Tex-Mex Traditions: What Side Dish Goes with Nachos?

Best Main Courses to Accompany Nachos

Spicy Grilled Chicken

When I’m thinking about nachos, my mind naturally drifts to spicy grilled chicken. The way the chicken’s charred edges mingle with the smoky undertones of the grilled meat—it’s a flavor match made in heaven for nachos. The spice of the chicken complements the crunch and cheesy goodness of the nachos without overwhelming the palate.

What’s beautiful here is the versatility. You can marinate the chicken in a mix of lime juice, cumin, chili powder, and garlic to really bring out that zesty kick. Then, grill it to perfection, and you’ve got yourself a main course that plays off the nachos in a way that feels both effortless and elevated.

Throw in some fajita vegetables like bell peppers and onions, and you’ve got a meal that’s as colorful as it is delicious.

Juicy Beef Tacos

Beef tacos bring a robust heartiness to the table, providing a rich, savory counterpoint to the lighter, crispier nachos. The beef, seasoned with a mix of smoky paprika, cumin, and a dash of cayenne, gives the nachos a partner that’s bold without stealing the show.

When I pile on some pico de gallo and cilantro lime rice on the side, it creates this vibrant tapestry of flavors.

The beef’s juicy texture, especially when cooked to a medium-rare, adds a satisfying contrast to the crispiness of the nachos. It’s not just about flavor; it’s about creating a textural experience that keeps each bite interesting.

BBQ Pulled Pork

Pulled pork, especially when slow-cooked with a rich, tangy BBQ sauce, makes for an unforgettable pairing with nachos. The sweetness of the pork balances out the salty crunch of the chips, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.

Imagine the way the tender strands of pork, infused with the smoky sweetness of barbecue, mingle with a side of Mexican rice and a dollop of sour cream—that’s a bite that will keep you coming back for more.

What I love about this pairing is the way the pork’s depth and complexity can stand up to the boldness of nachos without overpowering them. Add a sprinkle of black beans for an earthy touch, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

Vegetarian Enchiladas

Nachos often play the role of a hearty snack, but when paired with vegetarian enchiladas, they transform into a full-blown fiesta. The enchiladas, stuffed with a mix of refried beans, cheese, and maybe even some chorizo for the more adventurous, create a rich and creamy contrast to the nachos. The gooey cheese of the enchiladas spills out with each bite, mingling with the crunch of the chips.

This combination is all about layering textures and flavors. The enchiladas’ soft tortillas, drenched in red or green salsa, bring warmth and comfort, while the nachos add that irresistible crunch. Add a side of corn salad or street corn for some sweet, smoky notes, and you’ve got a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delightful.

Shrimp Fajitas

Shrimp fajitas add a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor to any nacho-centered meal. The shrimp, lightly seasoned with a mix of garlic, lime, and a hint of chili, offer a delicate yet bold complement to the nachos. When I serve this with a side of avocado salad or even some guacamole, it becomes a dish that feels light yet deeply satisfying.

The key here is to get a good sear on the shrimp—just enough to bring out their natural sweetness without losing their tender bite. The fajitas’ vibrant flavors, combined with the nachos, create a dynamic duo that’s both refreshing and comforting.

Best Dips and Sides to Complement Nachos

Guacamole

When I think of nachos, guacamole isn’t just a side dish—it’s an essential. There’s something about that creamy blend of ripe avocados, zesty lime juice, and the crunch of finely chopped onions that elevates the nacho experience to another level. The richness of the guacamole complements the crispy, salty texture of the nachos, creating this dance of flavors that just makes sense.

And it’s not just about the avocados. Oh no. It’s the subtle heat from the jalapeños, the freshness of the cilantro, and the way it all comes together with a good pinch of salt. This is where you can play—add some diced tomatoes for a bit of texture, or keep it smooth for that pure, velvety goodness. Guacamole isn’t just a dip; it’s an experience.

Salsa

Salsa is a given, but it’s the variety that makes it special. A chunky pico de gallo with its fresh tomatoes, onions, and a splash of lime is vibrant and lively, each bite bursting with freshness. On the other hand, a roasted salsa, with its deeper, smokier flavors, adds a whole new layer to the nachos.

Sometimes, I’ll mix up a salsa verde—tangy and slightly spicy, made from tomatillos—just to change things up. It pairs beautifully with the rich cheese and crunchy chips, cutting through the heaviness with its bright acidity. And then there’s the mango salsa—a little sweet, a little spicy, perfect for those days when you want something different.

Queso Dip

Queso dip is the indulgence, the thing you go to when you want your nachos dripping in cheesy goodness. I’m talking about a queso that’s smooth, with just the right amount of heat from some chopped jalapeños, and maybe a bit of chorizo thrown in for that extra flavor boost.

