Want to try something new for dinner but short on ideas? Our readers love these 19 Mexican recipes, from main dishes to yummy sides and sweet treats. You’ll find everything you need for a complete Mexican feast, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen.
![Image shows a Tamale pot pie on a glass plate with guacamole sitting next to it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Tamale-pot-pies-1024x576.jpg)
Chunky Guacamole
![Image shows a white bowl with guacamole and a chip sticking in it with more chips on a tray to the right of it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Boudros-Guacamole.jpg)
This fresh and easy guacamole uses perfectly ripe avocados for a chunky texture. Zesty lime and smoky roasted tomatoes and peppers add layers of flavor. Perfect for dipping chips or topping tacos.
Get the Recipe: Chunky Guacamole
Dessert Nachos
![Image shows dessert nachos on a plate topped with fruit and whipped cream.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Dessert-Nachos.jpg)
Craving something sweet after your Mexican feast? Forget the usual cake and try these fun dessert nachos! Layers of crispy tortilla chips, cinnamon sugar, chocolate sauce, and fresh berries create a delicious and unexpected treat.
Get the Recipe: Dessert Nachos
Crockpot Carnitas
![Image shows Tongs holding carnitas over a tray.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Tongs-holding-carnitas-over-a-tray.jpg)
Skip the fuss and let your crockpot do the work! This recipe delivers juicy, tender carnitas perfect for tacos, burritos, nachos, or anything your cravings desire. Enjoy a flavorful and versatile Mexican dish in no time.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Carnitas
Crockpot Mexican Beef in Masa Cups
![Image shows a close up head on view of Crockpot Mexican Beef in Masa Cups on a white tray, topped with guacamole and crumbled cotija cheese.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Crockpot-Mexican-Beef-in-Masa-Cups.jpg)
This recipe is a fun and flavorful fiesta! Tender beef simmered in warm spices gets nestled in crispy masa cups, creating a unique and satisfying Mexican meal.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Mexican Beef in Masa Cups
Tamale Pot Pies
![Image shows a Tamale pot pie on a glass plate with guacamole sitting next to it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Tamale-pot-pies.jpg)
Craving comfort food with a Mexican twist? Look no further! These tamale pot pies combine tender chicken in a flavorful filling with a delicious masa crust. Perfect for your next potluck or weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Tamale Pot Pies
Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas
![Image shows an overhead shot of puff pastry Chicken Empanadas on a white tray.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Chicken-Empanadas.jpg)
Don’t be fooled by the fancy name! These chicken empanadas use store-bought puff pastry for a flaky crust and a savory chicken filling. Enjoy a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas
Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
![Image shows baked cheesy chicken enchiladas in a blue Pyrex casserole.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Chicken-enchiladas-in-a-blue-pyrex.jpg)
Short on time but craving Mexican food? Skip the prep work! This recipe uses store-bought puff pastry for a flaky crust wrapped around a delicious chicken filling. Enjoy a satisfying and impressive enchilada dish in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
Roasted Tomatillo Salsa
![Image shows a taquito dipping into a white bowl of Roasted Tomatillo Salsa.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Roasted-Tomatillo-Salsa.jpg)
Skip the bland store-bought stuff! This homemade salsa uses roasted tomatillos for a burst of fresh, tangy flavor with a hint of smokiness. It’s the perfect way to add a bright and unexpected touch to your favorite Mexican dishes.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomatillo Salsa
Chicken Tortilla Soup
![Overhead shot of chicken tortilla soup in a red bowl on wooden table with tortilla strips on the soup.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Overhead-shot-of-chicken-tortilla-soup-in-a-red-bowl-on-wooden-table.jpg)
This classic soup is a family favorite! Shredded chicken and beans simmer in a rich broth for a warm and flavorful base. Enjoy the satisfying contrast of crispy tortilla strips and tender chicken in every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortilla Soup
Chicken Tamales
![Image shows two Tamales sitting on a white plate with slices of avocado and tomatoes next to it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Tamales.jpg)
Experience the true taste of Mexico with these homemade chicken tamales. Tender and seasoned chicken is steamed to perfection inside corn husks, creating a flavorful and authentic dish.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tamales
Spanish Rice
![Overhead image of a white bowl containing Spanish rice sitting on a wooden board.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Bowl-of-Spanish-rice-close-up.jpg)
Restaurant-style Spanish rice is easier than you think! This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a flavorful side dish packed with rich spices and perfect seasoning. Enjoy a complete and satisfying Mexican meal without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Spanish Rice
Refried Beans
![Image shows a bowl of Refried Beans up close.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Refried-Beans.jpg)
Level up your taco night with these creamy refried beans! Surprisingly easy to make at home, they add a smooth, savory richness that elevates tacos, burritos, or enchiladas.
Get the Recipe: Refried Beans
Homemade Nacho Cheese
![Image shows a tortilla chip pulling nacho cheese out of a white bowl filled with it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Homemade-Nacho-Cheese.jpg)
Skip the artificial stuff and whip up this easy homemade cheese dip in under 10 minutes! Real cheese melts into a creamy, cheesy concoction perfect for dipping chips, smothering nachos, or adding a decadent touch to any dish.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Nacho Cheese
Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas
![Image shows an overhead shot of Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas on a white tray with a bowl of guacamole to the left of them.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Puff-Pastry-Beef-Empanadas.jpg)
Enjoy a delightful contrast in textures with these easy beef empanadas! A satisfying crunch gives way to a warm, flavorful filling made with ground beef. Perfect for a quick lunch, satisfying snack, or impressive appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas
Honey Habanero Tacos
![Image shows three honey habanero tacos with corn shells sitting on a wooden board.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Honey-Habanero-Tacos.jpg)
These tacos are filled with flavor! A ground beef filling is quick to whip up, but the real star is the combination of sweet honey and fiery habanero. Experience a flavorful twist on classic tacos that will surprise and delight your taste buds.
Get the Recipe: Honey Habanero Tacos
Ground Beef Skillet Tamales
![Image shows a partially served ground beef skillet tamales in a skillet with a wooden spoon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Ground-Beef-Skillet-Tamales.jpg)
Short on time but craving tamales? This recipe delivers! Skip the hours-long prep and enjoy the delicious flavors of tamales cooked right in a skillet. A quick and easy dish with all the savory goodness of traditional tamales.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Skillet Tamales
Mexican Skillet Quinoa
![Image shows a wooden spoon holding a scoop of Mexican skillet quinoa with the full pot behind it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Mexican-Skillet-Quinoa.jpg)
This protein-packed skillet dish combines quinoa and black beans for a hearty base. Sweet corn and tangy salsa add bursts of flavor and essential nutrients. Whip up this healthy and satisfying vegetarian Mexican meal in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Skillet Quinoa
Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
![Image shows a closeup of a spoon holding some Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole with the full skillet behind it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Beef-and-Rice-Casserole.jpg)
Calling all cheese lovers! This one-pot wonder combines seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and ooey-gooey melted cheese. Indulge in a delightful dish with irresistible flavors and comforting textures that will leave you wanting more.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
Mexican Sheetcake Brownies
![Image shows A hand holding a chocolate covered square brownie with a cracked surface against a light background.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Mexican-Sheetcake-Brownies.jpg)
Take your brownies south of the border with this unique recipe! These brownies feature warm spices like cinnamon and chili powder, adding a delightful surprise with every bite. Perfect for a sweet ending to your Mexican feast.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Sheetcake Brownies