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17 Tex-Mex Dishes That’ll Have You Yelling “¡Ay, Caramba!” Like A Pro

Tex-Mex cuisine is where tradition meets innovation, blending Texas flavors with Mexican zing. These 17 Tex-Mex dishes bring something for everyone, whether you prefer a mild taste or something with a bit more kick. These dishes are great for any meal—quick family dinners or big weekend parties. They’re sure to impress with their rich flavors and will have you yelling “¡ay, caramba!”.

Cream of Jalapeno Soup in two bowls.
Cream of Jalapeno Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

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.

Kick off your Tex-Mex feast with Grilled Elote Corn Ribs. This dish takes the beloved street corn and gives it an irresistible twist, perfect as a snack or side. It’s seasoned to perfection, promising to be a crowd-pleaser at your next outdoor gathering. Get ready for a smoky flavor that embodies the spirit of Tex-Mex.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Elote Corn Ribs

Fried Tomatillos

Fried Tomatillos in a black cast iron pan.
Fried Tomatillos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These Fried Tomatillos are a game changer, bringing a tangy twist to the table. These golden, crispy treats are an innovative Tex-Mex appetizer that will intrigue your palate. They’re dipping-ready and serve as the perfect conversation starter. Let each bite take you on a unique taste adventure.
Get the Recipe: Fried Tomatillos

Guacamole Snack Board

A top-down shot of a guacamole snack board.
Guacamole Snack Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Level up your snack game with a Guacamole Snack Board. It’s a communal, flavorful affair that combines fresh guacamole with an assortment of Tex-Mex favorites. This board is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the palate. It’s guaranteed to be the center of attention at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole Snack Board

Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo

Grilled Steak skewers on a white plate with chilis nearby.
Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those who love a good sear, Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo are a must-try. These skewers pack a punch of flavor, marinated and grilled to perfection, paired with a vibrant Mojo Rojo sauce. They’re great for shaking up your barbecue routine. A sure hit for meat lovers seeking that Tex-Mex flair.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo

Smoked Queso

Smoked queso in a black pot.
Smoked Queso. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The ultimate dip that brings smoky goodness to your Tex-Mex lineup is Smoked Queso. It combines delicious, melting cheese with a mix of seasonings and add-ins, creating a creamy concoction that’s impossible to resist. This dish is a favorite, perfect for dipping your favorite chips – ideal for any casual get-together.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Queso

Air Fryer Beef Empanadas

A plate of empanadas on a slate.
Air Fryer Beef Empanadas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving something crispy? Air Fryer Beef Empanadas are your go-to. These pockets of joy are filled with a savory beef mixture, making them a perfect hand-held treat. They offer a delicious crunch with every bite, making them a comforting snack or appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beef Empanadas

Baked Spanish Rice

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

Serving as a flavorful backbone to any Tex-Mex meal is Baked Spanish Rice. This dish is effortlessly comforting, with its fluffy grains steeped in a rich, tomato-based sauce. It complements almost any main and is sure to become a staple at your family dinners. Showing Tex-Mex fusion, it’s both simple and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice

Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

An image of Tex-Mex Caesar Salad on a square plate.
Tex-Mex Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Reinvent your salad game with Tex-Mex Caesar Salad. This isn’t your average Caesar; it’s packed with bold Tex-Mex elements that add an irresistible twist. It’s a refreshing side that pairs perfectly with any Tex-Mex dish. Expect a burst of flavor in every forkful, making salads exciting again.
Get the Recipe: Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

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.

Dig into the rich, flavorful world of Birria de Res. This dish is a hearty stew that’s deeply satisfying, with tender meat that’s been slow-cooked to perfection. It’s a labor of love that pays off with its depth of flavor, making it a standout dish. It’s great for those days when you crave something warm.
Get the Recipe: Birria de Res

Freezer Breakfast Burritos

Freezer Breakfast Burritos in a plastic bag on a wooden table.
Freezer Breakfast Burritos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Start your day the Tex-Mex way with Freezer Breakfast Burritos. These are a lifesaver on busy mornings, packed with all your favorite breakfast fixings. They’re customizable, making them a hit with the whole family. Grab one on the go and experience a burst of flavor that wakes up your palate.
Get the Recipe: Freezer Breakfast Burritos

Arroz Verde

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

Arroz Verde adds a fresh, herby side to your Tex-Mex menu. This green rice is not only vibrant in color but also in taste. It’s a light yet flavorful accompaniment to heavier dishes, providing a nice balance. A simple side that packs a punch, it’s guaranteed to brighten any meal.
Get the Recipe: Arroz Verde

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 grill to the forefront of Tex-Mex cuisine with Texas-Style Carne Asada. This marinated steak is all about bold flavors and tender cuts, cooked to smoky perfection. It’s simplicity at its best, yet it offers a flavor that’s anything but simple. It’s amazing for a cookout where you want to wow with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Texas-Style Carne Asada

Taco Casserole

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

Taking all the beloved elements of tacos and combining them into one easy, oven-ready dish is Taco Casserole. It’s a comfort food classic with a Tex-Mex twist, perfect for feeding a crowd. This dish is as versatile as it is delicious, making dinner fun and customizable. It makes taco night even more exciting.
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole

Leftover Steak Quesadilla

A hand holding wedges of a quesadilla.
Leftover Steak Quesadilla. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Turn your leftovers into a mouth-watering meal with Leftover Steak Quesadilla. This recipe changes last night’s steak into today’s delicious lunch or dinner, paired with melty cheese between crispy tortillas. It’s a smart way to repurpose ingredients, offering a quick and tasty solution.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Steak Quesadilla

Cream of Jalapeno Soup

Cream of Jalapeno Soup in two bowls.
Cream of Jalapeno Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A creamy, comforting bowl that brings a gentle heat is Cream of Jalapeno Soup. This soup is a perfect starter or light meal, offering a smooth texture with a kick. It’s a unique dish that stands out for its balance of flavors, sure to warm you up. A great introduction to Tex-Mex flavors for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Jalapeno Soup

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.

Smoked Pork Belly Tacos are a decadent addition to any taco night. With their rich, smoky flavor and tender texture, these tacos are all about goodness. They combine the best of Tex-Mex seasoning with a succulent filling. Great for when you want to take your taco experience up a notch.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork Belly Tacos

Mexican Street Corn Soup

Mexican street style corn soup in a white bowl on a white plate.
Mexican Street Corn Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Have you ever had Mexican Street Corn Soup? It’s the classic elote experience in a bowl. This creamy soup is infused with the same flavors and spices, making for a comforting and flavorful dish. It’s a novel way to enjoy the beloved street food, turning it into a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Soup

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