What To Serve With Picadillo? 16 BEST Side Dishes

Picadillo, a flavorful Latin American dish made with ground meat, tomatoes, and various seasonings, is both comforting and versatile. The key to elevating this dish is pairing it with the right side dishes that complement its rich flavors.

Here are 16 fantastic sides that work beautifully with Picadillo, each bringing its own unique taste and texture to the meal.

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The best side dishes to serve with picadillo are guacamole, lazy enchiladas, cheese dip, tostadas, chicken burrito bowl, gluten-free bread, corn on the cob, spanish rice, cornbread, baked beans, tortilla soup, jasmine rice, mashed potatoes, shrimp tacos, pico de gallo, and tostilocos.

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1. Guacamole

A bowl of fresh, creamy Guacamole is a perfect match for Picadillo. The rich and smooth texture of the avocados, combined with the tanginess of lime and the freshness of cilantro, creates a delightful contrast to the savory Picadillo. It's an easy way to add a burst of flavor to your meal.

2. Lazy Enchiladas

Consider serving Lazy Enchiladas as a hearty side. This dish, featuring tortillas layered with cheese and a filling of your choice, complements the meaty Picadillo perfectly. Baked to a bubbly, cheesy goodness, Lazy Enchiladas add a warm and comforting element to your meal.

3. Cheese Dip

Cheese Dip, with its creamy and velvety texture, is another great side to go with Picadillo. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, this dip adds a rich and indulgent touch to the meal, and it’s perfect for dipping tortilla chips or drizzling over the Picadillo itself.

4. Tostadas

Crispy Tostadas make for a wonderful addition. They provide a crunchy base that you can top with Picadillo, turning your meal into a delightful, customizable experience. Tostadas add a nice textural contrast and are a fun way to enjoy the flavors of the dish.

5. Chicken Burrito Bowl

A Chicken Burrito Bowl is a filling and nutritious side option. It usually includes rice, beans, grilled chicken, and a variety of toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa. The bowl’s components blend well with the flavors of Picadillo, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

6. Gluten-Free Bread

For those avoiding gluten, Gluten-Free Bread is an excellent accompaniment. Use it to scoop up the Picadillo or to make a sandwich. The bread’s mild flavor and soft texture make it a great vehicle for enjoying the rich flavors of the Picadillo.

7. Corn on the Cob

Corn on the Cob, either grilled or boiled, adds a sweet and juicy element to your meal. Its natural sweetness and satisfying bite complement the savory and spicy notes of Picadillo, making it a refreshing and delicious side.

8. Spanish Rice

Spanish Rice is a classic side that pairs wonderfully with Picadillo. The rice, cooked with tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices, has a flavorful and comforting presence. It absorbs the flavors of the Picadillo well, rounding out the meal with its hearty texture.

9. Cornbread

Cornbread is a classic side that pairs beautifully with Picadillo. Its sweet and buttery flavor provides a lovely contrast to the savory and spiced Picadillo. Whether you prefer it fluffy and light or dense and moist, cornbread is a comforting addition that complements the richness of the dish.

10. Baked Beans

Baked Beans are a hearty and flavorful side that works well with the meaty texture of Picadillo. Their sweet and tangy sauce, often with a hint of smokiness, adds depth and richness to the meal, creating a satisfying balance of flavors.

11. Tortilla Soup

Consider adding a bowl of warm Tortilla Soup to your meal. This Mexican soup, usually made with a tomato-based broth, crispy tortilla strips, and various toppings like avocado, cheese, and sour cream, offers a comforting and flavorful complement to Picadillo. The soup's vibrant and zesty flavors make it a perfect appetizer or side.

12. Jasmine Rice

Jasmine Rice, with its fragrant aroma and delicate flavor, is a subtle yet elegant side dish. It pairs wonderfully with Picadillo, as its light and fluffy texture makes it an excellent base to soak up the rich flavors of the sauce.

13. Mashed Potatoes

Mashed Potatoes are a great choice for a comforting and filling side. Their creamy texture and buttery taste create a smooth contrast to the textured Picadillo. You can flavor the potatoes with garlic, herbs, or cheese for an added twist.

14. Shrimp Tacos

For a more unique side, try Shrimp Tacos. The tacos, filled with juicy and seasoned shrimp, offer a delightful seafood twist that pairs surprisingly well with the hearty Picadillo. They add a light and refreshing touch to the meal.

15. Pico de Gallo

Fresh Pico de Gallo is always a winner with dishes like Picadillo. The combination of tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds a burst of freshness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the Picadillo and enhancing its flavors.

16. Tostilocos

Lastly, Tostilocos, a fun and zesty Mexican street snack, make an exciting side. Made with Tostitos chips and a variety of toppings like cucumber, jicama, peanuts, and chili sauce, they offer a crunchy and spicy addition that complements the flavors of the Picadillo.