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Mexican Dinner Ideas: Enchiladas and Tacos

When it comes to Mexican cuisine, few dishes are as universally loved as enchiladas and tacos. These classic staples offer a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and culinary techniques that make them irresistible.

According to a survey conducted in 2020, it’s a toss-up between tacos and enchiladas as to which is more popular among Americans. 

Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or simply looking to spice up your weeknight meals, enchiladas and tacos are sure to be a hit. In this article, we’ll explore some creative Mexican dinner ideas that feature these beloved dishes, and we promise, you won’t need to be a culinary expert to pull them off!

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Tacos: A Handheld Feast

cooked tacos
Photo by Chad Montano on Unsplash

Classic Beef Tacos

You can never go wrong with the classic ground beef taco. Serve it with a variety of toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa for a customizable meal.

Fish Tacos with Slaw

For a lighter option, grilled or battered fish tacos paired with a tangy cabbage slaw offer a refreshing twist.

Chicken Tinga Tacos

Shredded chicken cooked in a smoky chipotle sauce makes for a flavorful and easy-to-make taco filling.

Vegan Tacos

Plant-based eaters can enjoy tacos too! Mushroom, squash blossom, or jackfruit make excellent meat substitutes and pair well with traditional Mexican spices.


Ingredients

  • Corn tortillas
  • Protein of choice (chicken, beef or tofu)
  • Toppings (lettuce, cheese, salsa)

Steps

  1. Heat the tortillas.
  2. Cook the protein.
  3. Assemble and enjoy!

That’s the end to the Mexican dinner ideas section with tacos! But don’t worry, we still have the enchilada section to take a look at.


Enchiladas: A Canvas for Creativity

The Classic Cheese Enchilada

The cheese enchilada is a simple yet satisfying dish that pleases both kids and adults. Pair it with a tangy tomatillo sauce and a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco for a delightful experience.

Seafood Enchiladas

For a more sophisticated take, consider seafood enchiladas filled with shrimp, crab, or a combination of both. Drizzle a creamy chipotle sauce on top for a smoky kick.

Veggie Delight

For vegetarians or those looking to incorporate more greens into their diet, a vegetable enchilada filled with zucchini, bell peppers, and corn is a colorful and nutritious option.

Enchilada Casserole

If you’re feeding a crowd, an enchilada casserole is a convenient and equally delicious alternative. Layer your chosen fillings between tortillas and bake until bubbly and golden.


Ingredients

  • Corn tortillas
  • Filling (chicken, cheese, or veggies)
  • Enchilada sauce

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven.
  2. Prepare the filling.
  3. Roll, sauce, and bake!

Sides and Accompaniments

Guacamole

A bowl of freshly made guacamole is a must-have. The creamy avocado dip complements both enchiladas and tacos.

Mexican Rice

Fluffy and flavorful, Mexican rice adds substance and color to your dinner spread.

Refried Beans

A side of refried beans not only adds protein to your meal but also serves as a delicious topping for both enchiladas and tacos.

Margaritas or Agua Fresca

Whether you prefer a classic margarita or a non-alcoholic agua fresca, a refreshing drink is the perfect way to round off your Mexican dinner.

Conclusion

Enchiladas and tacos are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile. They provide many Mexican dinner ideas. With a variety of fillings, sauces, and toppings to choose from, the possibilities are endless. So the next time you’re pondering what to make for dinner, let these Mexican classics inspire you. Happy cooking!