55+ Mexican Dinner Ideas

This collection of Mexican dinner ideas is quick, easy, and full of flavor. Every recipe is here to help you have the perfect fiesta!

Kristyn’s Appetizer Tips

Like any dinner party you’ll want to plan your menu beforehand. 

  • Decide which dishes you want to make fresh and which dishes can be made ahead of time. (See the individual recipes for more storage and reheating information.)
  • Mix in traditional favorites with a couple new dishes. Be sure to try out the new dishes beforehand to work out any recipe kinks.
  • Use dishes with different flavors and textures.

Typically, for a meal with guests we like to have the following:

  • APPETIZERS â€“ 1-2 (Salsas + Dips can be made ahead of time.)
  • SIDES â€“ 1 (Rice is a great one that can be made ahead and kept WARM in the slow cooker or chafing dish)
  • MAIN DISHES â€“ 1-2 (That can be made ahead of time). Anything Fried is usually made right before serving.
  • DESSERTS â€“ 1 (Usually made ahead of time and extended with ice cream)
  • Pairing Mexican entrees with Mexican desserts? I love all my entrees and all my desserts. I think many of my traditional Mexican entrees like EnchiladasTacos, or Burritos are perfect for serving with these traditional Mexican desserts. When considering what dessert to make, I tend to factor in how much time I have, what kind of balance I can add, and what kind of atmosphere I’m trying to create.
  • Time. If I’m making a more involved entrée, I will choose a dessert that is easier or can be made ahead of time.
  • Balance. I may want to balance out a heavy meal with a light dessert. If it’s cold outside, I may decide to serve a warm entrée and a warm dessert. Or vice versa to both. If I’m serving more than one dessert, I’ll choose two desserts with different tastes and textures.
  • Atmosphere. I decide if I want to be able to provide a formal sit-down dessert or one I can set out and can be eaten at leisure. 

All Mexican Recipes