A long ingredient list and complicated steps have no place in Tex-Mex, and these 19 recipes prove it. Big, bold flavors should come easy, and that’s exactly what these dishes deliver. Whether it’s something crispy, cheesy, or dripping with sauce, there’s no need for extra fuss. Simple steps, real ingredients, and straight-up good food—because that’s the only way Tex-Mex should be.
Pico de Gallo
Nothing beats a fresh and simple mix that adds a punch to anything it touches. Pico de Gallo brings a crisp, juicy kick to tacos, grilled meats, and even a simple bowl of chips. Every bite packs a little crunch and just the right amount of boldness. It’s the kind of thing that disappears fast, so making extra is always a good idea.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo
Air Fryer Beef Empanadas
Snack time just got a whole lot better, and there’s no deep frying required. Air Fryer Beef Empanadas turn a classic favorite into a quick and easy win. With a perfectly golden crunch and a warm, rich filling, they’re a no-fuss way to bring a little extra joy to the table. Whether it’s for a snack, dinner, or a midnight bite, they never stick around long.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beef Empanadas
Smoked Chicken Al Pastor
Tex-Mex should always bring the heat, and this dish does just that. Smoked Chicken Al Pastor is packed with deep, smoky goodness and just the right amount of spice, it’s impossible to resist. Whether piled high on a plate, wrapped in something warm, or served up for a backyard feast, every bite delivers a perfect balance of charred goodness and bold seasoning. No complicated prep, just straight-up flavor in every piece.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Al Pastor
Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo
Skewers always make things more fun, but this one takes it up a notch. Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo stack tender, charred bites with a sauce that brings just the right amount of punch. Juicy, smoky, and laced with bold seasoning, these bites keep things interesting. Whether on a plate or straight off the stick, they disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo
Mexican Street Corn Soup
Ever wanted to sip the boldness of street food in a bowl? Mexican Street Corn Soup takes everything great about a classic favorite and turns it into something warm and spoon-worthy. Creamy, smoky, and packed with just the right kick, it’s a bowl that refuses to be boring. Every spoonful brings the same messy, flavorful joy as the real thing—minus the need for extra napkins.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Soup
Birria de Res
Why settle for an ordinary meal when slow-cooked richness is on the table? Birria de Res takes its time, letting deep, flavorful juices soak into every tender shred. Dunking each bite into that rich, seasoned broth is half the fun, and resisting a second helping is nearly impossible. It’s one of those dishes that only gets better the longer it sits, though waiting is the hardest part.
Get the Recipe: Birria de Res
Smoked Queso
There’s melted cheese, and then there’s the kind that steals the whole show. Smoked Queso takes that creamy, gooey goodness and layers it with deep, rich essence. It’s thick enough to cling to every chip and bold enough to make everything it touches better. Whether it’s in the spotlight or a side act, it never lasts long.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Queso
Slow Cooker Carnitas Board
Ever built a plate so good that every bite feels like the best one? Slow Cooker Carnitas Board lays out tender, slow-cooked richness with endless ways to load up a taco, nacho, or forkful. Crisped edges meet juicy bites in a way that keeps the whole spread exciting. Whether piled high or kept simple, every bite is worth the wait.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Carnitas Board
Leftover Steak Quesadilla
Ever stared at last night’s steak and wondered how to make it even better? Leftover Steak Quesadilla turns yesterday’s dinner into a crispy, cheesy, melty masterpiece. Golden, griddled edges hold in all that rich, bold goodness with just the right crunch. It’s proof that leftovers don’t have to be boring—they just need the right transformation.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken
Letting something cook low and slow always leads to good things. Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken comes out juicy, tender, and packed with deep, seasoned richness. The crispy, golden skin locks in all the goodness, making every bite a perfect mix of crunch and tenderness. Whether piled onto a plate or shredded into tacos, it never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken
Easy Mexican Rice
Why does the simplest side always end up stealing the show? Easy Mexican Rice turns an everyday staple into something rich, fluffy, and packed with just the right touch of boldness. Whether spooned next to beans, tucked into tacos, or enjoyed straight from the pot, it always delivers. Every forkful feels like the perfect balance of light, airy texture and deep, comforting taste.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mexican Rice
Texas-Style Carne Asada
Who needs a fancy steakhouse when bold, fire-kissed bites are this easy? Texas-Style Carne Asada brings deep, smoky char and juicy, melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Every slice is packed with that perfect balance of crisp edges and rich, juicy center. Whether served up in tacos or straight off the cutting board, it’s a meal that keeps things simple but unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Texas-Style Carne Asada
Cream of Poblano Soup
Not every soup needs to be complicated to stand out. Cream of Poblano Soup brings a deep, smoky character wrapped in a silky-smooth texture that keeps every bite bold. It’s the kind of dish that feels just right whether you’re sipping it slow or digging in with a spoon. One bowl is never enough, and that’s not a bad problem to have.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Poblano Soup
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito
No drive-thru, no waiting in line—just a big, bold bite made right at home. Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito brings all the loaded goodness of the fast-food favorite without the hassle. Wrapped, stuffed, and packed with everything that makes it crave-worthy, this homemade version is just as easy as it is filling. Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or a midnight snack, there’s never a bad time to roll one up.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito
Arroz Verde
Ever seen rice so bold it practically demands attention? Arroz Verde brings a fresh, vibrant kick to every forkful with a rich, herby essence. Light, fluffy, and packed with a depth that’s anything but ordinary, it’s a side that refuses to be overlooked. Whether next to grilled meats or tucked into a burrito, it’s always a welcome addition.
Get the Recipe: Arroz Verde
Texas Corn Succotash
Some side dishes are good, but this one is unforgettable. Texas Corn Succotash mixes sweet, smoky, and just the right amount of crunch into every bite. It’s the kind of dish that works just as well next to a steak as it does straight from the bowl. Every spoonful brings a little something extra, making it more than just another side.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash
Chicken Tinga
Bold, saucy, and impossible to forget, this dish brings big energy to any meal. Chicken Tinga packs deep, smoky richness into every shredded bite, making it perfect for tacos, bowls, or just piling high on a plate. The slow simmering brings everything together into a rich, robust meal that never gets old. Whether stuffed in a tortilla or scooped straight from the pot, it’s always a win.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga
Mexican Cauliflower Rice
Eating lighter doesn’t mean sacrificing bold character. Mexican Cauliflower Rice keeps things fresh and exciting with every bite, making it the perfect swap for a classic favorite. Light, fluffy, and packed with just the right amount of warmth, it pairs effortlessly with anything. A simple way to keep meals interesting without missing out.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Cauliflower Rice
Grilled Elote Corn Ribs
Ever had corn so good it didn’t even need a cob? Grilled Elote Corn Ribs take that smoky, creamy street food favorite and turn it into bite-sized perfection. Charred edges meet a bold, messy, and utterly addictive topping that keeps every piece interesting. They might start as a side, but they often end up stealing the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs