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15 Tex-Mex Recipes That Turn Up the Heat and Bring a Little Fiesta to Your Weeknights

Tex-Mex recipes are like a good party—bold, fun, and just the right amount of heat. These 15 dishes take your weeknights from zero to fiesta in no time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, they’ll have you reaching for seconds faster than you can say “more, please.” Who needs takeout when dinner at home can be this exciting?

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

This side dish is perfect for pairing with all your Tex-Mex favorites. Mexican Rice is hearty enough to stand on its own or complement a larger meal. It’s a reliable addition to your weeknight rotation, bringing balanced textures and a familiar vibe. You’ll love how it keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice

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.

Texas Cowboy Stew is a hearty dish that makes weeknights a breeze. Loaded with all the things that make a meal feel complete, it’s comforting and filling. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or keeping it small, this stew knows how to please. It’s simple, satisfying, and bound to be a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Texas Cowboy Stew

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.

Bold and versatile, Chicken Tinga is the kind of recipe that works in so many meals. It’s got just the right kick to keep things interesting without overwhelming your palate. Whether stuffed into tacos or served over rice, it’s a great way to mix up dinner. Once you try it, it’s hard to forget.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Mexican Street Corn Salad

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

This one’s a twist on a classic that hits all the right notes. Mexican Street Corn Salad brings bold textures and layers of flavor to your table. It’s a quick way to take your meal to the next level without too much effort. Perfect for mixing up your usual side dish game.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Birria Tacos

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

If you’ve never tried Birria Tacos, you’re missing out on a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender fillings and crispy shells is a home run every time. Perfect for dipping or enjoying as-is, these tacos work for casual dinners or special meals. They’re guaranteed to turn any meal into a hit.
Get the Recipe: Birria Tacos

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.

Add some kick to your spread with Chile de Arbol Salsa. It’s the ultimate way to liven up anything from chips to tacos. This salsa packs just enough heat to keep you coming back for more without going overboard. A great option to have on hand for anyone who loves bold dips.
Get the Recipe: Chile de Arbol Salsa

Birria Pizza

Birria Pizza on a pizza stone.
Birria Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Birria Pizza is where Tex-Mex meets comfort food in the best way. All the savory goodness of birria finds a new home in this creative mashup. It’s a fresh way to enjoy those familiar flavors without sticking to tradition. Great for casual dinners or sharing with friends.
Get the Recipe: Birria Pizza

Cheez-Its Tostada

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

Ever think of turning a snack into a full-blown meal? Cheez-Its Tostada is a playful way to mix things up. Crunchy, creative, and just a bit unexpected, this recipe is a total conversation starter. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Cheez-Its Tostada

Fried Tomatillos

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

This recipe bring something new to your usual lineup. The crispy outside and tangy inside make for a unique dish that stands out. Whether as a snack or a side, Fried Tomatillos add a little variety to the table. Perfect for switching up the routine in a fun and simple way.
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.

Guacamole Snack Board brings fun to weeknight snacking with its vibrant setup. It’s all about a spread that looks good and tastes even better, offering endless combinations. Invite everyone to dig in and create their favorites with an assortment of dippable treats. You’ll love how easy it is to keep the whole family happy while adding a touch of whimsy to the table.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole Snack Board

Air Fryer Beef Empanadas

Four pieces of Air Fryer Beef Empanadas on a black rectangular slate.
Air Fryer Beef Empanadas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These empanadas are an easy dinner hit, merging convenience with mouthwatering bites. Air Fryer Beef Empanadas are great for busy nights when you need something quick and fuss-free. Each one is packed with goodness and just enough spice to keep things interesting, ensuring they disappear in no time. Plus, the air fryer brings them to a crispy perfection with less mess than traditional methods.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beef Empanadas

Creamy Jalapeno Dip

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

For a dip that’ll bring some life to your chips and veggies, try Creamy Jalapeno Dip. It’s smooth, with just the right amount of heat to perk up your palate. Serve it with anything from tacos to nachos and it will be a hit at any gathering. This dip is always a win for game night or casual hangs, offering a comforting yet lively kick.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Jalapeno Dip

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

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

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken is a weeknight staple that’s bound to impress. It’s so tender it falls apart, making it perfect for tacos or just on its own as a hearty main. The slow cooking packs in all the right notes, enveloping the chicken in rich, savory tones. Dinner will be an easy success with this on the table, satisfying everyone’s hunger with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Pico de Gallo

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

This dish adds something special to any dish with its refreshing crunch. Pico de Gallo got that burst and a fresh punch you need to complement rich dishes. Pile it on everything from tacos to grilled meats for an added kick. You’ll love the extra something it brings to the meal, brightening up every bite with its simple yet impactful presence.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Chicken Tinga Tostadas

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

Chicken Tinga Tostadas are a sure way to bring some flair and excitement to dinner time. The chicken is full of rich, smoky flavors, and the crispy base adds the perfect texture for a delicious contrast. Top with your favorites for a custom touch, allowing creativity to shine at the dinner table. It’s a meal that’s fun, versatile, and tasty for everyone, transforming ordinary weeknights into festive occasions.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga Tostadas

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