Dinnertime chaos? These 15 Mexican-inspired recipes are lifesavers for those nights when you just don’t know what to make. They’re tried and true, and our readers give them five stars. From crowd-pleasing tacos to cheesy enchiladas, these dishes are sure to satisfy everyone at the table without requiring hours in the kitchen. We’ve even got some tasty sides and sweet treats to round out your perfect Mexican night.

Chunky Guacamole

This fresh guacamole bursts with flavor. Perfectly ripe avocados are mashed for a chunky texture, then zested with lime and smoky roasted tomatoes and peppers. It’s the perfect addition to any Mexican feast, delicious for dipping chips or topping tacos.
Get the Recipe: Chunky Guacamole

Honey Habanero Tacos

Forget boring tacos! These tacos are full of flavor. A quick ground beef filling gets a surprising kick with a sweet honey glaze balanced by fiery habanero. It’s a fun and unexpected twist on classic tacos, sure to leave you wanting more.
Get the Recipe: Honey Habanero Tacos

Mexican Sheetcake Brownies

Spice up your dessert table with these Mexican Sheetcake Brownies! Warm spices like cinnamon and chili powder add a delightful surprise with every bite. It’s the perfect way to end your Mexican meal on a sweet and unique note.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Sheetcake Brownies

Mexican Skillet Quinoa

Looking for a quick and healthy vegetarian Mexican meal? This skillet quinoa is your answer. Black beans and quinoa simmer together for a protein-packed base, then get a flavor boost from sweet corn and tangy salsa. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish you can throw together in minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or a light lunch.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Skillet Quinoa

Carnitas

Love melt-in-your-mouth pork? This recipe makes perfect carnitas with your Instant Pot! Tender pork shoulder simmers with a blend of warm spices, transforming it into juicy, flavorful pulled pork. Shred it up and use it for tacos, burritos, nachos, or anything your Mexican food cravings desire.
Get the Recipe: Carnitas

Crockpot Mexican Beef in Masa Cups

Let your crockpot do the work for a fun and flavorful Mexican meal! This recipe simmers tender beef in a blend of warm spices, creating a delicious filling for crispy masa cups. It’s a unique twist on tacos, perfect for a relaxed weeknight dinner or a casual potluck gathering.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Mexican Beef in Masa Cups

Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas

Short on time but craving enchiladas? This recipe is your shortcut to success! Skip the prep work and use store-bought puff pastry for a quick and easy enchilada dish. Wrap a delicious chicken filling in the flaky pastry and bake until golden brown. Enjoy a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas

Chicken Tamales

Tender, seasoned chicken is wrapped in fragrant corn husks and steamed to perfection. It’s a traditional Mexican dish that takes time and effort, but the taste of homemade tamales is truly special. Impress your family and friends with this authentic experience, or simply enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious dish from scratch.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tamales

Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas

Craving a quick and handheld meal? Look no further than these beef empanadas! Flaky puff pastry encases a savory ground beef filling, creating a delicious contrast in textures. They’re perfect for a satisfying lunch, afternoon snack, or impressive appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas

Crockpot Carnitas

This recipe lets your crockpot do the work! Pork shoulder simmers in a blend of warm spices until it’s juicy and tender, perfect for shredding and using in tacos, burritos, nachos, or anything your cravings desire. Enjoy a flavorful and versatile Mexican dish without the fuss
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Carnitas

Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Seasoned ground beef simmers with fluffy rice in a single pot, then gets buried under a blanket of melty cheese. It’s a hearty dish packed with simple flavors and textures that the whole family will devour. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a cheesy comfort food fix.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Shredded chicken and beans simmer in a flavorful broth, creating a warm and satisfying base. Every spoonful offers a delightful contrast between the crispy tortilla strips and tender chicken. It’s a classic Mexican soup that’s easy to make and even easier to love.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortilla Soup

Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas

This recipe is your weeknight hero! Skip the hassle of making dough and use store-bought puff pastry for a flaky crust. Whip up a delicious chicken filling, assemble your enchiladas, and bake until golden brown. Enjoy a satisfying and impressive enchilada dish in minutes that’s sure to please your family and friends.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas

Refried Beans

Elevate your next taco night with these creamy refried beans! They’re surprisingly easy to make at home and add a smooth, savory richness that takes your tacos, burritos, or enchiladas to the next level. It’s a simple recipe with a big flavor payoff!
Get the Recipe: Refried Beans

Roasted Tomatillo Salsa

Forget the jarred salsa and make your own! This recipe uses roasted tomatillos for a fresh and vibrant flavor. Roasting adds a smoky depth that complements the tangy tomatillos, making a salsa that’s perfect for adding a bright and unexpected kick to your favorite Mexican dishes.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomatillo Salsa