There’s something about that molten cheese, clinging to each chip, that’s just satisfying on a primal level. And don’t be afraid to mix things up—add a little beer to the queso for a tangy twist, or keep it simple with just cheese and a dash of cumin. The best part? Queso never gets boring because you can tweak it to fit your mood.

Black Beans

Black beans might not be the first thing you think of when pairing with nachos, but they should be. They add a depth of flavor, a hearty earthiness that grounds the bright, sharp notes of salsa and the richness of cheese. I like mine simmered with a bit of garlic, cumin, and a touch of lime to keep them fresh and vibrant.

And the texture—oh, the texture. It’s that creamy bite, balanced against the crunch of the nachos, that makes it all work. Whether you’re spooning them over the top or serving them on the side, black beans bring a completeness to the meal that’s hard to beat.

Mexican Rice

Mexican rice is the unsung hero here. It’s light, it’s fluffy, and it soaks up all those flavors from the nachos without overpowering anything. Cooked with tomatoes, garlic, and a bit of onion, it’s simple, but that’s where the magic lies. It doesn’t try to steal the show—it’s happy to play its part, providing a gentle, flavorful backdrop.

And when you pair it with something like refried beans or even a spoonful of sour cream, it becomes this perfect companion, complementing the nachos in a way that feels natural and unforced. This is the kind of side that doesn’t demand attention, but you’d miss it if it wasn’t there.

Street Corn

Street corn, or elote as it’s called in Mexico, is one of those sides that you don’t realize you need until you’ve had it. Grilled corn slathered in mayo, sprinkled with cotija cheese, a squeeze of lime, and a dusting of chili powder—this is comfort food with a kick. It’s messy, it’s flavorful, and it’s the perfect match for a plate of nachos.

The sweet corn, charred and smoky from the grill, contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese and crunchy chips. Each bite is a mix of creamy, tangy, and spicy, with the corn bringing a bit of sweetness to balance it all out. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a flavor explosion that holds its own against the boldness of the nachos.

Refried Beans

Refried beans are like the backbone of any good Mexican meal. They’re rich, creamy, and when done right, they’ve got this deep, savory flavor that just works. Spread them over the nachos or serve them on the side—it doesn’t really matter. They’re going to add that extra something that makes the whole meal feel complete.

What I love is how versatile they are. You can keep them simple with just some salt and garlic, or spice them up with some chorizo or jalapeños. The key is to cook them slow, let the flavors meld together until you’ve got something that’s thick, smooth, and absolutely delicious.

Avocado Salad

When you’re looking for something light and refreshing to balance out the richness of nachos, an avocado salad is the way to go. It’s all about simplicity—fresh avocado, a squeeze of lime, maybe some tomatoes and onions. It’s the cool, creamy counterpart to the nachos’ crunch and heat.

The best part? It’s versatile. Add some pico de gallo for a bit more kick, or keep it mellow with just a drizzle of olive oil and some sea salt. Either way, it’s a side that complements the nachos without overwhelming them, bringing a freshness that lifts the whole meal.

Vegetable Dishes to Lighten the Meal

Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables. Simple, right? But when done right, they can transform a nacho meal into something that’s both satisfying and surprisingly light. Picture this: bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions, all kissed by the flame until they’ve got those beautiful char marks. The sweetness of the caramelized edges paired with the smoky notes from the grill is like a breath of fresh air next to the richness of nachos.

What I love most is the versatility. You can keep it straightforward with just olive oil, salt, and pepper. Or, go bold—maybe a sprinkle of chili flakes, a drizzle of balsamic reduction at the end. It’s the kind of side that doesn’t try to compete but instead complements, making each bite of nachos feel balanced.

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Now, let’s talk about Mexican street corn salad, or esquites as it’s known. This dish is a playful take on the classic street corn, only in salad form. Imagine sweet corn kernels sautéed until they’re just a little bit charred, mixed with creamy mayo, tangy lime juice, and a hit of smoky chili powder.

And then, of course, there’s the cotija cheese—crumbled on top, adding a salty, savory punch. The whole thing comes together in this symphony of flavors: sweet, tangy, smoky, and a little bit spicy.

It’s refreshing, bright, and it has just enough kick to stand up to the nachos without overpowering them. Plus, it’s easy to spoon onto your plate right next to those cheesy, crispy chips.

Avocado and Tomato Salad

Avocado and tomato salad is the kind of dish that brings everything back down to earth. Ripe avocados, juicy tomatoes, maybe a little red onion for bite, and a generous splash of lime juice to tie it all together. This salad is all about letting the ingredients shine, their natural flavors doing the heavy lifting.

