Queso dreams are made of these: 13 Tex-Mex recipes you can’t resist

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Tex-Mex cuisine has a way of making every meal feel like a fiesta, and these flavorful recipes are no exception. These Tex-Mex treats are here to turn any ordinary day into a culinary celebration, guaranteed to bring joy and deliciousness to your table. It’s time to bring a taste of Tex-Mex magic to your kitchen and enjoy the cheesy, spicy goodness that makes this cuisine so irresistible.

Carnitas in a round black dish.
Dutch oven Carnitas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad in a bowl.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine taking a bite of Mexican Street Corn Salad, where every forkful bursts with the flavors. This salad turns any meal into a festive occasion, with its colorful ingredients and bold flavors that capture the essence of Mexican street food. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own, ensuring that your taste buds are treated to a great experience.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Dig into the smoky and spicy world of Chicken Tinga. It’s a staple for tacos, tostadas, or even as a hearty filling for burritos. The slow-cooked aroma will fill your kitchen, promising a meal that delivers both comfort and taste. Serve this to your guests, and watch it become the talk of the evening, as they’ll surely be asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Grilled corn on the cob pieces topped with cheese, chili powder, and cilantro, served on a black slate plate with lime wedges on the side.
Grilled Elote Corn Ribs. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled Elote Corn Ribs offer a twist on the traditional Mexican street corn, presenting it in a fun and eatable rib form. This innovative way to enjoy corn will be a standout at any barbecue or family gathering, turning simple ingredients into a show-stopping side dish. The char from the grill adds a smoky depth that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the corn.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Baked Spanish Rice

Baked Spanish Rice in two black baking dishes.
Baked Spanish Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The comforting aroma of Baked Spanish Rice will draw everyone to the table. This one-pan wonder is the perfect backdrop for bold toppings like avocados and sour cream, turning a simple side into the star of your dining spread. Whether it’s alongside tacos or enchiladas, this rice promises to level up your meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice

Creamy Jalapeno Dip

Creamy Jalapeno Dip in a bowl with chip nearby.
Creamy Jalapeno Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice up your appetizer game with Creamy Jalapeno Dip. This dip combines the fiery taste of jalapenos with a cool, creamy base, creating the perfect balance of heat and smoothness. It’s ideal for dipping tortilla chips, drizzling over nachos, or even as a spread for sandwiches. Each batch is a breeze to whip up, making it a go-to for parties or a quick snack.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Jalapeno Dip

Smoked Pork Belly Tacos

A closeup shot of two tacos filled with smoked pork belly and vegetables.
Smoked Pork Belly Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Pork Belly Tacos are a real treat, featuring succulently smoked pork belly that melts in your mouth, tucked into soft corn tortillas. These tacos are not just food; they’re an experience, turning any meal into a festive celebration. Perfect for any occasion, they promise to impress with their depth of flavor and satisfying texture.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork Belly Tacos

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

A hand holding wedges of a quesadilla.
Leftover Steak Quesadilla. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Transform yesterday’s steak into today’s delicious Leftover Steak Quesadilla. This recipe is perfect for using up leftovers, combining them with melted cheese between two crispy tortillas. It’s a quick and easy dish that delivers big on flavor, making it ideal for a speedy weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

Arroz Verde

Arroz Verde rice in a black pan with tomatoes and herbs.
Arroz Verde. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Try the vibrant and fresh flavors of Arroz Verde. This dish combines rice with a blend of green herbs and vegetables, resulting in a bright side that enhances any Tex-Mex meal. It’s perfect for complementing spicier dishes, offering a mild and refreshing taste. Serve this at your next fiesta to brighten up the table and impress your guests.
Get the Recipe: Arroz Verde

Guacamole Snack Board

A top-down shot of a guacamole snack board.
Guacamole Snack Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Upgrade your snack time with a Guacamole Snack Board, a centerpiece that combines the creamy richness of guacamole with an array of dipping options. This board is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. It’s perfect for gatherings where you want to offer a variety of textures and flavors.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole Snack Board

Dutch oven Carnitas

Carnitas in a round black dish.
Dutch oven Carnitas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Experience the deep, rich flavors of Dutch oven Carnitas. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish offers melt-in-your-mouth pork that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It’s ideal for tacos, burritos, or as a hearty main dish. The simplicity of the preparation and the complexity of its flavors make it a standout recipe.
Get the Recipe: Dutch oven Carnitas

Mango Habanero Salsa

Mango Salsa in a bowl with chips nearby.
Mango Habanero Salsa. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice up your meal with Mango Habanero Salsa, a perfect blend of sweet mangoes and fiery habanero peppers. This salsa is sure to awaken your palate and add a tropical twist to any dish. It’s great as a topping for grilled meats or as a daring dip for chips. Serve this when you want to add a vibrant kick to your cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Mango Habanero Salsa

Pico de Gallo

A shot of Pico de Gallo on a board with chips nearby.
Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Refresh your palate with Pico de Gallo, a classic salsa fresca that brings freshness to any dish. It’s perfect for topping off your favorite tacos, nachos, or eggs. The freshness of the ingredients speaks for itself, providing a crisp contrast to richer dishes. It’s a versatile condiment that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Chicken Tinga Tostadas

Chicken Tinga Tostada on a plate.
Chicken Tinga Tostadas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Indulge in the smoky and spicy flavors of Chicken Tinga Tostadas. This dish layers tender, flavorful chicken tinga atop crispy tostadas for a textural delight. Serve these tostadas for a quick dinner or a festive party dish. They’re guaranteed to be a hit with anyone craving authentic Mexican flavors.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga Tostadas

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