Taco Tuesday sounds fun until you’re knee-deep in shredded lettuce, chopping a million toppings, and trying to keep everything warm. It’s a mess. Tacos might seem easy, but by the time you’ve cooked, prepped, and assembled, you’re wondering why you didn’t just order takeout. If you’re tired of the chaos and the same old taco routine, it’s time for something better. These Mexican-inspired dishes bring all the flavor without the taco hassle. From one-pan fajitas to stuffed poblanos, you’ll actually enjoy Tuesday night again without the mountain of dishes and taco burnout.
Mexican Vegetable Soup
A quick, hearty veggie soup that’s perfect for when you’re tired of tacos. It’s ready in under 20 minutes and you can throw in whatever veggies are hanging around. Simple, easy, and great for a change.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Vegetable Soup
Sheet Pan Steak & Shrimp Fajitas
Ditch the tacos and try these sheet pan steak and shrimp fajitas. Everything cooks in one pan, and it’s all done in less than 20 minutes. Perfect for a lazy Tuesday night.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Steak & Shrimp Fajitas
Jicama Salad
This fresh jicama salad adds crunch and brightness to your Mexican-themed night. Tossed with mango, red pepper, and cucumber, it’s the perfect side when you’re done with tacos.
Get the Recipe: Jicama Salad
Blackened Shrimp Tacos
Not your average tacos. These shrimp tacos come with a cherry salsa and grilled corn for a summer vibe. A solid pick when you’re tired of the same taco fillings.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Tacos
Carne Asada Nachos
Carne asada nachos loaded with all the good stuff—melted cheese, guac, pico, and lime crema. Forget tacos and grab a plate of these for your next Mexican fix.
Get the Recipe: Carne Asada Nachos
Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers
Stuffed with chicken, black beans, and cheese, these poblano peppers are a great swap when tacos just aren’t cutting it. Quick to prep and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers
Mexican Stuffed Onions
These stuffed onions are filled with couscous, chicken, salsa, and cheese. A fun way to mix up your Mexican dinners when tacos feel a little overdone.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Stuffed Onions
Slow Cooker Shredded Mexican Beef Bowls
Let your slow cooker do the work. These shredded beef bowls with rice, beans, and peppers are perfect for meal prepping a Mexican dinner that’s not tacos again.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Shredded Mexican Beef Bowls
Sopa de Lima
A traditional lime soup from the Yucatán, this dish is perfect for when you want something different but still crave Mexican flavors. Simple and full of zing.
Get the Recipe: Sopa de Lima
Spicy Shrimp Tostadas
Tostadas with spicy shrimp and a jalapeño avocado sauce hit the spot when tacos just aren’t doing it anymore. Crunchy and fresh, it’s a fun dinner switch-up.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Shrimp Tostadas
Mexican Ground Beef Skillet
This ground beef skillet brings all the taco flavors but without the taco shells. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s great when you want a one-pan meal with less mess.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Ground Beef Skillet
Taco Lasagna
If lasagna met taco night, this would be it. Layers of cheese, meat, and tortillas make this dish a fun take on Tuesday night without sticking to the taco script.
Get the Recipe: Taco Lasagna
Turkey Chili Pie
A lean turkey chili topped with cornbread, all baked together in one skillet. It’s a great alternative to tacos, giving you that hearty Mexican-inspired flavor without the same old routine.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chili Pie
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
