Burritos are the ultimate handheld meal. Stuff them with anything from beans to beef, and you’ve got a tasty treat that fits any mood. But let’s be real, sometimes we need a little something extra on the side to complement that delicious wrap.
Remember those nights when we’ve been hand-wrapping our burritos? We always end up looking for side dishes to jazz things up. So, what can we serve with those burritos to elevate the meal?
Let’s share some of our favorite accompaniments that make burrito night even better. From zesty salsas to crispy chips, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to take your burrito experience to the next level!

Top 13 Side Dishes for Burritos
Here are 13 side dishes that will make your burrito night a true fiesta:
1 – Chicken Enchiladas
Chicken enchiladas are a cozy classic. They combine tender chicken with cheese, wrapped in soft tortillas and topped with rich enchilada sauce.
We often get lost in the cheesy goodness smothered underneath the sauce.
With a hint of spice and a touch of lime, they deliver comfort in every bite.
Our secret? Adding a dollop of sour cream brightens the flavors!
Each bite is a tasty reunion of flavors that make us feel at home.
2 – Shrimp Tacos
Shrimp tacos are a quick, flavorful option for any meal. We love how they combine tender shrimp with fresh toppings.
Crisp cabbage, zesty lime, and creamy sauce add layers of flavor.
Each bite bursts with a mix of crunch and seafood goodness.
We often toss in some sliced avocado for a buttery finish.
These tacos are light yet filling, making them a go-to dish for busy weeknights.
3 – Beef Tamales
Beef tamales are like cozy little gifts wrapped in masa. They’re filled with seasoned beef that dances with spices. The soft, doughy exterior complements the rich filling like a warm hug.
We remember our first tamale experience. The burst of flavor was unforgettable.
Spoon on some salsa, and you’ve got a fiesta in every bite! Their hearty nature makes tamales a filling side dish perfect for burritos or any meal.
We love pairing them with a side of guacamole for extra creaminess. They’re truly comforting and just plain good.
4 – Pork Carnitas
Pork carnitas are like a warm hug on a plate. Tender, slow-cooked pork shreds deliver rich, savory flavor that steals the show.
We love tossing them in tacos or as a side to burritos. A squeeze of lime brightens everything up, making each bite pop.
The crispy bits perfectly balance the softness of the meat. Our first taste was a “wow” moment, and we keep coming back for more.
5 – Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are a fun twist on traditional taco night. They deliver a fresh, light flavor with crispy fish as the star.
We enjoy adding crunchy slaw, zesty lime, and a drizzle of creamy sauce for contrast.
The combination makes for a delightful bite. Think of it as summer on a plate — vibrant and refreshing.
We remember our first fish taco; the crispy coating paired with the soft tortilla was a game-changer.
6 – Chicken Quesadillas
We love chicken quesadillas. They’re all about gooey melted cheese and juicy chicken. The crunch of the tortilla adds a great texture.
These are perfect for a quick snack or a hearty meal. Pair them with salsa for a flavorful kick.
We’ve had our fair share of quesadilla mishaps—burnt edges or overstuffed filling. Each experience just makes us better quesadilla makers!
7 – Carne Asada
Pork carnitas also known as the ultimate comfort food, always hits the spot. These tender shreds of juicy pork have a rich, savory flavor that we crave.
We’ve paired them with everything from tacos to burritos. Their crispy bits contrast nicely with the softness of the meat, creating a satisfying bite.
Our first taste was a revelation. We remember sharing a plate of carnitas with friends, each bite causing happy chatter and moments of bliss. These melt-in-your-mouth morsels are our go-to when we want something hearty.
8 – Vegetarian Fajitas
We love vegetarian fajitas. They’re a colorful mix of veggies sizzling with spices. The bell peppers and onions bring crunch while the seasoning adds a warm kick.
Every bite is bright and fresh, making them feel light. We once whipped these up for a last-minute dinner, and they vanished in minutes!
The flavor is bold without being overpowering, a perfect complement to burritos. Perfect gooey cheese on the side makes it even better.
9 – Chiles Rellenos
Chiles rellenos bring the heat with roasted peppers stuffed with cheese and sometimes meat. They deliver a delightful kick balanced by creamy goodness.
We remember biting into one, and the melty cheese oozed out, mingling with the spicy pepper. It’s like a warm hug with a zing!
These beauties come with a crisp coating that complements their soft interior, creating refreshing textures. We often have them with a side of salsa for that extra flavor boost.
10 – Mexican Street Corn Salad
Mexican street corn salad is pure bliss in a bowl. It combines sweet corn, creamy dressing, cheese, and a hint of spice.
We love how it mirrors the flavors of elote, but without the mess.
The tangy seasoning gives it a zesty kick, perfect for brightening up burritos.
Last time we served it, everyone went back for seconds—it’s that good!
The crunch from the corn and the creaminess from the cheese make each bite enjoyable.
If you want a side that complements without stealing the spotlight, this is it!
11 – Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Grilled shrimp skewers are fantastic. They offer a smoky flavor with a touch of sweetness. The shrimp gets perfectly charred on the grill, giving it that irresistible bite.
We love how quick they cook.
Plop them on the table, and they disappear fast. We often toss in some peppers for extra colour and crunch.
The combination of shrimp and veggies creates a refreshing meal. Going for leftovers usually ends in a debate over who gets to finish them.
They’re light yet satisfying, making them a top choice for summer dinners!
12 – Black Bean and Rice Bowls
Black bean and rice bowls are a simple yet fulfilling side dish. They feature hearty black beans, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies, creating a winning combo.
We often toss in fresh herbs for added zing. Once, we had a potluck, and everyone raved, making us the unofficial side dish MVP.
The blend of earthy beans and warm grains is super comforting. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with everything from grilled meats to tacos.
13 – Stuffed Poblano Peppers
Stuffed poblano peppers are so flavorful and versatile. They combine roasted peppers filled with cheese, meat, or beans, delivering a satisfying bite every time.
We remember the first stuffed poblano we tried — the combination of smoky spice and creamy filling had us hooked.
The peppers bring a gentle heat that enhances any dish they accompany. They perfectly balance richness and warmth, making them a staple at our dinner table.
We love serving them alongside rice or tacos for an extra punch of flavor.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.