What to Eat With Quesadillas: Exciting Sides to Try in 2025

Quesadillas are a crowd-pleasing favorite. They’re quick to make, loaded with melty cheese, and endlessly customizable. They're great for weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or feeding a hungry group with minimal fuss.

But even the best quesadilla can shine a little brighter with the right side dish. Whether you want something fresh and light or warm and hearty, the right pairing can round out the meal and add contrast in flavor or texture.

This list covers a mix of easy recipes that go perfectly with quesadillas. From classic Mexican sides like guacamole and street corn to simple salads, soups, and a few creative twists, there’s something here for every taste and occasion.

All the recipes on this page are carefully crafted by our team, including our in-house nutritionist, who also calculates the nutritional information provided. While we strive for accuracy, please note that actual values may vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods. 

1. Guacamole & Chips

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Cut avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl.

2. Mash with a fork or potato masher to your desired consistency.

3. Stir in tomato, onion, garlic, lime juice, and salt.

4. Add optional extras if using. Taste and adjust seasoning.

5. Serve with tortilla chips on the side or scoop alongside quesadillas.

Overview 🔍

Guacamole brings a creamy, zesty freshness. This cuts through the rich, cheesy filling of your quesadillas. The lime juice and tomato offer brightness, while avocado adds a smooth texture that contrasts beautifully with crisp tortillas. It’s also endlessly snackable and crowd-friendly. It’s ideal for dipping or layering right into your quesadilla.

This recipe is easy to customize. Add some heat with jalapeños or chili flakes, or stir in diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist. For a smoother version, blend it; for a chunkier version, leave bigger avocado pieces.

2. Mexican-Style Beans

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft, about 5 minutes.

2. Add garlic and spices. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Stir in beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and brown sugar.

4. Simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

5. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with cilantro, cheese, or jalapeños if desired.

Overview 🔍

These smoky, saucy baked beans are a rich, satisfying companion to quesadillas. Especially if you're going for a Tex-Mex-style plate. They add depth, warmth, and a touch of sweetness that balances the savory cheese and tortilla flavors. Unlike traditional American baked beans, this version uses Mexican-inspired spices like cumin and chili for a bolder kick.

They’re also a great way to add fiber and protein, making the meal more filling without meat. You can customize by mixing in corn, diced bell peppers, or chopped chorizo for a meaty boost. This dish is naturally vegetarian and easy to make vegan if you skip the cheese topping. Serve them on the side or spoon them right into quesadillas for a smoky surprise.

3. Lemon Rice Pilaf

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Heat oil or butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add shallot and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes.

2. Stir in rice and toast for 1-2 minutes.

3. Add broth and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

4. Add peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

5. Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes.

6. Fluff with a fork, then stir in lemon juice, zest, and chopped mint. Garnish with nuts if using.

Overview 🔍

This lemon rice pilaf is a bright contrast to quesadillas. The citrus brings lightness, peas add gentle sweetness, and mint delivers a cool, clean flavor that lifts the whole plate. It’s especially good alongside veggie or chicken quesadillas, adding a burst of freshness without overwhelming the main dish.

You can swap mint for fresh parsley or basil, depending on what you have, or add extra protein by stirring in chickpeas or chopped spinach. To make it heartier, top with feta or grilled halloumi. This pilaf is naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan with olive oil and vegetable broth.

If you're following a plant-based diet and want more easy recipes like this, check out our guide to the best vegan meal delivery services. These kits offer flavorful, balanced meals without the hassle. They’re perfect for quick dinners or discovering new meat-free favorites.

4. Pico de Gallo

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Combine tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a bowl.

2. Add lime juice and a generous pinch of salt.

3. Mix well, taste, and adjust lime or salt as needed.

4. Let sit for 5-10 minutes for the flavors to blend. Serve fresh.

Overview 🔍

Pico de gallo is a raw salsa bursting with crisp texture and bright flavor. It’s ideal for cutting through the richness of melted cheese and tortillas. The acidity from lime and the freshness of tomato and cilantro bring instant balance to quesadillas, whether you're dipping or spooning it right on top.

It’s endlessly adaptable: add diced mango or cucumber for a twist, or stir in avocado for a chunkier, creamy version. This salsa is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie, making it a universally friendly side. Serve with chips or use it to freshen up each bite of your quesadilla.

5. Elote Street Corn

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Grill or boil corn until tender and lightly charred, about 10-12 minutes.

