17 Mexican dinners so simple, they’re like kitchen magic

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Sometimes dinner feels like a chore, but not when Mexican flavors work their magic to turn simplicity into something special. These 17 dishes are so easy to pull off, it’s almost unfair how good they turn out. With minimal effort, they bring bold, crowd-pleasing meals that anyone can enjoy, even if cooking isn’t your strong suit. It’s proof that a little flavor and creativity can transform dinner into the highlight of the day.

Low angle shot of mini tostadas with salpicon de res or shredded beef salad on top.
Salpicon de Res. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Quesabirria Tacos

Overhead shot of quesabirria tacos with lime wedges.
Quesabirria Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Who says you can’t have a street food experience at home? With bold flavors and a juicy filling, Quesabirria Tacos are a perfect example of how simple cooking methods can produce an outstanding meal. The cheesy goodness paired with a crispy tortilla is something you’ll want to have over and over again. It’s a straightforward dish that brings a bit of the vibrant Mexican streets right to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Quesabirria Tacos

Chicken Enchiladas

Low angle shot of chicken enchiladas on a plate with salad.
Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Imagine wrapping up all the comfort in the world into one dish. That’s what you get with Chicken Enchiladas, a meal that’s as hearty as it is easy to make. This dish combines tender chicken and a rich sauce, all rolled up in a soft tortilla blanket. It’s a no-fuss dinner that promises a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Enchiladas

Camarones a la Diabla

Shrimp in red chile sauce on a white plate with lime wedges and a fork in the background.
Camarones a la Diabla. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For those who love a bit of heat, Camarones a la Diabla is a fiery favorite that’s surprisingly simple to whip up. This dish is all about the harmony between the spicy sauce and the succulent shrimp. It’s a quick seafood fix that brings a kick to any dinner lineup. Best of all, it proves that a dish doesn’t need to be complicated to be bold in flavor.
Get the Recipe: Camarones a la Diabla

Beef Birria

low angle shot of shredded beef in a bowl with a fork.
Beef Birria. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re in the mood for a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, Beef Birria is your go-to. It’s a stew that’s rich in taste and perfect for those chillier nights when you crave something warming. What makes it stand out is its deep, complex flavors that come from a blend of simple ingredients. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dish for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Beef Birria

Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Fish tacos on a small baking sheet with limes.
Air Fryer Fish Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Craving something light yet fulfilling? Air Fryer Fish Tacos are a game changer, offering a healthier twist on a classic favorite. They are a testament to how the air fryer can make dishes healthier without sacrificing taste. Crunchy on the outside and flaky on the inside, these fish tacos are a breeze to make for a quick yet delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Salsa Verde

Salsa verde in a bowl with cilantro leaves on top.
Salsa Verde. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

No Mexican dinner is complete without a good sauce, and Salsa Verde is a vibrant addition to any dish. It’s fresh, tangy, and can transform a simple dish into something extraordinary. This sauce is proof that sometimes, the simplest ingredients create the most memorable flavors. It’s a staple that you’ll want to have on hand for everything.
Get the Recipe: Salsa Verde

Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema

Fish tacos with shredded cabbage and cilantro lime crema.
Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bringing together the freshness of the sea and the tanginess of lime, Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema are a refreshing meal option. This dish is about balancing flavors and textures, from the crispy fish to the creamy, tangy sauce that tops it off. It’s a quick and easy way to shake up your dinner routine with something light and flavorful. Perfect for those nights when you want a meal that’s both simple and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema

Instant Pot Black Beans

Low angle shot of two bowls of Mexican black beans garnished with crumbled cheese and lime wedges.
Instant Pot Black Beans. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Gone are the days of soaking beans overnight thanks to Instant Pot Black Beans. This dish is a testament to the wonders of modern cooking gadgets, making a staple side dish both effortless and quicker than ever. Rich, versatile, and incredibly easy to prepare, these beans are the perfect complement to any Mexican dinner. They’re a humble reminder of how some of the best dishes are born from simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Black Beans

