What to Serve with Mexican Lasagna – 15+ Perfect Sides & Pairings

Wondering what to serve with Mexican lasagna? This flavorful, cheesy dish deserves the perfect side pairings, whether it’s classic Mexican rice, fresh salads, or indulgent desserts.

But a great main dish deserves the perfect accompaniments! Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your meal, balancing out the richness of Mexican lasagna with fresh, crunchy, or creamy elements. Whether you want something light and refreshing, hearty and filling, or indulgent and cheesy, this guide will help you find the best pairings.

Looking for more lasagna recipes? Try Virginia’s Easy Lasagna Recipe for a simple and delicious homemade version.

In this article, we’ll cover:

Classic Mexican side dishes to complement the flavors
Fresh salads and appetizers for a well-rounded meal
Bread options to soak up all the delicious sauce
Drinks and desserts that pair perfectly with Mexican lasagna

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Lasagna

A great side dish can enhance the flavors of Mexican lasagna, providing balance and variety to the meal. Whether you’re looking for something light, hearty, or packed with authentic Mexican flavors, these side dishes will complement your main course perfectly.

Mexican Rice – A Classic Pairing

Mexican rice is one of the best side dishes to serve with Mexican lasagna. This fluffy, flavorful rice is cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices, making it a perfect match for the rich and cheesy layers of lasagna.

How to Make It

• Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil.
• Add rice and cook until lightly toasted.
• Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, and chili powder.
• Simmer until the rice is tender and fluffy.

Cilantro Lime Rice – Light and Refreshing

If you prefer a lighter rice option, cilantro lime rice is a fresh and zesty alternative. The tangy lime and fragrant cilantro help cut through the richness of the lasagna.

Quick Recipe

• Cook white rice as usual.
• Stir in freshly squeezed lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt.

Spanish Rice – A Traditional Favorite

Similar to Mexican rice but with a slightly different flavor profile, Spanish rice is another excellent option. This dish uses saffron or smoked paprika for a deeper, earthier taste.

Ingredients Needed

• White or brown rice
• Tomato sauce
• Bell peppers and onions
• Smoked paprika or saffron

Spanish rice pairs well with Mexican lasagna, adding a savory and slightly smoky taste that enhances the dish’s flavors.

Best Salads to Serve with Mexican Lasagna

A fresh salad can bring balance to the richness of Mexican lasagna by adding a crisp, refreshing contrast. Whether you prefer something creamy, tangy, or packed with vegetables, these salads are perfect side dishes.

Mexican Street Corn Salad – Creamy, Tangy, and Delicious

Inspired by elote, or Mexican street corn, this salad is bursting with flavors from grilled corn, lime juice, and a creamy dressing. It adds a sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy element to your meal.

How to Make It

• Grill or sauté corn kernels until lightly charred.
• Mix with mayonnaise, crumbled cotija cheese, lime juice, and a pinch of chili powder.
• Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Avocado Salad – A Fresh and Creamy Contrast

If you’re looking for something lighter, an avocado salad is a great choice. The creaminess of avocado pairs well with the bold flavors of Mexican lasagna.

Ingredients Needed

• Ripe avocados, diced
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Lime juice and olive oil
• Chopped cilantro and salt to taste

Toss everything together for a simple, refreshing salad that complements the dish without overpowering it.

Black Bean & Corn Salad – Packed with Protein and Flavor

A hearty and nutritious salad, this dish combines black beans, corn, and a zesty dressing for a protein-rich side that pairs beautifully with Mexican lasagna.

How to Prepare It

• Combine black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, and red onion in a bowl.
• Dress with lime juice, olive oil, cumin, and a touch of honey.
• Toss with chopped cilantro and serve chilled.

This salad is a great option if you’re looking for a fiber-packed and filling side dish.

Best Appetizers for Mexican Lasagna

Starting your meal with a delicious appetizer sets the stage for a fantastic dining experience. Whether you prefer something creamy, crunchy, or light and refreshing, these appetizers pair well with Mexican lasagna.

Chips & Guacamole – A Classic Starter

You can never go wrong with chips and guacamole as an appetizer. The creamy texture of avocado, combined with the crunch of tortilla chips, makes for a perfect pre-lasagna snack.

How to Make It

• Mash ripe avocados with lime juice.
• Add diced tomatoes, red onion, and fresh cilantro.
• Season with salt and a pinch of garlic powder.
• Serve with crispy tortilla chips.

Queso Dip & Tortilla Chips – Creamy and Cheesy Delight

If you love cheese, a warm queso dip is an indulgent way to start the meal. This creamy, spicy cheese dip pairs perfectly with crunchy tortilla chips.

Simple Recipe

• Melt white American cheese or cheddar with a splash of milk.
• Stir in diced green chilies, jalapeños, and a pinch of cumin.
• Serve warm with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.

