If you're craving delicious meals that pack a punch, you've gotta try these 10 best Tex-Mex recipes! Start with cheesy beef enchiladas that hug a spiced beef filling, then sizzle up some chicken fajitas with vibrant peppers. Don't forget the slow-cooker pork burritos—easy, tender, and oh-so-satisfying. For a one-pan wonder, the Southwestern chicken skillet is your go-to! And for the ultimate party snack, whip up some gooey queso dip. Ready to dig in? There's so much more to investigate, from zesty shrimp tacos to invigorating Mexican street corn salad that'll have you coming back for seconds!
Main Points
- Enchiladas, especially beef enchiladas, are a classic Tex-Mex dish, offering rich flavors and customizable toppings like cheese and jalapeños.
- Chicken fajitas are versatile and can be served in salads or taco bars, featuring marinated chicken and colorful bell peppers.
- Slow-cooker pork burritos provide tender, seasoned meat that's easy to shred and perfect for filling tortillas with various toppings.
- Queso dip is a crowd-pleaser, made with white American cheese, jalapeños, and chorizo, ideal for pairing with tortilla chips.
- Tex-Mex chili combines ground beef, beans, and tomatoes, simmered for robust flavors and customizable with various toppings.
Beef Enchiladas
Beef enchiladas are a beloved Tex Mex dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dining table. With their spiced ground beef filling, soft corn tortillas, and a rich, savory enchilada sauce, these enchiladas are a perfect choice for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. The process of making them may seem intimidating at first due to the array of ingredients, but the steps are straightforward and can be completed in about an hour, making them a feasible option for any home cook.
Customization is one of the best aspects of beef enchiladas. You can tailor the filling and toppings to suit your family's preferences, whether you prefer adding more heat with jalapeños or keeping it mild with just a sprinkle of cheese. Served alongside traditional sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad, beef enchiladas create a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Sour cream, avocado, and cilantro for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
While the beef mixture cools slightly, warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable. Spread a few tablespoons of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
Pour the enchilada sauce over the top, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Extra Tips:
To improve your beef enchiladas, consider making your own enchilada sauce for a fresher taste; it can be as simple as blending tomatoes, onions, and spices.
When assembling the enchiladas, you can also lightly fry the tortillas in oil to make them crispier, which adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Chicken Fajitas
Chicken fajitas are a delicious and vibrant dish that brings the flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine to your table in no time. With marinated chicken breasts, colorful bell peppers, and onions, this meal not only looks appealing but is packed with flavor and nutrition.
The sizzle of the ingredients as they cook adds an exciting element to the dining experience, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Preparation is quick and easy, allowing you to create a restaurant-quality meal at home. The beauty of chicken fajitas lies in their versatility: you can serve them in warm flour tortillas, over a crisp salad, or as part of a taco bar featuring a variety of toppings.
With just a few simple ingredients and spices, you can customize the heat level and flavor profile to suit your preferences, ensuring that everyone at the table enjoys this fantastic dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Cooking Instructions:
Start by slicing the chicken breasts into thin strips and marinating them in a mix of olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken, cooking until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the sliced bell pepper and onion to the skillet, stirring occasionally, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
Serve hot with warm flour tortillas and your choice of toppings.
Extra Tips:
For an added kick, consider incorporating jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into your seasoning mix.
If you want to save time, use pre-sliced vegetables or a store-bought fajita seasoning blend.
To keep your tortillas warm, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in a warm oven while you finish cooking the fajitas.
Enjoy with a side of Mexican rice or beans for a complete meal!
Southwestern Chicken Skillet
The Southwestern Chicken Sweet Potato Skillet is a delightful and convenient dish that combines the rich flavors of the Southwest with the wholesome goodness of sweet potatoes and colorful vegetables. Perfect for transforming leftover chicken into a vibrant meal, this skillet dish isn't only quick to prepare but also offers a beautiful presentation that will impress your family or guests.
The use of jarred salsa infuses the dish with a zesty flavor profile, making every bite a delicious experience. In just about 30 minutes, you can create a hearty meal that's packed with nutrients and taste, all while using just one pan for cooking. This means less time spent on cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.
The blend of ingredients, including bell peppers and corn, not only adds variety in texture and flavor but also contributes to a visually appealing dish that's sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup jarred salsa
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (any color)
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.
Then, stir in the chopped bell peppers, corn, cumin, and chili powder, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Next, add the shredded chicken and jarred salsa to the skillet, stirring to combine all the ingredients.
Cook for another 5 minutes until heated through and everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider roasting the sweet potatoes in the oven before adding them to the skillet for a caramelized taste.
You can also customize this dish by incorporating other vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or spinach. If you like a little heat, try using a spicy salsa or adding jalapeños.
This recipe is versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit your taste preferences, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights!
Slow-Cooker Pork Burritos
Slow-Cooker Pork Burritos are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the rich flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine without spending hours in the kitchen. The star of this dish is the tender pork, which is seasoned with a blend of spices that penetrate the meat during the long cooking process, resulting in a mouthwatering filling that shreds easily. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, as it requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your meal cooks.
