Our 45+ BEST Authentic Mexican Recipes (2024)

There’s no denying the impact Mexican Recipes have had on the food in America, let alone in the south.

Mexican cuisine started making its way to the U.S. in about 1905, which is when Mexican migrant workers brought tacos to the street carts of Los Angeles. Since then, other classic Mexican dishes have become popular in the U.S., including burritos, guacamole, salsa, and fajitas. Serve hot sauce on the side.

Mexican dishes are filled with a ton of seasonings and spices that enhance the flavor of the dish, making it irresistible.

Delving into the world of Mexican cuisine, you are about to embark on a flavorful journey through a rich cultural heritage. Known for its bold flavors and colorful presentations, Mexican dishes have captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers worldwide. From sumptuous enchiladas to mouthwatering guacamole, each dish tells a story of Mexico’s vibrant history, combining indigenous and Spanish influences.

As you explore Mexican recipes, you will uncover the secrets behind the use of spices, such as cumin, chili powder, and paprika, as well as the importance of fresh ingredients, including tomatoes, avocados, and various types of peppers. Regardless of your culinary skill level, these recipes offer a fantastic opportunity to broaden your cooking repertoire and impress your friends and family with your newfound expertise.

To help you navigate the rich landscape of Mexican cuisine, we will provide you with easy-to-follow recipes and techniques that can be tailored to your preferences. Whether you are seeking to recreate a traditional dish or experiment with new flavors, your journey through Mexican cuisine is bound to be an exciting and rewarding experience.

What’s nice about Mexican food recipes is just how easy they are to make. You can whip up a delicious meal for the family and still have time to hang with your loved ones.

If you want authentic Mexican food in your home then you’ll want to give one of the recipes below a try and make sure you get all the ingredients.

Here’s a list of the best Mexican food so the next craving you and the family get you can be ready with a solution.

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1. Mexican Corn Coleslaw

This Mexican street corn coleslaw is the perfect side to your next summer bbq. It’s light, refreshing, and has a little bit of a kick to it.

Source: houseofnasheats.com

2. Barbacoa Pork

Slow cooked barbacoa pork is one of the best Mexican dinner ideas or breakfast options.

You can find both options on most menus so when you’re at home you don’t have to feel guilty eating them any time of the day.

Source: elotesisters.com

3. Green Enchilada Sauce

You can put green enchilada sauce on pretty much anything and it’ll taste great. This homemade sauce is so much better than anything you can get from the store.

It’s perfect for when you want to make enchiladas, use it as a dipping sauce, or even pour it over some rice.

Source: addapinch.com

4. Fajitas

If you want to go all out with your Mexican dish then you’ll cook up a steaming plate of fajitas with a side of tortillas.

You’ve probably heard them as they sizzle their way past your table at a restaurant but now you can make them for yourself at your own leisure.

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5. Mexican Stuffed Shells

Filled with cheesy goodness, your kids won’t even be able to get enough. It’s a great recipe to throw a ton of veggies like green peppers or tomatoes.

The best part is that you can make a big batch and freeze them for those nights when you don’t have time to cook.

Source: kaleforniakravings.com

6. Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos

There’s nothing better than having some seasoned shrimp in a taco with some lime squeezed on top.

It’s the kind of Mexican recipe you could see yourself eating every day and not get sick of. Keep experimenting with the sauce to really get a unique flavor with this dish.

Source: thecozycook.com

7. Homemade Salsa

You can’t go through a traditional Mexican recipe list without having at least one salsa recipe.

It’s the perfect addition to any dish or even just for dipping your chips in. Once you make it, you’ll never go back to store-bought salsa again.

Source: halfbakedharvest.com

8. Breakfast Burritos

You won’t find authentic Mexican recipes that fill you up quite like the breakfast burrito.

What’s nice is you can put whatever you want in it as long as it’s wrapped up nice and tight in a tortilla and it’s still going to taste absolutely delicious.

Don’t forget to top it off with some salsa to give it that authentic feel.

Source: seekinggoodeats.com

9. Green Enchiladas Chicken Soup

All the great flavors of chicken enchiladas in a soup? Sign me up!

It’s perfect for those cold winter nights or when you’re feeling under the weather and its a great dish to stick in the fridge and have when you’re hungry throughout the week.

Source: saltandlavender.com

10. Taco Skillet

Don’t think you have time to make traditional Mexican dishes? Think again with this taco skillet recipe that takes less than 30 minutes to make. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re short on time but still want a home-cooked meal.

Plus, it’s a one-pan dish so clean-up is a breeze and the whole family will be singing your praises.

Source: alsothecrumbsplease.com

11. Flan

Have yourself a Mexican treat to end your dinner with a delicious and creamy flan.

It’s sweet, rich, and will leave you wanting more. Top it with some fresh fruit or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra special treat.

Source: thebitery.de

12. Pulled Chicken Burrito Bowl

The pulled chicken burrito bowl is one of the best Mexican dishes to make on the go because it can easily be packed up and taken with you.

