Mexican cuisine is known for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and rich traditions. And the best part? You don’t have to be a culinary expert to create delicious and authentic Mexican dishes at home. In fact, many of these recipes are surprisingly easy to make and won’t break the bank.
In this article, we’ll share 20 mouthwatering Mexican food recipes that are perfect for beginners. From classic tacos and burritos to creative twists on traditional dishes, these recipes will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered with our easy-to-follow instructions and affordable ingredient lists.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of Mexican cuisine and discover the flavors that have captured hearts and taste buds around the globe.
Easy Beef Tacos with Homemade Seasoning
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional tacos! This recipe combines the rich taste of beef with the warmth of homemade seasoning, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon homemade seasoning (see below)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Homemade Seasoning:
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil and ground beef, cooking until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Sprinkle homemade seasoning over the beef and stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, then season to taste.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with seasoned beef, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Bean and Rice Burritos
Get ready for a flavorful and filling meal with these Cheesy Bean and Rice Burritos! This recipe combines the comfort of creamy beans, savory rice, and melted cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1 (15.5 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Stir in cooked rice and black beans; cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by spooning the bean-rice mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese.
7. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Mexican Rice with Black Beans
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico in this hearty one-pot dish, packed with sautéed onions, garlic, and tender black beans. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add rice, water, and black beans to the pot. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Quesadillas
Slow Cooker Chicken Quesadillas: A Deliciously Easy Meal Solution!
Are you looking for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a crowd? Look no further! This Slow Cooker Chicken Quesadillas recipe is a game-changer. Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker, let it work its magic, and serve with tortillas, cheese, and your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup salsa
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6-8 large tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Add chicken, cream of chicken soup, and salsa to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
2. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in shredded cheese until melted and well combined.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble quesadillas by placing cooked chicken mixture onto a tortilla, adding optional toppings, and folding in half.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegetarian Enchiladas with Corn Tortillas
This recipe brings together the flavors of Mexico with a vegetarian twist, using corn tortillas and a rich bean-based filling. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add black beans to the skillet; stir to combine with the vegetables.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble enchiladas by dipping each tortilla in the bean mixture, then placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Top with cheese and cilantro.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the top of the enchiladas; cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quick and Easy Salsa Verde Chicken
Get ready for a flavorful and speedy dinner with this mouthwatering recipe! In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a deliciously saucy chicken dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Salsa Verde (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Salsa Verde, olive oil, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the salsa-verde mixture evenly over both breasts.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Guacamole with Lime and Cilantro
Elevate your snacking game with this classic recipe, bursting with the creamy richness of ripe avocados, zesty lime juice, and the bright flavor of fresh cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a large bowl, use a fork to mash the avocado halves until mostly smooth.
3. Add the lime juice, cilantro, and salt to the mashed avocado. Mix until well combined.
4. If using onion, finely chop it and add it to the mixture.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Cheap and Cheesy Nachos with Refried Beans
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the comfort of nachos with the creamy goodness of refried beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Spread refried beans evenly over the chips.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beans.
5. Top with chopped onion, diced jalapeño, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Drizzle vegetable oil over the top.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve warm and enjoy!
Simple Mexican Street Corn Salad
This vibrant salad is a twist on traditional street corn, featuring creamy grilled corn, tangy lime juice, and crunchy red onion. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush corn with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning frequently, until lightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, mix lime juice, cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño in a bowl.
5. Once corn is cooked, slice it off the cob and add to the bowl.
6. Toss everything together until well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Chicken Fajitas with Bell Peppers
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this quick and delicious recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying tender chicken and crispy bell peppers in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the bell peppers and garlic to the skillet; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble fajitas with cooked chicken, bell peppers, and your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Budget-Friendly Taco Soup
This hearty soup is a twist on traditional taco flavors, with the added convenience of being easy to make and budget-friendly.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 4 cups water
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, water, and corn kernels. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Flour Tortillas from Scratch
Make your own tortillas from scratch with just a few simple ingredients! This classic recipe yields soft, pliable tortillas perfect for wrapping tacos, burritos, or quesadillas.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 3/4 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water to the flour mixture, stirring with a fork until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add the vegetable oil and continue kneading the dough for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape using a rolling pin or your hands.
6. Cook tortillas on a dry griddle or frying pan over medium-high heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side, until they are lightly browned and have a slightly puffed texture.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per batch
Cheesy Mexican Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, these Cheesy Mexican Stuffed Peppers combine the comfort of roasted bell peppers with the bold flavors of Mexico. A perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned; drain excess fat.
4. Add onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, then top with shredded cheese.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Easy Black Bean and Corn Salsa
Elevate your snack game with this speedy and delicious recipe that combines the sweetness of corn with the earthiness of black beans. Perfect for topping tacos, chips, or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, and red bell pepper.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir to coat.
3. Stir in chopped cilantro and olive oil.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep) + 30 minutes (chilling)
Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas
Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas Recipe
A delicious and tender Mexican-inspired pork dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This slow cooker recipe requires minimal effort, but yields maximum flavor!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, lime juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Shred the pork with two forks and stir to combine with juices.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Simple Mexican Rice and Beans
A flavorful and nutritious staple dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side to your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the black beans, cumin, and salt to taste.
6. Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and add it to the skillet.
7. Combine the rice and bean mixture, stirring until well combined.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quick Breakfast Burritos with Eggs and Sausage
Start your day off right with these flavorful breakfast burritos packed with scrambled eggs, savory sausage, and melted cheese, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 pound sweet or hot sausage, casings removed
– 6 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Pour in the eggs and scramble until they’re just set.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by placing about 1/2 cup of sausage mixture, 1/4 cup of scrambled eggs, and 1 tablespoon of cheese onto each tortilla. Add black beans if using.
6. Fold the bottom half up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Chilaquiles with Fried Tortillas
Easy Chilaquiles with Fried Tortillas
Chilaquiles is a popular Mexican breakfast dish that’s perfect for using up leftover tortillas. This easy recipe adds a crispy twist by frying the tortillas before simmering them in a flavorful tomato sauce.
- Ingredients:
- 4-6 corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Instructions:
- Fry the tortillas in batches until crispy, about 30 seconds per side. Drain on paper towels.
- In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the fried tortillas to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheap and Spicy Mexican Lentil Stew
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the bold flavors of Mexico, all at a fraction of the cost of traditional meat-based stews. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this stew is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Homemade Horchata with Cinnamon and Rice
A creamy and sweet Mexican drink, horchata is a perfect treat for any occasion. This recipe combines the traditional ingredients of rice, cinnamon, and vanilla to create a delicious and refreshing beverage.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups long-grain rice
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup milk (whole, low-fat or nonfat)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the rice again, then blend it with the remaining 4 cups of water until smooth.
3. In a large pot, combine the blended rice mixture, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
4. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
6. Strain the horchata through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or jug.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is a soaking and blending process.
Summary
Discover the flavors of Mexico without breaking the bank! This collection of 20 easy and affordable recipes is perfect for beginners. From classic dishes like tacos, burritos, and quesadillas to innovative twists on traditional favorites, these recipes are sure to please. Try your hand at homemade seasoning, guacamole, and horchata, or enjoy quick and easy meals like nachos, street corn salad, and breakfast burritos. With a focus on budget-friendliness and simplicity, this article is a must-read for anyone looking to spice up their cooking routine without sacrificing flavor or wallet-friendly options.
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