Taco Inspired Recipes
The combination of crunchy shells, melty cheese, fresh toppings, and bold flavors is hard to beat. But tacos don’t have to be just the same old chicken or beef there’s a whole world of taco-inspired meals that are easy, fun, and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.
We have put together some of our favorite taco-inspired recipes from classic takes to creative twists, so you can mix and match for your next taco night
Quesabirria Tacos
These Quesabirria Tacos are everything you could want in a taco tender, slow-cooked beef, gooey melted cheese, and a crispy tortilla. Dipped in rich consommé, they take the taco experience to a whole new level. They’re perfect for when you want something indulgent without a ton of prep work because most of the cooking is hands-off in the slow cooker.
Smash Burger Tacos
Who says you can’t have burgers and tacos at the same time? These Smash Burger Tacos put juicy burger patties into tortillas with melty cheese and flavorful toppings. They’re quick to cook, easy to assemble, and a fun way to switch up taco night while keeping it simple.
Shrimp Tostadas
Crispy tostadas topped with seasoned shrimp, avocado, and a zesty sauce make these a refreshing taco-inspired option. They’re light, flavorful, and come together in minutes, making them a perfect choice for a lazy weeknight when you still want something special.
Crockpot Chicken and Beef Taco Soup
All the flavors of tacos in a warm, comforting soup! This Crockpot Chicken and Beef Taco Soup is hearty, full of protein, and packed with taco seasonings and veggies. It’s a great one-pot meal for busy evenings and gives you the taco taste without the mess of building individual tacos.
Easy Guacamole
No taco spread is complete without guacamole. This easy recipe mixes ripe avocados, lime, and a few fresh ingredients for a creamy, tangy topping. It’s versatile enough to use on tacos, tostadas, or as a dip for chips while you wait for the rest of dinner.
Mexican Elotes (Street Corn)
Grilled corn slathered in a creamy, tangy sauce with a sprinkle of cheese, Mexican Elotes is a classic Mexican side that pairs perfectly with tacos. It’s fun to make, adds texture to the meal, and brings a little street-food magic to your dinner table with almost no effort.
Easy Mangonada
This sweet and spicy mango drink might not be a taco, but this Mangonada is a fun, refreshing addition to taco night. The combination of mango, chili, and lime complements savory tacos beautifully, and it’s an easy way to add a special touch to your meal without extra cooking.
Dorito Chicken Tenders
Crispy chicken tenders coated in crushed Doritos are fun, flavorful, and perfect for a taco-inspired spread. These Dorito Chicken Tenders can stand alone or be chopped up to add inside tacos for a crunchy twist, making them a hit with both kids and adults.
Black Bean Rice Enchiladas
Soft tortillas filled with black beans and rice, smothered in enchilada sauce, make a hearty taco-adjacent option. This Black Bean Rice Enchiladas bring all the flavors of a taco beans, spices, and melted cheese in a slightly different format, perfect for swapping things up on taco night.
Easy Salsa
Fresh, tangy, and full of flavor, this simple salsa is essential for any taco-inspired meal. Spoon it over tacos, serve it on the side, or use it as a dip it elevates everything and is so quick to prepare that it feels almost effortless.
Taco-inspired meals show just how creative and versatile dinner can be. From yummy Tacos to simple salsa and guacamole, there’s something here for every taste and every night of the week.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, these easy and flavorful taco-inspired dishes will bring bold flavors and fun to your dinner table, all without a ton of effort.
