Get ready to sink your teeth into the bold flavors and rich traditions of Texas cuisine! The Lone Star State is renowned for its hearty, comforting dishes that often feature smoky meats, spicy seasonings, and a dash of cowboy swagger. From classic comfort foods like chicken fried steak and homemade cornbread with jalapeños, to innovative twists on Tex-Mex staples like tacos and enchiladas, Texas recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary tour of the Heartland, exploring 19 mouthwatering dishes that showcase the state’s signature flavors. Whether you’re a native Texan or just a fan of bold American cooking, these recipes are guaranteed to bring a taste of Texas to your table.
Smoky Texas Brisket
Get ready to fall in love with the rich flavors of this slow-cooked brisket, smothered in a spicy Texas-style BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole beef brisket (5-6 pounds)
– 1 cup liquid smoke
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup Texas-style BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together liquid smoke, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the brisket in the smoker or grill and cook for 8 hours, or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
5. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the brisket with Texas-style BBQ sauce.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (or 4 hours on high heat)
Spicy Chili Con Carne
This recipe serves up a flavorful and spicy twist on classic chili con carne. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add diced tomatoes and red kidney beans. Stir well to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Texas-Style Beef Ribs
Get ready for a barbecue party favorite that’s sure to impress! These Texas-style beef ribs are slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in tender, juicy meat that falls off the bone.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef ribs
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and season with the dry rub.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs for 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and braise the ribs for 2 hours, or until tender.
6. Remove the ribs from the oven and brush with BBQ sauce.
7. Return the ribs to the oven and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Classic Chicken Fried Steak
A comforting American classic, this recipe yields a juicy steak coated in crispy chicken fried goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 pounds beef top round or top sirloin steak
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Season the steak with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Dredge the seasoned steak in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Dip the floured steak in buttermilk, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Dredge the steak in flour again, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove the steak from the oil with tongs and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total cooking time.
Homemade Cornbread with Jalapeños
Add some heat to your mealtime with this simple recipe for homemade cornbread infused with the bold flavor of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired level of heat)
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped jalapeños.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Serve warm with honey or maple syrup, if desired. Enjoy!
Texas Caviar Black Bean Salad
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of the Lone Star State with a delightful twist on traditional black bean salad. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or as a topping for tacos, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 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 medium-sized bowl, combine black beans, red bell pepper, cucumber, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (mostly prep time)
Pecan-Crusted Catfish
Elevate your catfish game with this crunchy and flavorful pecan-crusted recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup pecans
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together pecans, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the pecan mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated catfish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top of each fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork Tacos
Get ready to fiesta with tender, flavorful pulled pork wrapped in a warm tortilla and topped with your favorite fixings. This recipe is perfect for a crowd or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
– 8-10 tacos-sized tortillas
– Toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork in the slow cooker and add beer (if using).
5. Cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and stir to combine with any juices left in the slow cooker.
7. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
8. Assemble tacos by spooning pulled pork onto a tortilla, followed by your desired toppings.
Cook Time: 8-10 hours
Tex-Mex Enchiladas
Savor the bold flavors of Mexico with this classic Tex-Mex enchilada recipe. A flavorful blend of chicken, cheese, and spices wrapped in tender tortillas, smothered in a rich tomato sauce and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup canned enchilada sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until heated through.
3. Dip each tortilla in enchilada sauce, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place about 1/2 cup of shredded chicken onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Roll up each tortilla and place seam-side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Texas Sausage Skewers
Get ready to fire up your grill with this flavorful recipe for Grilled Texas Sausage Skewers. Perfect for a quick and easy outdoor meal or snack, these skewers are packed with juicy sausage, crunchy peppers, and savory onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Texas-style sausages (such as Andouille or Smoked Sausage)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread sausage slices onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Alternate threading onion and bell pepper slices onto the skewers.
4. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until sausages are cooked through and lightly charred.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chicken and Dumplings Texas Style
Get ready for a hearty and comforting bowl of goodness with this Texas-style chicken and dumplings recipe! Tender chicken, fluffy biscuits, and rich broth come together to create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 cup shortening or lard
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add chicken, broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, prepare dumpling mixture by whisking together flour, baking powder, and shortening/lard.
4. Gradually add buttermilk, stirring until dough forms.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough into pot and cook an additional 10-15 minutes or until dumplings are fluffy.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Turkey Legs with Spicy Rub
Smoked Turkey Legs with Spicy Rub: A flavorful twist on traditional turkey legs, this recipe infuses tender meat with a bold and spicy flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 turkey legs
– 1/4 cup Spicy Rub (see below)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Spicy Rub:
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Spicy Rub ingredients.
3. Apply the rub evenly to both turkey legs, making sure to coat all surfaces.
4. Place turkey legs in the smoker, bone-side down.
5. Close the lid and smoke for 6-8 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. During the last hour of smoking, brush with brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Texas Sheet Cake with Pecans
Moist, rich, and utterly delicious, this Texas Sheet Cake is a staple of Southern baking. With the added crunch of pecans, it’s the perfect dessert for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
3. Add flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined.
4. Stir in chopped pecans.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frito Pie with Ground Beef
A classic Texas comfort food, this Frito pie is a simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Fritos
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup canned condensed cream of mushroom soup
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pot, combine cream of mushroom soup and 1/2 cup water. Stir until smooth.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange half of the Fritos in the bottom of the dish.
6. Add the ground beef mixture on top of the Fritos, followed by half of the shredded cheese.
7. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Shrimp with Garlic Butter
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this mouthwatering BBQ shrimp dish, elevated by a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic; sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and slightly charred.
4. Remove shrimp from heat; stir in barbecue sauce and lemon juice.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are fully cooked.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Texas Red Chili with No Beans
This classic recipe embodies the bold flavors of Texas, with a rich beef broth and tender chunks of ground beef. Perfect for those who prefer their chili without beans!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Cheesy Jalapeño Corn Casserole
A sweet and spicy twist on traditional corn casserole, this recipe combines the flavors of jalapeños, creamed corn, and melted cheese for a deliciously addictive side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine corn kernels, cheddar cheese, cilantro, paprika, cayenne pepper, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the chopped jalapeño and stir to distribute evenly.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Texas Ranch-Style Beans
A classic Texas twist on traditional beans, this recipe combines tender pinto beans with a rich and savory ranch-style flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine beans, onion, garlic, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Simmer for 6-8 hours or until beans are tender.
5. Stir in ranch seasoning before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Peach Cobbler with Cinnamon Streusel
This classic peach cobbler recipe gets a delicious boost from the addition of cinnamon streusel topping. Fresh peaches, sweet and tangy, are perfectly paired with a crunchy oat mixture and a hint of warm spice.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh peaches, sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup cinnamon streusel topping (see below)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Cinnamon Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until combined.
3. Pour melted butter over peach mixture; mix until well coated.
4. Roll out cinnamon streusel topping between two sheets of parchment paper into a thin layer.
5. Place cobbler in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with peach mixture, then cover with cinnamon streusel.
6. Brush egg wash over streusel.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Summary
Get ready to taste the Lone Star State’s best flavors! This collection of 19 authentic Texas recipes will transport your taste buds to the heart of Texan cuisine. From classic comfort food like Chicken Fried Steak and Pulled Pork Tacos, to bold and spicy dishes like Chili Con Carne and BBQ Shrimp with Garlic Butter, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making Smoky Texas Brisket or Spicy Texas Caviar Black Bean Salad, or indulge in sweet treats like Peach Cobbler with Cinnamon Streusel. These recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings for all things Texan!
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