35+ Heartwarming Mexican BBQ Beef Recipes to Satisfy Your Cravings

If you’re a fan of bold, smoky flavors and tender, juicy meat, then Mexican BBQ beef recipes should be at the top of your grilling list.

From juicy, marinated steaks to savory beef-filled tacos, these recipes bring a vibrant fusion of traditional Mexican spices and BBQ techniques that will elevate your next cookout.

Whether you’re looking for something hearty for dinner or appetizers that will impress your guests, Mexican BBQ beef offers endless possibilities for mouthwatering meals.

In this post, we’ve gathered more than 35 of the best Mexican BBQ beef recipes that promise to satisfy every craving.

These recipes use rich marinades, flavorful rubs, and plenty of smoky grilling to create the ultimate beef dishes.

From classic beef fajitas to grilled beef skewers and BBQ beef ribs, there’s a recipe for every occasion.

So fire up the grill and get ready to dive into a world of bold flavors!

35+ Heartwarming Mexican BBQ Beef Recipes to Satisfy Your Cravings

Mexican BBQ beef recipes are the perfect way to bring the heat and excitement of Mexican cuisine into your backyard grilling.

Whether you choose to make smoky beef tacos, tender ribs, or spicy beef skewers, each dish promises layers of flavor that will delight your taste buds.

The versatility of Mexican BBQ beef ensures there’s something for everyone—whether you prefer a traditional recipe or are looking for a unique twist on classic barbecue.

These 35+ recipes will inspire you to try new flavors, techniques, and combinations, making your next BBQ feast unforgettable.

So, grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and prepare for a flavor-packed journey through the world of Mexican BBQ beef!

Chipotle-Glazed BBQ Beef Brisket

This Chipotle-Glazed BBQ Beef Brisket recipe combines the smoky heat of chipotle peppers with the tender succulence of slow-cooked beef. Perfect for backyard gatherings, this dish brings the flavors of Mexican barbecue to your plate. The glaze is rich, slightly sweet, and irresistibly spicy, making every bite a flavor-packed experience.

Ingredients

• 4 lbs beef brisket
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup beef broth

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or smoker to 250°F.
2. Rub the brisket with olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. In a blender, puree the chipotle peppers, brown sugar, vinegar, and beef broth to make the glaze.
4. Place the brisket on the grill or smoker. Cook for 4–6 hours, basting every hour with the chipotle glaze.
5. Remove the brisket once it reaches an internal temperature of 200°F. Wrap it in foil and let it rest for 30 minutes.
6. Slice and serve with extra glaze on the side.

The Chipotle-Glazed BBQ Beef Brisket is a standout dish that highlights the richness of Mexican spices. Its smoky aroma and tender texture make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Pair with grilled vegetables and fresh tortillas for an authentic experience.

Ancho Chili BBQ Short Ribs

Ancho Chili BBQ Short Ribs are the epitome of smoky and savory Mexican barbecue. Infused with the deep, earthy flavors of ancho chilies and a touch of sweetness, these ribs are slow-cooked to perfection. Ideal for family dinners or festive occasions, they embody the essence of comfort and flavor.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs beef short ribs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 ancho chilies, rehydrated and blended
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the short ribs on all sides.
2. In a saucepan, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add tomato puree, ancho chili paste, honey, vinegar, cumin, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Place the ribs in a slow cooker and pour the sauce over them. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
4. Serve with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

The tender, fall-off-the-bone goodness of these Ancho Chili BBQ Short Ribs will leave everyone asking for seconds. Pair with Mexican rice and a tangy slaw for a balanced meal.

Carne Asada BBQ Beef Tacos

These Carne Asada BBQ Beef Tacos bring bold Mexican flavors to your BBQ party. Marinated in a zesty blend of lime, garlic, and spices, the beef is grilled to perfection and served in warm tortillas with vibrant toppings.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs flank steak
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice of 3 limes
• 1 orange, juiced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Corn or flour tortillas

Instructions

1. Mix garlic, lime juice, orange juice, cumin, chili powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Marinate the steak for 4–6 hours.
2. Grill the steak over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
3. Assemble tacos with sliced steak, fresh cilantro, diced onions, and your favorite salsa.

Carne Asada BBQ Beef Tacos are a surefire hit for taco nights or casual cookouts. The combination of smoky beef and fresh toppings is unbeatable.

Mexican BBQ Beef Barbacoa

Barbacoa is a traditional Mexican dish, and this recipe delivers its authentic essence with a modern twist. Slow-cooked to perfection, the beef becomes incredibly tender, soaking up a medley of spices and citrusy flavors.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs beef chuck roast
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 1 cup beef broth

Instructions

1. Place all ingredients in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8–10 hours, until the beef shreds easily with a fork.
3. Serve with tortillas, pickled onions, and avocado slices.

Mexican BBQ Beef Barbacoa is a versatile dish that can be used in tacos, burritos, or as a main course. Its rich, slow-cooked flavors make it a family favorite.

Tamarind-Glazed BBQ Beef Back Ribs

Tamarind-Glazed BBQ Beef Back Ribs combine the tangy sweetness of tamarind with smoky Mexican spices. A unique twist on classic ribs, this recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to explore bold flavors.

Ingredients

• 4 lbs beef back ribs
• 1/2 cup tamarind paste
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Mix tamarind paste, honey, soy sauce, cinnamon, and smoked paprika in a bowl.
3. Rub the ribs with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for 10 minutes per side.
4. Brush with tamarind glaze and grill for another 5 minutes, basting frequently.
5. Serve hot with lime wedges.

The Tamarind-Glazed BBQ Beef Back Ribs are a delightful fusion of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors. Serve them with grilled corn and a refreshing salad for a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable.

Mexican BBQ Beef Fajitas

Mexican BBQ Beef Fajitas are a sizzling, flavorful dish that brings the essence of Mexican grilling to your dinner table. With marinated beef and fresh vegetables grilled to perfection, this recipe delivers a smoky, tender experience in every bite. It’s perfect for gatherings where everyone can customize their fajitas with an array of vibrant toppings.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs skirt steak or flank steak
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• Flour or corn tortillas

Instructions

1. Combine lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Marinate the steak for at least 2 hours.
2. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Grill the steak for about 4 minutes per side or until desired doneness. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing into strips.
3. Grill the sliced bell pepper and onion until soft and charred.
4. Serve the beef and veggies on warm tortillas with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream.

These Mexican BBQ Beef Fajitas are a delightful combination of smoky grilled beef and crisp vegetables, perfect for taco nights or a fun family meal. The variety of toppings makes them versatile, allowing everyone to enjoy their fajitas exactly how they like.

Beef and Pineapple BBQ Tacos

The combination of sweet pineapple and smoky BBQ beef brings a burst of flavors in these Beef and Pineapple BBQ Tacos. This tropical twist on a classic dish adds a refreshing element that pairs perfectly with the rich, savory beef. These tacos are ideal for casual summer gatherings or any time you crave something exciting.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 pineapple, chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• Corn tortillas

Instructions

1. Season the beef with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in a hot skillet until browned on all sides.
2. In a bowl, mix pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger. Pour over the beef and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 2–3 hours until the beef is tender.
3. Shred the beef using two forks and mix with the cooked sauce.
4. Serve the beef mixture in warm tortillas with chopped pineapple and cilantro.

These Beef and Pineapple BBQ Tacos are a fun fusion of savory and sweet, offering a tropical twist that makes them stand out. The fresh pineapple adds a juicy sweetness that perfectly complements the rich BBQ beef. Serve with a side of chips and salsa for a complete meal.

Molé BBQ Beef Ribs

Molé BBQ Beef Ribs are an exceptional blend of deep, rich flavors and tender meat. The molé sauce is made with a variety of chilies, chocolate, and spices, creating a complex and mouthwatering glaze for the ribs. This dish captures the essence of Mexican flavors while providing an indulgent barbecue experience.

Ingredients

• 4 lbs beef ribs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 dried ancho chilies
• 2 dried pasilla chilies
• 1/4 cup almonds
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp vinegar

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F. Season the ribs with salt and pepper.
2. In a skillet, toast the chilies, almonds, and sesame seeds until fragrant. Blend them with cocoa powder, chicken broth, cinnamon, brown sugar, and vinegar until smooth.
3. Heat olive oil in a pan and sear the ribs on both sides until browned.
4. Pour the molé sauce over the ribs and cover them with foil. Cook in the oven for 3 hours or until tender.
5. Serve the ribs with extra molé sauce and a side of rice.

Molé BBQ Beef Ribs are a bold, flavorful dish with a deep, rich sauce that’s perfect for special occasions or a hearty family meal. The smoky ribs combined with the complex molé flavor will transport you straight to Mexico with every bite.

BBQ Beef Tostadas with Avocado Salsa

BBQ Beef Tostadas with Avocado Salsa are a crunchy, flavorful dish that combines the heartiness of BBQ beef with the freshness of an avocado salsa. The crispy tostada shell holds the flavorful beef and refreshing salsa, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite. This dish is ideal for casual gatherings or as a fun appetizer.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef brisket
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp chipotle sauce
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp honey
• 6 tostada shells
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or smoker to 250°F. Season the brisket with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper, and cook for 5–6 hours until tender.
2. Shred the beef and mix with chipotle sauce, lime juice, and honey.
3. Toast the tostada shells until crispy.
4. For the avocado salsa, mix diced avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
5. Assemble the tostadas by layering the BBQ beef, followed by a generous scoop of avocado salsa.

BBQ Beef Tostadas with Avocado Salsa are a delightful fusion of smoky, savory beef and creamy, fresh avocado. The crunch of the tostada adds a satisfying texture, making this dish an easy and flavorful option for a meal or snack.

BBQ Beef with Roasted Poblano and Corn Salad

BBQ Beef with Roasted Poblano and Corn Salad brings a smoky, flavorful beef paired with a sweet and slightly spicy salad. The roasted poblano peppers add depth, while the sweetness of the corn balances the heat. This combination offers a refreshing yet bold way to enjoy BBQ beef, making it ideal for any barbecue celebration.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef sirloin steaks
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 poblano peppers
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the steaks with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Grill for about 5–7 minutes per side.
2. Roast the poblano peppers over the grill until charred, then peel and slice them.
3. In a bowl, combine roasted poblanos, corn, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.
4. Serve the grilled beef alongside the corn salad.

The BBQ Beef with Roasted Poblano and Corn Salad offers a vibrant, flavorful meal. The sweetness of the corn salad complements the smoky beef, making it a fantastic pairing for summer barbecues or any festive occasion.

Mexican BBQ Beef Empanadas

Mexican BBQ Beef Empanadas are a delicious handheld treat that combines savory BBQ beef with a flaky, golden crust. These empanadas are stuffed with seasoned beef, vegetables, and a rich barbecue sauce, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. They are great as appetizers, party snacks, or even a unique twist on a casual dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• 1 package of empanada dough (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions

1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and red bell pepper until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Stir in BBQ sauce, cumin, and chili powder. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Roll out the empanada dough and cut into circles.
4. Spoon the beef mixture onto each dough circle, adding cheese if desired. Fold the dough over and seal the edges.
5. Heat oil in a frying pan and fry the empanadas until golden brown on both sides.
6. Serve with salsa or a side of guacamole.

Mexican BBQ Beef Empanadas offer a delightful combination of savory beef and crispy pastry. The BBQ sauce elevates the flavor, making these empanadas an irresistible snack or meal option for any occasion.

