Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 mouth-watering and flavorful Mexican recipes! Mexico is known for its bold and vibrant cuisine, and we’re excited to share some of our favorite spicy dishes that will add a kick to your dinner routine. From classic tacos and enchiladas to innovative twists on traditional favorites, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you like it hot or not, these recipes are sure to please even the most discerning palates. Our collection includes spicy shrimp quesadillas, beef barbacoa tacos, and pork carnitas with a citrus marinade that will make your taste buds dance. And if you’re looking for something a little different, we’ve also got vegetarian options like bean and cheese burritos and black bean and corn salsa.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking!
Chicken Enchiladas with Green Sauce
Savor the flavors of Mexico with these tender chicken enchiladas smothered in a rich and creamy green sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (10 oz) of green enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken until browned, then set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onion, cilantro, and jalapeño until softened.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble enchiladas by placing cooked chicken onto a tortilla, rolling, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Pour green enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beef Tacos with Homemade Seasoning
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe that combines tender beef with a homemade seasoning blend, all wrapped up in a crispy shell. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal or party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp homemade seasoning (see below)
– 8-10 taco shells
– Shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and any other desired toppings
Homemade Seasoning Blend:
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the olive oil and homemade seasoning blend to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos with seasoned beef, cheese, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Shrimp Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game with the bold flavors of spicy shrimp, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add some excitement to their Mexican-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
– 4 large tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix shrimp with cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Add olive oil and garlic; stir to combine.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese. Top with shrimp mixture and fold tortilla in half.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tortilla is crispy and cheese is melted. Flip and cook an additional 2 minutes.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Serve hot, topped with your choice of sour cream, salsa, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegetarian Bean and Cheese Burritos
A flavorful and filling vegetarian option that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the creaminess of cheese with the heartiness of beans, all wrapped up in a tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (vegetarian)
– 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 whole wheat tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the black beans and cook for 3-4 minutes or until slightly warmed through.
3. Stir in the corn kernels and cook for an additional minute.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by spooning the bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Carnitas with Citrus Marinade
Transform tender pork shoulder into a flavorful, juicy delight with this simple recipe. A zesty citrus marinade infuses the meat with bright, tangy notes that pair perfectly with fresh herbs and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together citrus juices, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the pork shoulder to the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or roasting pan, and roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until tender and easily shredded with two forks.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and crispy tortillas.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
A classic Mexican street food, Elote is a flavorful and refreshing summer treat that combines the natural sweetness of corn with the boldness of lime juice, chili powder, and crumbled cotija cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush corn with melted butter and season with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using).
3. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
4. Slather each ear of corn with mayonnaise, then sprinkle with crema, lime juice, and cotija cheese.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chile Relleno Casserole
This casserole combines the flavors of roasted chiles, tender beef, and creamy cheese for a delicious twist on traditional Chile Rellenos. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup roasted Anaheim peppers, chopped
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown ground beef with onion and garlic. Drain excess fat.
3. In a separate pan, warm chopped chiles over medium heat.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange 2-3 tortillas overlapping each other.
5. Spoon half of the beef mixture, half of the enchilada sauce, and half of the cheese over the tortillas.
6. Repeat layers: tortillas, beef mixture, enchilada sauce, and cheese.
7. Top with remaining cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Tinga
This recipe combines the rich flavors of chipotle peppers, garlic, and lime juice with tender chicken breasts to create a delicious and easy Slow Cooker Chicken Tinga. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, mix together chipotle peppers, garlic, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour over the chicken.
3. Add the chicken broth to the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Shred the chicken with two forks and serve with your favorite toppings, such as diced onions, cilantro, avocado, or sour cream.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Beef Barbacoa Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this classic beef barbacoa recipe, slow-cooked to tender perfection and served in a crispy taco shell. This dish is perfect for a weekend dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket or chuck, cut into large pieces
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon lard or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the lard or oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to low; add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Return beef to the pot; pour in beef broth.
