19 must-try Mexican meals for every mood

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Start your delicious trip through the vibrant world of Mexican cuisine! Whether you’re feeling adventurous, craving comfort, or just want to spice up your day, there’s a Mexican dish for every mood. Delight yourself with classics like tacos or experience the heartiness of comforting spicy shrimp dishes. With 23 must-try Mexican meals, you’re in for a flavorful journey that caters to all your cravings!

Shrimp and chorizo in soft corn tortillas with cilantro and cheese.
Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Beef Birria

Overhead shot of a bowl of shredded beef birria with cilantro and chopped onions.
Beef Birria. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re in the mood for a hearty, flavorful stew, Beef Birria is your go-to. Tender chunks of beef, slowly simmered in a savory broth, make this dish a comfort food classic. Enjoy it with warm corn tortillas, and you’ve got a delicious meal that hits all the right notes.
Get the Recipe: Beef Birria

Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

stacked taquitos on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Crispy and delicious, these Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos are perfect for those moments when you’re craving something savory yet light. Stuffed with seasoned shredded chicken, they’re a quick and easy snack or meal. Dip them in your favorite salsa for an extra burst of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

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.

For a refreshing twist, try Salpicon de Res. This shredded beef salad is a medley of vibrant flavors, featuring tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. Light, zesty, and perfect for a quick bite, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to explore the lighter side of Mexican cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Salpicon de Res

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.

Craving something with a seaside flair? Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema are your answer. Lightly battered fish, nestled in corn tortillas, topped with a zesty cilantro lime crema – it’s a burst of fresh flavors that transports you to the coastal regions of Mexico.
Get the Recipe: Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema

Sopa de Camaron

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

Warm up your soul with a bowl of Sopa de Camaron, a shrimp soup that’s both comforting and satisfying. Brimming with plump shrimp and vegetables in a seasoned broth, it’s the perfect choice for a cozy meal on chilly days or whenever you need a comforting pick-me-up.
Get the Recipe: Sopa de Camaron

Chicken Enchiladas

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

A classic favorite, Chicken Enchiladas are a crowd-pleaser. Rolled-up tortillas filled with tender shredded chicken and smothered in savory sauce, they offer a comforting and pleasing experience. Pair them with rice and beans for a wholesome, well-rounded Mexican meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Enchiladas

Camarones a la Diabla

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

Shrimp bathed in a fiery red chili sauce, delivering a bold kick. For those craving a bit of heat in their meal, this dish is a standout choice.
Get the Recipe: Camarones a la DiablaCamarones a la Diabla, or “Devil’s Shrimp,” is a bold and spicy dish for those who crave heat. It features shrimp simmered in a fiery sauce made from chili peppers and spices, delivering a robust flavor. This dish exemplifies the Mexican flair for incorporating heat and depth into seafood, making it a must-try for spice enthusiasts.

Instant Pot Tortilla Soup

Low angle shot of a white bowl filled with tortilla soup. There is an instant pot in the background.
Instant Pot Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When time is of the essence, turn to Instant Pot Tortilla Soup. Packed with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients, this quick and easy soup is a lifesaver on busy days. Top it with crispy tortilla strips and a dollop of sour cream for a fuss-free yet delicious dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tortilla Soup

Camarones a la Diabla

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

Spice things up with Camarones a la Diabla, a fiery shrimp dish that packs a punch. Bathed in a spicy red chili sauce, these shrimp are not for the faint of heart. If you’re in the mood for a bold and intense flavor experience, this dish is sure to satisfy your fiery cravings.
Get the Recipe: Camarones a la Diabla

Quesabirria Tacos

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

Quesabirria Tacos combine the best of both worlds – savory beef birria and gooey melted cheese. The result? A flavor explosion wrapped in warm tortillas. Dip these tacos into the rich consomé for an extra kick, and you’ve got a deliciously messy and utterly worthwhile eating experience.
Get the Recipe: Quesabirria Tacos

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.

For those who appreciate the crispy edges of well-cooked meat, Air Fryer Carnitas are a game-changer. Tender pork, seasoned to perfection, is transformed into golden, crispy goodness. Enjoy them in tacos, burritos, or simply on their own for a delicious and fuss-free meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Carnitas

Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos

Shrimp and chorizo in soft corn tortillas with cilantro and cheese.
Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Indulge in the perfect blend of savory chorizo and succulent shrimp in these tacos. The spicy kick from the chorizo pairs harmoniously with the tender shrimp, creating a flavorful fiesta in every bite. Topped with your favorite fixings, these tacos are a must-try for those craving a pleasing and zesty experience.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Chorizo Tacos

Chilaquiles

A bowl of nachos with avocado, radishes and an egg.
Chilaquiles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This traditional Mexican dish transforms day-old tortillas into a hearty meal. It’s a versatile recipe, perfect for breakfast or brunch, featuring lightly fried tortillas simmered in salsa, often topped with cheese, eggs, or shredded chicken. Chilaquiles showcase the resourceful use of leftovers in Mexican cuisine, embodying a comforting and satisfying meal for any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Chilaquiles

Camarones al Mojo de Ajo

Shrimp stuffed into soft corn tortillas with lime wedges on the side.
Camarones al Mojo de Ajo. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Experience the bold flavors of Camarones al Mojo de Ajo, where shrimp meets a garlicky infusion. Each bite bursts with the robust taste of garlic, enhancing the natural sweetness of the shrimp. A simple yet exquisite dish, perfect for those seeking a dish that marries simplicity with intense flavors.
Get the Recipe: Camarones al Mojo de Ajo

Chilaquiles

A bowl of nachos with avocado, radishes and an egg.
Chilaquiles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Indulge in the simplicity and deliciousness of Chilaquiles, a classic Mexican dish featuring crispy tortilla chips bathed in flavorful salsa. Topped with cream, cheese, and perhaps a fried egg, this dish is a textural delight. Perfect for breakfast or any time you’re in the mood for a dish that effortlessly combines crunch, spice, and savory goodness.
Get the Recipe: Chilaquiles

Arepas con Queso

close up shot of an arepa con queso split open to show the cheesy filling.
Arepas con Queso. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Start the journey to Venezuela with Arepas con Queso, delicious cornmeal patties stuffed with gooey cheese. While not traditionally Mexican, these cheesy pockets have earned their place in this list for their irresistible taste. Perfect as a snack or a meal on their own, these arepas offer a delicious twist for those looking to explore diverse Latin American flavors.
Get the Recipe: Arepas con Queso

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.

Discover a hassle-free way to enjoy the classic flavors of enchiladas with the Air Fryer Enchiladas. Crispy on the outside and filled with savory goodness on the inside, these enchiladas provide a quick and easy solution for a worthwhile meal. Say goodbye to lengthy oven times, and hello to a convenient way to indulge in this beloved Mexican favorite.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Enchiladas

Blackened Fish Tacos

Blackened fish tacos in taco holders.
Blackened Fish Tacos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Immerse yourself in the bold flavors of Blackened Fish Tacos, where perfectly seasoned fish meets the pleasing crunch of taco shells. The combination of spices and the flakiness of the fish create a mouthwatering experience. Topped with your preferred garnishes, these tacos provide a delicious escape for those seeking a flavorful and fulfilling meal.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Fish Tacos

Pollo Pibil

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

Savor the aromatic and tender goodness of Pollo Pibil, a traditional Mexican dish featuring marinated and slow-cooked chicken. The flavors of achiote, citrus, and spices infuse the chicken, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and tempting. Ideal for those who appreciate the art of slow-cooked perfection in every mouthful.
Get the Recipe: Pollo Pibil

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