40+ Heartwarming Mexican BBQ Party Recipes to Impress Your Guests

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Mexican cuisine is known for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and the perfect blend of spices that make every dish an experience.

When it comes to BBQs, Mexican flavors take grilling to a whole new level. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a large fiesta, Mexican BBQ recipes are guaranteed to be crowd-pleasers.

From sizzling carne asada and smoky ribs to tangy grilled vegetables and fresh salsas, there’s something for everyone.

This list of 40+ Mexican BBQ party recipes will help you curate the perfect spread for your next barbecue, ensuring your guests enjoy a feast full of authentic and irresistible flavors.

Get ready to fire up the grill and elevate your BBQ game with these mouthwatering dishes that celebrate the true essence of Mexican cooking.

40+ Heartwarming Mexican BBQ Party Recipes to Impress Your Guests

A Mexican BBQ party is an exciting way to bring bold, vibrant flavors to your summer gatherings.

With 40+ delicious recipes to choose from, you have a wealth of options to create an unforgettable menu that will have your guests coming back for more.

Whether you’re grilling juicy meats, smoky vegetables, or creating refreshing sides, these Mexican BBQ recipes will add excitement and authenticity to your event.

So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to host the ultimate Mexican BBQ party that will leave your guests raving about the flavors long after the party ends.

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken

This Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken is the perfect blend of spice, sweetness, and charred goodness. The recipe uses classic Mexican flavors like chipotle peppers, lime, and cumin to create a marinade that infuses the chicken with irresistible flavor. Grilled to perfection, it’s ideal for feeding a crowd while keeping things festive and delicious.

Ingredients:

  • 4 lbs chicken thighs and drumsticks
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust for spice preference)
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Blend the chipotle peppers, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, honey, cumin, and smoked paprika until smooth.
  2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then pour the marinade over it. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  5. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish.

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken brings authentic Mexican barbecue flavors to your party. The marinade’s spicy and tangy notes paired with the char from the grill will keep guests coming back for more. Pair it with Mexican-style rice and a cold drink for the ultimate feast!

Grilled Elote (Mexican Street Corn)

A Mexican BBQ isn’t complete without Grilled Elote. This classic street food features corn on the cob grilled to perfection, then slathered with a creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy sauce. It’s easy to prepare in large batches, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Ingredients:

  • 10 ears of corn
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Grill the corn, turning frequently, until lightly charred on all sides (about 10 minutes).
  3. Mix mayonnaise, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
  4. Once the corn is grilled, brush the mayonnaise mixture over each cob.
  5. Sprinkle generously with cotija cheese, chili powder, and cilantro.
  6. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Grilled Elote is the epitome of Mexican comfort food, bringing vibrant flavors and textures to the table. The combination of creamy mayo, salty cheese, and zesty lime juice will elevate any BBQ menu. Your guests won’t stop raving about it!

Carne Asada Tacos

Carne Asada Tacos are a quintessential Mexican BBQ recipe, offering tender, juicy steak with bold citrus and spice flavors. These tacos are easy to assemble, making them a perfect addition to your BBQ party for guests to customize to their liking.

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs skirt steak or flank steak
  • 1/3 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Corn tortillas
  • Toppings: diced onions, chopped cilantro, salsa, lime wedges

Instructions:

  1. Combine orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Pour the marinade over the steak and refrigerate for 4-6 hours.
  2. Preheat the grill to high heat.
  3. Grill the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare or adjust for preferred doneness. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
  4. Slice the steak thinly against the grain.
  5. Serve the steak in warm corn tortillas with your choice of toppings.

Carne Asada Tacos bring bold flavors to your BBQ party. The tender, flavorful steak combined with fresh toppings allows for a delightful dining experience. It’s a hands-on dish that lets everyone craft their perfect taco.

Smoky Grilled Pineapple Salsa

Smoky Grilled Pineapple Salsa is a vibrant, tropical side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or tortilla chips. This recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the smoky char of the grill and a kick of spice, creating a refreshing addition to your BBQ menu.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole pineapple, peeled and sliced
  • 1 red onion, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Grill the pineapple slices for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized.
  3. Dice the grilled pineapple and mix it with red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
  4. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.

This Smoky Grilled Pineapple Salsa is a zesty and sweet addition to your BBQ party. It adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor that complements the smoky and savory dishes on the menu. Your guests will love its versatility!

Mexican Spiced Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Spicy, smoky, and zesty, these Mexican Spiced Grilled Shrimp Skewers are quick to make and perfect for any BBQ party. The shrimp are marinated in a blend of chili and lime, then grilled for a charred, succulent bite. They’re a great option for seafood lovers in your crowd.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions:

  1. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes if using.
  2. Mix olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Marinate for 20 minutes.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Thread the shrimp onto skewers and grill for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
  5. Serve hot with lime wedges.

