19 Tex-Mex Dinners So Good, You’ll Start Making Them Even When It’s Taco Tuesday

Nobody said dinner had to follow the rules, and frankly, these 19 Tex-Mex options couldn’t care less about them. They’ve got weeknight rebellion written all over them, stealing the spotlight from Tuesday like it’s their full-time job. One bite and suddenly you’re rethinking your calendar and giving Friday full Tex-Mex rights. Turns out, the best kind of tradition is the one you break on purpose.

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

Birria Pizza

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

When you’re craving something different for dinner, this is a great pick. Birria Pizza takes the best of both worlds, blending the flavors of birria with the crispy, cheesy goodness of pizza. The combination of tender meat and melted cheese on a crispy crust is comforting, but it’s got just enough of a twist to keep things exciting. It’s perfect when you want something flavorful and filling without feeling too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Birria Pizza

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.

Looking to spice things up a bit? Chile de Arbol Salsa is the perfect way to add some extra heat to any meal. The smoky, bold flavor of the chiles gives a unique kick that pairs perfectly with tacos, grilled meats, or even just chips. It’s versatile and easy to make, making it a great go-to option whenever you want to add a little excitement to your dishes. This salsa is simple but packs a punch.
Get the Recipe: Chile de Arbol Salsa

The Backyard Table

An e-book titled "The Backyard Table: Recipes for Summer Cookouts" by Chef Jenn Allen is displayed on a tablet, featuring a bowl of potato salad on the cover.

Get it NOW and level up your outdoor dining! The Backyard Table - Recipes for Summer Cookouts features 34 of Chef Jenn's BEST recipes for outdoor eating and entertaining.

You'll get ad-free recipes like:

  • Grilled Corn Guacamole
  • Grilled French Onion Burgers
  • Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
  • Blueberry Grunt
  • and so many more!

Every recipe is created, tested and loved by Chef Jenn and her family - there's no AI here!

Get it now, at a special introductory price of $7.99. That's over 50 pages of foodie love at your fingertips!

Buy Now!

Baja Fish Tacos

Baja fish tacos on a white plate.
Baja Fish Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re craving something fresh and light, these tacos are the way to go. Baja Fish Tacos offer crispy fish topped with fresh ingredients, making them both fulfilling and refreshing. The balance of the fish’s lightness with the bold, tangy toppings is the perfect combination. These tacos are easy to prepare and perfect for any time you’re in the mood for something quick yet flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos

Cream of Jalapeno Soup

Cream of Jalapeno Soup in a white bowl.
Cream of Jalapeno Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a meal that warms you up with a little extra heat, this soup is a great choice. Cream of Jalapeno Soup brings the spice of jalapenos combined with a creamy, comforting base that’s perfect for chilly nights. The heat from the peppers gives it a bold kick while the creaminess provides the balance you’re looking for. It’s a flavorful and fulfilling soup that doesn’t leave you feeling weighed down.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Jalapeno Soup

Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

A stack of chicken and pineapple on a vertical skewer on a cutting board.
Smoked Chicken Al Pastor. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Some meals bring a smoky twist to a classic, and Smoked Chicken Al Pastor is a must-try. It combines smoky, tender chicken with bold flavors that make it stand out. The slow-cooked chicken soaks up all the flavors, creating a juicy, flavorful bite every time. Perfect for tacos, bowls, or just enjoying on its own, it’s easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a great addition to your regular rotation.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

Guacamole Snack Board

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

When you need something simple yet fulfilling, this snack board is the answer. Guacamole Snack Board is all about fresh, creamy guacamole paired with a variety of crunchy sides. The dip is easy to make and can be served with chips, vegetables, or anything you’re craving. It’s a great option for a quick snack or as an appetizer at your next get-together. This board makes everything a little more exciting without the effort.
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.

If you’re looking for a crispy snack that’s also easy to make, these are the perfect choice. Air Fryer Beef Empanadas offer a crispy exterior with a well-seasoned beef filling inside. They cook up in no time and are a great snack or appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re craving something flavorful or just want a delicious bite, these empanadas are sure to hit the spot without all the grease.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beef Empanadas

Mexican Black Beans

Mexican black beans in a white bowl with parsley and garlic.
Mexican Black Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you need a simple and flavorful side, this is your go-to. Mexican Black Beans are seasoned to perfection, making them a great addition to any meal. They pair well with tacos, rice, or even just as a standalone side dish. Full of flavor and easy to make, these beans provide a fulfilling, nutritious option without any fuss. This dish is a great way to add some depth to your meal without overcomplicating things.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Black Beans

Pico de Gallo

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

If you’re looking for a fresh and easy topping for your meals, this one is a perfect fit. Pico de Gallo is a bright, flavorful combination that adds crunch and a burst of flavor to any dish. It’s simple to make and can be used on tacos, grilled meats, or even as a dip for chips. The mix of fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro gives it a vibrant flavor that’s always refreshing and never overpowering.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Al pastor chicken quesadillas pulled apart.
Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving something cheesy with a little extra flavor? Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas are just what you need. The combination of tender, flavorful chicken with melted cheese makes for a perfect quesadilla. It’s quick, easy, and fulfilling, making it an ideal meal for busy nights when you want something delicious without a lot of prep. These quesadillas are filling and full of flavor, making them a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

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.