It’s also a great dish to meal prep because it reheats well and you can make a big batch to last you the week.

Source: carlsbadcravings.com

13. Birria Tacos

The birria meat melts in your mouth and the flavorful broth is perfect for dipping your tacos in.

You’ll want to make extra so you can have leftovers for the week because two tacos won’t even be enough once you get a taste.

Source: tastesbetterfromscratch.com

14. Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Take it back to the streets and get that authentic flavor with this grilled chicken street taco recipe.

You can find a lot of these vendors in Mexico cooking up some delicious tacos and it’s one of those Mexican food ideas you’ll never get tired of eating.

Source: mexicanfoodjournal.com

15. Salsa Taquera

If you came looking for a Mexican recipe that would blow your sombrero off then this is it.

Salsa taquera is a delicious and spicy sauce that’s perfect for dipping your tacos in.

Source: mykitchenescapades.com

16. Carnitas

You’ll always remember the first time you had carnitas because it’s one of those Mexican meals that’s hard to forget.

It’s a dish that’s made up of slow cooked pork that just melts in your mouth and it’s often served with tacos, burritos, or even on its own.

Source: spoonforkbacon.com

17. Huevos Rancheros

Nothing starts the day better than a hearty and filling breakfast like huevos rancheros.

It’s a simple dish that’s made up of eggs, tortillas, and a flavorful sauce. Serve it with some refried beans on the side for a complete meal.

Source: theoriginaldish.com

18. Steak Tacos

When you want to go all out with your tacos only steak will do. Mexican food dishes don’t get much tastier than this and it’s a recipe the whole family will love.

You can cook the steak any way you like but we recommend grilling it to get that authentic flavor.

Source: meikoandthedish.com

19. Carne Asada Nachos

The irresistible flavors of carne asada are only made better when you add them to nachos.

This dish is loaded with all of your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, and salsa.

Source: diethood.com

20. Carne Asada

This is one of those authentic Mexican dishes that have been cooked for generations and each family has its own way of preparing it.

It’s a simple dish of grilled steak that’s often served with tortillas, black beans, and rice. The key to this dish is to let the steak marinate overnight so it’s packed with flavor.

Source: midwestfoodieblog.com

21. Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas

Make your chicken fajitas recipe even easier by cooking them on a sheet pan.

You’ll still get all of the same great flavor but without having to stand over the stove and cook them in batches.

This is a great recipe to make when you’re short on time but still want something healthy and delicious.

Source: jessicagavin.com

22. Elote

Take a little bit of Mexico into your home with this elote recipe. It’s a popular street food that’s made up of grilled corn on the cob that’s smothered in mayo, cheese, and chili powder.

It’s the perfect snack to munch on or you can make it into a meal by adding some protein.

Source: closetcooking.com

23. Mole Chicken Tacos

Mole is a special sauce made up of a variety of different ingredients including chocolate, chili peppers, and spices.

It’s used in a lot of different Mexican dishes and gives them a unique flavor that you won’t find anywhere else.

Source: yourhomebasedmom.com

24. Easy Taco Bowl

Make dinner nice and easy with this taco bowl recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

It’s a one pan meal that’s packed with flavor and it only takes 30 minutes to make. Plus, it’s easily customizable so you can add in your favorite toppings.

Source: foodnetwork.com

25. Chile Relleno

Once you get the hang of chile Relleno you might find yourself making them on a weekly basis.

The end result is worth it, especially when you take that first bite into the cheesy and delicious filling.

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26. Tamales

You’ll find people selling tamales just about anywhere in Mexico and for good reason. They’re delicious!

Tamales are made up of a corn based dough that’s filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables and then wrapped in a corn husk or banana leaf.

Source: thespiffycookie.com

27. Queso Fundido with Chorizo

No one can have just one of these cheesy and delicious queso fundido with chorizo.

It’s the perfect appetizer or even a main dish if you’re feeling especially hungry.

The best part is that it only takes a few minutes to make so you can have it on the table in no time at all.

Source: jocooks.com

28. Albondigas Soup

Forget what you think about soup because this albondigas soup recipe is anything but ordinary.

It’s a traditional Mexican soup that’s made up of meatballs, vegetables, and rice in a flavorful broth.

It’s the perfect meal to enjoy on a cold day or any day for that matter.

Source: thefoodieaffair.com

29. Pozole

If you’ve never had pozole it’s a traditional Mexican soup that’s made with hominy and pork.

You can always mix things up and use the protein you like but either way, it’s going to be surprisingly good.

The end result is a hearty and filling soup that will warm you up on even the coldest of nights.

Source: greatgrubdelicioustreats.com

30. Chicken Quesadillas

Kids love them, parents love them, pretty much everyone loves chicken quesadillas.

They’re quick and easy to make, they’re packed with flavor, and they can be customized to your liking. Throw some sour cream, tomatoes, onions, avocado, black bean, cheese, or more and it still tastes good.