Mexican Spiced Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a hit for seafood enthusiasts. Their bold seasoning and quick grilling time make them a convenient and flavorful addition to your BBQ party spread. Enjoy them as a main dish or a zesty appetizer!

Mexican-Style Grilled Ribs (Costillas a la Parrilla)

These Mexican-Style Grilled Ribs (Costillas a la Parrilla) offer a smoky and flavorful twist on the classic BBQ ribs. The ribs are marinated in a deliciously tangy and spicy adobo sauce made with ancho chiles, garlic, and lime. Grilled to tender perfection, these ribs are sure to be a standout at any party.

Ingredients:

  • 2 racks of baby back ribs
  • 3 dried ancho chiles
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Soak the ancho chiles in hot water for 15 minutes, then remove the stems and seeds.
  2. Blend the soaked chiles, garlic, orange juice, vinegar, honey, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper into a smooth paste.
  3. Rub the marinade over the ribs, covering them completely. Let them marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
  4. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
  5. Grill the ribs for 2-3 hours, turning every 20 minutes until tender and cooked through.
  6. Slice the ribs and serve with a drizzle of fresh lime juice.

These Mexican-Style Grilled Ribs are a showstopper at any BBQ gathering. The deep flavors from the ancho chiles combined with the sweetness of honey create a rich, smoky profile that will keep your guests coming back for more. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for the perfect BBQ spread.

Grilled Avocado with Cilantro Lime Dressing

Grilled Avocado with Cilantro Lime Dressing is a fresh and creative side dish that combines the rich creaminess of avocado with the smoky flavor from the grill. Topped with a tangy and aromatic cilantro lime dressing, this dish is a flavorful, healthier alternative for any BBQ.

Ingredients:

  • 4 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
  2. Brush the cut sides of the avocado halves with olive oil.
  3. Grill the avocados for 2-3 minutes until grill marks appear and the avocado becomes slightly softened.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together the cilantro, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
  5. Once the avocados are grilled, drizzle the cilantro lime dressing over the top.
  6. Serve warm as a side dish.

Grilled Avocado with Cilantro Lime Dressing is an innovative way to enjoy avocados at your BBQ. The smoky exterior paired with the fresh and zesty dressing creates an unforgettable taste. This dish is light, flavorful, and a great way to incorporate some veggies into your BBQ menu.

Mexican BBQ Shrimp Tacos

Mexican BBQ Shrimp Tacos bring together smoky grilled shrimp, tangy slaw, and a zesty lime crema, all wrapped in a soft corn tortilla. These tacos are quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making them an ideal option for a laid-back BBQ gathering with family and friends.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 12 small corn tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes.
  2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  3. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
  4. In a small bowl, combine sour cream, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt to make the crema.
  5. Warm the tortillas on the grill for 1 minute.
  6. Assemble the tacos by placing grilled shrimp on each tortilla, topping with shredded cabbage, and drizzling with lime crema. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Mexican BBQ Shrimp Tacos are bursting with flavor and perfect for a summer BBQ. The combination of smoky shrimp, crunchy cabbage, and creamy lime sauce creates a well-balanced bite. These tacos are light yet satisfying, making them a perfect addition to your BBQ menu.

Carne en su Jugo (Mexican Beef in Broth)

Carne en su Jugo is a traditional Mexican dish featuring tender beef cooked in a flavorful broth with bacon, onions, and jalapeños. Served with warm tortillas, this dish is a hearty and comforting choice for any BBQ gathering. It’s an easy-to-make dish that will add a unique twist to your menu.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs beef flank steak, cut into small cubes
  • 1/2 lb bacon, chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 jalapeños, sliced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Tortillas for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add the beef cubes and cook until browned. Add onions, garlic, and jalapeños, and sauté for 2 minutes.
  3. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour until the beef is tender.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice.
  5. Serve the Carne en su Jugo with warm tortillas and garnish with crispy bacon.

Carne en su Jugo offers a comforting and flavorful experience. The savory broth, tender beef, and smoky bacon make this a perfect addition to a BBQ party. Serve with tortillas for dipping into the rich, flavorful broth, and enjoy the warmth of this classic Mexican dish.

Grilled Mexican Chorizo and Potato Skewers

Grilled Mexican Chorizo and Potato Skewers are a perfect combination of spicy chorizo sausage and tender potatoes, all charred to perfection on the grill. The smoky and savory flavors from the chorizo, paired with the crispy potatoes, make these skewers a fun and delicious option for a BBQ party.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb Mexican chorizo sausage
  • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 yellow onion, cut into chunks
  • Olive oil for brushing
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Parboil the potato cubes in boiling water for 5 minutes to soften. Drain and set aside.
  3. Remove the chorizo from its casing and form small balls or patties.
  4. Thread the chorizo, potatoes, bell pepper, and onion onto skewers.
  5. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  6. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chorizo is cooked through and the potatoes are crispy.

