32 Easy Mexican Dishes That Take 30 Minutes or Less
Updated: Aug. 07, 2024
Spice up your weeknights with these easy Mexican dinners that range from authentic to Mexican-inspired.
Mexican cuisine is comforting and incredibly versatile, making it a fun addition to casual weeknight meals and special occasions alike. Our collection of easy Mexican dishes brings the fiesta to your table without the fuss. Sizzling fajitas, loaded salads and Mexican soups all make the list, and these quick recipes prove that delicious doesn’t have to mean time-consuming.
Grab your favorite salsa, make a big batch of homemade taco seasoning and source some masa harina for homemade tortillas. Many of these recipes are easily customizable, allowing you to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. Generally, though, you’ll want to have beans and chips in the pantry, corn in the freezer and peppers and tomatoes in the produce bowl. And don’t forget the beef, chicken and cilantro in the fridge. You’ll be saying “¡Delicioso!” in no time!
Loaded Mexican Pizza
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Pizza crust, black beans, bell pepper, tomatoes, jalapeno, cheese
Level: Beginner
A crispy pizza crust serves as the canvas for savory taco meat, gooey cheese and an array of your favorite toppings. It’s one of those comfort food mashups that kids will love to help assemble.
“My husband is a picky eater, but this healthy pizza has such amazing flavor that he looks forward to it. Leftovers taste even better the next day.” —Recipe contributor Mary Barker, Knoxville, Tennessee
Black Bean and Beef Tostadas
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Ground beef, diced tomatoes with green chiles, beans, tostada shells
Level: Beginner
Crispy black bean and beef tostadas elevate your weekly taco night, especially if you top them with homemade salsa. A crunchy tortilla base is piled high with seasoned beef, hearty black beans and fresh toppings like cheese, lettuce and sour cream.
“You only need a handful of ingredients to make one of our family’s favorites. Also easy to double for company!” —Recipe contributor Susan Brown, Kansas City, Kansas
Instant Pot Taco Pasta
Total Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Ground beef, pasta, taco seasoning, cheese
Level: Beginner
Using a pressure cooker takes the hassle out of dinner prep and infuses the pasta with quintessential taco flavors in record time. This easy Mexican dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next potluck—it’s also easily customizable with your favorite toppings.
“This dish is a welcome change from boring taco Tuesday. I’ve taken all the flavors of tacos and created an easy pasta dish. Kids love the taste, and I love how quick and easy it is to put together in the electric pressure cooker. To lighten things up, use ground turkey instead of the beef.” —Recipe contributor Christine Hadden, Whitman, Massachusetts
Vegetarian Skillet Enchiladas
Total Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Red pepper, black beans, enchilada sauce, corn, Mexican cheese, corn tortillas
Level: Beginner
This one-pot meal takes the hassle out of meal prepping, making it one of our favorite easy Mexican dishes to make on busy weeknights. Because there’s no assembly required like traditional enchiladas, the cook time is cut almost in half.
“Whether served for meatless Monday or your family’s everyday vegetarian meal, these unconventional enchiladas will leave everyone asking for more.” —Recipe contributor Susan Court, Pewaukee, Wisconsin
Taco Soup
Total Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, taco seasoning
Level: Beginner
Don’t skimp on the taco seasoning here—it’s what gives this soup its signature flavor. Think of it like a taco-style chili. Top with your favorite fixings for a customizable dinner everyone will love.
“We first sampled this chili-like soup at a church dinner. What a warming dish for a cold day. And because it uses packaged seasonings with several cans of vegetables, it’s a snap to prepare.” —Recipe contributor Glenda Taylor, Sand Springs, Oklahoma
Quick Tacos al Pastor
Total Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Pork roast, pineapple, enchilada sauce, tortillas, onion, cilantro
Level: Beginner
For those seeking easy Mexican dishes with authentic flavor, these quick tacos al pastor are a must-try. Succulent marinated pork mingles with sweet pineapple chunks, creating the perfect balance of savory and sweet. Top with fresh cilantro and onions for a true taste of Mexico.