Shrimp Ceviche – Light and Refreshing

For a lighter appetizer, shrimp ceviche is an excellent option. This zesty dish adds a bright, citrusy contrast to the richness of Mexican lasagna.

How to Prepare It

• Dice raw shrimp and marinate in lime juice for 30 minutes.
• Mix with chopped tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeño.
• Add cilantro, salt, and a touch of olive oil.
• Serve chilled with tortilla chips or tostadas.

Best Bread Options to Serve with Mexican Lasagna

Bread might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Mexican lasagna, but it can be a great side to soak up all the delicious sauce and flavors. Whether you want something traditional, cheesy, or soft and comforting, these bread options pair perfectly with your dish.

Mexican Cornbread – Sweet, Savory, and Moist

Mexican cornbread is a slightly sweet and spicy take on classic cornbread. It’s soft, moist, and packed with flavors like cheddar cheese, jalapeños, and corn kernels.

How to Make It

• Mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, and baking powder.
• Stir in eggs, milk, melted butter, shredded cheese, and diced jalapeños.
• Fold in whole corn kernels for extra texture.
• Bake until golden brown and serve warm.

Garlic Cheese Bread – A Delicious Fusion

If you love garlic bread, this Mexican-inspired version will be a hit. A crispy baguette is slathered in butter, garlic, and cheese, then baked until golden and bubbly.

Ingredients Needed

• Baguette or Italian bread
• Butter mixed with minced garlic and parsley
• Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
• A sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor

This bread is the perfect mix of cheesy, garlicky, and crispy, making it a great side for Mexican lasagna.

Flour Tortillas – A Simple Yet Satisfying Choice

If you want a classic Mexican-style bread, warm flour tortillas are an easy and delicious option. You can use them to scoop up lasagna layers or even roll them up with some extra toppings.

How to Serve Them

• Lightly toast flour tortillas on a skillet.
• Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with a little salt.
• Serve warm alongside your lasagna.

Light & Refreshing Sides to Serve with Mexican Lasagna

Since Mexican lasagna is a rich and hearty dish, adding a light and refreshing side can help balance out the flavors. Whether you prefer something tangy, sweet, or cooling, these sides will complement your meal perfectly.

Pico de Gallo – Fresh and Zesty

Pico de gallo is a fresh, uncooked salsa that adds a bright and tangy contrast to Mexican lasagna. It’s made with simple ingredients but packs a punch of flavor.

How to Make It

• Dice fresh tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeños.
• Mix with lime juice, salt, and chopped cilantro.
• Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
• Serve on the side or spoon some over your lasagna for extra freshness.

Mango Salsa – Sweet and Spicy Contrast

If you love a sweet and spicy combination, mango salsa is a great choice. The sweetness of mango pairs beautifully with the bold spices in Mexican lasagna.

Ingredients Needed

• Fresh mango, diced
• Red bell pepper and red onion, finely chopped
• Jalapeño, minced for a touch of heat
• Lime juice for tanginess
• Cilantro and salt for extra flavor

This salsa adds a refreshing, tropical twist that enhances the overall meal.

Cucumber Lime Salad – Cooling and Refreshing

For a super light and cooling side, a cucumber lime salad is an easy yet flavorful option. The crisp texture of cucumber balances out the warm, cheesy layers of Mexican lasagna.

How to Prepare It

• Thinly slice English cucumbers.
• Toss with lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
• Add chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra zest.

Drinks & Beverages That Pair Well with Mexican Lasagna

A well-chosen beverage can enhance the flavors of Mexican lasagna while refreshing your palate. Whether you prefer a classic cocktail, a non-alcoholic option, or a traditional Mexican drink, here are some perfect pairings.

Classic Margaritas – The Perfect Cocktail Pairing

A margarita is a classic Mexican cocktail that pairs beautifully with the bold, spicy flavors of Mexican lasagna. Its tartness and slight sweetness help balance the richness of the dish.

How to Make It

• Mix 2 oz tequila, 1 oz lime juice, and 1 oz orange liqueur (such as triple sec).
• Shake with ice and serve in a salt-rimmed glass.
• Garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy.

If you prefer a sweeter version, try a mango or strawberry margarita for a fruity twist.

Horchata – A Creamy, Cinnamon-Infused Drink

Horchata is a traditional Mexican rice-based drink with a creamy texture and warm cinnamon flavor. It’s a great non-alcoholic option that complements the spices in Mexican lasagna.

Ingredients Needed

• Rice, soaked in water overnight
• Cinnamon sticks for flavor
• Vanilla extract and sugar for sweetness
• Milk or almond milk for creaminess

Simply blend and strain for a smooth, refreshing drink that pairs perfectly with a spicy meal.

