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Craving Bold and Spicy? These 17 Tex-Mex Dishes Bring the Heat Without the Hassle

A great Tex-Mex meal comes down to balance—just enough spice, simple steps, and plenty of flavor. These recipes check all the boxes, making sure dinner stays exciting without taking up too much time. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight option or something to impress, these dishes bring the heat in the best way possible.

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.

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 in the mood for some authentic Tex-Mex flavor, Mexican Rice is just right. It’s easy to whip up even on a busy weekday and packs a punch with its bold spices. Perfect as a side dish or a base for your main, it brings warmth to any meal. Give your dinner a spicy twist with this straightforward recipe.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice

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 the weather outside is frightful, a bowl of Meaty Texas Cowboy Stew offers comforting heat. This hearty stew combines rich flavors that fill the kitchen with an inviting aroma. It’s a one-pot wonder that makes cleaning up a breeze, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more enjoying your meal. It’s a surefire way to heat up your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Meaty Texas Cowboy Stew

Mexican Street Corn Salad

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

Brightening up your meal with Mexican Street Corn Salad is a breeze. This dish blends bold flavors and textures to create a refreshing side that’s anything but ordinary. It’s as simple to assemble as it is delicious, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Try this vibrant salad for a fuss-free way to spice up your dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl with cherry tomatoes and green peppers on the side.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those craving something with a bit of kick, Chicken Tinga is a must-try. This dish is known for its smoky, spicy flavor that works wonders on tacos, tostadas, or even as a main. Its simplicity in preparation belies the depth of flavor it brings to the table. Warm up your winter evenings with this spicy classic.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Pico de Gallo

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

Fresh and full of flavor, Pico de Gallo is the ideal accompaniment to any Tex-Mex dish. It blends fresh ingredients in a way that complements rather than overwhelms. Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for adding a splash of color and flavor to your meals. It’s a simple way to bring a bit of heat to your table.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Texas Cowboy Stew

A pot filled with a Texas Cowboy stew is being stirred with a wooden spoon.
Texas Cowboy Stew. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Enjoy a cozy evening with a bowl of Texas Cowboy Stew, a second mention but always a standout. This robust dish combines slow-simmered flavors that are both satisfying and comforting. Ideal for chilly evenings, it offers a spicy kick that warms you from the inside out. Round up your family for a meal they won’t soon forget.
Get the Recipe: Texas Cowboy Stew

Cheez-Its Tostada

Cheez-It Tostada on a plate with hot sauce in a bottle.
Cheez-Its Tostada. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Infuse a playful twist into your dinner lineup with Cheez-Its Tostada. This unique recipe takes the classic tostada and gives it an irresistibly crispy, cheesy edge. Easy to assemble and customize to your liking, it’s a fun way to spice up your weeknight routine. Get ready for a meal that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.
Get the Recipe: Cheez-Its Tostada

Smoked Blackberry Margarita

Smoked Blackberry Margarita with smoke coming out the top of the glass.
Smoked Blackberry Margarita. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Blackberry Margarita shakes up cocktail hour with its bold flavors. This drink combines smoky notes with the tangy sweetness of blackberries, creating a memorable sip. It’s an excellent choice for winding down after a long day or for entertaining friends. Warm your spirits with this unique concoction tonight.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Blackberry Margarita

Birria de Res

Two white bowls filled with slow cooker birria garnished with fresh lime wedges.
Birria de Res. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Transform your mealtime with Birria de Res, a deep, flavorful stew that’s brimming with warmth and complexity. This dish is perfect for those who love a slow-cooked meal that rewards with each spoonful. It makes for a soothing, spice-laden dinner that’s ideal for any cold evening. Discover the depths of Tex-Mex cuisine with this rich stew.
Get the Recipe: Birria de Res

Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

A stack of chicken and pineapple on a vertical skewer on a cutting board.
Smoked Chicken Al Pastor. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Experience the smoky treat of Smoked Chicken Al Pastor, a dish that marries bold spices with the tenderness of chicken. It stands out for its unique flavor profile, bringing a hint of pineapple-infused smoke to your palate. Easy enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests, it promises to become a new favorite. Let this dish warm up your mealtime with its smoky spiciness.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

Taco Casserole

A Taco Casserole dish with black beans, cheese and jalapenos.
Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Taco Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining all the Tex-Mex flavors you love in one dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and delicious, ensuring no one leaves the table hungry. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for leftovers, this casserole has you covered. Cozy up with this comforting dish tonight.
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole

Chile de Arbol Salsa

Chile de Arbol Salsa on wooden board with chips and chilies nearby.
Chile de Arbol Salsa. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Kick things up a notch with Chile de Arbol Salsa, a spicy sauce that adds a lively punch to any dish. It’s straightforward to prepare but adds a complex flavor profile that enhances everything from tacos to grilled meats. If you love your meals with an extra kick, this salsa is the way to go. It’s the perfect companion for those who like it hot.
Get the Recipe: Chile de Arbol Salsa

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.

Bring the flavors of the grill indoors with Texas-Style Carne Asada. This recipe offers a spicy and succulent option for meat lovers, ensuring a memorable meal. It’s not only satisfying but also captures the essence of Tex-Mex barbecue. Warm up your winter with this grilled treat.
Get the Recipe: Texas-Style Carne Asada

Baked Spanish Rice

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

Baked Spanish Rice is your go-to for a fuss-free side that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This dish is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something wonderful. It complements any main dish perfectly, providing a hearty and aromatic addition to your meal. Enjoy an effortless way to add a spicy side to your dinner arsenal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice

Arroz Verde

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

Add a splash of color to your dinner table with Arroz Verde. This vibrant dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. It’s easy enough for any home cook to prepare and pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. Try this lively side to brighten up your meal.
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.

Make the most of your leftovers with Leftover Steak Soft Tacos. This recipe transforms last night’s dinner into today’s treat with minimal effort and maximum flavor. It’s a smart and flavorful solution to reduce waste while indulging in the rich flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. Wrap up your week with this smart and delicious twist.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Soft Tacos

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 bring the taste of street food right to your home. This innovative take on a classic favorite is both playful and packed with flavor. Easy to grill and even easier to enjoy, they make the perfect side or snack. Gather around the grill for this delicious treat.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

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