Fresh and hearty Mexican recipes have my heart. Here are a few more that you can load up with all of your favorite fixings! Chicken burrito bowls, stuffed sweet potatoes, and enchilada pie for something that feeds a crowd!
Mexican Haystack Recipe
We had Hawaiian haystacks for dinner all the time growing up, and everyone was always thrilled. They’re still something I make for my family pretty often! My kids love to pick all of their toppings. But because taco fixings are so delicious, (and I usually have some left over in my fridge) I thought we would try the ‘haystack’ concept with Mexican-inspired toppings instead. Let me tell you, it’s a winner! It all starts with a bed of white rice. (You could even use Mexican rice if you want to spice things up.) Then your Mexican haystacks are topped with seasoned ground turkey for a boost of protein. From there, the sky is the limit! Add salsa, tortilla strips, pico de gallo, chopped jalapenos, guacamole, sour cream, you name it!
All the Toppings
This is just a suggestion of all that you can add! Mexican haystacks are easily customizable and a great meal for any leftover taco meat you may have in your fridge.
Ground Turkey: Lean and juicy, it’s the protein powerhouse that gets browned to perfection. (Feel free to swap for ground beef if you prefer!) Taco Seasoning: A blend of warm spices like chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Used for seasoning the turkey meat. Canned Green Chilies: Mild and tangy, they add a subtle heat and texture to the mix. Salsa: Use your favorite kind! Rice and Shredded Lettuce: These both create the base of the Mexican haystacks. For a high-protein, low-carb version, skip the rice and just use shredded lettuce. Black Beans: Drained and rinsed, these protein-packed bites add delicious texture to the haystacks. Avocado: Creamy and delicious, sliced avocados are a must-add! Cheddar Cheese: Shredded for cheesy, salty goodness in each bite. Tomato & Mango: For a burst of freshness. Cilantro: Freshly chopped so your Mexican haystacks have an extra boost of flavor. Tortilla Strips: My kids’ favorite part. We all love the crunch!
How to Make Mexican Haystacks
Really, all you have to do here is assemble a taco station with all of the different toppings. Mexican haystacks are so easy to prep in advance. And they’re always a hit, there’s something for everyone!
Spice Things Up: Bring the heat with a fiery salsa, chopped jalapeños, serrano peppers, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Make Them Meatless: Swap the meat for crumbled tofu or black beans for a protein-packed vegetarian option. Different Rice: Try brown rice, quinoa, Mexican rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter twist.
A lot of the toppings can be served straight from the fridge for a quick and easy meal, anytime!
Pico de Gallo
10 mins
Roasted Tomato Salsa (Salsa Tatemada)
15 mins
5 Minute Mango Salsa
5 mins
Best Blender Salsa
35 mins