Once the pork is cooked, the possibilities for customization are endless. You can serve it with a simple side of rice and beans wrapped in warm tortillas, or enhance your burritos with a variety of toppings such as cheese, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream. This dish isn't only satisfying but is also great for meal prep, as the leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer and reheated for future meals, making it a practical choice for any busy household.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- Tortillas
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, salsa, guacamole, sour cream
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by combining the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl to create a spice rub. Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it's well-coated.
Place the seasoned pork in the slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks and mix it with the juices in the slow cooker.
To assemble the burritos, spoon a portion of the shredded pork onto a tortilla, add a scoop of cooked rice and black beans, and top with your desired toppings before rolling it up.
Extra Tips:
For an added depth of flavor, consider marinating the pork overnight with the spice rub before cooking it. If you prefer a little heat, you can add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the slow cooker.
To keep the tortillas warm while assembling the burritos, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C). Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of beans or grains to suit your tastes, and don't hesitate to get creative with your toppings for a personalized touch!
Tex-Mex Flank Steak
Tex-Mex Flank Steak is a delicious and flavorful dish that brings the vibrant tastes of Tex-Mex cuisine right to your table. The key to a perfect flank steak lies in the marinade, which typically includes a blend of citrus juices like lime and orange, along with a variety of spices that amplify the natural flavors of the meat. This combination not only tenderizes the steak but also infuses it with a zesty kick that pairs wonderfully with traditional Tex-Mex accompaniments.
Once marinated, the flank steak is grilled over high heat to achieve that coveted smoky char. This cooking method not only seals in the juices but also creates a delightful texture that makes the steak perfect for tacos, fajitas, or simply served alongside your favorite sides. Remember to let the steak rest before slicing it against the grain to guarantee each bite is tender and juicy.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds flank steak
- ¼ cup lime juice
- ¼ cup orange juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Avocado, for serving
- Salsa, for serving
To prepare the Tex-Mex Flank Steak, start by combining lime juice, orange juice, garlic, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl to create the marinade.
Place the flank steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, making sure it's well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheat a grill to high heat, and once ready, remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the steak for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
After grilling, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing it against the grain into thin strips.
When cooking Tex-Mex Flank Steak, consider using a meat thermometer to check for doneness; medium-rare is typically around 130°F (54°C).
Additionally, experimenting with different toppings can uplift your dish – try adding pickled onions or queso fresco for a unique twist.
If you're preparing this dish for a gathering, consider doubling the marinade and the steak to serve a larger crowd, making sure everyone can enjoy this flavorful Tex-Mex classic!
Breakfast Burritos
Breakfast burritos are a delightful and hearty way to kickstart your morning. With their combination of scrambled eggs, cheese, and a variety of fillings, they offer a satisfying meal that can be customized to suit any palate.
Whether you prefer a protein-packed option with sausage and bacon or a lighter version with fresh vegetables, breakfast burritos are versatile enough to cater to all tastes. Plus, their ability to be made in advance and frozen makes them an ideal choice for those busy mornings when time is of the essence.
Creating breakfast burritos isn't only easy but also fun, especially when you gather friends or family around to build their own. Serve them buffet-style, allowing everyone to choose their favorite fillings and toppings. From tangy salsa to creamy avocado, the options are endless, making breakfast burritos a hit at any brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your choice)
- 1 cup cooked sausage or bacon (crumbled)
- 1 cup diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach, etc.)
- 6 large flour tortillas (or whole wheat/corn tortillas)
- Salsa, avocado, and sour cream (for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil or butter (for scrambling eggs)
Instructions:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil or butter.
Pour in the egg mixture and cook, stirring gently, until the eggs are scrambled and just set. Remove from heat and fold in the cooked sausage or bacon, diced vegetables, and shredded cheese.
Lay out the tortillas and divide the egg mixture evenly among them. Roll each tortilla tightly, tucking in the sides as you go, to create burritos.
Extra Tips:
For added convenience, you can prepare breakfast burritos in bulk and freeze them for later use. To reheat, simply wrap a frozen burrito in a damp paper towel and microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Experiment with different fillings and toppings to keep things interesting, and don't hesitate to get creative with spices and herbs to improve the flavors. Enjoy your delicious breakfast burritos!
Queso Dip
Queso Dip is a beloved staple in Tex-Mex cuisine, known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility, making it a perfect appetizer for any gathering or casual get-together. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious dip that pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips, and you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences by adding spices, meats, or vegetables.
