Thanks for coming by to get some meal inspiration for what to serve with nachos!
Nachos are a popular Tex-Mex dish consisting of tortilla chips covered with melted cheese and other toppings.
Nachos are a beloved appetizer, snack, lunch, or dinner out there.
One of the most popular ball game snacks in Texas is a simple tray of corn tortilla chips covered in hot cheese and sliced jalapeños—and that’s it!!
They’re easy to make, and diners of all ages love them!
Making your own is super simple; you just need to have a few ingredients on hand that you can mix and match.
You can even make a nachos bar, and people can top their own.
I mean, how do you go wrong with:
- crispy corn tortilla chips or air fryer flour tortilla chips
- seasoned ground beef or fajita chicken or just beans
- tons of melty cheese
Plus…
Toppings for nachos include:
- chopped tomatoes or pico de gallo
- tomatillo salsa
- sour cream
- black beans or refried beans
- fresh avocado or mounds of guacamole
- chopped onion
- corn salsa
Go a little wild with nacho toppings like:
- shredded molé chicken
- chili con queso
- chopped canned chipotles
- sliced jalapeños
- Mexican rice
- fresh, raw salsa from scratch
With so many tastes and flavors, I can make a serious pan of nachos and make people happy.
But sometimes it’s just not enough to be a well-rounded meal.
So I set out on a mission to help answer the question that often puzzles home cooks: what to serve with nachos!
I’ve got some fantastic ideas for you.
Keep reading as I discuss some mouthwatering side dishes that will go well with your nachos.
So whether you’re making them for a huge gathering or just a casual night in, these recipes will be surefire crowd-pleasers!
The dish originated in northern Mexico but has become popular around the world.
They are typically made with corn tortilla chips but can also be made with flour tortillas or other types of chips.
Scroll down below and check out this list of 44 dishes that go great with nachos!
Pay attention to #28, which is packed with flavor and zest.
If you’re looking for a refreshing way to spruce up your nachos, look no further than cilantro lime rice.
This zesty rice dish is a terrific complement to your favorite nacho toppings and is sure to please the most demanding gourmand.
The rice provides a nice base for the nachos, and the lime gives the dish a refreshing zing.
The beans and rice provide a hearty base that helps to balance out the greasy nachos.
In addition, beans are a good source of protein, which helps to make the nachos more filling.
Finally, the sweetness of the beans contrasts nicely with the savory toppings on the nachos.
This simple recipe combines the freshness of green beans with the savory flavor of roasted garlic.
The result is a delectable dish that will complement any nacho toppings, whether you’re using beef, chicken, or vegetarian toppings.
Our easy microwave version is here.
Let’s face it: nachos are delicious.
But they’re also pretty simple.
You’ve got your chips, your cheese, and maybe some beans or meat.
So how do you take them to the next level?
One way is to add southern fried corn.
The corn’s sweetness pairs with the savory cheese and spices, and the crispy texture is a nice contrast to the soft chips.
5. Spanish Rice
The rice is fluffy and slightly sticky, making it easy to scoop up with chips.
The spices in the rice complement the flavors of the cheese and meat toppings without overwhelming them.
Plus, the rice helps to absorb any excess grease from the nachos, making them even more enjoyable to eat.
Not only do easy refried beans add incredible flavor to your nachos, but they also help to hold everything together.
The beans act as glue, binding the chips, cheese, and other toppings together.
This way, you can pile on as much as you want without worrying about everything falling apart.
Bring a whole new level to the word cozy with a bowl of this delicious soup!
Made with black beans, smoked sausage, onions, and chili, this dish traditionally takes a long time to cook as a lot of effort went into preparing the ingredients, especially the black beans.
But thanks to humankind’s ingenuity, we now have access to canned black beans!
The use of the canned version will cut down prep time to 10 minutes!
Served with a side of nachos, this would be perfect for those looking for a quick bite on a midweek night.
The rich flavor of the curry complements the cheesy goodness of the nachos, and the beans add a flavor boost.
Plus, the curry is a great way to spice up your nachos and keep them interesting.
So next time you’re looking for a new twist on an old classic, try pairing black bean curry with your nachos.
When it comes to nachos, there’s no shortage of delicious toppings to choose from.
But one of the best things you can do is to pair them with a piping hot slice of jalapeño cheddar cornbread fresh out of the skillet.