Plus, they make for a great lunch, dinner, or even snack.

Source: themagicalslowcooker.com

31. Chili Verde

Chili verde is a classic Mexican dish that’s perfect for a winter night. It’s made up of pork that’s simmered in a tomatillo and green chili sauce until it’s fall apart tender.

Once your family starts getting a whiff of this dish throughout the home they’ll end up joining you in the kitchen till dinner is ready.

Source: dinnersdishesanddesserts.com

32. Margarita Grilled Chicken

You might have noticed this dish at your local Chili’s but you don’t have to go out to eat to enjoy it.

With this recipe, you can make your own right at home. It’s a fun twist on traditional chicken that’s marinated in a margarita mix and then grilled to perfection.

Serve it with some rice and beans or your favorite sides.

Source: maricruzavalos.com

33. Camarones a la Diabla

Camarones a la diabla is a tasty dish that has a bit of a kick to it.

The shrimp are cooked in a delicious sauce made up of tomatoes, peppers, and a variety of other spices. Serve it over some rice with some tortillas on the side for a complete meal.

You can even add some fresh cilantro on the top to make it look restaurant-worthy.

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34. Mango Salsa

There are a ton of different versions of salsa but this mango salsa recipe is one of our favorites.

It’s a delicious and refreshing salsa that’s perfect for summertime.

Plus, it only takes 10 minutes to make so it’s perfect for those last-minute get-togethers.

Source: boulderlocavore.com

35. Chicken Enchiladas

Enchiladas are a classic Mexican dish that’s always a hit so they are great just for the family or even when friends end up coming over.

And this chicken enchilada recipe is one of our favorites. It’s made with a flavorful and easy to make enchilada sauce, chicken, cheese, and your favorite toppings.

Source: eatingonadime.com

36. Pico de Gallo

Here’s another side dish that’s perfect for your next Mexican cuisine feast.

Pico de gallo is a fresh and flavorful salsa made up of tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice.

It’s the perfect topping for tacos, burritos, or even just to eat on its own.

Source: chilipeppermadness.com

37. Mexican Picadillo

If you’ve never heard of picadillo then you’re in for a real treat.

It’s a traditional Mexican dish that’s made up of ground beef, potatoes, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of other spices. You can make plenty and stick some in the fridge to have throughout the next week.

Source: life-in-the-lofthouse.com

38. Chicken Chimichangas

There’s nothing quite like cutting into a freshly baked chimichanga and seeing all of the cheesy goodness oozing out.

This chicken chimichanga recipe is packed with flavor and it’s easy to make. Just throw everything in a blender or food processor and let it do all the work.

Source: eatingwell.com

39. Tostadas

Everyone will enjoy these crispy and flavorful tostadas.

They’re perfect for a quick and easy meal or even as a party appetizer.

You can top them with just about anything you like but we love them with chicken, beans, cheese, and salsa.

Source: brooklynfarmgirl.com

40. Taco Soup

You don’t need a corn tortilla to have a delicious taco soup. This recipe is made up of all of your favorite taco ingredients like ground beef, tomatoes, beans, corn, and more.

And the best part is that it can be made in the crockpot so you can come home to a hot and flavorful meal.

Source: jamjarkitchen.com

41. Stuffed Poblano Peepers

Poblanos might not be your first thought for stuffed peppers but the flavor combination in this dish is out of this world.

These peppers are stuffed with a savory and cheesy filling and look fantastic when you serve them out on the table.

Source: natashaskitchen.com

42. Ceviche

Here’s a classic Mexican coast dish that’s perfect for a hot summer day. Ceviche is made up of fresh fish that’s marinated in lime juice and then mixed with onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and more.

It’s light, refreshing, and should have a little bit of a kick to it.

Source: chelseasmessyapron.com

43. Cilantro Lime Chicken

Make this dish just right and you’ll be left with juicy and flavorful chicken that’s packed with a citrusy flavor.

Cilantro lime chicken is a simple dish that can be made in the oven, on the grill, or even in the crockpot.

Source: cookingwithco*cktailrings.com

44. Mexican Street Tacos

It’s super simple to make your own authentic Mexican street tacos at home.

All you need is some fresh corn tortillas, your favorite fillings, and a little bit of time.

These tacos are the perfect size for a quick snack or a light meal.

Source: keviniscooking.com

45. Pollo Asado

Pollo Asado is a delicious and easy-to-make Mexican dish. It’s made up of chicken that’s marinated in a flavorful orange juice and spice blend and then grilled to perfection.

Serve it with some rice, beans, and your favorite salsa for a complete meal.

The Best Traditional Mexican Food

Don’t be intimidated by making a different culture of food because there are plenty of easy Mexican dishes you can make right at home that doesn’t require any special ingredients. From enchiladas to quesadillas, these Mexican dinner recipes will have you feeling like a pro in no time.