The creaminess of the avocado plays off the acidity of the tomatoes, creating this refreshing contrast that pairs beautifully with the nachos. It’s light, it’s clean, and it has that fresh quality that makes you feel like you’re eating something that’s good for you—even when you’re diving into a plate of nachos.

Toss in a handful of fresh cilantro for a burst of herbal brightness, and you’ve got a side that’s as easy on the palate as it is on the eyes.

Fajita Vegetables

Fajita vegetables might just be the unsung heroes of any Tex-Mex spread. Thinly sliced bell peppers and onions, sautéed until they’re soft and sweet, with just a hint of char from the pan. It’s all about texture here—the tender veggies offering a nice contrast to the crispiness of nachos.

The beauty of fajita vegetables is in their simplicity. A little bit of oil, a pinch of salt, maybe a squeeze of lime at the end—that’s all they need. They bring a warm, savory element to the meal, grounding it with their deep, caramelized flavors.

And if you’re like me, you’ll appreciate how they bring a touch of nostalgia, too, evoking those sizzling platters from your favorite Mexican restaurant.

Cucumber and Jicama Slaw

When the question arises—what side dish goes with nachos?—sometimes you need something crisp and cool to balance the heat. Enter cucumber and jicama slaw. The crunch of the jicama, that crisp, slightly sweet root vegetable, pairs perfectly with the refreshing coolness of cucumber.

Tossed together with a light dressing of lime juice, a hint of honey, and a sprinkle of chili powder, this slaw is all about contrasts. It’s crunchy and fresh, with just a touch of sweetness and spice.

Every bite is like a palate cleanser, a way to reset before diving back into the nachos. And the best part? It’s unexpected, a little twist that keeps things interesting without straying too far from the theme.

Finger Foods to Serve with Nachos at Parties

Chicken Wings

Chicken wings. They’re messy, they’re flavorful, and they’re exactly what you need next to a heaping plate of nachos. There’s something about that combination—spicy, tangy wings alongside cheesy, crunchy nachos—that just works.

The key is in the sauce. Whether it’s a classic buffalo, a sticky honey BBQ, or something with a little more kick, like a Sriracha glaze, wings bring the heat in a way that balances the richness of nachos.

When I serve these, I like to keep it simple. Just wings and a good dipping sauce—maybe some blue cheese or ranch for that cooling contrast. But don’t underestimate the power of a good wing. It’s a crowd-pleaser, always the first to go, and a perfect finger food companion for any nacho setup.

Jalapeño Poppers

Jalapeño poppers are like the rebellious cousin of nachos. They bring that same level of comfort but with a little more bite. Stuffed with cream cheese, maybe some bacon bits or a bit of cheddar, and then baked until they’re gooey on the inside and crispy on the outside.

You bite into one, and there’s this explosion of flavor—spicy, creamy, salty—all at once.

I like to serve them straight out of the oven, still sizzling, alongside a plate of nachos. They offer that same satisfying crunch but with an extra layer of complexity. And they’re versatile. You can wrap them in bacon, bread them for extra crunch, or even mix up the cheeses to keep things interesting. They’re the kind of finger food that makes people reach for just one more.

Mini Tacos

Mini tacos are the fun-sized version of everyone’s favorite Mexican dish. Imagine the full experience of a taco, but in a bite-sized form that you can pop in your mouth in one go. Corn tortillas, a little bit of seasoned beef or shredded chicken, topped with salsa, a sprinkle of cheese, and maybe a dab of sour cream or guacamole.

The beauty of mini tacos is that they’re customizable. You can set up a mini taco bar, let your guests build their own, or serve them up pre-assembled for easy grabbing.

They’re playful, they’re delicious, and they pair perfectly with nachos, offering a little variety while keeping with the theme.

Quesadillas

Quesadillas are like nachos’ more refined sibling—still cheesy, still delicious, but with a slightly different vibe. They’re soft where nachos are crunchy, but they share that same gooey, cheesy heart. When I make quesadillas for a party, I like to keep them simple: just cheese, maybe some fajita vegetables, or a bit of shredded chicken or beef.

Slice them up into wedges, and you’ve got a perfect finger food that’s easy to handle and even easier to eat. They don’t compete with the nachos; they complement them, offering a different texture and flavor profile that rounds out the spread. Plus, they’re quick to make, and who doesn’t love a good quesadilla?

Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms might seem like an odd pairing with nachos, but hear me out. They’re bite-sized, they’re savory, and they bring a little something different to the table. Imagine mushrooms filled with a mix of cream cheese, garlic, maybe some spinach or sausage, and baked until they’re golden and bubbling.

