Takeout might seem like the easy choice, but these 15 Tex-Mex recipes are about to change that. Fresh, hot, and packed with everything you actually want—no more missing toppings, no more wondering why your food is lukewarm when it arrives. They’re easy enough for busy nights and way better than anything that comes in a takeout bag. Plus, you’ll save yourself the frustration of waiting forever, only to realize they forgot the sauce again. Once you see how simple it is to whip these up, you’ll be wondering why you ever paid extra for delivery.

Chicken Tinga Tostada on a plate.
Chicken Tinga Tostadas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mexican Rice

A plate of Mexican rice garnished with chopped green onions and herbs served with a spoon.
Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

When you’re craving something comforting and homestyle, Mexican Rice does the trick without a hitch. It pairs perfectly with any of your favorite mains or shines just as brightly on its own. Forget about calling for takeout; once you try this, you’ll be glad you stayed in. It’s the kind of staple you’ll want to keep in your recipe rotation for those nights when nothing else will do.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice

Meaty Texas Cowboy Stew

Bowl of Texas cowboy stew accompanied by spoons, on a brick-patterned surface.
Meaty Texas Cowboy Stew. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Meaty Texas Cowboy Stew brings a whole lot of heartiness and warmth to your kitchen table. There’s no need to look elsewhere when you have a recipe that satisfies like a big hug in a bowl. It’s the perfect meal to settle down with after a long day, offering comfort in every spoonful. It’s bound to become your new go-to when you’re after something that feels like a weekend treat any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Meaty Texas Cowboy Stew

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl with cherry tomatoes and green peppers on the side.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The bold and dynamic flavors of Chicken Tinga are enough to make anyone put their local takeout spot on hold. It’s an easy pick for when you’re after something that packs a punch and leaves you feeling content. This one’s for those evenings when you’re looking for excitement at the dining table without stepping out. Each bite is a reminder of why sometimes homemade just hits different.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad in a bowl.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mexican Street Corn Salad brings the vibrancy of street fare right to your own dining space. It’s as refreshing as it is fulfilling, a real crowd-pleaser for any occasion. You’ll wonder why you’ve been settling for anything less once you have this as part of your home dining experience. It’s proof that simple can be extraordinary and that your kitchen can rival the best to-go spots.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Birria Pizza

Birria Pizza on a pizza stone.
Birria Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine your favorite pizza joint and your preferred taco spot had a baby – that’s this amazing fusion. Birria Pizza is undeniably a game changer, especially on those nights when you can’t decide what cuisine you’re in the mood for. It effortlessly blends tradition with creativity, offering a unique spin on pizza night. This is one you’ll brag about to friends as your latest kitchen conquest.
Get the Recipe: Birria Pizza

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

A plate of Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl got all the goodness you crave from your favorite fast-food spot but with a homemade touch that takes it up a notch. No more drive-thrus when you can whip up something at home that’s just as crave-worthy. It’s about enjoying all that you love from a quick meal, but knowing it came from your own two hands. You’ll likely find everything else pales in comparison once you get a taste of this version.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

Pico de Gallo

A shot of Pico de Gallo on a board with chips nearby.
Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ever needed that fresh kick to round out a meal? That’s where this classic comes into play. Pico de Gallo is as good scooped onto chips as it is sprinkled over your favorite dishes. It adds the perfect balance of brightness and crunch, making every bite more exciting. You’ll be surprised how often you reach for this to brighten up mealtime, proving simplicity sometimes rules supreme.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

A plate of cooked ground beef mixed with diced vegetables and garnished with lime wedges and chopped herbs. A red striped cloth is placed beside the plate.
Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef serves as the backbone for countless meals, versatile and robust. It’s all about bringing richness and depth to your favorite recipes without overshadowing the other elements. The next time you’re meal prepping, consider this as a surefire way to add some oomph to the week’s menu. And honestly, it might just make you skip the taco truck line next time.
Get the Recipe: Carne Molida: Mexican Ground Beef

Taco Casserole

A Taco Casserole dish with black beans, cheese and jalapenos.
Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

If you’ve got a bunch to feed or you’re just super hungry, Taco Casserole has got you covered. It’s all the pleasure of taco night, baked into a comforting one-dish wonder. It’s about convenience and taste coming together, making your weeknight dinner a breeze. And who knows, this might just be the dish that makes everyone at home volunteer to do the dishes.
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole

Birria de Res

Two white bowls filled with slow cooker birria garnished with fresh lime wedges.
Birria de Res. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

There’s something undeniably special about a slow-cooked, aromatic stew that fills the whole house with delicious scents. With Birria de Res, you’re not just making a meal, you’re creating an experience. The kind of comfort food that makes you forget any restaurant version you’ve had before. One spoonful and it’s clear – homemade is where it’s at.
Get the Recipe: Birria de Res

Mexican Black Beans

Mexican black beans in a white bowl with parsley and garlic.
Mexican Black Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mexican Black Beans aren’t just any beans; they’re the kind that makes you understand why they’re a staple in so many cuisines. Perfect as a side yet capable of holding their own, they’re the hidden gem of the dinner table. When you want to bring a touch of homeliness to your meal, this is what you reach for. And let’s be real, once you get a taste, canned beans just won’t cut it anymore.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Black Beans

Texas Corn Succotash

Texas Corn Succotash in a black bowl with spoon.
Texas Corn Succotash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish bring a colorful blend to the table, popping with both color and taste. It’s a celebration of textures and the kind of side dish that could steal the show. It’s proof that sometimes the best tastes come from simple combinations, done right. When you want coziness without the fuss, Texas Corn Succotash will be your new best friend.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash

Baja Fish Tacos

Baja fish tacos on a white plate.
Baja Fish Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bringing the coastal vibe to your kitchen, Baja Fish Tacos are all about freshness and a bit of crunch. Gone are the days of soggy takeaway when you have this recipe up your sleeve. They’re a quick ticket to a fulfilling meal that feels light yet indulgent. And honestly, you’ll be forgiven for feeling a bit smug about just how good they are.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Al pastor chicken quesadillas pulled apart.
Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Take the well-loved quesadilla and inject it with a whole lotta pizzazz – that’s this dish for you. Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas turns the average dinner into something special without the need for a reservation. Plus, it’s one of those meals that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Gather round the table because this one’s about sharing good food and better company.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Chicken Tinga Tostadas

Chicken Tinga Tostada on a plate.
Chicken Tinga Tostadas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Crisp, satisfying, and topped with a punch of flavor, Chicken Tinga Tostadas are a clear winner. They offer a casual eating experience with all the kick you’d want from a heartier dish. Perfect for those days when you’re looking for that extra ‘oomph’ without the hassle of a complicated recipe. This could easily become your new weeknight ritual, and no one would blame you.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga Tostadas

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