“My husband and I tried pork and pineapple tacos at a truck stand in Hawaii. Something about them was so tasty, I decided to make my own version at home.” —Recipe contributor Lori McLain, Denton, Texas
Cowboy Caviar (Corn and Black Bean Salad)
Total Time: 15 minutes + chillingMain Ingredients: Black-eyed peas, black beans, tomatoes, corn, onion, cilantro
Level: Beginner
Loaded with corn, black beans, tomatoes and cilantro, this colorful and crunchy salad is particularly refreshing on hot summer days. A tangy lime dressing helps brighten the salad and showcase its star ingredients. Serve alongside tortilla chips.
“This colorful, crunchy salad is chock-full of easy-to-swallow nutrition that all ages will love. Try it with a variety of summer entrees, or as a wholesome salsa!” —Recipe contributor Krista Frank, Rhododendron, Oregon
Burritos
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Ground beef, tortillas, cheese, beans
Level: Beginner
These beefy burritos are filled with seasoned beef and beans, wrapped in a warm tortilla and ready in 30 minutes. They’re even better the next day, making them a perfect meal prep recipe.
“My cousin is of Mexican heritage, and I’ve watched her make this crunchy beef burrito recipe for years. The very first time I made them for my own family, they instantly became a favorite meal. They’re even better warmed up the next day in the microwave.” —Recipe contributor Debi Lane, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Pork Quesadillas with Fresh Salsa
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Pork, peppers, tomatoes, cilantro, jalapeno, tortillas, cheese
Level: Beginner
When it comes to easy Mexican dishes, these quesadillas are hard to beat—they’re perfect for nights when you’re craving south-of-the-border flavors but don’t want to leave the house. The recipe uses cooked pork, so we like using it when we have leftovers we want to get creative with.
“I threw this together one night when I was in the mood for quesadillas but didn’t feel like going out. The homemade salsa is so tasty and versatile that you may want to double the recipe.” —Recipe contributor Adam Gaylord, Natick, Massachusetts
Ground Beef Taco Salad
Total Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Ground beef, bean dip, lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, corn chips
Level: Beginner
If you’re craving tacos but want something lighter, try this ground beef taco salad. Essentially a deconstructed taco, this is one of our favorite easy Mexican dishes to make when presentation doesn’t matter so much.
“In spring we look for something light and refreshing on the menu after the heavier comfort food of winter; this salad is a great solution.” —Recipe contributor Muriel Bertrand, Shoreview, Minnesota
Blue-Ribbon Beef Nachos
Total Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Ground beef, onions, beans, salsa, cheese, tortilla chips
Level: Beginner
These beef nachos are a hit at any gathering, taking just 30 minutes to prep and cook. Ground beef is cooked with chili powder and salsa, then layered over tortilla chips with cheese, tomatoes and olives. Top with your favorite nacho fixings.
“Chili powder and convenient jarred salsa season a zesty mixture of ground beef and refried beans that’s sprinkled with green onions, tomatoes and ripe olives.” —Recipe contributor Diane Hixon, Niceville, Florida
Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Rotisserie chicken, sour cream, salsa verde, tortillas, tomatoes, cilantro, cheese
Level: Beginner
Spice up your casserole routine with this Tex-Mex-inspired salsa verde chicken bake. Rotisserie chicken is smothered in tangy salsa verde and melted cheese, creating a one-pot wonder that’s bursting with flavor. Pair it with other Tex-Mex food for a whole feast.
“This is a rich and surprisingly tasty rendition of a number of Tex-Mex dishes molded into one packed, beautiful casserole. Best of all, it’s ready in hardly any time!” —Recipe contributor Janet McCormick, Proctorville, Ohio
Vegan Burritos
Total Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Black beans, brown rice, bell pepper, onion, garlic, salsa, tortillas
Level: Beginner
Vegan burritos are a staple for busy nights or when you’re trying to cut meat consumption. Seasoned beans and rice combine to create a satisfying meal that still has plenty of protein.
