These days, the term “Tex-Mex” is used to describe everything from queso-topped nachos to charro beans.
But this cuisine has its own foodways and rich history.
Depending on where you are in Texas, it might mean something entirely different.
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We guarantee that everything on this list is delicious.
Beef Tamale Pie
Break out yourcast-iron skilletfor a comfort-food fix.
Classic Margarita
Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox
Everyone needs this drink in their repertoire.
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We used pink Himalayan salt to make a fancy rim, but ordinary kosher salt will work too.
The colorful dip is bound to be the star of your next cookout or potluck.
A hearty Tex-Mex dish you’ve got the option to spoon over rice or mashed potatoes.
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For a smooth and creamy dip, we melt shredded white American cheese into a spicy milk mixture.
Add canned green chiles or jalapenos for extra heat if desired.
Sprinkle with Cheddar cheese and bake.
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To make it easy, grab some shredded smoked pork from your favorite BBQ joint.
Tex-Mex Skillet Poblano Dip
Poblano peppers give this melty queso dip flavor with less heat.
Perfect for parties, you could assemble the dip up to three days ahead.
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Then store it in the fridge before putting it in the oven.
Slow-Cooker Carnitas Tacos
This convenient shortcut for crowd-pleasing carnitas tacos will totally transform Tex-Mex Tuesday.
Ranch Water
Looking for a tequila cocktail a little lighter than a margarita?
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Texas Ranch Water is the way to go.
The enchiladas are stuffed with a satisfying egg-sausage-and-cheese mixture, then covered with pepperyCheese Sauce.
you’ve got the option to prepare the dish the night before and bake it in the morning.
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You’ll be craving these enchiladas for every weeknight dinner.
This creamier version is as comforting as the classic recipe, but heartier for cooler nights.
It starts with traditional West Texas Chili and ends with a happy belly.
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To keep the chips crunchy, ladle chili just before serving.
Sheet Pan Fajitas
Don’t sweat over the stovetop for this20-minute recipe.
The fajita fillings char beautifully on a sheet pan before getting tossed with freshly squeezed lime.
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Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken
This is the most versatile weeknight recipe to have on hand.
And with justfive ingredients to prepare, this recipe is a no-brainer.
Texas Caviar
Thisbeloved Lone Star dipstars black-eyed peas and a colorful mix of chopped vegetables.
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The addition of green tomatoes in this version adds a bit of tartness.
Toss with Italian dressing and serve with tortilla chips.
Layered with lots of cheese, this is the supreme comfort casserole.
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Guacamole
This classic guacamole recipe can be customized with your favorite stir-ins and toppings.
The remaining ingredients are simply poured in and cooked on LOW for an easy dinner.
Walking Tacos
What could be more fun than eating dinner straight out of a chip bag?
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I’m definitely adding this to my recipe book," wrote one recipe reviewer named Kim.
These chicken enchiladas are perfect for busy weeknights and can be frozen for leftovers.
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