The combination of the savory cornbread and the cheesy, spicy nachos is absolutely heavenly.
Lean into these carbs and be amazed!
One of the nicest things about nachos is they’re excellent for all sorts of sides, from simple salsa to grilled vegetables.
And when it comes to grilled vegetables, there’s nothing better than Mexican Grilled Corn.
The sweet corn teams up with the salty chips and sharp cheese, and the smoky flavor of the grill adds an extra layer of depth to the dish.
11. Pinto Bean Soup
Pinto Bean Soup is a piquant option that partners well with the savory flavors of nachos.
The creaminess of the soup helps to balance out the spice of the nachos, and the beans provide a filling and satisfying protein.
12. Tortilla Soup
Tortilla Soup is an exquisite partner for nachos.
The soup adds just the right amount of moisture to the chips, while the toppings on the nachos help to bulk up the soup and make it more filling.
The sweet and salty flavors of the peanuts complement the savory chips superbly, and the spice kicks things up a notch.
Plus, the honey provides a nice sticky texture.
14. Avocado Salad
Avocado Salad is the consummate accompaniment to nachos.
The creamy texture of avocado links up nicely with the crunch of the chips, and the fresh flavor of the salad helps balance out the cheese’s richness.
The nourishing fats in avocado will also help keep you satisfied after your meal.
15. Chunky Guacamole
Some things were meant to go together, like peanut butter and jelly.
And one of those things is chunky guacamole and nachos.
Guacamole is a fitting complement to nachos, adding a flavorful boost to the classic snack.
The creamy texture of guacamole pairs with the crispy chips, and the bold flavors balance out the saltiness of the nachos.
Plus, there’s nothing quite like a freshly made batch of guacamole – it’s so much better than whatever you could get at the store.
Strawberry avocado spinach salad is a stellar companion to nachos.
The strawberry’s sweetness, the creaminess of the avocado, and the savory flavor of the spinach all meld to create an oh-so-delicious dish.
Plus, the colorful ingredients in the salad make it a fun and festive addition to any party or gathering.
This flavorful blend of corn, jalapenos, and spices is a terrific complement to tortilla chips.
The corn provides a sweet and mellow flavor, while the jalapenos add just the right amount of heat.
The spices give the dip a boost of flavor that fits with the savory taste of nachos.
18. Corn Salad
Corn Salad is a simple dish that consists of corn, tomatoes, and onions.
The corn’s sweetness, the tomatoes’ acidity, and the onions’ sharpness all work together to create a vibrant flavor.
Furthermore, the crunchiness of the corn and the creaminess of the salad dressing adds an interesting texture to the dish.
19. Mexican Slaw
The crisp cabbage and zesty dressing of a Mexican Slaw provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the nachos, and the colorful veggies add a touch of brightness to the dish.
Plus, the slaw’s acidity also helps cut through the nachos’ greasiness, making for a more balanced meal.
20. Citrus Salad
Nachos are an excellent snack food—they’re salty, crunchy, and oh-so-satisfying.
But what makes them even better is pairing them with a juicy, fresh citrus salad.
The sweetness of the oranges helps to balance out the saltiness of the chips, and the citrus juice’s acidity offsets the cheese’s richness.
Plus, the bright colors of the fruit add a beautiful contrast to the classic nacho toppings of cheese and jalapenos.
21. Fajita Veggies
If you want to take your nachos to the next level, you should try adding fajita veggies.
The mix of peppers and onions is a yummy complement to the rich flavor of nachos, and the touch of spice gives the dish an extra kick.
Plus, the colorful veggies add a beautiful presentation.
Mexican food is all about flavor, and that’s precisely what you’ll get with Mexican Roasted Vegetables.
Combining fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices makes for an appetizing and wholesome option that pairs with nachos.
The veggies are roasted, adding a slight char that enhances their flavor.
23. Pico De Gallo
This fresh salsa is produced using diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, and it’s a flawless balance of flavorful and spicy.
The tortilla chips provide a nice crunch, while the Pico de Gallo adds a zesty flavor.
The fusion of sweet and savory flavors in Moroccan Carrot & Chickpea Salad makes it a mouthwatering partner for nachos.
Carrots add a sugary taste to the dish, while the chickpeas provide a savory contrast.
The salad also has arugula, which can cut through the cheesy goodness of nachos.
Plus, the Mediterranean-inspired flavors of the salad are a refreshing change from the usual Tex-Mex fare.
The Brussels sprouts add a crispy, savory component to the dish, while the roasted sweet potatoes offer a touch of sweetness and creaminess.
Together, they create a flavor profile that is simply to die for.
So next time you’re looking for an exquisite partner for your nachos, give roasted Brussel sprouts and sweet potatoes a try.
The combination of salty, cheesy nachos and fiery peppers is irresistible.
The poppers are nice and crispy, while the nachos are soft and melty.
It’s the precise contrast of textures!
27. Mexican Pozole
Pozole is a hearty soup made with meat, hominy, and chili peppers.
It’s warm, filling, and packed with flavor.
Nachos, on the other hand, are light, crispy, and full of cheesy goodness.
They’re a great snack to balance out the heartiness of the soup.
28. Broccoli Salad
The sweetness of the cranberries in the broccoli salad complements the savory flavor of the nachos, and the creamy dressing ties everything together.
Plus, the broccoli provides a nice crunchy texture that contrasts with the melted cheese and soft tortilla chips.
29. Avocado Rice
Adding Avocado Rice to your nachos is a great way to lighten nachos up without sacrificing flavor.
The rice adds a hearty dose of goodness, and the avocado provides a creamy, flavorful contrast to the chips and cheese.
The succulent shrimp pairs flawlessly with the cheesy nachos, and the zesty margarita flavor takes the dish to another level.
Plus, the colorful skewers add a beautiful touch to the presentation.
The avocado in the guacamole adds a creamy texture that contrasts superbly with the crunch of the nachos.
The tomato and basil in the bruschetta add a fresh flavor that makes this dish even more sublime.
Sweet potato fries are a great option to have together with nachos since they add nutty and sweet flavors to the meal.
Your more health-conscious friends would appreciate having this as an option as well!
You can prepare them by either frying, air-frying, or baking, adding some of your favorite seasonings, throwing in a pinch or two of dried herbs and a generous drizzle of olive oil, and your masterpiece is complete!
33. Salsa Chicken
Salsa Chicken is a great choice for nachos for a few reasons.
First, the spice level of salsa chicken can be easily adjusted to suit your preferences.
Whether you like it mild or hot, salsa chicken is a versatile option that can be tailored to your taste.
Second, salsa chicken is already cooked, so it’s a quick and easy way to add protein to your nachos.
The chicken should be shredded and then added to your nacho toppings.
Third, the flavor of salsa chicken pairs well with the other ingredients typically found on nachos, such as cheese, beans, and sour cream.
34. Mexican Martini
Most people have had nachos.
Some for maybe a light snack, others maybe for something to chew while they watch their favorite movie, while a few may even have them as comfort food.
And maybe those few might want them with a little alcohol.
This is where the Mexican Martini comes in.
It deviates from the original martini quite a bit but still holds true to the concept.
Just exchange the usual gin or vodka for tequila, throw that and the rest of the ingredients into a shaker with ice then shake.
Then let Señor Jose Cuervo pat you on the back and tell you everything will be alright while you munch on your nachos.
This addicting little dish is also called Elote and is made up of sweet corn, spices, mayo, lime, and cotija cheese.
You almost always have to make more than you usually intend because whenever it’s served, you can be sure it’ll be gone fast!
Speaking of serving, you can serve it either on the cob on a plate with the toppings spread across it or in kernels in a bowl with the seasoning up top.
I recommend the latter.
Because in that case, you can use your yummy nachos to shovel from your bowl of Elote deliciousness.
Yummy and addicting?
Sign me up!
Many may think that a tortilla dish with another tortilla-based dish might be a bad idea, sort of like eating a ham sandwich together with PBJ.
Not so in this case.
This is because, in nachos, tortillas keep their hard chip-like consistency while in the casserole, the tortillas are used to make its soft outer base.
The consistency is almost cake-like, dripping with all the gooey goodness of the cheese layered with lean ground beef.
You can almost hear a choir burst into song when you use your nachos to scoop up some of the casserole!
Simply Divine!
Quesadillas take the culinary phenom of melted cheese to a new level with the addition of sour cream and salsa!
The tortillas are placed on a greased baking sheet then a mixture of melted cheese and salsa is poured over half of each tortilla.
Fold over, then broil each side until golden brown and you’re done!
For extra crunchiness, you may want to heat the tortillas for a minute or so before adding the ingredients.
Since they are both finger foods, Quesadillas work really well with nachos!
Many argue that enchiladas are perfect on their own.
Usually made from chicken, onions, cheese, and green chili wrapped in tortillas, they are customizable and easy to make.
So I’ll concede the point as yes, enchiladas are perfectly viable as stand-alone meals.
But what if we just had to add something to that perfection?
Then that something would have to be nachos.
Try it! You’ll thank me later!
Cooking this dish can be daunting, as the beef ribs will need hours—yes, hours—braised in a special sauce made up of red wine, tomato sauce, chilis chipotle in adobo sauce, beef stock, and brown sugar together with other seasoning and spices to come up perfect.
But believe me, it is well worth it!
Preparing it this way ensures the beef absorbs the flavor throughout and also makes it so tender the meat just falls off the bone.
Served with nachos and maybe some garlic rice, this is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser so make sure you make a bunch!
Since tacos and nachos have very similar toppings, it cuts down the number of ingredients you have to buy!
The sample recipe I’ve provided for tacos here is for beef, but you can keep your palate guessing by switching from that to any meat of your choice.
They’re that versatile!
Some good examples of the more uncommon choices would be grilled mahi-mahi or fresh shrimp, but you can always opt to get the usual mainstays like chicken or pork.
Or better yet, set out a taco platter of different meats so your guests can pick and choose their own!
A win for any party!
41. Sloppy Joes
Who knew that the Sloppy Joe would pair great with simple nachos?
The combination of savory and sweet plus alternating textures from crispy-crunchy goodness to a delectable chewy meatiness is something you’ll surely love!
Just be sure to make your own and avoid the canned varieties though!
42. Empanadas
The empanada is a Mexican meat pastry.
They are so good!
The pastry is of the flaky kind and is made using butter, flour, water, and eggs; and envelopes a filling made of ground beef, potatoes, cumin, chili powder, paprika, and various fresh herbs.
And they naturally go very well together with nachos.
43. Beef Burritos
Since they’re filling, spicy, and full of flavor, burritos make an excellent side dish for nachos.
Pamper your taste buds by filling them with your choice of meats, vegetables, and cheeses then wrapping them in a flour tortilla.
Be sure to set aside some lettuce for the carb-conscious!
If all else fails and you just seem to hit snag after snag in your culinary nacho side journey, never fear!
You can always fall back on the ever-trusty cheese sauce.
And don’t be so quick to judge!
This cheese sauce is some pretty potent stuff!
The bottom line
No matter what you’re in the mood for, there’s sure to be a side dish that pairs sublimely with nachos.
So, keep on trying these dishes until you find the ideal match.
Here’s our CookingChew tip for reheating nachos too!
What To Serve With Nachos 🧀
Every plate of nachos needs a little sumn sumn on the side. Here’s an epic list of ideas for what to serve with nachos! Yum!
Ingredients
- Cilantro Lime Rice
- Cowboy Baked Beans
- Roasted Garlic Green Beans
- Southern Fried Corn
- Spanish Rice
- Refried Beans
- Black Bean Soup
- Creamy Black Bean Curry
- Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread In An Iron Skillet
- Mexican Grilled Corn
- Pinto Bean Soup
- Tortilla Soup
- Spicy Honey Roasted Peanuts
- Avocado Salad
- Chunky Guacamole
- Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad
- Crackpot Corn & Jalapeno Dip
- Corn Salad
- Mexican Slaw
- Citrus Salad
- Fajita Veggies
- Mexican Roasted Vegetables
- Pico De Gallo
- Moroccan Carrot & Chickpea Salad
- Roasted Brussel Sprouts & Sweet Potatoes
- Stuffed Mini Peppers
- Mexican Pozole
- Broccoli Salad
- Avocado Rice
- Margarita Grilled Shrimp Skewers
- Bruschetta With Guacamole
- Thai Chicken Salad With Peanut Dressing
- Salsa Chicken
Instructions
- Find your favorite recipe from our What to Serve with Nachos list.
- Gather all the ingredients needed.
- Start cooking and make us proud!