What to Serve With Empanadas (15 Easy Ideas)

Looking for the perfect sides to go with empanadas? You’re in the right spot!

I’m a total empanada fanatic. Give me a plate of these delicious pastries, and I’m one happy person!

1.Black Beans and Rice

Black beans and rice might sound simple, but this recipe turns them into something truly special.

Cooked in a savory broth and infused with sautéed garlic, onions, lime juice, and fresh cilantro, this dish is packed with flavor.

It’s a versatile staple that pairs perfectly with empanadas, grilled meats, or as a side to your favorite veggie dishes. Plus, it’s a great filling for burritos, enchiladas, or tacos. The best part?

This hearty, delicious meal comes together in just 30 minutes!

2.Qdoba Queso

Obsessed with Qdoba queso? Now you can make it at home for a fraction of the cost–and it tastes just as amazing!

This copycat recipe is a triple threat, blending Monterey Jack, American, and cheddar cheeses for ultimate creaminess. With the addition of heavy cream, juicy tomatoes, and smoky roasted poblano peppers, this dip becomes absolutely irresistible.

Serve it up with a variety of crackers, crostini, or fresh veggies, and watch it vanish in minutes. But here’s the ultimate tip: try dipping empanadas in this creamy goodness for a game-changing snack.

Your taste buds will thank you!

3.Guacamole

Chipotle spilled their secret guacamole recipe, and let me tell you–it’s a game-changer! Sure, there are tons of guacamole recipes out there, but this one takes the crown.

Skip the store-bought stuff; homemade is where it’s at. It’s fresher, cheaper, and tastes way better than anything you’ll find pre-made.

Spread this creamy goodness all over your empanadas for a snack that’s impossible to resist. (And don’t worry, the diet can wait until tomorrow.)

4.Mexican Potato Salad

Looking for a salad that’s anything but boring? This vibrant Mexican salad is a game-changer! It’s packed with tender potatoes, sweet corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, and a creamy sauce that brings everything together.

The colors are so bright, they’ll make your mouth water just looking at them. It’s a perfect mix of flavors and textures that works surprisingly well.

Even if you’re not a salad fan, this one might just change your mind. It’s a delicious, harmonious blend that’s a must-try!

5.Fried Plantains

Get ready to taste the perfect mix of sweet and savory with this amazing combo of empanadas and fried plantains.

If you’re a fan of that sweet and salty magic, this pairing is a total game-changer. The star of the show? Ripe sweet plantains that are fried to a golden, irresistible crisp.

When you fry them, they turn soft and almost melt-in-your-mouth, with a sweet, caramelized flavor that takes the humble fruit to a whole new level. It’s like giving plantains a delicious makeover!

6.Avocado Tomato Salad

Here’s another refreshing avocado treat that’s like a summer party in a bowl! This vibrant salad features slices of avocado, tomatoes, jalapeños, and cucumber, all dressed up with oil, lime juice, and cumin.

It’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. While it’s a salad at heart, don’t hesitate to use it as a delicious dip for your chips. The best part?

You can add as many veggies as you like–just raid your fridge and get creative!

7.Mexican Sweet Corn Cakes

These corn cakes are a delightful treat–sweet, moist, and packed with corn flavor. They get their amazing taste from not one, not two, but three sources of corn goodness.

The batter is made with masa harina and cornmeal, giving them a rich, authentic flavor. Then, they’re loaded with sweet, golden corn kernels, so every bite is a corn lover’s dream.

These golden cuties are perfect for serving at any party, and they’ll vanish in no time. While they’re called cakes, they double as a fantastic side for any Mexican main dish.

So, go ahead and enjoy them however you like–they’re sure to be a hit!

8.Refried Beans

I wasn’t a big fan of refried beans until I stumbled on this recipe, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer.

These refried beans are incredibly rich and creamy, with a depth of flavor that’s just irresistible.

A squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro add bright, zesty notes that take it to the next level. They pair perfectly with savory empanadas for a match made in heaven.

The best part? This side dish isn’t just delicious–it’s also healthy. Made with pinto beans, it’s packed with protein and fiber. It’s the ultimate combo of tasty and nutritious!

9.Corn on the Cob

Sometimes, the simplest things are the best. This easy microwave corn on the cob is a total game-changer for a quick, delicious side dish.

Sweet, crunchy, and perfectly tender, it’s sure to be a hit at any meal. Ditch the boiling pot of water–this microwave method is faster, cleaner, and practically foolproof.

Plus, it locks in the corn’s natural sweetness for even better flavor. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever cooked corn any other way.

It’s a simple hack that makes life a whole lot sweeter!

10.Salsa Verde

Salsa verde is a must-try tomato-based dip and sauce that’s perfect for chips, enchiladas, and everything in between. What makes it unique?

It’s made with tomatillos, also known as Mexican husk tomatoes, which give it that signature green color.

Sure, you can grab a jar from the grocery store, but trust us–making it homemade is a total game-changer. The secret?

Roasting the tomatoes beforehand adds a smoky char that elevates the flavor to a whole new level. Homemade salsa verde is 100 times more delicious than anything store-bought.

So why settle for ordinary when you can have something extraordinary? Give this recipe a shot and taste the difference for yourself!

11.Mexican Coleslaw

Looking for a coleslaw without mayo? This one’s a game-changer! Made with shredded cabbage, red onions, and fresh cilantro, it’s all about that tangy olive oil and vinegar dressing.

The real star here is the cumin–it brings an earthy flavor with just the right touch of sweetness and bitterness. Trust us, this refreshing twist on classic coleslaw is a total winner!

12.Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican street corn salad, or esquites, is a flavor explosion in every bite. This isn’t just a salad–it’s a party in your mouth with savory, smoky, spicy, and tangy notes all coming together.

The base is perfectly sautéed corn, cooked in butter and seasoned with onions, chilies, and a pinch of salt.

Then it gets topped with hot sauce, chili powder, mayo, lime juice, and a sprinkle of madness.

This version takes it up a notch by adding colorful veggies, creamy avocado slices, crumbly feta and cotija cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

It’s a loaded, flavorful twist that will keep you coming back for more!

13.Mexican Rice

Rice and empanadas? Sounds a bit unusual, but trust us, it’s a game-changer! Think of it like a burrito, but instead of the rice being wrapped inside, it’s served right alongside.

With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, you’ll forget all about that initial doubt. The rice is cooked to perfection in a savory broth, infused with rich tomato paste for a burst of flavor.

Paired with empanadas, this duo creates a hearty, satisfying Mexican-inspired meal. It’s the perfect combo for when you’re extra hungry and craving something hearty.

14.Strawberry Salsa

Strawberry Salsa is a fresh twist on the classic dip. Instead of tomatoes, we’re using juicy strawberries for a sweet and tangy flavor.

The mix of red strawberries, green cilantro, and jalapeños creates a vibrant and eye-catching combination. Plus, the aroma is absolutely irresistible!

This salsa is perfect for dipping chips or crackers, or as a topping for enchiladas. The tangy zip of the strawberries pairs amazingly with savory empanadas.

It’s a must-try for a light and refreshing spin on traditional salsa!

15.Cilantro Lime Rice

Plain rice can be pretty bland on its own, but this recipe flips that script! Cilantro and lime team up to create a flavor explosion that will make you forget all about plain rice.

It’s amazing how such simple ingredients can make such a big impact. This dish is so good, it’s hard to stick to just one serving.

Add some empanadas to the mix, and let’s just say your self-control might not stand a chance. It’s the perfect side dish to jazz up your meal!