A fresh twist on a classic, Tex-Mex Caesar Salad combines the crispy crunch of romaine lettuce with a bold Tex-Mex flair. The dressing has the ideal balance of creamy and tangy, while the crunchy toppings add texture and richness. It’s a light, refreshing salad that works as a great side dish or a meal on its own. A perfect choice when you want something healthy, yet full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

Dutch Oven Carnitas

Carnitas in a round black dish.
Dutch Oven Carnitas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a comforting, easy meal, this one’s hard to beat. Dutch Oven Carnitas offers tender, slow-cooked pork with a delicious blend of spices that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or just as a hearty main dish. The slow cooking process ensures the pork is juicy and flavorful, while the Dutch oven locks in all the flavors. It’s simple, fulfilling, and ideal for a family meal or a casual get-together.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Carnitas

Burrito Sauce

A jar with a lime and cilantro next to it.
Burrito Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you want to improve your burrito game, this sauce is the way to go. Burrito Sauce adds a rich, hearty layer of flavor that takes your burritos from good to great. It’s simple to make and can be used on all kinds of burritos, from beef to chicken to vegetarian. This sauce ties everything together, making it a must-have for your next taco night or burrito feast. It’s the finishing touch that brings everything together.
Get the Recipe: Burrito Sauce

Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

A plate of cooked ground beef mixed with diced vegetables and garnished with lime wedges and chopped herbs. A red striped cloth is placed beside the plate.
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking for a flavorful base for tacos, burritos, or even nachos, this one’s a great choice. Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef is seasoned perfectly to bring out the bold flavors of the beef without being overpowering. The texture is just right, making it ideal for any dish where you want that delicious beefy bite. It’s versatile and quick to make, making it an easy addition to any Tex-Mex meal.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

Texas Cowboy Stew in a Dutch Oven

A white bowl of Texas cowboy stew.
Texas Cowboy Stew in a Dutch Oven. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare, this stew is a great option. Texas Cowboy Stew in a Dutch Oven combines tender beef with a medley of vegetables, making it a perfect one-pot meal. The Dutch oven slow-cooks the stew, letting all the flavors meld together beautifully. It’s rich, fulfilling, and full of flavor, making it a great choice for a cozy, filling meal. Perfect for those nights when you want comfort food without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Texas Cowboy Stew in a Dutch Oven

Taco Casserole

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

Some meals hit that sweet spot between comforting and full of flavor, and Taco Casserole fits the bill perfectly. It layers all your favorite taco ingredients into a delicious, baked dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Packed with flavor, it offers the perfect balance of texture with a crispy top and tender layers. Ideal for feeding a crowd or whipping up a quick, hearty dinner for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole

Grilled Corn Guacamole

Corn guacamole with tortilla chips on a plate.
Grilled Corn Guacamole. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Craving a fresh twist on a classic? This recipe is a great pick. Grilled Corn Guacamole adds a smoky depth of flavor to traditional guacamole. The grilled corn enhances a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with creamy avocado. Easy to make, it’s perfect for serving with chips or as a topping for tacos. Simple yet flavorful, this variation is a must-try for your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn Guacamole

Queso Blanco Rotel Dip

A skillet filled with creamy Queso Blanco Rotel Dip containing ground meat and diced tomatoes.
Queso Blanco Rotel Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a cheesy dip that’s perfect for any occasion, this one will quickly become a favorite. Queso Blanco Rotel Dip brings together creamy, melted cheese with a burst of flavor from the Rotel. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for game days or casual get-togethers. Serve it with chips, veggies, or even drizzle it over tacos—it’s the kind of dip that everyone will keep coming back to.
Get the Recipe: Queso Blanco Rotel Dip

Chicken Tinga Tostadas

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

When you want a meal that’s both light and packed with flavor, this one fits perfectly. Chicken Tinga Tostadas bring together seasoned chicken with crunchy tostadas for a fulfilling bite. The smoky, spicy sauce gives the chicken a rich depth of flavor, while the crisp tostadas add a nice crunch. It’s an easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a fun weekend meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga Tostadas

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *