Wondering what do you serve with a taco bowl? Whether you’re preparing a family meal or hosting a gathering, choosing the right sides can elevate your taco bowl experience. Taco bowls are delicious and filling on their own, but adding complementary dishes enhances their flavors and textures. With options like Mexican street corn, chips with salsa, and refreshing beverages, you can build a complete meal to impress any guest.
For a festive touch, serve your taco bowl with creative appetizers like these jalapeño popper mummies.
What Do You Serve with a Taco Bowl?
Taco bowls pair beautifully with various sides, from appetizers to desserts. Here’s a detailed look at the best side dishes to serve alongside your taco bowl.
1. Chips and Dips
Chips and dips are a classic addition when figuring out what to serve with a taco bowl. They provide a crunchy element and complement the bowl’s bold flavors.
- Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip full of healthy fats
- Salsa – Traditional tomato salsa or fruity varieties like mango salsa
- Queso Dip – Warm, cheesy goodness for dipping
- Tortilla Chips – Perfect for scooping every bite
For more snack ideas, pair your taco bowl with air-fried pizza rolls for something unique.
2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Elote is a flavorful side that pairs perfectly with taco bowls. It offers a mix of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors.
- On the Cob – Grilled corn slathered with mayo, cotija cheese, and chili powder
- Esquites – Same ingredients served in a cup for easy enjoyment
3. Rice and Grain Options
Although taco bowls usually include cilantro lime rice, additional grains make excellent side dishes.
- Mexican Rice – Tomato-based rice with garlic and onions
- Quinoa Salad – A healthy, protein-packed option
- Spanish Rice – Flavored with saffron and bell peppers
Enhance your bowl with this flavorful Mexican rice recipe.
4. Fresh Salads
When deciding what to serve with a taco bowl, light salads offer refreshing contrast.
- Avocado and Tomato Salad – A simple, flavorful side
- Cucumber and Lime Salad – Crisp and zesty with a touch of spice
- Mango and Jicama Slaw – Sweet and crunchy with vibrant colors
5. Vegetable Sides
Grilled or roasted vegetables are healthy and delicious sides for taco bowls.
- Grilled Peppers and Onions – Ideal as a side or topping
- Zucchini Ribbons – Light and refreshing
- Roasted Cauliflower – A great low-carb option
6. Soups and Stews
Serving a light soup with your taco bowl adds warmth to the meal.
- Chicken Tortilla Soup – Spicy, topped with tortilla strips
- Black Bean Soup – Thick and satisfying
- Pozole – Traditional Mexican soup with hominy
7. Beverages to Serve with Taco Bowls
The right beverages complete the meal.
- Margaritas – Classic lime or flavored options like strawberry or mango
- Agua Fresca – Refreshing fruit drinks such as watermelon or cucumber lime
- Horchata – Sweet rice milk with cinnamon
8. Bread and Tortillas
Adding bread or tortillas can make your taco bowl even more versatile.
- Warm Flour Tortillas – Great for wrapping extra ingredients
- Cornbread Muffins – Soft and slightly sweet
- Cheesy Garlic Bread – Adds an indulgent touch
9. Salsas and Sauces
Offering extra salsas and sauces provides more variety to each bite.
- Salsa Verde – Made with tangy tomatillos
- Chipotle Sauce – Smoky and spicy for extra flavor
- Pico de Gallo – Bright and fresh tomato salsa
10. Desserts to Serve with Taco Bowls
Round out your meal with a delicious dessert.
- Churros – Fried dough rolled in cinnamon sugar
- Flan – A creamy caramel custard
- Tres Leches Cake – A sponge cake soaked in three types of milk
For a lighter dessert, try these air-fried pizza rolls—perfect for kids and adults alike.
How to Choose the Best Side Dishes for Taco Bowls
When choosing what to serve with a taco bowl, keep these tips in mind:
- Balance Flavors – Pair spicy bowls with refreshing sides like cucumber salad or agua fresca.
- Add Texture – Include crunchy options like tortilla chips or roasted vegetables to contrast soft ingredients.
- Match the Occasion – Opt for casual sides like chips and salsa for a family meal, or go with elote and margaritas for a party.
Meal Prep Tips for Taco Bowls and Sides
- Store Ingredients Separately – Keep components like rice and salsa separate to maintain freshness.
- Batch Cook Proteins and Grains – Prepare proteins and grains ahead of time for easy meal prep.
- Reheat Only What’s Needed – Reheat grains and proteins separately and add fresh toppings before serving.
FAQs about What to Serve with a Taco Bowl
What are the best sides for taco bowls?
Chips with guacamole, Mexican street corn, and cucumber salads are popular side dishes.
Can you serve soup with taco bowls?
Yes! Chicken tortilla soup or black bean soup pairs wonderfully with taco bowls.
What drinks go well with taco bowls?
Margaritas, agua fresca, and horchata are excellent drink options.
What dessert pairs with taco bowls?
Churros, flan, and tres leches cake make delicious desserts to finish the meal.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly what to serve with a taco bowl to enhance the meal. From crunchy chips and dips to refreshing salads and indulgent desserts, the right sides bring out the best flavors in your taco bowl. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or a party, these side dishes provide balance and variety. Get creative with your pairings and enjoy a memorable meal! Need more inspiration? Try these fun air-fried pizza rolls for your next taco night.