If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at some Tex-Mex dishes but thought it was too tricky, think again. Here’s a collection of 19 amazing recipes that are perfect for beginners. They are straightforward and fun to make, and best of all, you don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen to get them right.
Tomatillo Sauce
If you’re aiming to give your dishes a fresh twist, this sauce is a game-changer. It’s incredibly versatile, making it perfect for beginners who want to experiment. Plus, it adds a unique pop of flavor to nearly any Tex-Mex dish.
Get the Recipe: Tomatillo Sauce
Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo
Bringing together tender steak and a bold sauce, these skewers are a hit for any BBQ or family dinner. They’re surprisingly simple to make, showing that impressive meals don’t have to be complicated. It’s all about the right combination of heat and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak Skewers with Mojo Rojo
Tex-Mex Caesar Salad
This isn’t your average Caesar salad; it carries a Tex-Mex twist that will rejuvenate your lunch routine. Even for those new to the kitchen, it’s an easy way to make a salad that stands out from the crowd. The fusion of flavors here is something everyone should try.
Get the Recipe: Tex-Mex Caesar Salad
Smoked Queso
Upgrade your snack game with this rich, smoky queso that’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s a straightforward recipe that teaches the basics of smoking cheese, perfect for beginners. Serve it at your next gathering and watch it disappear!
Get the Recipe: Smoked Queso
Freezer Breakfast Burritos
Busy mornings are no match for these make-ahead breakfast burritos. They’re packed with flavor and can be customized to your liking, making breakfast both easy and delicious. Plus, they’re a brilliant introduction to meal prepping.
Get the Recipe: Freezer Breakfast Burritos
Smoked Blackberry Margarita
Shake things up with a drink that’s as impressive to look at as it is to sip. This margarita recipe is perfect for those looking to experiment with smoking fruits. It’s a fun, easy way to elevate your cocktail game.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Blackberry Margarita
Smoked Chicken Al Pastor
Infusing classic al pastor flavors with a smoky twist, this chicken dish is both innovative and easy to prepare. It proves that you don’t need a ton of experience to create mouth-watering, savory meals. Get ready to impress with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Al Pastor
Mexican Black Beans
These black beans are anything but basic, offering a hearty and flavorful side that’s incredibly easy to master. They pair well with just about any Tex-Mex meal, making them a versatile addition to your culinary arsenal. It’s an essential recipe for anyone starting out.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Black Beans
Tomatillo Pico de Gallo
Freshen up your dish lineup with a pico de gallo that’s a step outside the ordinary. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also adds a vibrant splash of color and taste to your meals. A perfect beginner’s introduction to the wonders of fresh salsas.
Get the Recipe: Tomatillo Pico de Gallo
Roasted Tomatillo Salsa
Here’s a salsa that brings depth and warmth to the table, thanks to the roasting process. It’s simpler to make than you might think, and it’s a great way to introduce dynamic flavors into your dishes. Ideal for those looking to explore roasted ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomatillo Salsa
Dutch Oven Carnitas
Imagine creating fall-apart tender carnitas with just a Dutch oven and some patience. This recipe simplifies a classic, making it accessible to cooks of all levels. It’s perfect for a weekend project with mouthwatering results.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Carnitas
Burrito Sauce
Kick your burritos up a notch with a sauce that brings heat and flavor in equal measure. It’s incredibly simple to make and can change the game for homemade Tex-Mex. A must-try for enthusiasts looking to add that extra touch.
Get the Recipe: Burrito Sauce
Slow Cooker Carnitas Board
Set it and forget it with a carnitas recipe that promises tenderness and flavor without the fuss. This slow cooker method is a lifesaver for those who want to enjoy complex flavors with minimal input. It’s a showcase of how a single tool can produce stunning results.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Carnitas Board
Food Processor Salsa
Who knew that a few pulses in a food processor could yield such a vibrant and lively salsa? This recipe is a quick, foolproof way to bring fresh flavors to your table. It’s an ideal starting point for those who want to make salsa from scratch.
Get the Recipe: Food Processor Salsa
Pineapple Salsa
Add a sweet twist to your salsa repertoire with this pineapple version that’s as refreshing as it is simple to prepare. It’s a great introduction to using fruits in savory dishes, blending sweetness with a spicy kick. A sunny addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Salsa
Birria de Res
Dive into a rich and comforting bowl of birria de res, a recipe that simplifies a complex traditional dish into manageable steps. It’s a fantastic way to explore the depths of Mexican cuisine without feeling overwhelmed. The savory, slightly spicy stew is an adventure in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Birria de Res
Al Pastor Carnitas
Fuse the juicy tenderness of carnitas with the distinctive flavor of al pastor in this creative take. It’s straightforward yet results in a dish that tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen. Perfect for anyone wanting to try their hand at fusion cooking.
Get the Recipe: Al Pastor Carnitas
Mexican Street Corn Soup
Transform the beloved flavors of Mexican street corn into a comforting soup that’s both easy to make and a joy to eat. It’s a unique take on traditional flavors, perfect for cool evenings or when you’re in the mood for something different. Discover the delight of blending favorite tastes in new ways.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Soup
Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas
Quick, flavorful, and filling, these quesadillas offer a perfect weeknight meal solution. Marrying the savory taste of al pastor with the convenience of a quesadilla, it’s a recipe that welcomes beginners to try something a bit more adventurous. It’s all about big flavor with minimal stress.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas