No one really sets out to plan a weekend get-together around dinner, but after seeing these 19 Tex-Mex recipes, it kind of just happens. They’ve got enough personality to turn Tuesday into Saturday and enough kick to make water look exciting. You’ll pretend it’s about feeding everyone, but deep down, it’s really just an excuse to keep making them.
Smoked Chicken Al Pastor
If you’re looking for a dish with a twist, you’re in the right place. Imagine taking chicken to a whole new level, where it’s not just grilled, but smoked with a unique blend of spices. Smoked Chicken Al Pastor is not your average backyard BBQ chicken; it infuses every bite with a smoky depth that’s hard to find elsewhere. This dish promises to bring something both new and familiar to your weekend fiesta.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Al Pastor
Burrito Sauce
Think about the last time you had a burrito that truly blew you away. It’s not just about the filling; what often makes or breaks it is the sauce. Burrito Sauce steps in to tie all your ingredients together with a harmony of flavors that’s bold yet doesn’t overpower. It’s the hidden gem that can transform a good burrito into a great one, making your meal unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Burrito Sauce
The Backyard Table
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Buy Now!Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas
Ever had that moment when you couldn’t decide between savory chicken and the irresistible pull of melted cheese? Well, Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas are here to save your day. This dish wraps smoky, spicy chicken in a crispy tortilla hugged by gooey cheese, striking the perfect balance between comforting and exciting. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings people together, one cheesy slice at a time.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas
Birria Tacos
Bite into a world where tacos are not just a meal but an experience. Birria Tacos combine tender, juicy meat with the robust flavors of a rich, spiced broth, tucked into soft tortillas and grilled to perfection. Each bite is a harmony of textures and tastes that makes this dish stand out in any fiesta. Move over, standard fare; these tacos are about to steal the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Birria Tacos
Slow Cooker Carnitas Board
When you want to impress but also enjoy the party, let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. Slow Cooker Carnitas Board is all about setting it and forgetting it, then coming back to shred tender, flavorful pork that falls apart at the slightest touch. Lay it out with some classical sides, and watch as your guests build their dream taco. This dish is the perfect centerpiece for any gathering, promising ease and enjoyment in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Carnitas Board
Mexican Cauliflower Rice
In a culinary landscape where vibrant flavors meet healthy choices, there stands Mexican Cauliflower Rice. This dish is a testament to the fact that light and flavorful can go hand-in-hand, offering a fresh take on traditional sides. It’s a versatile companion to any main dish, packing in the taste without the guilt. For those looking to keep things low carb but high in flavor, this is your go-to side dish.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Cauliflower Rice
Texas Corn Succotash
Nothing quite says fiesta like a colorful, fresh side dish that’s bursting with flavor. Texas Corn Succotash mixes sweet corn with a variety of other vibrant veggies, creating a side that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. It’s a versatile dish that complements any Tex-Mex main, bringing a taste of Texas right to your table. So, gather around and scoop up a vibrant mix that promises to brighten any plate.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash
Baked Spanish Rice
For those nights when you crave something comforting yet full of flavor, Baked Spanish Rice waits to be your solace. This isn’t just any side dish; it’s a hearty, aromatic base that can stand alone or accompany your Tex-Mex favorites. With each spoonful, expect a burst of flavors that feel like a warm hug. It’s simple, fulfilling, and essentially the heartwarming partner you’ve been looking for.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice
Baja Fish Tacos
For those who love the ocean’s bounty but crave a kick of spice, Baja Fish Tacos come to the rescue. These tacos encapsulate the best of the sea, wrapped in a soft tortilla and finished with toppings that add crunch and zing. Each bite is a blend of tender, flaky fish and crisp, fresh add-ons, making it a balanced meal. They’re perfect for anyone looking to bring a coastal twist to their Tex-Mex celebration.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos
Arroz Verde
Sometimes, all it takes is a simple twist to bring a classic dish back to life. Arroz Verde turns traditional rice into a vibrant, herb-infused masterpiece. This green rice not only adds a pop of color to your table but also offers a subtle, fresh twist that complements any main dish. It’s the perfect way to add a fresh note to your fiesta, proving that sometimes, green is truly the color of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Arroz Verde
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Gone are the days of boring, forgettable side dishes. Mexican Street Corn Salad breaks the mold, offering a delectable and easy-to-share version of the beloved street food. It merges the classic flavors of charred corn with creamy, tangy touches in every forkful. This dish is all about bringing people together, one scoop at a time, making it a must-have at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Smoked Jalapenos
If you’re aiming to add an element of surprise to your menu, Smoked Jalapenos stand ready. These aren’t just any spicy treat; they’re a conversation starter, packed with smoke and heat in every bite. Beyond just a spicy kick, they offer depth to any dish they accompany. Engage your friends and family in a daring taste test and watch as these jalapenos become the talk of the table.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Jalapenos
Cheez-Its Tostada
Who says your favorite snack can’t become part of your meal? Cheez-Its Tostada turns a beloved pantry staple into a crunchy base for a fun, customizable tostada. This dish invites creativity, allowing everyone to top their crispy, cheesy base with their favorite toppings. It’s a playful addition to any meal that proves snacking favorites have a place at the dinner table, too.
Get the Recipe: Cheez-Its Tostada
Smoked Blackberry Margarita
Refreshment takes on a deep, smoky twist with Smoked Blackberry Margarita. This drink is not your ordinary margarita; it boasts a unique blend of sweet, tart, and smoky, making every sip an adventure. Perfect for cooling down and spicing up any fiesta, it’s a sophisticated take on a beloved classic. Impress your guests with a cocktail that’s as memorable as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Blackberry Margarita
Pico de Gallo
What’s a Tex-Mex feast without a vibrant, fresh salsa to tie it all together? Pico de Gallo offers just that, with a simple mix of fresh ingredients that burst with flavor in every bite. It’s an essential addition that brings a refreshing contrast to richer dishes, proving that sometimes, the simplest touches make all the difference. This is a staple that deserves a spot at every table.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo
Freezer Breakfast Burritos
Think ahead and start your mornings with a burst of Tex-Mex flair thanks to Freezer Breakfast Burritos. Make them ahead, freeze, and you’ve got yourself a quick, flavorful breakfast option that doesn’t skimp on taste. With each bite, welcome a fulfilling start to your day, packed with all your favorite breakfast essentials. They’re a smart choice for anyone looking to spice up their morning routine.
Get the Recipe: Freezer Breakfast Burritos
Cream of Jalapeno Soup
On those days when you crave something warm and slightly spicy, Cream of Jalapeno Soup is there to comfort you. It’s a creamy, indulgent soup with just enough kick to keep things interesting. Beyond its warmth and spice, it’s a unique dish that stands out for its smooth texture and rich flavor. Let it be the starter that prepares your palate for the vibrant meal ahead.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Jalapeno Soup
Fried Tomatillos
Introduce a bit of crunch to your fiesta with Fried Tomatillos. This dish is not just about the sharp, tangy flavor of tomatillos; it’s about the joy of biting into something enveloped in a perfectly crispy coating. Serve these as an appetizer or side, and watch them disappear. They’re a playful nod to traditional ingredients, prepared in a way that’s anything but ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Fried Tomatillos
Chicken Tinga Tostadas
When you’re in the mood for something that combines smoky, spicy, and tangy all in one, Chicken Tinga Tostadas have you covered. Pile this flavorful chicken high on crispy tostadas for a meal that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. It’s a dish that lacks nothing, offering a complete experience of textures and tastes. Gather around the table for these tostadas; they’re sure to spark conversation and craving for more.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga Tostadas