Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 mouth-watering Mexican dinner recipes that pack a punch! From classic dishes like enchiladas and tacos, to innovative twists on traditional favorites, we’ve got you covered for flavorful nights in.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the heart of Mexico, where bold flavors, vibrant colors, and rich textures come together to create unforgettable meals. Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking to spice up your dinner routine, these recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
From chicken and beef to vegetables and seafood, we’ve curated a diverse selection of dishes that showcase the best of Mexican cuisine. So grab your apron, don’t be afraid to get a little messy, and let’s dive into the world of spicy Mexican dinner recipes!
Chicken Enchiladas with Green Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this classic recipe, featuring tender chicken wrapped in tortillas and smothered in a vibrant green sauce. A perfect combination of spicy and savory, these enchiladas are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup green sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Green Sauce:
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add shredded chicken and stir to combine.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spooning chicken mixture onto tortillas, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Pour green sauce over enchiladas and top with cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Beef Tacos with Fresh Pico de Gallo
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe that combines tender beef, crunchy tacos shells, and a tangy fresh pico de gallo. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for cooking
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh pico de gallo ingredients (see below)
Fresh Pico de Gallo:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add diced onion and taco seasoning to the beef; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos with beef mixture, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and crumbled queso fresco (optional).
5. Serve with fresh pico de gallo on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Quesadillas with Jalapeños
Elevate your snack game with this simple recipe that combines the creaminess of melted cheese with the bold flavor of jalapeños. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these quesadillas are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup diced jalapeños
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the shredded cheese and diced jalapeños.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese-jalapeño mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow-Cooked Carnitas with Lime
Transform pork shoulder into tender, juicy carnitas with a burst of citrus flavor using this easy slow-cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder, boneless
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Place the seared pork in the slow cooker. Add lime juice, orange juice, garlic, and oregano. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Shred the pork with two forks. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Spicy Shrimp Fajitas
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this spicy shrimp fajita recipe. Succulent shrimp, crisp bell peppers, and savory onions come together in a flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lively gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced yellow onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 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 shrimp, bell pepper, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the fajitas by placing the shrimp mixture onto the tortillas and adding your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers with Black Beans
Add some excitement to your meal routine with these flavorful stuffed peppers, packed with nutritious black beans and a blend of savory spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine black beans, onion, garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the bean mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pork Tamales with Red Chili Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico with this hearty recipe that combines tender pork tamales with a bold and spicy red chili sauce. Perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
For the tamales:
– 2 cups masa harina
– 1/2 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– 1 cup pork shoulder, cooked and shredded
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the red chili sauce:
– 2 cups roasted Anaheim peppers, chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix masa harina and lard until crumbly. Add salt, pepper, and pork; mix well.
2. Soak corn husks in water for at least 30 minutes.
3. Assemble tamales by spreading a thin layer of dough on a husk, adding a spoonful of filling, and folding the top.
4. Steam tamales for 45-50 minutes or cook in boiling water for 15-20 minutes.
5. For the red chili sauce, blend all ingredients until smooth. Simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Mexican Street Corn Salad
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of corn with the savory flavors of Mexico, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch. With its bold colors and tangy dressing, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked corn kernels
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (Mexican cheese)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine corn kernels, red bell pepper, yellow onion, and jalapeño pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the corn mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle queso fresco crumbles over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowls
Get ready to fuel up with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe! Chipotle chicken, sautéed onions, bell peppers, and creamy avocado all come together in a delicious burrito bowl that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups cooked white rice
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add diced onion and bell peppers. Cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add garlic, chipotle peppers, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with chipotle mixture.
6. Divide cooked rice into bowls. Top with chicken mixture, sliced avocado, and chopped cilantro (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Bean Chimichangas
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these delicious Beef and Bean Chimichangas! This recipe combines the richness of ground beef, the comfort of refried beans, and the crunch of crispy tortillas for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add diced onion and taco seasoning to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in refried beans and cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Spoon beef and bean mixture onto center of each tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, then fold tortillas into triangles or cylinders to enclose filling.
7. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chimichangas until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chile Rellenos with Cheese Filling
This classic Mexican dish is a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian option. Chile Rellenos with Cheese Filling is a simple yet impressive recipe that combines the sweetness of roasted poblano peppers with the creaminess of melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large poblano peppers
– 1/2 cup queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– All-purpose flour (for coating)
Instructions:
1. Roast the poblano peppers by placing them on a baking sheet and drizzling with olive oil. Bake at 400°F for 30-40 minutes, or until charred.
2. Remove the stems and seeds from the roasted peppers.
3. In a bowl, mix together the crumbled cheese, chopped onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each poblano pepper with the cheese mixture.
5. Dip the stuffed peppers in beaten egg and then coat with flour.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the peppers until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mexican Rice with Chorizo
This flavorful recipe combines the spicy kick of chorizo sausage with the classic comfort of Mexican rice. Perfect as a side dish or incorporated into tacos, burritos, and more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the chorizo and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir for 1 minute.
5. Add the rice and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Fish Tacos with Cabbage Slaw
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of grilled fish with the crunch and tanginess of a cabbage slaw. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (such as tilapia or mahi-mahi)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 corn tortillas
– Cabbage Slaw (recipe below)
Cabbage Slaw:
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush mixture onto fish fillets.
3. Grill fish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare Cabbage Slaw by mixing all ingredients in a bowl.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing grilled fish onto tortillas, topping with cabbage slaw, and serving immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Nachos with Guacamole
A classic party favorite, this recipe combines crispy tortilla chips smothered in a rich and creamy cheese sauce, served alongside a fresh and flavorful guacamole dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 ripe avocado
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, jalapeños, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. In a saucepan, combine shredded cheese, half-and-half, and butter. Heat over medium heat until smooth and melted.
4. Pour cheese sauce over tortilla chips and bake for 5-7 minutes or until bubbly.
5. Meanwhile, mash ripe avocado in a bowl with lime juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve warm nachos with fresh guacamole on the side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pinto Bean Soup with Crispy Tortilla Strips
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and flavorful pinto bean soup, topped with crispy tortilla strips for added crunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the soaked pinto beans, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until beans are tender.
3. Meanwhile, heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tortilla strips in batches until crispy and golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. Serve the soup hot, topped with crispy tortilla strips and your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, or sour cream.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Mexican Lasagna with Corn Tortillas
This recipe puts a flavorful spin on traditional lasagna by using corn tortillas instead of pasta and layering it with spicy beef, cheese, and sautéed onions. Perfect for a dinner party or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 corn tortillas
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and jalapeño in a large skillet until browned, breaking up meat into small pieces.
3. Add cumin, salt, and pepper; stir well.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble lasagna by spreading half the beef mixture in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by half the cheese, then half the tortillas. Repeat layers.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and top with remaining cheese; return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: approximately 40-45 minutes
Pollo Asado with Citrus Marinade
Experience the bold flavors of Argentina with this simple Pollo Asado recipe featuring a zesty citrus marinade. This classic dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together citrus juices, garlic, olive oil, and oregano.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Sopes with Refried Beans
Sopes are a staple in Mexican cuisine, and when topped with creamy refried beans, they become an irresistible treat. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups masa harina
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for brushing
– Refried beans (homemade or store-bought)
– Optional toppings: shredded chicken, diced onions, crumbled queso fresco, sliced radishes
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine masa harina and warm water to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces.
4. Roll out each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Brush both sides of the sopes with vegetable oil.
6. Cook the sopes in a dry skillet over medium-high heat for 30 seconds on each side, until slightly puffed and lightly browned.
7. Serve warm sopes with refried beans and your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a flavorful fiesta with these 18 spicy Mexican dinner recipes! From classic dishes like chicken enchiladas and beef tacos to creative twists like cheesy quesadillas and grilled fish tacos, there’s something for every taste bud. Spice up your meals with slow-cooked carnitas, spicy shrimp fajitas, or vegetarian stuffed peppers. And don’t forget the sweet treats – homemade sopes with refried beans are a must-try! Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or something new and exciting, these recipes will transport you to the vibrant streets of Mexico.
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