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What to Serve with Taco Soup? 14 Side Dishes Worth Trying

If you’re a long-time fan of Mexican cuisine, then chances are that you already know all about the amazing flavors and textures of taco soup.

But even if you’re someone who has only recently started venturing into the world of Mexican cooking, taco soup is something everyone should try!

From its savory broth to its tasty filling, this classic dish includes so many delicious ingredients – but what do you serve with it?

The answer is actually quite simple: there are plenty of incredible side dishes that pair perfectly with taco soup.

With just a little bit of creativity and some recipe guidance, soon you’ll be curating complementary sides for your Taco Soup night that will have your family or guests coming back for more.

Keep reading as we share 14 side dishes worth trying out next time Taco Soup features on the menu!

What to Serve with Taco Soup? 14 Side Dishes Worth Trying

1. Taco Salad

Looking for a new recipe to try out? Why not give taco soup a try.

This dish is packed with flavor and is sure to please everyone at the table.

Plus, it’s easy to make and can be tailored to your liking.

One of the best things about taco soup is that it is packed with flavor.

The combination of spices, ground beef, and tomatoes creates a delicious and hearty soup.

The soup is also relatively easy to make, which is another bonus.

And, if you’re looking for a way to spice up your taco soup, there are plenty of ways to do so.

Here are some tips:

  • Add some heat by adding in some jalapeños or other chili peppers.
  • Give the soup some texture by adding in some chopped onions, diced tomatoes, or shredded cheese.
  • Make it a complete meal by serving it with some tortilla chips, sour cream, and guacamole on the side.

2. Southwest Chicken Salad

This Southwest Chicken Salad is a delicious, healthier alternative to the mayonnaise-based salads of summer picnics past.

Packed with lean protein, black beans, corn, and a zesty dressing, this salad will leave you feeling satisfied without weighing you down.

The combination of textures in this salad is really what makes it special.

The crunch of the iceberg lettuce, the creaminess of the avocado, and the heartiness of the black beans and chicken all come together in each bite.

And the dressing ties it all together with a tangy kick.

If you’re looking for a lighter, healthier option for your next picnic or potluck, this Southwest Chicken Salad is definitely worth considering.

It’s easy to make ahead of time and transport, and it’s bound to be a hit with everyone who tries it.

  • Be sure to chop the iceberg lettuce into small pieces so that it’s easy to eat and doesn’t overwhelm the other ingredients.
  • If you’re not a fan of cilantro, feel free to leave it out of the dressing. It won’t affect the flavor too much.
  • To add a little bit more zest to the dressing, try adding a diced jalapeño pepper.

3. Black Beans and Rice

Any cook worth their salt knows that the key to a good dish is in the balance of flavors.

And while black beans and rice might not seem like the most exciting meal, when done right, it can be truly delicious.

The key is in finding the right balance between the earthy taste of the beans and the light, fluffy rice.

One way to elevate the dish is to add some spice with a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

You could also add some sweetness with adrizzle of honey or a sprinkle of brown sugar.

Or for a bit of acidity, try topping it off with a squeeze of lemon juice.

However you choose to dress it up, black beans and rice is a versatile dish that can be tailored to your taste.

4. Jalapeno Corn Muffins

If you’re in the mood for something savory and spicy, these jalapeno corn muffins are the perfect side dish to your taco soup.

The corn muffins have a slight kick from the jalapenos, but they’re still soft and moist on the inside.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even add a little bit of cheese to the batter before baking.

These corn muffins are best served warm, straight out of the oven.

But if you want to elevate this dish even further, try serving them with a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top.

You can also add a few extra jalapenos on top for an extra bit of spice.

5. Chili Lime Chicken Skewers

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy recipe to try, look no further than chili lime chicken skewers.

These skewers are packed with flavor and the perfect mix of juicy and crispy.

Plus, they’re super versatile – you can serve them as is or pair them with a side dish.

When it comes to taste, these skewers are slightly sweet with a kick of heat from the chili powder.

The lime juice also helps to balance out the flavors and adds a bit of acidity.

As for texture, the chicken is juicy and tender on the inside with a slight char on the outside.

So why consider trying this recipe? First, it’s a great option if you’re entertaining guests since it can be served as an appetizer or main course.

And second, it’s perfect for summertime cooking since it doesn’t require using the oven.

  • Serve with a dipping sauce such as ranch dressing or BBQ sauce.
  • Add some chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish.
  • Pair with a side of rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.

6. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chipotle Lime Butter

Summertime is the perfect time to break out the grill and enjoy some fresh corn on the cob.

This dish is simple but delicious, and can be easily elevated with a few additional ingredients.

The key to great grilled corn is to start with fresh, in-season corn.

Be sure to husk the corn and remove all of the silks before grilling.

To add some extra flavor to your corn, try brushing it with chipotle lime butter before grilling.

This recipe is easy to make and only requires a few ingredients: softened butter, lime juice, chili powder, and salt.

Simply mix all of the ingredients together and brush it onto the corn.

The result is a slightly spicy, tangy, and creamy flavor that takes this dish to the next level.

Another great way to elevate your grilled corn is by adding toppings after it has been cooked.

Try topping it with crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

These simple additions will take your grilled corn from good to great.

7. Cauliflower Rice

Looking for a delicious and healthy way to enjoy rice? Try cauliflower rice.

This dish is made by grating or pulsing cauliflower florets into small pieces that resemble grains of rice.

Cauliflower rice can be enjoyed on its own or as a replacement for traditional rice in your favorite recipes.

Cauliflower rice has a light and fluffy texture with a mild flavor that pairs well with virtually any dish.

It’s also a great way to sneak in an extra serving of veggies.

If you’re looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is a great choice.

There are plenty of ways to elevate your cauliflower rice dish.

Try adding sauteed vegetables, shredded chicken, or diced fruit.

You can also spice it up with some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

8. Sauteed Brussels Sprouts with Chili Flakes

Looking for a new side dish to add to your repertoire? Try sauteed Brussels sprouts with chili flakes.

This dish is packed with flavor and has a great texture that pairs well with a variety of main dishes.

Plus, it’s healthy and easy to make.

When it comes to taste, these Brussels sprouts are slightly sweet with a bit of heat from the chili flakes.

The texture is slightly crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.

There are many reasons to consider trying this recipe.

For one, it’s healthy.

Brussels sprouts are loaded with vitamins and minerals, making them a great addition to any meal.

They’re also easy to make and can be made in advance.

Plus, they’re versatile – you can add different seasonings or toppings to change things up.

If you’re looking to elevate this dish, there are a few things you can do.

First, try roasting the Brussels sprouts instead of sauteeing them.

This will give them a nice crispy exterior while still keeping them soft on the inside.

You can also add bacon or pancetta for some extra flavor.

Lastly, top it off with some shredded Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy kick.

9. Creamy Coleslaw

If you’re looking for a creamy coleslaw recipe that is sure to please, look no further.

This dish is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and picnics.

The best part about it is that it can be made ahead of time so you don’t have to worry about last-minute preparations.

The taste and texture of this coleslaw are amazing.

The creamy dressing is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, and the shredded cabbage and carrots add the perfect amount of crunch.

If you’re looking for a dish that is both flavorful and visually appealing, this is it.

There are many reasons to consider trying this recipe.

First, as mentioned above, it can be made ahead of time.

This is a great perk if you’re short on time or if you want to avoid any last-minute stress.

Second, it’s very budget-friendly.

All of the ingredients are readily available and relatively inexpensive.

Third, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd.

Whether you’re hosting a party or taking a dish to share, this coleslaw will be a hit.

  • Add some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor.
  • Swap out the regular cabbage for red cabbage for a beautiful color contrast.
  • Add some diced apples or pears for sweetness and texture.
  • Throw in some crumbled bacon or chopped nuts for a little bit of salty/crunchy goodness.

10. Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Chips

Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Chips are a delicious and easy to make snack that is perfect for satisfying your salty cravings.

These chips are thin slices of zucchini that are coated in a light batter and then fried until they are crispy and golden brown.

The best part about this recipe is that the zucchini chips are baked, not fried, so you don’t have to feel guilty about indulging in them.

These chips have a great taste and texture- they are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

They are also packed with flavor thanks to the Parmesan cheese and herbs that are used in the batter.

If you’re looking for a way to elevate this dish, consider serving it with a dipping sauce or using it as a topping on your favorite salad.

11. Chips and Salsa

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy side dish to serve with your taco soup, chips and salsa is a great option.

The combination of salty and savory chips with fresh and flavorful salsa is sure to be a hit with your guests.

Plus, it’s a dish that can be easily tailored to your taste preferences.

When it comes to choosing chips, you really can’t go wrong.

Whether you opt for tortilla chips, pita chips, or even potato chips, they’ll all taste great with salsa.

As for the salsa, there are endless possibilities.

You can go for a traditional tomato-based salsa, or get creative with a fruit salsa or even a zesty black bean salsa.

To take your chips and salsa to the next level, try serving them with homemade guacamole or queso dip.

Or, if you want to keep things healthy, pair them with chopped veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, or carrots.

No matter how you serve it, this dish is sure to be a hit.

12. Mexican Corn

Mexican Corn is a delicious and easy side dish that pairs well with many different main courses.

The corn is cooked in a flavorful mixture of butter, garlic, and chili powder, and then topped with cheese and cilantro.

It’s the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and spicy.

The best part about this dish is that it can be easily customized to your liking.

If you want more of a kick, you can add more chili powder.

If you’re looking for something a little more mellow, simply reduce the amount of chili powder.

And if you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can omit it altogether.

13. Easy Cobb Salad

When it comes to salads, there are a lot of different options out there.

But sometimes, you just want something classic and delicious.

That’s where the Cobb salad comes in.

This dish is perfect for those who want something that is both tasty and filling.

The Cobb salad is made with a variety of ingredients, including chicken, bacon, eggs, avocado, and blue cheese.

The combination of these ingredients results in a salad that is packed with flavor.

The chicken and bacon give the salad a savory taste, while the eggs and avocado add a touch of creaminess.

The blue cheese rounds out the flavors by providing a slight sweetness.

The Cobb salad is also a great option if you’re looking for something that is both nutritious and satisfying.

The chicken and eggs provide a good source of protein, while the avocado and blue cheese offer healthy fats.

The bacon adds some flavor without being too greasy or unhealthy.

If you’re looking for an easy way to elevate your Cobb salad, try adding some grilled shrimp or scallops.

The added protein will make the salad even more filling, and the seafood will complement the other flavors perfectly.

You can also add some chopped nuts or seeds for an extra crunch.

14. Southwest Quinoa Salad

This Southwest Quinoa Salad is the perfect dish for your next potluck or picnic.

It’s packed with flavor and has a great mix of textures.

The quinoa is nice and crispy, the beans are soft and creamy, and the corn adds a nice pop of sweetness.

Plus, it’s loaded with healthy ingredients like black beans, corn, and quinoa.

If you’re looking for a way to elevate this dish, try adding some chopped cilantro or diced avocado.

Both of these ingredients would add a nice touch of flavor and creaminess.

You could also swap out the black beans for pinto beans or even lentils.

And if you’re not a fan of corn, you could try adding diced green bell peppers or roasted red peppers.

15. Southwest Chicken Chopped

Do you love the taste of Tex-Mex food but don’t want all the fuss that comes with it? Then this southwest chicken chopped recipe is perfect for you.

This dish is packed with flavor and has a great texture that will leave you feeling satisfied.

Plus, it’s easy to make and can be easily elevated to fit any occasion.

The southwest chicken chopped recipe is made with boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are cooked until they are nice and tender.

Then, they are chopped into small pieces and mixed with a variety of delicious spices.

This includes chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and more.

The result is a dish that is full of flavor and has a slight kick to it.

If you’re looking for a way to spice up your weeknight dinners, then this recipe is a great option.

It’s also perfect for entertaining because it can be served as an appetizer or main course.

And, if you want to elevate the dish, you can serve it with tortilla chips, sour cream, and salsa.

Conclusion

I have shared with you 15 of the best side dishes that go great with taco soup.

I hope you find this list helpful the next time you are making taco soup.

From cornbread to green salad, there are a variety of options to choose from.

Feel free to mix and match to find the perfect combination for your taste buds.

Let us know what you served with your taco soup in the comments below.

What to Serve with Taco Soup? 14 Side Dishes Worth Trying

5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Sides
Servings 4 Servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1. Taco Salad
  • 2. Southwest Chicken Salad
  • 3. Black Beans and Rice
  • 4. Jalapeno Corn Muffins
  • 5. Chili Lime Chicken Skewers
  • 6. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chipotle Lime Butter
  • 7. Cauliflower Rice
  • 8. Sauteed Brussels Sprouts with Chili Flakes
  • 9. Creamy Coleslaw
  • 10. Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Chips
  • 11. Chips and Salsa
  • 12. Mexican Corn
  • 13. Easy Cobb Salad
  • 14. Southwest Quinoa Salad
  • 15. Southwest Chicken Chopped

Instructions
 

  • Select your favorite sides from the list above.
  • Prepare the side dish according to the recipe instructions.
  • If you’re short on time, some of these can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
  • Serve and enjoy!
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!