BBQ Beef Albondigas (Mexican Meatballs)

BBQ Beef Albondigas are a twist on the traditional Mexican meatball, infusing smoky BBQ flavors into the tender, savory meatballs. The addition of a homemade BBQ sauce gives these albondigas a rich and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with a side of rice or crusty bread. This recipe is perfect for a hearty, comforting meal.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, cilantro, Parmesan, eggs, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Form into 1-inch meatballs.
3. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until fully cooked.
4. While the meatballs bake, combine BBQ sauce and water in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer.
5. Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the BBQ sauce mixture and cook for an additional 5–10 minutes.
6. Serve with rice or crusty bread.

BBQ Beef Albondigas are a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the comfort of meatballs with the smoky goodness of BBQ sauce. They make a perfect family meal and can be served with a variety of sides.

Grilled Mexican BBQ Beef Skewers (Tacos al Pastor Style)

Grilled Mexican BBQ Beef Skewers inspired by tacos al pastor are packed with flavor from a marinade that includes achiote, pineapple, and Mexican spices. The skewers are grilled to perfection and can be served with tortillas and fresh toppings for a delicious taco-style experience. A fun and interactive way to enjoy BBQ beef, perfect for summer parties.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef sirloin or flank steak, cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup achiote paste
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 2 tbsp vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh pineapple chunks
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine achiote paste, pineapple juice, vinegar, garlic, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
2. Marinate the beef cubes in the mixture for at least 2 hours, or overnight for more intense flavor.
3. Thread the beef cubes and pineapple chunks onto the skewers.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 4–5 minutes per side, until the beef is cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve the skewers with tortillas, cilantro, diced onions, and lime wedges for a taco-style meal.

Grilled Mexican BBQ Beef Skewers bring the flavors of tacos al pastor to your BBQ grill. The marinade infuses the beef with a sweet and smoky flavor, while the grilled pineapple adds a refreshing touch. These skewers make an excellent main dish or appetizer for gatherings.

Mexican BBQ Beef Burritos with Salsa Verde

Mexican BBQ Beef Burritos with Salsa Verde are a satisfying, flavorful meal that combines tender, smoky beef with a zesty green salsa. These burritos are stuffed with seasoned BBQ beef, beans, rice, and fresh salsa verde, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. A perfect option for a hearty lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast
• 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Season the beef with salt and pepper and sear in olive oil until browned on all sides.
2. Add salsa verde and 1/2 cup water to the pot. Cover and cook for 3–4 hours, until the beef is tender and shreddable.
3. Shred the beef with two forks and mix it with the salsa verde.
4. To assemble the burritos, layer the cooked rice, black beans, BBQ beef, shredded cheese, and sour cream in the center of each tortilla.
5. Roll up the burritos and serve with extra salsa verde on the side.

Mexican BBQ Beef Burritos with Salsa Verde are the perfect combination of tender beef, creamy cheese, and zesty salsa. These burritos are packed with flavor and make for a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

BBQ Beef and Chorizo Stuffed Poblano Peppers

BBQ Beef and Chorizo Stuffed Poblano Peppers are a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich smokiness of BBQ beef with the spicy kick of chorizo, all inside roasted poblano peppers. This dish is an excellent choice for a satisfying dinner and is perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors and a little heat.

Ingredients

• 4 large poblano peppers
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb chorizo, casing removed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Olive oil for roasting

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Slice the poblano peppers in half and remove the seeds. Roast them in the oven for 10–12 minutes until the skins are slightly charred.
3. In a skillet, cook the ground beef and chorizo until browned. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
4. Stir in BBQ sauce and cooked rice. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Stuff the roasted poblano peppers with the beef and chorizo mixture, then top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

BBQ Beef and Chorizo Stuffed Poblano Peppers are a flavorful and filling dish that combines smoky, spicy, and savory elements. The roasted poblanos add a mild heat and smoky flavor, making this dish a memorable and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!