To make a classic Queso Dip, white American cheese is often the star ingredient due to its excellent melting properties. You can elevate the dip with jalapeños for a spicy kick, chorizo for a savory depth, or diced tomatoes for a fresh burst of flavor. Whether you're hosting a party or just enjoying a movie night at home, this Queso Dip is sure to please a crowd and satisfy cheese lovers everywhere.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb white American cheese, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- 1/2 cup cooked chorizo (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Tortilla chips for serving
Instructions:
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white American cheese and milk, stirring frequently until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Add in the diced jalapeños, cooked chorizo, and diced tomatoes, continuing to stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed. Once everything is combined and heated through, remove from heat and serve warm with tortilla chips.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider sautéing the jalapeños and chorizo in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the cheese mixture. This will amplify their taste and add a lovely aroma to your Queso Dip.
Additionally, if you want a thicker dip, reduce the amount of milk, or if you prefer a thinner consistency, simply add more milk until you reach your desired texture.
Enjoy experimenting with different cheese blends and spice levels to create your perfect version of Queso Dip!
Shrimp Tacos
Shrimp tacos are a delightful and vibrant dish that captures the essence of Tex-Mex cuisine. They aren't only simple to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights, but they also offer a burst of fresh flavors that can enhance any casual gathering. The combination of perfectly seasoned shrimp, crunchy cabbage slaw, and zesty lime crema creates a delightful harmony that's both satisfying and invigorating.
To make your shrimp tacos, you can easily customize the ingredients based on your personal taste. Whether you prefer a spicy kick with jalapeños or a creamy texture with avocado, the options are limitless. This dish is also a great way to incorporate seasonal produce, making it a versatile choice for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 teaspoons Tex-Mex seasoning
- 8 small soft tortillas
- 2 cups cabbage, shredded
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ½ cup salsa or pico de gallo
- ½ cup lime crema
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
To prepare the shrimp tacos, begin by seasoning the shrimp with the Tex-Mex seasoning, ensuring they're evenly coated. In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
While the shrimp are cooking, warm the tortillas in another skillet or microwave. Once the shrimp are ready, assemble the tacos by placing a few shrimp in each tortilla, then adding a generous amount of shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and a spoonful of salsa. Drizzle with lime crema and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
When cooking shrimp tacos, it's essential to avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Be sure to keep an eye on them as they cook; they only need a few minutes until they turn pink.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different toppings and salsas to find your favorite combination. Preparing the ingredients ahead of time can also save you time during assembly, making the process even smoother. Enjoy your delicious shrimp tacos!
Tex-Mex Chili
Tex-Mex chili is a delicious and hearty dish perfect for those chilly evenings or casual gatherings with friends and family. This flavor-packed meal combines the richness of ground beef with the heartiness of beans and the freshness of tomatoes, all seasoned with a delightful mix of spices. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop beautifully, resulting in a comforting dish that warms the soul.
Whether you prefer a classic version or want to customize it to accommodate dietary preferences, Tex-Mex chili is versatile and satisfying.
To make this dish even more enjoyable, feel free to experiment with different toppings to improve the flavor and presentation. Shredded cheese, sour cream, and freshly chopped cilantro are popular choices, but you can also add avocado or diced jalapeños for an extra kick. Not only is Tex-Mex chili perfect for a cozy dinner, but it also holds up well in the freezer, making it an excellent option for meal prep. You can whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or have it on hand for unexpected guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeños
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
Next, add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Once the meat is cooked, stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper, allowing the spices to coat the meat evenly.
Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer you let it simmer, the more the flavors will meld together, so feel free to let it cook for up to an hour.
When preparing Tex-Mex chili, keep in mind that you can easily customize the ingredients based on your preferences. If you're looking to make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a mix of additional beans and vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini.
Additionally, consider making a double batch to freeze for quick meals later on; just be sure to allow it to cool completely before storing in airtight containers. And when serving, don't hesitate to get creative with toppings to uplift the dish and cater to everyone's tastes!
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Mexican Street Corn Salad, or Esquites, is a delightful and vibrant dish that captures the essence of summer with its fresh ingredients and bold flavors. This salad showcases the sweetness of corn, improved by the smoky notes of grilled or roasted kernels, combined with the creaminess of cotija cheese, zesty lime, and aromatic cilantro.
Whether you're preparing it for a backyard barbecue or a casual dinner, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed warm or cold.
The beauty of Esquites lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. The combination of textures and flavors makes it not just a delicious side dish but also a nutritious one, packed with vitamins and fiber from the corn and fresh herbs.
It's an excellent way to add a pop of color and flavor to your meal, inviting everyone to dig in.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of fresh corn (or 4 cups of frozen corn)
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: diced jalapeño for extra heat
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by grilling or roasting the corn until it's slightly charred and tender, about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, allow the corn to cool slightly before cutting the kernels off the cob.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels with the mayonnaise, lime juice, cilantro, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to guarantee all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Finally, fold in the crumbled cotija cheese, reserving a little to sprinkle on top for garnish.
Extra Tips:
For peak flavor, consider grilling the corn on the cob, as this method improves the sweetness and adds a smoky depth to the dish. If using frozen corn, sauté it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to impart a bit of char.
Feel free to customize the spice level by adding more chili powder or including diced jalapeños for an extra kick. This salad can be made ahead of time; simply store it in the refrigerator and serve it chilled for a revitalizing side dish.