What’s great about stuffed mushrooms is their depth of flavor. They add a richness to the party spread that balances out the more traditional Mexican flavors of the nachos. And they’re easy to pop in your mouth, no utensils required—perfect for a party where people are mingling, drinking, and grabbing food as they go.

Taquitos

Taquitos are a party staple for a reason. They’re crunchy, they’re packed with flavor, and they’re the kind of food that you just can’t stop eating once you start. Whether you fill them with shredded beef, chicken, or even refried beans for a vegetarian option, taquitos are like the rolled-up version of a taco, fried to crispy perfection.

Serve them with some salsa or queso dip on the side, and you’ve got a finger food that’s perfectly in sync with your nacho spread.

They’re satisfying in that same way—cheesy, crunchy, and totally irresistible. And the best part? They’re great for dipping, whether it’s into a bowl of guac, salsa, or even just a simple sour cream.

FAQ on What Side Dish Goes With Nachos

What are some easy side dishes to serve with nachos?

When you’re looking for something quick and easy, think Mexican rice or black beans. Both are simple to prepare and pair perfectly with the flavors of nachos. You can also whip up a guacamole or salsa—both of which add that fresh, vibrant touch to the meal without much effort.

What protein goes well with nachos?

Grilled chicken is a fantastic choice, adding a smoky, savory element to your nacho spread. If you’re craving something heartier, go for BBQ pulled pork or beef tacos. Each of these proteins enhances the nachos’ richness and provides a satisfying, well-rounded meal that feels complete.

What vegetables pair well with nachos?

For a lighter touch, fajita vegetables like bell peppers and onions bring sweetness and a bit of char to the mix. Avocado salad or grilled vegetables add freshness and a touch of brightness. These veggies don’t just complement nachos; they make the whole dish feel balanced and flavorful.

How can I make nachos more filling?

To bulk up your nachos, add sides like refried beans, Mexican street corn, or stuffed mushrooms. These dishes bring extra texture and substance, ensuring your nachos aren’t just a snack but a full, satisfying meal. Don’t forget to top the nachos with extra cheese and sour cream!

What are some spicy side dishes for nachos?

Jalapeño poppers deliver that kick of heat you’re looking for, with their spicy, cheesy filling. Another option is a spicy grilled chicken that adds both heat and depth to your plate. Queso dip with some added chorizo or Sriracha can also spice things up nicely.

What dips go well with nachos?

Queso dip is a classic, offering that gooey, melted cheese goodness everyone loves. Guacamole brings creaminess, while salsa offers a fresh, tangy contrast. For something a bit different, try a Mexican street corn salad—it’s got the flavor and the crunch that pairs perfectly with nachos.

Can I serve nachos with something sweet?

Yes! Mango salsa is a sweet and spicy side that brings a refreshing twist to nachos. If you’re looking for a full dessert, something like churros or cinnamon sugar tortilla chips can follow the nacho feast, offering a sweet ending that still ties into the theme.

What beverages go well with nachos?

A Margarita or a cold Mexican beer pairs perfectly with nachos, cutting through the richness and complementing the bold flavors. If you’re looking for something non-alcoholic, agua fresca or a refreshing lime soda works beautifully, adding a touch of brightness to the meal.

What side salads work best with nachos?

A cucumber and jicama slaw brings crunch and a refreshing coolness to your nacho spread. Avocado and tomato salad is another winner, offering creaminess and acidity that balances the richness of the nachos. Both salads are light, making them ideal companions for a heavier dish.

What can I serve with nachos for a crowd?

When feeding a crowd, mini tacos and taquitos are perfect—easy to grab and packed with flavor. Pair these with a big bowl of queso dip and some stuffed mushrooms for variety. This lineup keeps everyone satisfied without straying from the delicious, nacho-centered theme.

Conclusion

When it comes to what side dish goes with nachos, the possibilities are as vibrant and diverse as the flavors themselves. Whether you’re aiming for something light and fresh like an avocado salad or seeking the smoky depth of grilled vegetables, the right sides elevate your nacho experience from casual snack to a full-on culinary adventure.

Consider the boldness of BBQ pulled pork or the satisfying crunch of jalapeño poppers—each side offers a unique twist that complements the rich, cheesy layers of your nachos. And don’t forget about the power of a simple queso dip or the tangy brightness of salsa to tie everything together.

In the end, the best side dishes aren’t just about filling the plate—they’re about enhancing every bite, making your nacho spread something unforgettable. Dive into these pairings, and you’ll discover that the perfect sides turn good nachos into something truly spectacular.