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19 Cheesy, Spicy, and Totally Addictive Tex-Mex Recipes That’ll Ruin Takeout Forever

Takeout used to be easy, but after trying these 19 Tex-Mex recipes, you won’t want to go back. They’ve got the right balance of cheesy goodness and spicy kick that’ll have you hooked from the first bite. No more waiting around for delivery drivers when you’ve got meals this good ready to go. These recipes bring all the Tex-Mex heat and comfort you crave, with a lot less hassle.

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.

Meaty Texas Cowboy Stew

Bowl of Texas cowboy stew accompanied by spoons, on a brick-patterned surface.
Meaty Texas Cowboy Stew. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

When you need something hearty and filling, nothing hits the spot quite like a rich bowl of Meaty Texas Cowboy Stew. It’s a perfect meal for any day when you need a comforting boost after a long day. Stew always seems to be that dish that everybody talks about, but why limit yourself when it’s this good? Loaded with bold flavors and hearty ingredients, it ensures that you won’t be searching for any takeout menus.
Get the Recipe: Meaty Texas Cowboy Stew

Pico de Gallo

Pico de Gallo on a black cast iron bowl with a chips and jalapeno on the background.
Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Have you ever tried a fresh, homemade salsa that wakes up every dish it touches? Pico de Gallo does just that – a simple yet powerful way to add a punch to your meal. It works wonderfully as a standalone snack with chips or as a vibrant complement to fish or grilled meats. Filled with fresh flavors, it knocks the store-bought alternatives out of the park. Make it once, and you’ll see why many consider a jar of this in the fridge essential.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Mexican Rice

A plate of Mexican rice garnished with chopped green onions and herbs served with a spoon.
Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

If you’re keen on diving deeper into Tex-Mex cuisine, you can’t overlook Mexican Rice. This side dish brings a subtle flair to your table with its fluffy texture and aromatic appeal. It pairs seamlessly with almost anything, upgrading your taco night or simply sitting alongside some grilled veggies. Why settle for bland sides when you can bring so much more to your plate? Trust this to become a staple that you’ll turn to time and again.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice

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Food Processor Salsa

Homemade salsa on a black plate with tortilla chips.
Food Processor Salsa. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Salsa on the fly? Yes, please! With Food Processor Salsa, you’ve got a zippy addition to any party table or a quick dinner fix. This blender wonder takes just minutes to whip up and can be as mild or fiery as you like. It’s the ultimate dip that invites you to double dip, guilt-free. Get ready for your new go-to when tacos or chips need a quick partner.
Get the Recipe: Food Processor Salsa

Cream of Jalapeno Soup

Two bowls of Cream of Jalapeno Soup with a plate of cornbread madeleines on a wooden table.
Cream of Jalapeno Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

When spice meets comfort, you get Cream of Jalapeno Soup, a dish that offers just the right kick of heat with a creamy base. It’s the kind of bowl that warms you up inside out, perfect for a cozy evening at home. The blend of mild heat and creamy texture makes it universally appealing. Whether you’re new to spicy foods or a seasoned pro, this soup promises to keep your dinner interesting.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Jalapeno Soup

Arroz Verde

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

This Arroz Verde is here to show you how it’s done with style and simplicity. This vibrant dish is not just lovely to look at but comes packed with flavors that mesh well in any Tex-Mex meal. Bring it to a potluck and watch it disappear faster than anything else on the table. It’s all about taking something basic and making it brilliant. Ever thought about giving your rice a green makeover? Try this one out.
Get the Recipe: Arroz Verde

Leftover Steak Soft Tacos

Top-down shot of two Leftover Steak Soft Tacos on a slate board.
Leftover Steak Soft Tacos. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Got some steak from last night’s dinner? Turn it into today’s delight with Leftover Steak Soft Tacos. It’s quick, easy, and lets nothing go to waste while delivering a meal that feels entirely new. Wrap up some succulent slices in a soft taco shell, throw in a few toppings, and you’ve got a meal that hits all the right notes. Perfect for a lunch that doesn’t feel like leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Soft Tacos

Creamy Jalapeno Dip

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

This Creamy Jalapeno Dip combines both in a silky smooth blend. Ideal for those who like their dip with a bit of a kick, it serves well with chips, crudites, or as a bold burger topping. Whether it’s game day or a family gathering, this dip stands out in a sea of typical salsas and guacamole. You might just find yourself making it a regular feature!
Get the Recipe: Creamy Jalapeno Dip

Texas-Style Carne Asada

A sliced and grilled Carne asada on a wooden cutting board.
Texas-Style Carne Asada. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Consider kicking up your grill game with Texas-Style Carne Asada. This isn’t just any grilled meat; it’s a marinated masterpiece that sings with spices and sizzles on the grill. Ideal for feeding a crowd, it can transform your outdoor cookout into a flavorful fiesta. Slice it thin and serve it up with tortillas for a DIY taco night that’s sure to impress. Just be ready for the compliments to roll in!
Get the Recipe: Texas-Style Carne Asada

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

A close-up of a hand holding a copycat Taco Bell Cantina chicken burrito.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Ever crave fast food but want something fresher and full of flavor? Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito brings all the taste right into your kitchen. It’s stuffed with goodies that make every bite worth enjoying. This homemade twist on a fast-food favorite shows just how satisfying it can be to make it yourself. Say goodbye to drive-throughs because this will hook you with its freshness and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

Pineapple Salsa

Pineapple salsa in a skillet with tortilla chips.
Pineapple Salsa. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sweet meets heat in Pineapple Salsa, a refreshing change of pace from traditional salsas. It’s a fantastic topping for grilled fish or a lively addition to a taco bar. Its unique mix of flavors can spark life into any meal, making it a crowd favorite at gatherings. The tropical twist not only brings a novel flair to your dishes but can also be the star of the show. Get ready to receive requests for this recipe!
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Salsa

Baked Spanish Rice

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

Imagine a side dish that complements any main yet holds its own on the flavor front. Baked Spanish Rice does just that, baked to perfection and filled with a diversity of flavors. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making your dinner preparations a breeze. This dish seamlessly transitions from everyday meals to special occasions without missing a beat. It’s about time your rice got an upgrade.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken served on a white rectangular plate.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Sometimes, slow and steady wins the flavor race. Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken is marinated and cooked slowly to infuse every ounce of meat with bold tastes. It falls off the bone and is both juicy and incredibly flavorful. Serve this up at your next family dinner, and watch everyone eagerly ask for seconds. It’s a center-piece worthy of any table.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Texas Corn Succotash

Texas Corn Succotash in a black bowl with spoon.
Texas Corn Succotash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Don’t just serve any side dish; make it a conversation starter. Texas Corn Succotash is chock-full of textures and tastes that meld marvelously together. It’s a colorful addition to your plate that brings both nutrition and excitement. Great for those who love their vegetables with a bit more taste, it’s sure to become a favorite. This is veggie love shown in the best light.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash

Mango Habanero Salsa

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

If you’re someone who thinks fruit should have a place at every meal, Mango Habanero Salsa will agree with you. This salsa combines sweet mangoes with the heat of habanero peppers to create a dance of flavors in your mouth. It’s perfect as a dip, a glaze for meats, or even as a quirky salad dressing. Each spoonful delivers a burst of flavors that’s unexpectedly harmonious. Bring this to your next party, and it’s sure to stir up buzz.
Get the Recipe: Mango Habanero Salsa

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

A hand holding wedges of a quesadilla.
Leftover Steak Quesadilla. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Transform last night’s steak into today’s feast with a Leftover Steak Quesadilla. This dish is a genius way to use up ingredients while still creating something that feels entirely new and exciting. It’s cheesy, crispy, and filled with the juicy steak bits that make a quesadilla go from good to great. Serve it up with some sour cream and your favorite salsa, and you’ve got a meal that completely redefines leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

Mexican Street Corn Salad

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

Why not take the classic flavors of street food and spin it into a standout salad? Mexican Street Corn Salad does just that, marrying the charred goodness of corn with a tangy dressing and crunchy vegetables. This salad is a fun hit but who’s to say you can’t enjoy it any time? It’s bold, it’s fresh, and it’s a total crowd-pleaser. So much more than just a salad, it’s a festival in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Slow Cooker Carnitas Board

A platter of pork carnitas board on a wooden table.
Slow Cooker Carnitas Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Impress guests without the stress using Slow Cooker Carnitas Board. This set-it-and-forget-it approach to cooking means you can enjoy your company instead of toiling in the kitchen. Piled high on a board with all the fixings, this dish invites everyone to tuck in and customize their plates. It’s a casual feast that fosters sharing and abundance. Leisurely meals like these are what weekends are made for.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Carnitas Board

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.

These Grilled Elote Corn Ribs bring a playful twist to a beloved street food. Sliced and grilled, they make for a mess-free way to enjoy all the flavors of traditional Elote. Great for both kids and adults, they add a fun element to your BBQs and outdoor parties. Dress them up or down with various toppings to suit any taste. This dish is proof that sometimes, playing with your food is a brilliant idea.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

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