Grilled Mexican Chorizo and Potato Skewers bring a flavorful, hearty option to your BBQ party. The chorizo’s spicy, smoky kick pairs beautifully with the creamy potatoes and crunchy vegetables. These skewers are easy to serve and guaranteed to satisfy your guests.

Tacos al Pastor (Grilled Pork Tacos)

Tacos al Pastor is a beloved Mexican street food made with marinated pork, cooked on a vertical spit and then sliced thinly to serve in tacos. In this BBQ version, the pork is grilled instead of roasted, while still capturing the authentic smoky and savory flavor. These tacos are perfect for your next BBQ gathering.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs pork shoulder, thinly sliced
  • 3 dried guajillo chiles
  • 2 dried ancho chiles
  • 1/4 cup vinegar
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp cumin
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup fresh pineapple, diced
  • 12 corn tortillas
  • Toppings: chopped onion, cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions:

  1. Soak the guajillo and ancho chiles in hot water for 10-15 minutes, then remove the stems and seeds.
  2. Blend the chiles, vinegar, pineapple juice, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Marinate the pork in the sauce for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  5. Grill the pork for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly charred.
  6. Warm the tortillas and assemble the tacos by placing the grilled pork and fresh pineapple on top. Garnish with onion and cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.

Tacos al Pastor brings a vibrant taste of Mexico to your BBQ. The tangy pineapple and smoky pork create a perfect balance of flavors. Whether served as a taco or on a platter, these tacos will be a crowd favorite with their irresistible aroma and taste.

Mexican Corn and Bean Salad (Esquites con Frijoles)

This Mexican Corn and Bean Salad is a refreshing, vibrant side dish made with grilled corn, hearty black beans, and a tangy lime dressing. It’s perfect for BBQs, offering a balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors, and can be made in large quantities to feed a crowd.

Ingredients:

  • 4 ears of corn, husked
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and cooked through. Let it cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the grilled corn, black beans, bell pepper, onion, and cilantro.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Pour the dressing over the corn mixture and toss gently to combine.
  6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Mexican Corn and Bean Salad is a refreshing, hearty side that’s perfect for BBQs. The grilled corn adds a smoky sweetness, while the black beans provide substance. The tangy lime dressing ties it all together, making it a flavorful complement to grilled meats and tacos.

Grilled Mexican Fish Tacos

Grilled Mexican Fish Tacos are light yet flavorful, with marinated fish fillets grilled to perfection and topped with a zesty slaw. The smoky fish paired with fresh, crunchy toppings makes for a perfect summer BBQ dish that’s both healthy and delicious.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs firm white fish fillets (like tilapia or cod)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp cilantro, chopped
  • 8 small corn tortillas

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the fish fillets with the marinade and let sit for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Grill the fish for 3-4 minutes per side or until fully cooked.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper to make the slaw.
  5. Warm the tortillas on the grill for 1 minute.
  6. Assemble the tacos by placing the grilled fish on each tortilla and topping with the slaw.

Grilled Mexican Fish Tacos offer a fresh and light alternative to traditional BBQ meats. The smoky fish paired with the cool, creamy slaw creates a perfect balance of flavors. These tacos are not only tasty but also a great way to incorporate seafood into your BBQ.

Mexican BBQ Grilled Vegetables

These Mexican BBQ Grilled Vegetables are a colorful, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for both meat lovers and vegetarians. The combination of charred vegetables with a smoky, tangy lime dressing makes this dish an ideal complement to any BBQ menu.

Ingredients:

  • 2 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
  • 1 red onion, sliced into rings
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Toss the sliced vegetables with olive oil, chili powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. Grill the vegetables for 4-5 minutes per side, or until lightly charred and tender.
  4. Once grilled, chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and toss with chopped cilantro.
  5. Serve as a side dish or on top of tacos or salads.

Mexican BBQ Grilled Vegetables are a simple, healthy addition to any BBQ feast. The smoky char from the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables, while the chili-lime dressing adds a touch of tangy spice. This dish is both vibrant and flavorful, making it a crowd-pleasing option for your BBQ spread.

Grilled Stuffed Jalapeños (Jalapeños Rellenos)

Grilled Stuffed Jalapeños (Jalapeños Rellenos) are a perfect appetizer for your Mexican BBQ party. The spicy kick of the jalapeños is mellowed by a creamy cheese filling and smoky flavor from the grill, making them a must-try dish for anyone who loves a bit of heat.

Ingredients:

  • 12 large jalapeños, halved and seeded
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup cooked chorizo (optional)
  • 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
  2. Mix the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chorizo (if using), cilantro, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  3. Stuff each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
  4. Lightly brush the stuffed jalapeños with olive oil and place them on the grill.
  5. Grill for 4-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the jalapeños are charred.
  6. Serve immediately as a delicious appetizer.

Grilled Stuffed Jalapeños are the perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and smoky flavors. The cheese filling helps balance the heat from the jalapeños, while the grilling adds depth and char. They make for an exciting and flavorful appetizer that will impress your guests at your next BBQ.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!