Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 18 mouth-watering Tex-Mex recipes that will transport you straight to the heart of Mexico! Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and bold, our collection has got you covered. From creamy shrimp tacos to smoky pulled pork nachos, we’ve gathered a diverse range of dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the flavors and ingredients that make Tex-Mex cuisine so unique and delicious. You’ll find recipes for enchiladas, quesadillas, casserole, tacos, and more – each one packed with bold spices, tangy salsas, and rich cheeses. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Spicy Tex Mex Chicken Enchiladas
Add a spicy twist to classic enchiladas with this flavorful recipe that combines tender chicken, crunchy tortillas, and a bold sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup Spicy Tex Mex Sauce (see below)
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Spicy Tex Mex Sauce:
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as sriracha or Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
3. Dip each tortilla in the Spicy Tex Mex Sauce, coating both sides evenly.
4. Spoon shredded chicken onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Roll up tortillas and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Top with remaining sauce and cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Tex Mex Beef Quesadillas
Take your taco Tuesday game to the next level with these Cheesy Tex Mex Beef Quesadillas, packed with tender beef, gooey cheese, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef in the skillet until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet; cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. In a separate pan or griddle, place a tortilla and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
5. Spoon the beef mixture onto half of the tortilla, then fold the other half over to create a quesadilla.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients and serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Creamy Tex Mex Shrimp Tacos
Get ready to spice up your taco Tuesday with this flavorful and creamy shrimp recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cream cheese softened
– 1 cup half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco-sized corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2 minutes per side.
2. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese and half-and-half. Stir into the skillet with onion and garlic mixture.
4. Add cooked shrimp back to the skillet and stir to coat with creamy sauce. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning shrimp mixture onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zesty Tex Mex Cornbread Casserole
A flavorful twist on classic cornbread, this casserole combines the warmth of spices with the boldness of Tex-Mex flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Shredded cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, buttermilk, egg, and stir until combined.
4. Fold in corn kernels, red bell pepper, black beans, and jalapeño.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with shredded cheese on top (if desired).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoky Tex Mex Pulled Pork Nachos
Get ready for a flavor fiesta with this mouthwatering recipe that combines tender pulled pork, crispy tortilla chips, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pulled pork (smoked or slow-cooked)
– 1 can (16 ounces) of refried beans
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bag (12-15 ounces) of tortilla chips
– Sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together refried beans, chili powder, and cumin. Set aside.
3. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the pulled pork over the tortilla chips, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack) and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and top with refried bean mixture, sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tangy Tex Mex Black Bean Salad
This vibrant salad combines the bold flavors of Texas with a twist of Mexico, featuring tender black beans, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, red bell pepper, yellow onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Savory Tex Mex Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the bold flavors of Texas and Mexico, resulting in a deliciously savory and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar), optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook ground beef or turkey in a skillet, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice and diced tomatoes with green chilies.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and top with shredded cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spicy Tex Mex Chorizo Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a flavorful twist on the classic breakfast burrito. This spicy recipe combines juicy chorizo sausage, scrambled eggs, and creamy cheese wrapped in a warm flour tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, casings removed
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Sour cream, salsa, and cilantro for toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook chorizo sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and cumin. Add diced onion and chopped jalapeño to the egg mixture.
3. Pour egg mixture into the cooked chorizo and stir until eggs are scrambled and well combined.
4. Warm flour tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by filling with chorizo and egg mixture, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and burrito is warm through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Tex Mex Chicken Flautas
A twist on traditional Mexican flautas, this recipe adds a crispy corn tortilla wrap to juicy shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and spicy seasonings. Perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, cheese, cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Roll up tortillas tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with vegetable oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hearty Tex Mex Beef and Bean Chili
This comforting chili recipe combines tender beef, flavorful beans, and a blend of spices to create a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Serve with crusty bread, over rice, or with some crushed tortilla chips for a delicious twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the canned tomatoes, beans, and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Flavorful Tex Mex Grilled Corn on the Cob
Add a burst of flavor to your summer gatherings with this easy and delicious grilled corn recipe, smothered in a spicy Tex-Mex flair.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
4. Place the corn on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle over the grilled corn during the last minute of cooking.
6. Remove from heat and serve with lime wedges (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Tex Mex Chicken Tamale Pie
Elevate your taco Tuesday with this innovative twist on traditional tamales – a savory, cheesy pie packed with flavorful chicken and spices. This comforting casserole is perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (10 oz) of enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil for greasing the dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook chicken in a skillet with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, combine enchilada sauce, Monterey Jack cheese, and cheddar cheese.
4. Assemble the pie by placing half of the tortillas in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish, followed by the chicken mixture, and then the cheesy enchilada sauce.
5. Top with remaining tortillas and sprinkle with chopped green onions.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Tex Mex Shrimp Ceviche
Get ready to spice up your snack game with this bold and tangy ceviche! This recipe combines succulent shrimp with a zesty blend of lime juice, mixed with crunchy veggies and a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, lime juice, red bell pepper, yellow onion, and jalapeño.
2. Stir gently to distribute the flavors evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the shrimp to “cook” in the lime juice.
4. Just before serving, drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Savory Tex Mex Beef Empanadas
Experience the perfect blend of Mexican flavors and savory goodness with these mouthwatering empanadas.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Roll out empanada dough to desired thickness. Place spoonfuls of beef mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Fold dough over filling and press edges together with a fork to seal. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with water) for golden brown finish.
6. Bake empanadas for 15-20 minutes or until golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zesty Tex Mex Chicken Fajitas
Add a burst of flavor to your dinner routine with these zesty fajitas packed with juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and a tangy kick. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a flavorful fiesta!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp chili powder
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, and chili powder. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Cook chicken 5-6 minutes per side, until cooked through.
3. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook 8-10 minutes, until tender.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble fajitas by placing chicken and veggies onto tortillas. Serve with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tangy Tex Mex Avocado Lime Rice
This vibrant dish combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime, all wrapped up in a flavorful Tex-Mex inspired rice bowl. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in cumin and cook for 1 minute.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and add to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Fold in diced avocado, lime juice, and salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Smoky Tex Mex Turkey Taco Soup
A flavorful and comforting soup that combines the bold flavors of smoky turkey, spicy peppers, and creamy avocado. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and smoked paprika to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and water.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Delicious Tex Mex Sweet Potato Skins
Transform leftover sweet potato skins into a flavorful and spicy snack with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 sweet potato skins (cooled)
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco, and sliced jalapeños
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt until smooth.
3. Arrange sweet potato skins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto each skin, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until filling is heated through and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and top with desired toppings (if using).
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these 18 irresistible Tex Mex recipes! From classic dishes like enchiladas, quesadillas, and tacos, to unique twists on traditional favorites, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for savory beef or cheesy chicken, spicy shrimp or creamy black beans, there’s a recipe here that will tantalize your taste buds. With options ranging from breakfast burritos to chili, empanadas, and sweet potato skins, this article is a must-read for anyone looking to add some Tex Mex flair to their cooking repertoire.
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