I Made These 29 Mexican Recipes And Was Glad I Skipped Takeout

Takeout sounded easy, but the wait and the cost felt like too much. The kitchen was quiet, and there was extra time to try something new. A few simple steps made the evening feel better right away. Made these 29 delicious Mexican recipes and was glad takeout got skipped.

Close-up of Mexican Street Corn on the cob topped with creamy sauce, crumbled cheese, chili powder, and chopped cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Baked Beef Tacos

Two tacos with beef, diced tomatoes, jalapeño slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro on a white plate.
Baked Beef Tacos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Skipping the usual takeout felt right when putting together these. Baked Beef Tacos came out perfectly crispy with a hearty touch inside. Putting them together gave a sense of accomplishment. It’s hard to believe how easy and good they turned out.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

Flour Tortilla

Someone placing a tortilla on a stack of tortillas.
Flour Tortilla. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Deciding to try making something yourself can be surprisingly simple. Giving Flour Tortilla a go ended up being a smart choice for homemade freshness. The result was soft and perfect for holding all kinds of fillings. Definitely worth the effort over store-bought versions.
Get the Recipe: Flour Tortilla

Queso Dip

Close-up of creamy cheese dip being poured over chopped tomato salsa with diced onions and cilantro.
Queso Dip. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

It’s amazing what skipping takeout can lead to, like making Queso Dip right at home. Smooth and creamy with that unmistakable cheesy vibe, it’s a treat to whip up. Watching it come together was oddly fun and rewarding. Turns out, quick homemade versions can save a lot of money too.
Get the Recipe: Queso Dip

Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos

A platter of nachos topped with ground meat, melted cheese, sliced jalapeños, cherry tomatoes, black beans, red onions, cilantro, and dollops of sour cream. Lime wedges are on the side.
Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Tossing together something that felt like a treat was the idea. Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos came out as the ultimate combination of favorite flavors. Making it all in one go with a bit of layering was so convenient. It’s the kind of quick dish you’ll want to repeat over and over.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

A plate of bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers filled with cheese, secured with toothpicks, next to a small dish of dipping sauce.
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

It’s a moment when you skip the usual and create something fun. Wrapping up Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers was surprisingly simple yet full of flavor. They came out crispy, spicy, and so indulgent. Great to enjoy hot right out of the oven and worth trying again later.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Guacamole

Close-up of guacamole on a tortilla chip, showing a textured mixture of avocado, herbs, and spices.
Guacamole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Deciding against takeout can open some creative doors, like mixing up Guacamole from scratch. The texture and fresh flavors came out better than expected. No surprises here; it was quick and simple to whip up. It’s one of those recipes you’ll never regret learning to make.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Mexican Rice

A close-up of cooked Mexican rice with a wooden spoon, garnished with chopped parsley.
Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Skipping takeout was a win when making Mexican Rice from scratch. The vibrant look and taste of it came together without much hassle. It’s such a versatile side dish that pairs with just about everything. You’ll wonder why you didn’t make it like this sooner.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice

Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas

Close-up of stacked quesadilla slices filled with cheese, beans, and chicken, topped with sliced jalapeños and cilantro, on a white plate.
Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Pulling together a simple dish kept the day easygoing. Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas turned out golden and filled with just the right amount of flavor. Making them in one pan was a smart trick worth noting. They’ve got all the comfort of takeout but fresher and easy to customize.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas

Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

A bowl of freshly made Copycat Chipotle corn salsa with a serving spoon in it.
Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Skipping the line at a restaurant led to a fun attempt at making something familiar. Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa was surprisingly close to the real deal. The flavors matched up and felt just as fresh and bright. It’s a recipe to return to whenever that craving strikes.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

White Chicken Chili

A bowl of creamy White Chicken Chili with chunks of chicken, sliced avocado, green jalapeño peppers, white beans, and fresh cilantro.
White Chicken Chili. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Homemade meals are surprising sometimes, especially when making White Chicken Chili without much prep. Creamy and hearty, it genuinely felt delicious to create from scratch. The simplicity of it made up for skipping the takeout route. It’s definitely staying on the list of quick favorites.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Chili

7 Layer Dip

A clear glass bowl with 7 Layer Dip featuring beans, white cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, lettuce, and black olives.
7 Layer Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Deciding to skip takeout added a bit of convenience to the day. Putting together 7 Layer Dip ended up being unexpectedly easy and really enjoyable. Layering everything gave it a homemade touch that felt worth the effort. A good reminder that sometimes the simplest recipes are big wins.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Close-up of three spiral pastry rolls on a black plate, filled with herbs and cheese. Green garnish and a jalapeño pepper are in the background.
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Choosing to try something different led to making Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel from scratch. Rolling them up turned out to be quicker than expected. The creamy and spicy combo baked beautifully without much hassle. Great little bites you’ll find hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

A bowl of creamy chicken pasta garnished with herbs, served with a side of rice and a small bowl of fresh parsley.
Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes skipping the regular takeout leads to something exciting like Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. The creamy heat with a hint of spice will surprise you with how simple it is to put together. It’s one of those plates that feels perfect without extra work. Makes a perfect dinner option on busy days.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Taco Soup

A bowl of red soup topped with avocado slices, sour cream, cilantro, sliced onions, corn, and shredded cheese.
Taco Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Forgetting about takeout felt smart when making Taco Soup from homemade basics. The warm and bold flavors came together easily in one pot. Simplicity is the key to this easy and tasty meal. You can’t go wrong with how quick and comforting it is.
Get the Recipe: Taco Soup

Easy Burrito

Someone stacking veggie burritos.
Easy Burrito. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Setting aside the usual takeout got things rolling with homemade goodness. Wrapping up Easy Burrito was way simpler than expected and just what was needed. It’s packed with flavor and easy to pull together in no time. There’s no going back after realizing how fresh it can taste.
Get the Recipe: Easy Burrito

Mexican Casserole

A plated serving of cheesy casserole with ground meat, topped with sliced green onions and parsley, accompanied by a fork.
Mexican Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Cooking at home with layers of flavor always feels rewarding. Making Mexican Casserole gave me a chance to skip takeout and enjoy a hearty dish. It’s rich, comforting, and so easy to put together. Definitely one to keep in my dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Casserole

Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

A close-up image of honey chipotle seasoned roasted potatoes garnished with parsley, served alongside grilled steak and lettuce.
Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Putting together something hearty at home beats ordering out any day. Whipping up Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes was a game changer with its bold flavors. The mix of sweetness and smoky chili made it unforgettable. It’s definitely worth the extra effort in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

Pico de Gallo

A bowl of pico de gallo with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños with a spoon inside, next to a lime and tortilla chips.
Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Making fresh dishes always feels better than buying store-bought. Preparing Pico de Gallo at home brought bright, simple flavors to my table. It’s so quick and easy, yet adds a big kick of freshness to any meal. A true staple for any Mexican-inspired spread.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Three glasses of shrimp cocktail with avocado, lime wedge, and cilantro garnish in a tomato-based sauce, placed on a light-colored surface.
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Restaurant-style meals can easily be recreated at home. Working on Mexican Shrimp Cocktail brought so much vibrancy and texture to my evening snack. It’s refreshing, light, and the perfect alternative to ordering something pricey. Definitely worth making again.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Tortilla Pizza

Four tortilla pizzas on a wooden cutting board.
Tortilla Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Skipping takeout was definitely worth it when I made Tortilla Pizza in my own kitchen. It’s simple, quick, and full of familiar flavors. Using tortillas for the base was a fun change that worked perfectly. Such an easy win for dinner time creativity.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

Huevos Rancheros

A plate of huevos rancheros with sunny-side-up eggs, avocado slices, refried beans, tomato sauce, crumbled cheese, and garnished with green onions and cilantro.
Huevos Rancheros. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Homemade meals are always more tasty when they remind you of classics. Cooking Huevos Rancheros felt comforting with its bold and hearty flavors. It’s perfect for a lazy morning or brunch without depending on a restaurant. Affordable and so easy to whip up!
Get the Recipe: Huevos Rancheros

Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Some picking up a slice of cheese quesadilla.
Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Making quick snacks at home instead of grabbing takeout always feels better. Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla brought that gooey and crispy combo I was craving. It only took a few minutes and was surprisingly easy. Definitely one of those go-to snacks I’ll be making more often.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Tamales

Two cooked tamales nestled in corn husks, with a bowl of fresh cilantro partially visible on the left side.
Tamales. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cooking from scratch can be a lot of work but so worth it. Putting together Tamales made me appreciate the process of creating something so traditional. Their rich, hearty texture paired with flavor beats takeout any day. A labor of love I’ll gladly make again.
Get the Recipe: Tamales

Jalapeno Poppers

Baked jalapenos on a plate with dipping sauce.
Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Quick homemade appetizers are always a win in my book. Tossing together Jalapeno Poppers satisfied the craving without dialing for delivery. That crunch paired with the perfect heat was spot-on. Ideal as a fun, shareable treat straight from my kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeno Poppers

Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

A Copycat Chipotle burrito bowl, filled with rice, fajita veggies, corn salsa, tortilla chips. and topped with a lime wedge.
Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Recreating restaurant favorites at home is easier than I thought. Making Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl was cost-effective and tasted better too. I loved being able to tweak things to suit my own preferences. Definitely sticking with homemade versions over pricey meals.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

Vegetarian Chili

Two bowls of chili with onions and sour cream.
Vegetarian Chili. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Skipping takeout feels smart when you can whip up something flavorful. Stirring up Vegetarian Chili brought so much warmth and richness to a simple recipe. It’s filling and works beautifully as a one-pot meal. Happy to keep it as a regular dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Chili

Refried Beans

A bowl of homemade refried beans and lime wedges.
Refried Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Making side dishes at home beats opening a can or ordering out. Preparing Refried Beans gave me full control over flavors and texture. It’s straightforward, affordable, and makes Mexican meals feel complete. Simple home cooking at its best.
Get the Recipe: Refried Beans

Fajita Seasoning

Homemade fajita seasoning in a bowl with a spoon in it.
Fajita Seasoning. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Homemade meal prep saves time and money in the long run. Mixing Fajita Seasoning means I’ll get bold flavors without ever needing store-bought ones again. It’s easy to make ahead and stores wonderfully for whenever it’s needed. Definitely worth the few minutes it takes to create.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Seasoning

Mexican Street Corn

Close-up of Mexican Street Corn on the cob topped with creamy sauce, crumbled cheese, chili powder, and chopped cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Skipping restaurant-style sides at home feels like such a win. Whipping up Mexican Street Corn brought bright, bold textures and flavor to my plate. It’s messy, fun, and absolutely worth cooking yourself. Perfect for pairing with any meal or enjoying on its own.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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