“These hearty and zippy burritos can be whipped up in a jiffy.” —Recipe contributor Kimberly Hardison, Maitland, Florida
Shrimp Quesadilla
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Shrimp, onion, jalapeno, tomato, tortilla, cheese
Level: Beginner
Tired of regular old cheese quesadillas? Seasoned shrimp and a melted Mexican cheese blend create a mouthwatering filling, while tortillas crisp to golden perfection on the stovetop. If you have time, you can even make your own flour tortillas.
“Switch up your normal quesadilla toppings with this recipe. Serve with salsa on the side and a frosty smoothie, if you like.” —Recipe contributor Tiffany Bryson-San Antonio, Texas
Meatless Taco Salad
Total Time: 20 minutesMain Ingredients: Guacamole, sour cream, green onions, bell pepper, lettuce, tomatoes, beans, olives, corn chips, cheese
Level: Beginner
Meatless taco salad makes a light yet satisfying meal. Packed with protein-rich kidney beans and crisp veggies, it’s a refreshing take on traditional tacos. Of course, just because the recipe doesn’t include meat doesn’t mean you can’t add any. Grilled chicken or sliced flank steak would be tasty pairings.
“This colorful entree combines popular taco ingredients—minus the ground beef. And you won’t miss the meat at all! I top each serving with a creamy guacamole dressing, crunchy corn chips and cheese.” —Recipe contributor Kimberly Dray, Pflugerville, Texas
Taco Noodle Casserole
Total Time: 30 minutes + standingMain Ingredients: Ground beef, egg noodles, tomato sauce, green chiles, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes
Level: Beginner
When you’re in the mood for easy Mexican dishes, try this simple taco noodle bake. Tender noodles are smothered in a cheesy sauce and topped with taco-seasoned ground beef, creating a casserole that’ll feed the whole family.
“I got creative while we were housebound during a snowstorm one winter and used ingredients I had on hand to come up with this hearty taco noodle casserole.” —Recipe contributor Judy Munger, Warren, Minnesota
Black Bean Chicken with Rice
Total Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Chicken, black beans, brown rice, corn, salsa
Level: Beginner
Simple seasonings like chili powder and cumin really elevate chicken breasts. Black beans and corn are a cheap and quick way to add nutrients to dinner, and topping it over brown rice brings everything together.
“This spicy family favorite calls for just a few basic ingredients, so it’s quick and easy to stir up in your skillet on a weeknight.” —Recipe contributor Molly Newman, Portland, Oregon
Halibut Fish Tacos
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Halibut, tortillas, mango salsa, cabbage
Level: Beginner
Bring the taste of the coast to your kitchen with this easy Mexican dish. Flaky, seasoned halibut is grilled to keep it tender on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. Zesty mango salsa keeps things sweet without overpowering the delicate fish.
“I sometimes serve the fish wrapped in lettuce instead of tortillas. Either way, the mango salsa tastes amazing with grilled halibut. This warm-weather favorite is quick, colorful and full of nutrients.” —Recipe contributor Susan Brown, Kansas City, Kansas
Chicken Fajitas
Total Time: 30 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Chicken, bell peppers, onions, fajita seasoning, tortillas
Level: Beginner
The marinated chicken creates a mouthwatering combination when paired with colorful bell peppers and onions. It’s one of those easy Mexican dishes that satisfies cravings for bold flavors. For that sizzling effect you see in restaurants, we recommend cooking these on a cast-iron skillet.
“This chicken fajitas recipe is definitely on my weeknight dinner rotation. The marinated chicken in these popular wraps is mouthwatering. The fajitas go together in a snap and always get raves!” —Recipe contributor Julie Sterchi, Campbellsville, Kentucky
The Ultimate Fish Tacos
Total Time: 30 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Mahi mahi, corn tortillas, red cabbage, cilantro, salsa verde, lime
Level: Beginner
Bring the beach to your dining room with grilled fish tacos. Ground cardamom adds a fun twist to traditional fish taco seasoning, and red cabbage lends sweet crunch to the mix.