Air Fryer Carnitas

Low angle shot of 3 carnitas tacos on a white plate with lime wedges.
Air Fryer Carnitas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you’re craving something hearty but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen, Air Fryer Carnitas are a lifesaver. This dish brings the rich flavors of pork to your table in a fraction of the usual time. It’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and all-around mouthwatering. A perfect example of how modern cooking methods can streamline traditional recipes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Carnitas

Guacamole

Guacamole in a white bowl with limes, cilantro, and tortilla chips on the side.
Guacamole. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

It’s hard to think of a more universally loved dip than Guacamole. This dish is the king of dips, blending ripe avocados with a few simple ingredients to create something magical. It’s creamy, it’s flavorful, and it goes with just about everything. Making guacamole is a reminder of how sometimes, the best dishes are the ones with the fewest components.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Sopa de Camarones

A bowl of shrimp soup.
Sopa de Camarones. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Sopa de Camarones to warm you up from the inside. This shrimp soup is a blend of simple, yet rich flavors that come together to create a comforting dish. It’s a classic meal that’s both easy to prepare and deeply fulfilling. A true testament to the simplicity and richness of Mexican seafood cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Sopa de Camarones

Pickled Onions

Overhead shot of a jar of pink pickled onions with lime halves on the side.
Pickled Onions. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Pickled Onions are the hidden gems of the condiment world. With their sharp, sweet flavor, they can brighten up any dish. This simple pickling process transforms humble onions into a versatile topping that’s hard to resist. They’re an easy way to add a pop of color and taste to any Mexican meal.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Onions

Chilaquiles

Overhead shot of chilaquiles on a black plate with a fork and knife on the side.
Chilaquiles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a breakfast that doubles as comfort food, look no further than Chilaquiles. This dish is a wonderful mix of crisp tortilla chips, a flavorful sauce, and often topped with a perfectly runny egg. It’s a rustic and simple dish that fills you up and gets the day started on the right foot. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover tortillas!
Get the Recipe: Chilaquiles

Pollo Pibil

Pollo pibil on a grey plate with limes and shredded lettuce.
Pollo Pibil. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re after a dish that’s a bit out of the ordinary, Pollo Pibil is a fascinating choice. This meal is all about the slow-cooked flavors and the unique blend of spices that marinate the chicken. It’s a taste of Yucatán cuisine that’s surprisingly straightforward to make. A perfect dish for when you want to experiment with new flavors without too much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Pollo Pibil

Pickled Jalapeños

Two canning jars filled with pickled jalapenos on a wooden board with fresh jalapenos on the side.
Pickled Jalapeños. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Looking to add a little zing to your meals? Pickled Jalapeños are the way to go. They bring a perfect hit of heat and acidity to any dish, proving that sometimes it’s the small additions that make the biggest difference. This condiment is a breeze to prepare and can upgrade even the simplest of meals. It’s a small touch that packs a big punch.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Jalapeños

Salpicon de Res

Low angle shot of mini tostadas with salpicon de res or shredded beef salad on top.
Salpicon de Res. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Salpicon de Res is a refreshing beef salad that’s perfect for those days you want something light yet fulfilling. This dish showcases how Mexican cuisine can masterfully combine meat with fresh vegetables for a balanced and flavorful result. It’s an easy-to-make meal that’s both nutritious and fulfilling. Not to mention, it’s a great way to use leftover beef in a delicious way.
Get the Recipe: Salpicon de Res

Air Fryer Enchiladas

A hand holding a n empanada that is broken open so you can see the inside filling.
Air Fryer Enchiladas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you thought enchiladas couldn’t get any better, wait until you try Air Fryer Enchiladas. This version uses the magic of the air fryer to give the enchiladas a perfectly crispy top while keeping the inside soft and wonderful. It’s a fast and fuss-free method to get a dinner favorite on the table without compromising on taste. A true testament to how innovation can enhance traditional meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Enchiladas

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