Mexican Beer – Light and Crisp Options

If you prefer beer, a light Mexican lager is an excellent choice. These beers are crisp and refreshing, making them ideal for pairing with a cheesy, flavorful dish like Mexican lasagna.

Best Mexican Beers to Try

• Corona – Light, refreshing, and best served with a lime wedge.
• Modelo Especial – Smooth, slightly sweet, and easy to drink.
• Pacifico – A crisp and balanced option that won’t overpower your meal.

For a bolder option, try a Michelada, a Mexican-style beer cocktail made with beer, lime juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, served in a chili-salt-rimmed glass.

Desserts to Serve with Mexican Lasagna

After a flavorful and hearty meal like Mexican lasagna, finishing with a sweet and satisfying dessert is the perfect way to complete the experience. Whether you prefer something crunchy, creamy, or rich, these Mexican-inspired desserts pair wonderfully with your meal.

Churros with Chocolate Sauce – Crunchy and Sweet

Churros are crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated pastries that are perfect for dipping in warm chocolate sauce. Their crunchy exterior and soft, airy interior make them a fantastic contrast to the rich, cheesy layers of Mexican lasagna.

How to Make It

• Prepare a choux pastry dough and pipe it into hot oil.
• Fry until golden brown and crispy.
• Roll in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar while still warm.
• Serve with a side of melted chocolate sauce or dulce de leche.

Tres Leches Cake – Moist and Flavorful

Tres Leches Cake is a light, spongy cake soaked in three types of milk (evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream). It’s rich yet airy, making it a perfect dessert after a bold main dish.

Ingredients Needed

• A light vanilla sponge cake base
• A mixture of three milks (condensed, evaporated, and heavy cream)
• Whipped cream topping with a sprinkle of cinnamon

The result is a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth cake that’s not too heavy, making it a great way to end your meal.

Flan – Smooth and Creamy Custard

Flan is a silky caramel custard with a rich vanilla flavor and a slightly firm texture. Its light sweetness and creamy consistency make it an excellent pairing with Mexican lasagna.

How to Prepare It

• Make a caramel sauce by melting sugar until golden brown.
• Pour into a baking dish and top with a custard mixture of eggs, milk, vanilla, and sugar.
• Bake in a water bath for a smooth, creamy texture.
• Chill before serving for the best flavor.

Flan offers a light yet indulgent finish that complements the bold spices of Mexican lasagna without being overwhelming.

Before serving your lasagna, start with a light soup! Check out this Instant Pot Vegetarian Lasagna Soup for a warm and comforting appetizer.

FAQs – Answering Common Questions

Many people wonder what to serve with Mexican lasagna and how to create a balanced meal around it. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions to help you plan the perfect menu.

What Side Dish Goes Well with Lasagna?

Traditional Italian lasagna is often served with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables. However, for Mexican lasagna, the best sides include:

• Mexican rice or Spanish rice for a hearty option
• Black bean and corn salad for a fresh, tangy contrast
• Mexican street corn (Elote) or a creamy corn salad

These side dishes complement the bold flavors of Mexican lasagna while adding variety to your meal.

What Is a Good Appetizer to Serve Before Lasagna?

If you want to serve a starter before Mexican lasagna, consider:

• Chips & guacamole – A fresh and creamy dip
• Queso dip & tortilla chips – A cheesy and indulgent choice
• Shrimp ceviche – A light, citrusy appetizer that won’t overpower the main dish

These appetizers set the stage for the meal and keep guests satisfied while waiting for the main course.

What to Serve with Mexican Cornbread?

Mexican cornbread is slightly sweet and spicy, making it a versatile side dish. You can serve it with:

• Mexican lasagna for a soft and savory pairing
• Chili or soups for a warm and comforting meal
• Grilled meats like carne asada or BBQ chicken

Its moist texture and cheesy flavor make it an excellent addition to any Mexican-inspired meal.

What Is a Good Side Dish for Seafood Lasagna?

Seafood lasagna is lighter and more delicate than beef or chicken lasagna, so it pairs well with:

• Roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach for a healthy side
• Garlic bread or focaccia to soak up the creamy sauce
• A crisp green salad with citrus dressing for a refreshing contrast

Choosing a side that doesn’t overpower the seafood flavors will ensure a well-balanced meal.

Conclusion

Mexican lasagna is a flavorful and satisfying dish, and choosing the right side dishes, appetizers, drinks, and desserts can take your meal to the next level. Whether you prefer a classic pairing like Mexican rice, a fresh salad, or a sweet treat like churros, there are plenty of options to create a well-rounded meal.

Now that you have all the best pairings for Mexican lasagna, it’s time to mix and match your favorites and enjoy a delicious, complete meal!

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