17 Mexican Recipes That Beat Going Out To Eat

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When you’re craving Mexican for dinner but don’t have a lot of time to cook you might be tempted to grab some takeout. But there’s no need for takeout when you have these seventeen quick, healthy, and delicious Mexican recipes to make at home. They all use simple ingredients you probably already have and you can have them on the table in about 30 minutes.

1. Instant Pot Taco Casserole

A black plate holds a serving of Instant Pot taco casserole.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

This Instant Pot taco casserole is perfect for a busy weeknight when you are craving Mexican and need a meal that everyone at your table will love. Your Instant Pot does all the work, so you can be busy prepping other things like a salad or other toppings you might want to add, as it cooks.

2. Mushroom Tacos

A row of mushroom tacos on a dark gray surface.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

You might think of tacos as basic, but these mushroom tacos are anything but even as a vegan dish. They’re loaded with your favorite Mexican staples like refried beans and salsa, and of course, mushrooms that are sautéed until tender and caramelized.

3. Mexican Rice

A hand spoons some Mexican rice out of a white bowl full of it.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

This wonderfully simple Mexican rice recipe is the perfect side dish for Taco Tuesdays. It goes great with refried beans and any other main dish you care to serve it with. Use it to stuff burritos, add to tacos, and even soups and stews. It’s a great way to flavor rice in a way that goes with a ton of different dishes.

4. Nacho Fries

Nacho fries on a wood cutting board.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

Nacho fries are a quick, easy, and delicious dinner the whole family will adore. Just add your favorite nacho toppings, and you’re good to go. The fries are baked, so you don’t have to worry about deep-frier fat, and the toppings are generally pretty healthy. So you can indulge in comfort food without too much worry. Plus, you can always add a side salad for extra veggies.

5. Mexican Shepherd’s Pie

A closeup of a slice of Mexican Shepherds Pie on a white background.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

This unconventional dish is every bit as tasty as more traditional Mexican meals. Casseroles like this Mexican shepherd’s pie are quick and easy to throw together and satisfy every time. Leftovers are always great for lunch, and you can serve any side dishes you prefer with this one.

6. Mexican Pasta Salad

A closeup of a white bowl filled with Mexican Pasta Salad.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

This vibrant salad combines cooked pasta with a medley of fresh vegetables like juicy tomatoes, tangy black olives, zesty red onions, and creamy avocado. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a refreshing salad, this Mexican pasta will be a hit.

7. Shrimp Campechana

A glass filled with Shrimp Campechana, shown from overhead.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

Shrimp campechana is a simple dish to toss together last minute. It can be enjoyed as a main course, or in tacos, burritos, and more. It goes great with Mexican rice and a side of refried beans, or serve it as an appetizer in small cups if you are having company over.

8. Nachos Recipe With Bacon And Jalapeno

A closeup of Bacon Jalapeno Nachos garnished with fresh cilantro.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

This crowd-pleasing nachos recipe with bacon & jalapeno recipe takes classic nachos to a whole new level. Picture this: a bed of crispy tortilla chips generously topped with sizzling bacon, spicy jalapenos, melted cheese, and an array of mouthwatering toppings. So grab your favorite toppings, prepare for a flavor explosion, and let the nacho party begin!

9. Chickpea Tacos (100% Plant Based)

A closeup of a Chickpea Taco that lays open on a wood surface.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

These tacos are a delightful twist on this classic Mexican favorite, offering a satisfying and flavorful option for veggie lovers and plant-based folks alike. These chickpea tacos are a must-try for your next Taco Tuesday dinner. Add chicken or ground taco meat to the mix if you want more protein.

10. Cabbage Leaf Tacos

And up close view of a cabbage leave taco.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

These amazing tacos have all the crunch you expect from a taco without all the extra carbs. Cabbage leaf tacos are incredibly fresh tasting, and you can top them with whatever classic taco toppings you like best. If you pack up leftovers for lunch the next day, you don’t even have to worry about the wrap getting soggy with these.

11. Mexican Chicken Salad

A white bowl sits filled with Mexican Chicken Salad on a wood table. A smaller white bowl of avocado dressing sits next to it.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

The combination of savory chicken, fresh vegetables, and a vibrant dressing creates a flavorful balance in this salad that makes a delicious lunch or dinner. This Mexican chicken salad is a winner and you can even add some rice or brown rice to add bulk and filling fiber.

12. Refried Bean Soup

A small bowl of Refried Bean Soup on a wood table. A wood spoon lays next to the bowl.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

This hearty soup takes the classic flavors of refried beans and transforms them into a delicious and satisfying bowl of goodness. Refried beans mixed with salsa that is as spicy as you want it, topped with a dollop of tangy sour cream or yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. This refried bean soup is the perfect choice for dinner tonight.

13. Lentil Tortilla Stew

A closeup of a white crock filled with Lentil Tortilla Stew and garnished with chopped tomatoes, tortilla pieces and fresh cilantro.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

This comforting stew is packed with wholesome ingredients that are just as good on a hot summer evening as they are on a cold winter night. To add an extra layer of deliciousness, we top it off with crispy tortilla strips and a sprinkle of freshly chopped tomatoes and cilantro. This lentil tortilla stew is definitely a winner.

14. Mexican Pumpkin Rotini

A white bowl full of Mexican pumpkin rotini. Close up view.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

This unique twist on traditional pasta dishes combines al dente rotini pasta with a creamy pumpkin sauce infused with Mexican-inspired spices. No matter what the occasion, this Mexican pumpkin rotini is a delicious must-try.

15. Fajita Wraps

A font view of the cut, finished and stacked Fajita Wrap on a cutting board.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm tortilla filled with tender and juicy fajita meat, complemented by the caramelized sweetness of peppers and onions. Add a dollop of tangy salsa, a sprinkle of grated cheese, and a dollop of creamy guacamole for the perfect finishing touch. These fajita wraps are a delicious idea for dinner tonight.

16. Mexican Stuffed Quesadillas

Stuffed Mexican Quesadillas stacked on a cutting board.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

Imagine warm tortillas oozing with melted cheese and filled with a medley of savory ingredients. Whether you’re craving a quick and satisfying meal or looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these Mexican stuffed quesadillas are a surefire hit.

17. Fish Tacos

A closeup of a Fish Taco on a white background.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

These tacos use tender and flaky fish fillets cooked to perfection and topped with the most delicious cabbage slaw. These healthy fish tacos are fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor. They are perfect any night of the week, and leftovers are easily packed up to take for lunch the next day.

More From The Gracious Pantry

A dutch oven with a cooked whole chicken topped with rosemary twigs.
Photo Credit: The Gracious Pantry.

Need more dinner ideas? These can help. Chicken and turkey are very versatile foods that can be used to create an unlimited number of dinners. Here are 118 ideas to get you started.

Author: Allison Manning

Title: Writer

Expertise: Writing

Bio:

Allison Manning is the creative mind behind Simply Stunning Content. With twenty years of writing experience under her belt, she is a master of creating captivating content that connects with audiences of all types. When she’s not working on new content, you can find her cooking, reading, or listening to a very eclectic library of music. When she’s not working,

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