Esquites, also known as Mexican street corn in a cup, are a warm, creamy, and flavorful treat made with roasted corn, lime juice, mayo or crema, chili powder, and cotija cheese. This popular street food is loved for its bold taste and comforting texture, making it a favorite side dish or snack at parties, cookouts, and family dinners.
But while esquites are delicious on their own, you might be wondering—what should you serve alongside them to create a well-rounded meal?
Here are 10 perfect foods and drinks to pair with esquites for a complete and flavorful experience.
1. Tacos (Any Style)
Tacos and esquites are a match made in Mexican street food heaven. The warm, soft tortillas filled with flavorful meats or veggies offer a perfect contrast to the creamy, tangy goodness of esquites. When served together, they create a well-balanced meal that’s satisfying and full of texture.
Whether you’re making carne asada with smoky grilled beef, spicy and saucy chicken tinga, or sweet and savory al pastor, each taco variety pairs beautifully with a side of esquites. The corn’s slightly sweet flavor and zesty lime kick bring out the best in any taco filling, making your plate feel complete without being too heavy.
For a casual dinner or a festive gathering, serving tacos with esquites guarantees happy, full bellies and plenty of compliments.
2. Grilled Meats
If you’re looking to turn your esquites into a full meal, grilled meats make an excellent match. The rich, smoky flavors of grilled steak, juicy chicken, tender ribs, or shrimp pair beautifully with the creamy texture and slight tang of esquites. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a casual dinner, serving esquites alongside grilled proteins brings balance to the plate.
The char from the grill enhances the roasted corn flavor in esquites, creating a mouthwatering combination that feels both hearty and refreshing. It’s a great way to bring together bold Mexican-inspired flavors with classic cookout favorites.
3. Elote (Mexican Street Corn on the Cob)
If you already love esquites, why not serve its classic cousin—elote—right alongside it? Elote is Mexican street corn served on the cob, slathered with creamy sauce, cheese, chili powder, and a squeeze of lime. It’s a fun, hands-on food that adds both visual appeal and variety to your table.
Serving both esquites and elote at the same gathering gives guests the option to enjoy their corn two ways—spooned from a cup or straight off the cob. It’s especially great for parties or backyard cookouts where finger foods and bold flavors shine.
4. Quesadillas
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy quesadilla. Its crispy tortilla and gooey center make it a favorite on any Mexican-inspired table. Pairing it with esquites adds a creamy, zesty contrast that balances each bite.
You can dip a wedge of quesadilla right into a cup of esquites for an extra burst of flavor, or enjoy them side by side for a fun texture combo. Whether it’s a classic cheese quesadilla or one filled with chicken, mushrooms, or spinach, this pairing never disappoints.
5. Tortilla Chips with Salsa or Guacamole
Tortilla chips served with fresh salsa or creamy guacamole make a fantastic companion to esquites. The crunch of the chips provides a satisfying contrast to the soft, creamy texture of esquites. Whether you’re setting up a snack table or prepping for taco night, this classic combo keeps things simple yet flavorful.
6. Mexican Rice or Cilantro Lime Rice
When you’re building a complete plate, rice is a go-to side that brings it all together. Light and fluffy Mexican rice or zesty cilantro lime rice complements the creamy and tangy flavor of esquites without overwhelming the dish. The mild heat from the esquites is balanced perfectly by the subtle citrusy notes of cilantro lime rice.
For a fully satisfying combo, pair both with your favorite grilled protein and enjoy a balanced, flavorful meal.
7. Birria or Barbacoa
If you love bold flavors, serving esquites alongside birria or barbacoa is a game-changer. Both dishes are known for their deeply seasoned, tender meats. The savory richness of the meat is enhanced by the sweet, spicy, and creamy notes in esquites.
This pairing is perfect for hearty dinners or family gatherings where you want to serve something truly comforting and satisfying.
8. Margaritas or Agua Frescas
No Mexican-inspired meal is complete without a refreshing drink. Margaritas offer a citrusy kick that pairs well with the creaminess of esquites, while non-alcoholic options like agua frescas—especially tamarind, horchata, or jamaica—help cleanse the palate between bites.
If you’re ordering for a group, check out our catering options for flavorful drinks and dishes that bring your event to life.
9. Tamales
Tamales are a classic staple often reserved for special occasions, but they pair beautifully with esquites year-round. The soft masa and savory fillings—whether chicken, pork, or veggie—blend well with the corn-forward flavors of esquites.
This pairing brings out traditional Mexican comfort food at its best—nostalgic, satisfying, and perfect for any gathering.
10. Nachos or Loaded Fries
Whether you’re throwing a party or enjoying a movie night, nachos or loaded fries topped with cheese, jalapeños, and other fixings make a fun and indulgent pairing with esquites. For an extra twist, try drizzling esquites right over your nachos or fries—it adds creaminess, a pop of flavor, and a unique spin on a favorite comfort food.
This combo is bold, shareable, and bound to be a hit with friends and family alike.
Final Thoughts
Esquites are more than just a side dish—they’re a flavorful and flexible addition to any meal. Their creamy texture, tangy seasoning, and touch of spice make them a great match with a wide variety of Mexican favorites, from tacos and grilled meats to rice and tamales. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a festive get-together, esquites can round out your menu with ease and flavor.
Don’t be afraid to get creative. Mix and match different pairings to find what you love best. The beauty of esquites is that they go well with almost anything, making them a staple you’ll want to serve again and again.
Try Our Famous Esquites at Elote King Atlanta!
Ready to experience this classic dish for yourself? Visit us at Elote King Atlanta or explore our full menu to build the perfect Mexican meal combination. We’re here to bring bold, authentic flavors straight to your table.
FAQs: What to Serve with Esquites
1. What main dishes go well with esquites?
Tacos, grilled meats, and tamales pair perfectly with esquites as a flavorful side.
2. Can esquites be served as a main dish?
Yes, you can serve esquites as a light main dish, especially when topped with protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.
3. Are esquites best served hot or cold?
Esquites are traditionally served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
4. What drinks pair well with esquites?
Margaritas, agua frescas, and Mexican sodas are great drink options to serve with esquites.
5. Can I serve esquites at a party?
Absolutely! Esquites make a fun and easy-to-eat appetizer for parties and gatherings.
6. What can I serve with esquites for a full meal?
Combine esquites with tacos, rice, and a refreshing drink to create a complete Mexican meal.
7. Are esquites and elote the same thing?
They’re similar, but not the same—esquites are served in a cup, while elote is corn on the cob.
