Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Look no further! Mexican cuisine offers a world of flavors and textures that can be easily incorporated into your busy weeknights. With its bold spices, vibrant colors, and satisfying portions, it’s easy to see why Mexican food has become a staple in many households. And the best part? You don’t have to break out the sombrero or mariachi music to enjoy it!
In this article, we’ll share 18 mouth-watering Mexican dinner recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic tacos and quesadillas to innovative twists like pasta fajitas and stuffed sweet potatoes, there’s something for everyone in this roundup. Whether you’re a busy professional or a family on-the-go, these easy and flavorful meals will help you conquer the weeknights with ease.
Cheesy Beef Quesadillas
Satisfy your cravings with these mouthwatering Cheesy Beef Quesadillas that combine tender beef, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 4 large tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
5. Spoon the beef mixture over the cheese, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
One-Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta
Quickly cook pasta, chicken, and fajita-inspired vegetables in one pot for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or bow tie)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon fajita seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, fajita seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked pasta back into the pot and stir until coated with the sauce.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Chicken Enchilada Casserole
A flavorful and satisfying casserole that combines the comfort of chicken enchiladas with the ease of a one-dish meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, and shredded lettuce for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook chicken in a skillet until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until tender.
4. Stir in enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and shredded cheese.
5. Arrange 4-6 tortillas in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Spoon half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas.
7. Repeat layers, ending with remaining chicken mixture and top with more cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Tacos
Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Tacos Recipe
Get ready to fiesta with tender and flavorful pork carnitas, slow-cooked to perfection and served in a delicious taco!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Shred pork with two forks and stir to mix.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded pork onto tortillas, topping with radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cook Time: 4-10 hours
Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
This recipe takes the traditional chicken fajita recipe to the next level by using a sheet pan, making it easy to cook everything at once. The result is a flavorful and colorful meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 fajita-sized flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, whisk together chili powder and cumin. Add chicken, onion, bell peppers, and garlic; toss to combine.
4. Spread mixture on the prepared sheet pan in a single layer.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
8. Assemble fajitas by placing chicken mixture onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas
These quesadillas are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or meal option, packed with the flavors of black beans, corn, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together black beans and corn kernels.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with cheese, then top with bean-corn mixture.
4. Fold tortilla in half to enclose filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tortilla is lightly browned, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Beef and Bean Taco Skillet
A hearty, one-pot wonder that combines the flavors of beef, beans, and tacos in a deliciously easy skillet dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas, cut into quarters
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and beans; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, topped with tortilla quarters and your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Mexican Rice Bowls
Quick and flavorful meal in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sliced avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
2. Add rice, water, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 6 minutes.
4. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Open the lid and fluff rice with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot in bowls and add your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Easy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional tacos! This recipe combines succulent shrimp with the sweetness of mango and a hint of spice, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, shredded lettuce
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove shrimp from marinade and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by placing cooked shrimp onto a shell, followed by a spoonful of Mango Salsa and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers with Mexican Rice
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory taste of Mexican rice, all wrapped up in a neat little package.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked Mexican rice
– 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced tomatoes for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, mix together Mexican rice, black beans, corn kernels, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
7. Serve warm, topped with your choice of shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced tomatoes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quick and Easy Taco Soup
Satisfy your taco cravings without the hassle of cooking individual tacos! This soup is a delicious and easy alternative that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp taco seasoning
– 14.5 oz canned diced tomatoes
– 15 oz canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, crushed tortilla chips
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 onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Tinga Tostadas
Elevate your snack game with these crispy Chicken Tinga Tostadas, featuring tender shredded chicken, tangy crema, and crunchy toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and crumbled queso fresco (for toppings)
Instructions:
1. Shred the chicken and marinate it in lime juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
2. Fry the tortillas until crispy, about 30 seconds per side. Drain on paper towels.
3. Grill or sauté the chicken until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Assemble the tostadas by spreading a spoonful of crema on each tortilla, topping with shredded chicken, and finishing with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Mexican Street Corn Casserole
A twist on classic street corn, this casserole combines the flavors of Mexico with the comfort of a cheesy baked dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
– 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine corn kernels, cream cheese, mayonnaise, lime juice, and smoked paprika. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle Monterey Jack cheese and cotija cheese evenly over the top.
5. Top with crushed tortilla chips.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps
Ground Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps Recipe Summary:
Elevate your taco game with this healthy twist on traditional tacos! Ground turkey and crunchy lettuce wraps come together for a flavorful and refreshing meal that’s perfect for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 packet of taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 large lettuce leaves (Romaine or Iceberg work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sliced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped onion, cilantro, garlic, and olive oil. Mix until just combined.
2. Add taco seasoning packet (or homemade blend) and mix until evenly distributed.
3. Form into 6-8 small patties. Cook in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prep lettuce leaves by washing and drying them.
5. Assemble wraps by placing a cooked turkey patty onto a lettuce leaf, followed by desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Bake
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of salsa verde, juicy chicken, and creamy cheese for a deliciously easy dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup salsa verde
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 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 bowl, whisk together salsa verde, chicken breasts, and olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
5. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican-Style Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the bold flavors of Mexico, making for a delicious and nutritious dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup black beans, cooked
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar), optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Scoop out the flesh of each sweet potato, leaving about 1/4 inch of the skin intact.
4. In a bowl, mix together cooked black beans, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each sweet potato with the bean mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
6. Top with shredded cheese, if desired.
7. Return stuffed sweet potatoes to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5-10 minutes
One-Pan Mexican Quinoa
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the bold flavors of Mexico, all cooked in one pan. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this dish is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the quinoa, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add the water or broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Fluff with a fork and serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spicy Chipotle Black Bean Soup
A flavorful and spicy soup that combines the rich flavor of black beans with the smoky heat of chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper over medium heat until tender.
2. Add the chopped chipotle peppers and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the black beans, vegetable broth, and water to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these 18 easy and flavorful Mexican recipes perfect for busy nights! From classic tacos and quesadillas to creative twists like one-pot pasta and sheet pan fajitas, there’s something for everyone. Discover quick and delicious meals like cheesy beef quesadillas, slow cooker pork carnitas tacos, and veggie-packed black bean and corn quesadillas. Plus, don’t miss the unique recipes like instant pot Mexican rice bowls, shrimp tacos with mango salsa, and stuffed bell peppers with Mexican rice. These mouthwatering dishes are sure to become new family favorites!
Leave a Reply