“This recipe is my favorite meal to prepare. Adding my own personal touch to the marinade makes my fish tacos pop with flavor. I warm corn tortillas on the grill and add salsa, cilantro, purple cabbage and fresh squeezed lime.” —Recipe contributor Yvonne Molina, Moreno Valley, California
Flank Steak with Cilantro Salsa Verde
Total Time: 25 minutesMain Ingredients: Flank steak, cilantro, salsa verde, avocado, tomato
Level: Beginner
Juicy slices of flank steak are charred to perfection and paired with a tangy homemade salsa. Taking just 30 minutes to come together, it’s a restaurant-worthy dish that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. Serve it with colorful Mexican sides like street corn or avocado salad.
“Even though steak is always a winner in our house, to make it even more special I add jarred salsa verde and top with freshly chopped tomato and avocado.” —Recipe contributor Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Shredded Chicken Tostadas
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Chicken, taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, tostada shells, cheese
Level: Beginner
Crispy tortillas are topped with well-seasoned slow-cooker chicken and your choice of toppings. Finish with sliced jalapenos and fresh cilantro for a meal that’s as enjoyable to assemble as it is to eat.
“These flavorful tostadas are super easy and family friendly. You won’t believe how tender and juicy the chicken comes out. Just load up the tostadas with your favorite fresh toppings, and you have one simple, sensational meal.” —Recipe contributor Lisa Kenny, Houston, Texas
Smothered Burritos
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Ground beef, tortillas, cheese, salsa verde, enchilada sauce
Level: Beginner
Five ingredients are all that’s needed to make these smothered burritos. It’s a filling and comforting meal that’s great for those nights when you don’t want to put a lot of thought into dinner prep or presentation.
“My brother-in-law teased that I knew how to make only five things using ground beef. I had to prove him wrong, and came back with these burritos.” —Recipe contributor Kim Kenyon, Greenwood, Missouri
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Chicken, green chiles, jalapeno, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, tortilla chips
Level: Beginner
Top tortilla soup with crispy tortilla strips to achieve the perfect crunch with each soupy bite. For added heat, we also love topping the soup with jalapeno slices.
“This chicken tortilla soup is as good as (if not better than) any I’ve had in a restaurant. I get so many compliments when I serve it: You will, too.” —Recipe contributor Laura Black Johnson, Largo, Florida
Grilled Onion & Skirt Steak Tacos
Total Time: 20 minutes + marinatingMain Ingredients: Skirt steak, onions, beer, lime juice, corn tortillas
Level: Beginner
There’s something magical about the combination of beer-and-lime-marinated skirt steak with charred onions. We can’t get enough of the smoky flavors from the grill—the final squeeze of lime juice brightens up the entire dish. Choose any of these Mexican beers, and serve the remaining bottles with the tacos!
“My grandparents came from Mexico, and I grew up watching my grandmother and mother in the kitchen. This steak marinated in beer and lime juice honors their passion for cooking.” —Recipe contributor Adan Franco, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Steak Fajitas
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Flank steak, tomatoes, onion, lime juice, jalapeno, cilantro, tortillas
Level: Beginner
A fresh bowl of homemade salsa is the key to transforming traditional fajitas into something special. Serve these with warm tortillas and let everyone build their own, making it an interactive dinner that comes together in no time.
“Zesty salsa and tender strips of steak make these traditional fajitas extra special.” —Recipe contributor Rebecca Baird, Salt Lake City, Utah
Chicken & Spanish Cauliflower “Rice”
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Chicken, cauliflower rice, bell pepper, onion, garlic, tomato juice
Level: Beginner
This low-carb twist on a classic is one of our go-to cauliflower rice recipes. Plus, it’s paleo-friendly for those watching their carbs!
