What To Serve With Barbacoa Beef: 15 Tasty Side Dishes - Corrie Cooks (2024)

Barbacoa beef is a delicious, slow-cooked Mexican dish full of flavor. When enjoying this savory meal, you might wonder what side dishes can complement it.

We have put together a list of the 15 best side dishes that will elevate your barbacoa experience to new heights.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with barbacoa beef are Spanish rice, refried beans, tostadas, nachos, guacamole, grilled corn on the cob, pico de gallo, Mexican street corn salad, flour tortillas, and jicama slaw.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Spanish Rice

Similar to Mexican rice, this flavorful rice is cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices, creating a deliciously seasoned and aromatic side. The savory flavors of Spanish rice complement the rich and tender barbacoa beef, resulting in a satisfying and well-balanced meal.

2. Refried Beans

Refried beans are a classic Mexican side dish, full of protein and fiber. Their creamy, rich texture pairs well with the tender barbacoa beef, making them a satisfying and nutritious addition to your meal.

3. Guacamole

Guacamole adds a creamy and cool element to the plate, enhancing the barbacoa beef's flavors. This avocado-based dip is easy to make and brings a touch of freshness to the meal, making it a perfect side dish.

4. Nachos

Nachos are a fun and shareable side dish to serve with barbacoa. Pile up crispy tortilla chips and top them with shredded barbacoa, melted cheese, sour cream, and jalapenos for a tasty, interactive appetizer or side that everyone will love.

5. Tostadas

Tostadas are crispy, flat tortillas that can be topped with barbacoa beef, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese. This crunchy side dish adds a great textural contrast to the tender meat, making it an exciting and flavorful addition to your meal.

6. Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is a sweet and smoky side dish that adds a lovely contrast to the tender barbacoa beef. The juicy kernels and slightly charred flavor make it a delightful addition to any barbecue meal.

7. Pico de Gallo

Pico de Gallo is a fresh and zesty salsa made from chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice. It's an excellent side dish to serve with barbacoa beef, as it cuts through the richness of the meat and adds a vibrant kick to your meal.

8. Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican street corn salad is a delicious combination of grilled corn, cotija cheese, mayonnaise, and spices. This flavorful and creamy side dish enhances the barbacoa beef experience, adding a rich, tangy element to your meal.

9. Flour Tortillas

Flour tortillas are a versatile side dish that allows you to create your own barbacoa tacos or burritos. They are soft, pliable, and perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from the meat.

10. Jicama Slaw

Jicama slaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish made from jicama, cabbage, and a tangy dressing. It adds a crisp texture to your meal, contrasting nicely with the tender barbacoa beef, and helps to cleanse the palate.

11. Cilantro Lime Rice

Cilantro lime rice is a simple and flavorful side dish that complements the rich taste of barbacoa beef. The zesty lime and fresh cilantro add a bright, refreshing touch to the meal, balancing the hearty flavors of the meat.

12. Steak Fajitas

Beef fajitas are a great way to serve barbacoa beef alongside sautéed peppers and onions. This sizzling side dish adds a pop of color and extra flavor to your meal, making it a fantastic option for a Mexican-themed dinner.

13. Queso Fundido

Queso fundido is a warm, melted cheese dip that can be served with barbacoa beef for a decadent and indulgent side dish. Top the cheese with cooked barbacoa and serve it with tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas for a rich and satisfying treat.

14. Black Bean Salad

A black bean salad is a healthy and refreshing side dish to serve with barbacoa beef. The combination of black beans, corn, tomatoes, and cilantro dressed in a zesty lime vinaigrette adds a burst of freshness and flavor to your meal.

15. Chiles Rellenos

Chiles rellenos are poblano peppers stuffed with cheese and sometimes meat, coated in a light batter, and fried. Stuff the peppers with barbacoa beef and cheese for a delicious and satisfying side dish that adds a touch of heat to your meal.

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