2. In a small bowl, mix mayo, sour cream, garlic, and lime juice.

3. Brush warm corn with the mayo mixture.

4. Sprinkle generously with cotija and chili powder.

5. Garnish with cilantro and extra lime wedges, if desired. Serve warm.

Overview 🔍

Elote is a smoky, creamy, tangy street food favorite. It turns any quesadilla meal into a full-on fiesta. The mix of lime, cheese, and spice plays perfectly with melty quesadilla fillings, and the charred corn adds a burst of sweetness and texture.

You can easily adapt it: swap cotija for feta or parmesan, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or roll off the kernels to serve it salad-style (esquites). For a vegan version, use plant-based mayo and skip the cheese, or use a vegan alternative. It’s always a hit at cookouts or casual dinners.

6. Garlic-Herb Potato Wedges

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Wash potatoes and cut into thick wedges (about 8 per potato).

3. In a large bowl, toss wedges with olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.

4. Spread in a single layer on the baking sheet.

5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping once halfway, until golden and crisp.

6. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or parmesan before serving, if desired.

Overview 🔍

Garlic-herb potato wedges are a crispy, flavorful side. They add substance and a savory edge to any quesadilla plate. The crispy outside and fluffy center pair beautifully with melted cheese and soft tortillas. Plus, the herbs and roasted garlic bring aromatic depth without overpowering the main dish.

They're easy to customize too. Try adding smoked paprika, chili flakes, or lemon zest for extra punch. You can try using sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet version. Serve with a creamy dip, salsa, or even tucked inside a quesadilla for fun.

7. Classic Caesar Salad

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Wash and dry lettuce thoroughly, then chop or tear into bite-sized pieces.

2. In a large bowl, toss lettuce with Caesar dressing until well coated.

3. Add croutons and Parmesan. Toss gently again.

4. Top with extra cheese, cracked pepper, or a squeeze of lemon if desired. Serve immediately.

Overview 🔍

Caesar salad is a timeless favorite that works surprisingly well with quesadillas. The crunchy lettuce, savory Parmesan, and creamy dressing balance the warmth and softness of cheesy fillings. It's a simple way to bring freshness and texture to the plate without leaning heavily into Mexican flavors.

To lighten it up, use a yogurt-based dressing or skip the cheese. Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to turn it into a heartier side. You can also give it a twist with kale or arugula instead of romaine, or swap croutons for crispy tortilla strips to echo the main dish.

8. Tomato Basil Soup

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 5 minutes until soft.

2. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

3. Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.

4. Stir in cream, basil, and sugar (if using). Simmer for 5 more minutes.

5. Use an immersion blender for a smoother texture, or leave chunky. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Overview 🔍

Tomato basil soup might not be traditional with quesadillas. But it actually makes a surprisingly satisfying pairing. The tangy-sweet tomato base and creamy texture offer a cozy, savory counterpoint to crispy tortillas and gooey fillings. Think of it like grilled cheese and tomato soup, but with a twist.

This soup is easy to make vegetarian or vegan by swapping cream for coconut milk and using veggie broth. You can also add roasted red peppers for sweetness or a pinch of chili flakes for a little heat. Serve as a starter, a dip, or as a full meal with quesadillas on the side.

FAQ

What’s a good side for quesadillas?

Classic pairings like guacamole and tortilla chips are always a hit. The creamy avocado balances cheesy quesadillas with freshness and a little zing, especially when paired with lime and cilantro. It's quick to make and perfect for scooping up with each bite.

What to serve with quesadillas for kids?

Garlic-herb potato wedges are a kid-friendly favorite. They're crispy, comforting, and easy to dip in ketchup or sour cream. Mild in flavor but satisfying, they pair well with cheese quesadillas and make for a fun, filling meal everyone will eat.

What are some good sides for chicken quesadillas?

Mexican-style baked beans are a great match for chicken quesadillas. They’re hearty, flavorful, and add protein to the meal. Seasoned with spices and simmered to perfection, they complement the savory chicken and make the dish more filling.

What’s a healthy side for quesadillas?

Lemon rice pilaf with peas and mint is a light, healthy option. It’s fresh, herbaceous, and naturally vegetarian. It’s easily made vegan with olive oil and veggie broth. The citrus and herbs balance the richness of cheesy or meaty quesadillas beautifully.

What sauce goes well with quesadillas?

Pico de Gallo is a fresh, chunky salsa that’s perfect for quesadillas. Made with tomatoes, onion, lime, and cilantro, it adds brightness and crunch. Spoon it over quesadillas or serve on the side for dipping – it’s quick, zesty, and goes with everything.