“I learned about the paleo diet from some friends who now have tons of energy and are super fit. Since then, I’ve changed my eating habits, too. Everyone from my dad to my little nephew loves this chicken in Spanish cauliflower rice.” —Recipe contributor Megan Schmoldt, Westminster, Colorado
Tex-Mex Chicken Strips
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Chicken, corn chips, panko, cheese, seasonings
Level: Beginner
Who knew crushing up leftover corn chips could create such a deliciously crispy coating? There’s a satisfying crunch to these Tex-Mex-flavored baked chicken strips and stuffing them with melty cheese takes them to the next level.
“I was looking for a way to amp up the flavor of regular chicken strips so I crushed up some leftover corn chips to create a crispy, flavorful coating.” —Recipe contributor Cynthia Gerken, Naples, Florida
Bean Burritos
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Beans, tortillas, cheese, salsa, rice
Level: Beginner
Filled with seasoned refried beans, cheese, rice and salsa, these bean burritos are one of our favorite easy Mexican dishes. Out of refried beans? Use canned black beans for a quick substitute.
“I always have the ingredients for this cheesy burrito recipe on hand. Cooking the rice and shredding the cheese the night before saves precious minutes at dinnertime.” —Recipe contributor Beth Osborne Skinner, Bristol, Tennessee
Vegan Taco Salad
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Red pepper, plant-based meat crumbles, salsa, lettuce, beans, tortilla chips, corn, tomatoes, avocado, ranch
Level: Beginner
This salad proves that plant-based meals can be vibrant and delicious. The vegan meatless crumbles provide a hearty “meaty” texture, making this a satisfying dish even for diners who aren’t vegan.
“The best salads are made with ingredients that have different textures and complementary flavors. In this vegan taco salad, you’ll love the crunch of the tortilla chips with the sweet, crisp lettuce and “meaty” crumble mixture.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Chicken Quesadillas
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Chicken, tortillas, cheese, peppers
Level: Beginner
Chicken quesadillas are a great way to use up leftover chicken, whether it’s been grilled, pan-fried or baked. Instead of trying to flip your quesadillas on the stovetop and risk cheese and meat falling out, this recipe calls for baking them in the oven.
“Leftover chicken gets Mexican flair from cumin in this fun main dish. The recipe has an impressive look and taste with little preparation.” —Recipe contributor Linda Wetzel, Woodland Park, Colorado
Crunchy Chili Lime Shrimp
Total Time: 30 minutesMain Ingredients: Shrimp, lime, tortilla chips, cherry tomatoes, avocado
Level: Beginner
This shrimp dish will be your secret weapon for impressing guests on short notice. The bright flavors of cilantro and lime pair perfectly with the subtle heat from the ancho chile.
“Easy, quick and family friendly, this shrimp recipe is dairy free and comes together in about 30 minutes. The secret is the bright flavor-packed sauce. Serve over greens, store-bought slaw or cauliflower rice.” —Recipe contributor Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Easy Mexican Dishes FAQ
What are the best easy Mexican dishes for beginners?
If you’re new to the world of Mexican cuisine, opt for recipes like tacos, quesadillas and burritos. They are straightforward, use relatively few ingredients and can easily be customized with fillings and toppings based on your tastes and preferred spice level.
What quick sides can I serve with a Mexican dinner?
Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a delicious side that pairs well with a variety of Mexican main dishes. You can also make a bowl of guacamole—here’s how to tell if your avocadoes are ripe enough to make it—or restaurant-style salsa to include on the table.
What are the easiest traditional Mexican recipes?
Some of the easiest traditional Mexican recipes include enchiladas and pozole. These dishes often involve simple ingredients and easy-to-follow cooking techniques. Because flavors tend to marry best with time, many Mexican recipes are easy in terms of technique, but might be more time-consuming with marinating, assembling and cooking. Don’t let the prep time intimidate you!
Originally Published: February 26, 2018