6. Simmer, covered, for 2-1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
7. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
8. Assemble tacos with shredded beef, radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (if using).
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Cheesy Chorizo Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your snack game with this savory and cheesy twist on traditional stuffed peppers! Spicy chorizo sausage, gooey cheese, and sweet bell peppers come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook chorizo sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each pepper with the chorizo mixture, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Sprinkle paprika on top of peppers.
7. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Authentic Mexican Rice (Arroz Rojo)
This classic Mexican side dish is a staple at any fiesta or family gathering. With its rich, tomato-based flavor and fluffy texture, it’s the perfect accompaniment to your favorite tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with the onion mixture.
5. Add the water, tomatoes, cumin powder, and salt. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Salsa
This vibrant salsa combines the natural sweetness of corn with the earthy taste of black beans, perfect for topping tacos or using as a dip. With its simplicity and versatility, it’s a great addition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, red bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
2. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the chopped jalapeño and stir again.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply prepare and chill before serving.
Chicken Fajita Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the best of Mexican cuisine with the convenience of a one-dish wonder. Chicken fajitas stuffed inside bell peppers create a delightful twist on traditional stuffed peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook chicken and fajita mixture according to package instructions or cook in a skillet until browned and cooked through.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked chicken, onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Top with shredded cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Chocolate Flan
This Mexican Chocolate Flan recipe combines the richness of dark chocolate with the creaminess of caramel, creating a decadent dessert that’s sure to impress. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 ounce high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cream, and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
4. Stir in chopped chocolate until melted.
5. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Poblano and Cheese Tamales
This recipe combines the rich flavor of roasted poblanos with the creaminess of cheese, wrapped in a tender tamale. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups masa harina
– 1/2 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup roasted poblano peppers, chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Soak the masa harina in the lard or shortening for at least 30 minutes.
2. Mix the chicken broth with the soaked masa harina until a dough forms.
3. Add the chopped poblanos and shredded cheese to the dough. Season with salt.
4. Steam the tamales according to package instructions (about 45-60 minutes).
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Grilled Fish Tacos with Lime Crema
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this refreshing twist on traditional fish tacos. Succulent grilled fish, tangy lime crema, and crunchy slaw come together for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (such as tilapia or cod), cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Lime Crema (recipe below)
– Slaw (recipe below)
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
Slaw:
– 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
– 1/4 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add fish and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill fish for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled fish, Lime Crema, Slaw, and any desired additional toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Albondigas Soup
This hearty soup recipe is a staple of Mexican cuisine, filled with tender beef meatballs, vegetables, and aromatic spices. With its rich flavor profile and comforting texture, it’s perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, diced tomatoes, potato, and baked meatballs. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potato is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chiles en Nogada (Stuffed Poblano Peppers)
A classic Mexican dish, Chiles en Nogada is a flavorful and colorful celebration of the country’s independence. This recipe features roasted poblano peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of meats, fruits, and spices, topped with a creamy walnut-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 large poblano peppers
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped apple
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup walnut halves
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Roast the poblano peppers over an open flame or in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes, until charred and blistered.
2. Peel off the skin, remove seeds, and cut a slit down one side of each pepper to create a pocket.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, apple, raisins, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until the meat is browned and the mixture is well combined.
4. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture and close the slit.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine walnut halves, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract to create the nogada sauce.
6. Serve the stuffed peppers with the nogada sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these 18 mouth-watering Mexican recipes! From classic dishes like Chicken Enchiladas with Green Sauce and Beef Tacos with Homemade Seasoning, to innovative twists like Spicy Shrimp Quesadillas and Grilled Fish Tacos with Lime Crema, there’s something for everyone. Vegetarian options abound, including Vegetarian Bean and Cheese Burritos and Black Bean and Corn Salsa. And don’t forget the sweet treats – Mexican Chocolate Flan is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. These flavorful recipes will transport you to the heart of Mexico without leaving home.
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