Enchiladas are a true Mexican classic—packed with hearty fillings, wrapped in soft corn tortillas, and smothered in rich, flavorful sauce. Every bite is a perfect mix of bold spices, creamy textures, and cheesy goodness.
But even the best enchiladas can shine even brighter with the right sides! While they’re delicious on their own, pairing them with a few complementary dishes can help balance the flavors and turn your meal into a full-on fiesta.
So, what are the best sides to serve with enchiladas? You can’t go wrong with traditional Mexican favorites! From zesty rice to creamy beans and refreshing salads, here are 10 mouthwatering side dishes that will take your enchilada night to the next level.
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1.Mexican Coleslaw
Let’s talk about a fresh twist on coleslaw, Mexican-style! While traditional coleslaw is often creamy with mayo, this version goes tangy with apple cider vinegar and cilantro. The result?
A lighter, more refreshing slaw that pairs perfectly with hearty dishes like enchiladas. But that’s not all–this Mexican slaw is packed with flavor.
Alongside shredded cabbage and carrots, you’ll find avocado, jalapeño, black beans, corn, red onions, and a sprinkle of cumin. It’s a vibrant mix that’s as tasty as it is colorful.
This slaw isn’t just a side; it’s a celebration of flavors that complements rich meals beautifully. ¡Buen provecho!
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2.Elote
Mexican dishes like enchiladas just beg for a side of sweet, juicy corn. And when it comes to corn dishes, you can’t go wrong with this classic Mexican street food–Elote is a must-try!
It’s all about bringing together fun, flavorful ingredients for a delicious mix of tastes and textures. Imagine corn grilled to perfection, then smothered in a creamy mix of sour cream and mayo.
It’s sprinkled with chili powder, crumbled cojita (or feta), and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Each bite is a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and cheesy that will leave you wanting more!
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3.Rice
No Mexican feast is complete without a side of rice! Whether you’re serving enchiladas or another favorite dish, a flavorful rice dish can elevate the whole meal.
Sure, you could stick with plain white rice, but why not spice things up a bit?
Add some green bell peppers, a sprinkle of cumin, and a handful of fresh cilantro to give it a vibrant twist.
Or, toss in some black beans for a heartier, more filling option that still stays true to the Mexican theme. Looking for a healthier option? Swap out the rice for quinoa instead!
Season it with Fajita seasoning, then mix in corn, zucchini, and black beans for a nutritious and delicious spin. Your guests will love it!
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4.Refried Beans
Refried beans are the ultimate dip or side that pairs perfectly with enchiladas. They’re creamy, flavorful, and can be made cheesy if you like, but they’re already delicious on their own.
These beans are super filling, so your guests will leave happy and satisfied. Worried about calories? Don’t be! Refried beans aren’t fried twice–‘refritos’ means ‘well-cooked’ in Spanish.
They’re boiled until tender, then baked or fried to perfection. It’s a tasty, hearty option for any gathering!
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5.Guacamole
Enchiladas and guacamole are the ultimate duo that’s sure to be a hit with everyone. The cheesy, saucy goodness of enchiladas pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy texture of guacamole.
Add a bowl of crispy tortilla chips on the side, and you’ve got an irresistible combo that’s hard to stop munching on.
Making guacamole is a breeze–just grab some ripe avocados, a white onion, fresh Roma tomatoes, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Mash it all together, and you’ve got a delicious, fresh dip that’s perfect for any gathering.
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6.Pepper Salad
This salad is a rainbow on your plate, packed with vibrant red, green, and yellow peppers that add a pop of color and flavor.
Stir-fried to perfection, they’re joined by red onions for a punch of sweetness and cheese for creaminess. The finishing touch? A sophisticated red wine or champagne vinaigrette that ties everything together.
It’s a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss!
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7.Jicama with Mango Slaw
Ever heard of jicama? If not, trust us, you’re missing out! This Mexican root veggie is kinda crunchy like a pear and starchy like a potato.
Now, imagine throwing it together with juicy mango, a drizzle of honey, and a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing slaw. Like a little heat?
Toss in some diced jalapeño or sprinkle chili powder on top. It’s a game-changer!
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8.Mexican Corn Pudding
Looking for the perfect side to pair with your savory enchiladas? Say hello to a warm, creamy bowl of Mexican corn pudding–it’s the ultimate sweet and savory match!
This delightful dish is packed with fresh corn, rich milk, melted cheese, and a hint of egg for creaminess. Together, these flavors create a truly irresistible treat that’s sure to steal the spotlight.
It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory that will leave everyone craving more!
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9.Chips and Salsa
Chips and salsa–does it get any more classic? The best part? If you’ve already got salsa on hand for your enchiladas, this side is a breeze to pull together.
Just grab your favorite chips, and you’re set! Want to take it up a notch? Melt some cheese for an extra burst of flavor. Easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser.
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10.Mexican Sweet Potato Salad
Looking for a flavor-packed side that’s as tasty as it is vibrant? This dish is a total showstopper!
Roasted sweet potatoes and fresh corn take center stage, while a creamy cilantro dressing adds a bright, tangy touch.
Top it all off with a hearty black bean salsa for a burst of flavor and texture. It’s the perfect pairing for enchiladas and a dish that’s sure to impress!
What to Serve with Enchiladas: 10 Traditional Sides
Course: Side DishesCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalEnchiladas are a true Mexican classic—packed with hearty fillings, wrapped in soft corn tortillas, and smothered in rich, flavorful sauce. Every bite is a perfect mix of bold spices, creamy textures, and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Mexican Coleslaw
Elote
Rice
Refried Beans
Guacamole
Pepper Salad
Jicama with Mango Slaw
Mexican Corn Pudding
Chips and Salsa
Mexican Sweet Potato Salad
Directions
- Select your favorite recipe.
- Organize all the required ingredients.
- Prep a delicious recipe in 30 minutes or less!