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15 Crowd-Pleasing Tex-Mex That’ll Make Your Kitchen The Neighborhood Hotspot

When it comes to feeding a crowd, nothing beats a taco bar. Let your guests go wild with toppings. Salsa, guac, sour cream—pile it on! You’re not just serving tacos; you’re serving an experience. Plus, it’s one of those meals that somehow brings everyone together and makes them forget about the fact they’re standing around your kitchen, debating the best taco combo like they’re on a cooking show.

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 Street Corn Salad

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

A refreshing way to change up your usual side dishes while still keeping that familiar Tex-Mex vibe. Mexican Street Corn Salad brings all the rich, smoky flavors of elote, but in a shareable, easy-to-serve form. With the creamy dressing and tangy finish, it complements anything from tacos to grilled meats. Best of all, it’s easy to make and even easier to eat.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

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.

They’re simple, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd in no time. Leftover Steak Soft Tacos are the perfect way to give last night’s steak a second life. Toss the meat with seasonings, heat it up, and pile it into soft tortillas for a quick meal. No need to plan ahead, as this recipe is all about using what you have on hand.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Soft Tacos

Easy Mexican Rice

Mexican Rice with a slice of lime on a black bowl.
Easy Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Serve it alongside tacos, burritos, or grilled meats, and watch it disappear. Easy Mexican Rice is a must-have side dish that pairs perfectly with just about anything Tex-Mex. This dish brings a flavorful, fluffy texture that completes any meal. It’s simple to make but packs a lot of flavor, making it a reliable staple for your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mexican Rice

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

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

This dish is perfect for a large group, as it’s filling, simple, and a guaranteed hit. Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken is all about letting the flavors build over time. Slow roasting ensures the meat stays tender and juicy, while the seasonings sink deep into the chicken. Serve it on its own or pair it with tortillas for an even better experience.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Smoked Jalapenos

Smoked Jalapenos in 2 cast iron pans.
Smoked Jalapenos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Easy to prep and fun to snack on, whether you eat them straight or use them as a topping. Smoked Jalapenos are a bold, smoky snack with just the right amount of kick. Smoking these peppers brings out deep, complex flavors, making them the perfect addition to any Tex-Mex spread. You can easily adjust the heat level by controlling the smoking time.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Jalapenos

Chicken Tinga Tostadas

Chicken Tinga Tostada on a plate.
Chicken Tinga Tostadas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The combination of textures and flavors makes them a hit every time, whether as an appetizer or main course. Chicken Tinga Tostadas are crispy, crunchy, and packed with flavor. The tender chicken is infused with a rich, smoky sauce that gives every bite a satisfying kick. These tostadas are perfect for a light yet filling meal and can easily be shared at your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga Tostadas

Birria Tacos

Birria Tacos on a plate with consomme.
Birria Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A great option for a more substantial meal, and they’re always a crowd-pleaser at any party. Birria Tacos are the kind of dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. This slow-cooked meat is juicy, tender, and packed with spices that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you dip them in broth or enjoy them as is, these tacos offer layers of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Birria Tacos

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.

Skip the drive-thru and serve up this crowd-pleaser at home with minimal effort. Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito brings all the flavors you love about the fast-food classic straight to your kitchen. It’s an easy, no-fuss meal that packs a punch with each bite. The combination of flavors and textures makes this burrito a fan favorite, and you can customize it to your liking.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

Mexican Cauliflower Rice

A closeup of Vegan Mexican Rice with tomatoes in the background.
Mexican Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking to lighten things up? Mexican Cauliflower Rice offers the same great flavors as traditional rice but with a healthier twist. It’s a great substitute for anyone looking to cut carbs while still enjoying the flavors they love. The cauliflower rice has a nice texture and pairs perfectly with tacos or grilled chicken. Easy to make and just as satisfying, it’s a side dish that everyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Cauliflower Rice

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

A plate of Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Take the best parts of your favorite fast-food bowl and make it at home with Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl. This dish is full of flavor and easily customizable, from the chicken down to the toppings. Perfect for anyone craving a filling, flavorful meal that’s also easy to prepare. Make it your own, and you’ll have a go-to dish that’s ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

Mango Habanero Salsa

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

Great as a dip for chips or a topping for tacos and grilled meats. Mango Habanero Salsa brings a perfect blend of sweetness and heat. The ripe mango balances out the fiery kick of the habanero, creating a salsa that’s bold and exciting. This salsa adds a unique twist to the typical Tex-Mex fare and keeps your guests coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Mango Habanero Salsa

Smoked Pork Belly Tacos

A closeup shot of two tacos filled with smoked pork belly and vegetables.
Smoked Pork Belly Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These tacos make for a fun, hands-on meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Smoked Pork Belly Tacos combine the rich, savory flavor of pork belly with the smoky goodness that only a grill can provide. This dish takes a bit of time, but the results are well worth it—tender, juicy pork with crispy edges, all packed into a tortilla. Pair them with a few sides and your kitchen is ready for a party.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork Belly Tacos

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 looking for a quick and easy side, Mexican Rice hits the spot every time. It’s a classic dish that adds the perfect balance of flavor to any Tex-Mex meal. The texture is light and fluffy, and it can be made in large batches to feed a crowd. Whether it’s tacos or grilled chicken, this rice will tie everything together.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice

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.

A fresh, bright topping, Pico de Gallo adds a perfect crunch and punch to almost anything. It’s great as a side, dip, or topping for tacos, quesadillas, or grilled meats. The combination of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro is simple but brings huge flavor. It’s a quick fix to add freshness to your meal, and it’s always a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

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 corn ribs bring the flavors of summer straight to your grill. Cut the corn into “ribs,” then throw them on the grill for a smoky finish. Grilled Elote Corn Ribs are easy to share, and the charred edges give them a unique twist. Whether as a side or a snack, they’ll quickly become a crowd favorite. It’s an effortless way to serve corn that stands out at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

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