistible.
• Grilled Vegetables: I love to grill a medley of bell peppers, zucchini, and onions. The smoky flavor complements the nachos beautifully.
• Coleslaw with a Mexican Twist: Add some cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños to your usual coleslaw recipe for a zesty side that cuts through the richness of the nachos.

Rice and Bean Dishes

Rice and beans are staples in Mexican cuisine, and they make excellent sides for nachos. Here are some options I frequently serve:

• Mexican Rice: A flavorful tomato-based rice that pairs wonderfully with nachos.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: For a fresher taste, this light and zesty rice is perfect.
• Refried Beans: Creamy and satisfying, refried beans are a classic nacho accompaniment.
• Black Bean Salad: I mix black beans with corn, diced tomatoes, and a lime dressing for a refreshing side.

Pro tip: I often set up a “build-your-own-bowl” station with these rice and bean options. It’s a great way for guests to customize their meals and potentially lighten up their plates if they’re watching their tortilla chip intake!

Refreshing Salads to Balance Your Nacho Meal

Salads are my secret weapon when serving nachos. They provide a refreshing contrast to the heavy, cheesy goodness of the nachos and help cleanse the palate.

Light and Crisp Salad Options

• Taco Salad: All the flavors of a taco in a lighter, salad form.
• Southwestern Chopped Salad: I love the crunch and variety of textures in this type of salad.
• Mango and Avocado Salad: The sweetness of mango pairs surprisingly well with savory nachos.

Unique Salad Ideas for Nacho Pairings

• Jicama Slaw: Crisp and refreshing, this slaw adds a unique texture to your nacho spread.
• Watermelon and Feta Salad: The combination of sweet watermelon and salty feta is unexpectedly delicious with nachos.
• Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Lime Dressing: Light, tangy, and oh-so-refreshing!

Here’s a quick and easy recipe for a Cucumber and Tomato Salad that I often serve with nachos:

1. Dice 2 cucumbers and 2 tomatoes
2. Finely chop 1/4 red onion
3. Mix in a bowl with the juice of 2 limes, 2 tbsp olive oil, and salt to taste
4. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving

Remember, the key to a great nacho spread is balance. By offering a variety of sides, from hearty rice dishes to light salads, you’re ensuring there’s something for everyone at your nacho fiesta!

Beverages to Serve with Nachos

When it comes to what to serve with nachos, don’t forget about the drinks! The right beverages can enhance the flavors of your nacho spread and keep your guests refreshed. I’ve got some fantastic options for both non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks that pair perfectly with nachos.

Non-Alcoholic Drink Options

• Horchata: This creamy, cinnamon-infused rice drink is a Mexican classic that I adore. It’s refreshing and helps cool down spicy nacho toppings.
• Agua Frescas: These fruit-infused waters are a staple at my nacho parties. My favorites are watermelon, cucumber-lime, and pineapple.
• Mexican Coca-Cola: There’s something special about the cane sugar used in Mexican Coke that makes it a perfect nacho companion.
• Iced Tea with a Twist of Lime: I like to brew a batch of black tea, chill it, and serve it with fresh lime wedges. It’s simple but so refreshing!

Alcoholic Drink Options

• Margaritas: You can’t go wrong with this classic. I offer both traditional lime and some fruity variations like strawberry or mango.
• Mexican Beer: Corona, Dos Equis, or Modelo Especial are my go-to choices. Serve them ice-cold with a lime wedge.
• Sangria: A fruity sangria is a great option for those who prefer wine. I make a big batch using this easy sangria recipe.
• Micheladas: This spicy beer cocktail is like a Mexican Bloody Mary. It’s perfect for those who like a little kick in their drink.

Pro tip: Set up a DIY drink station with various mixers, fruits, and garnishes. This allows your guests to customize their drinks and adds a fun interactive element to your nacho party!

Desserts to Round Out Your Nacho Meal

Even after a hearty nacho feast, there’s always room for dessert! Here are some sweet treats that complement nachos perfectly:

Best Desserts Ideas For Nachos

• Churro Nachos: These crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated pastries are always a hit. Serve them with chocolate sauce for dipping.
• Fried Ice Cream: The contrast of hot and cold makes this a fun dessert option.
• Chocolate Nachos: I love to surprise guests with this sweet twist on traditional nachos. Use cinnamon-sugar tortilla chips and top with melted chocolate, fruit, and whipped cream.
• Apple Nachos: For a fresh, fruity twist on nachos, slice apples thinly and drizzle them with peanut butter, caramel, or chocolate. Add toppings like chopped nuts, coconut flakes, and mini chocolate chips. This sweet and crisp option is light yet satisfying.

Remember, the key to a great nacho spread is variety. By offering a range of flavors from savory to sweet, you’re ensuring that everyone leaves satisfied. Plus, ending on a sweet note is always a crowd-pleaser in my experience!

Healthier Alternatives to Serve with Nachos

While nachos are typically an indulgence, there are ways to lighten up your nacho spread. Here are some healthier options I like to include:

Lightened-Up Nacho Toppings

• Greek Yogurt: Use this as a substitute for sour cream. It’s higher in protein and lower in fat.
• Turkey or Plant-Based Meat Alternatives: These can be great substitutes for traditional ground beef.
• Load Up on Veggies: Offer plenty of fresh veggie toppings like diced tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers.

Nutritious Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: I love to make a Mexican-inspired quinoa salad with black beans, corn, and a lime dressing.
• Roasted Vegetable Medley: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in vegetables and pairs well with nachos.
• Zucchini Noodles with Mexican-Inspired Dressing: This low-carb option is refreshing and light.

Here’s a quick recipe for a healthy avocado dip I often serve:

1. Mash 2 ripe avocados
2. Mix in 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
3. Add juice from 1 lime, 1 minced garlic clove, and salt to taste
4. Stir in chopped cilantro and diced tomatoes

By offering these healthier options, you’re ensuring that everyone, regardless of their dietary preferences, can enjoy your nacho spread!

Tips for Hosting a Nacho Bar Party

One of my favorite ways to serve nachos is by setting up a nacho bar. It’s interactive, fun, and allows everyone to customize their plate. Here’s how I make it work:

Setting Up Your Nacho Bar

1. Essential Equipment:

• Chafing dishes or slow cookers to keep meats and beans warm
• Small bowls for toppings
• Serving spoons for each item
• Tongs for chips
• Plenty of plates and napkins

2. Keeping Food Warm and Fresh:

• Use heat lamps for the chips to keep them crispy
• Rotate fresh toppings regularly
• Keep cold items on the ice

Pro tip: I always set up the nacho bar in a logical order: chips first, then meats and beans, followed by cheese and other toppings, and finally sauces and dips.

Creating a Balanced Nacho Meal

1. Portion Control: Provide smaller plates to encourage people to make multiple trips and try different combinations.
2. Offering Variety: Include options for different dietary restrictions:
   • Vegetarian: bean and veggie options
   • Gluten-free: corn tortilla chips
   • Dairy-free: offer vegan cheese alternatives

Remember, the key to a successful nacho bar is having a little bit of everything. This way, your guests can mix and match to create their perfect plate of nachos!

Seasonal Variations: What to Serve with Nachos Year-Round

Nachos are great any time of year, but I like to adjust what I serve with them based on the season. Here are some ideas:

Summer Nacho Pairings

• Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Light and perfect for summer, these make a great protein option.
• Fresh Fruit Salsas: Think mango salsa or watermelon pico de gallo for a refreshing twist.

Winter Comfort Foods to Serve with Nachos

• Hearty Soups: A warm bowl of tortilla soup or black bean soup complements nachos nicely on a cold day.
• Warm Queso Fundido: This gooey, melted cheese dip is perfect for winter gatherings.

Remember, the best thing about nachos is their versatility. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different pairings and find what works best for you and your guests!

FAQs: What to Serve with Nachos