15 Mexican Twists On Classic Thanksgiving Recipes We Love

Add some spice to your Thanksgiving table with an array of festive Mexican-inspired dishes. Even if you don't re-do your entire menu, putting out a luscious tres leches pumpkin flan instead of a pumpkin pie or crumbling up chorizo to go into what would otherwise be traditional stuffing may bring some unexpected conversation (and joy!) to your meal.

And if you're not a fan of a whole roasted turkey on Thanksgiving, why not give ground turkey empanadas a try, or tropical turkey tacos? There's even a Mexican chocolate pecan pie on this list—a Southern classic with a boozy Mexican twist.

Festive food goes hand in hand with festive drinks, so don't forget the Thanksgiving cocktails! Take advantage of the beautiful fruits that are in season, such as cranberries and persimmons. Make some festive cocktails like a Cranberry French 75 or Persimmon Mojitos.

To get you well on your way, here are 15 Mexican Thanksgiving recipes for a delicious feast on Turkey Day!

Related: 22 Best Gluten-Free Mexican Recipes 

Best Mexican Thanksgiving Recipes

Mangoes replace cranberry sauce as a sweet accompaniment to Thanksgiving turkey.

Get the recipe: Tropical Turkey Tacos

For a twist on traditional side dishes, wow everyone with this flavorful casserole featuring sweet corn and spicy poblano chiles.

Get the recipe: Easy Poblano and Corn Casserole 

Store-bought biscuits are fine, but homemade biscuits are worth the added effort.

Get the recipe: Galletas de Suero (Buttermilk Biscuits)

You can’t forget the pecan pie! Try this recipe with a twist on tradition—a Southern classic with a boozy Mexican twist.

Get the recipe: Mexican Chocolate Pecan Pie

Instead of making a pumpkin pie, why not try pumpkin empanadas? They're perfectly portioned hand pies that your guests will fall in love with.

Get the recipe: Pumpkin Empanadas 

We can’t have Thanksgiving without queso and this ooey-gooey spicy cheese is so yummy served over turkey.

Get the recipe: Chile con Queso

Traditionally this dish is served during Lent or Easter, but the flavors are so comforting and perfect for a fall spread.

Get the recipe: Capirotada (Mexican Bread Pudding)

Make an easy dip by melting an 8 oz processed cheese product (like Velveeta) according to package directions. Stir, then top with chopped tomatoes and jalapeños.

Get the recipe: Taco Turkey Empanadas

Related: 50 Crispy, Cheesy, Stuffed With Goodness Empanada Recipes for Your Next Favorite Meal

A healthy and colorful side dish for Thanksgiving.

Get the recipe: Avocado and Roasted Yam Fall Ensalada 

Make these instead of the traditional marshmallow-topped sweet potatoes.

Get the recipe: Camotes Enmielado (Candied Sweet Potatoes)

Related: 101 Best Thanksgiving Side Dishes to Transform Your Holiday Dinner

This spicy, sophisticated and comforting soup is spiked with pasilla or ancho chiles - and it's the perfect dish to start any meal.

Get the recipe: Spicy Acorn Squash and Apple Soup

Related: Pati Jinich's 3-2-1 Rule For Making the Perfect Cocktail

Creamy scalloped potatoes with cheese and a hint of chile—incredible!

Get the recipe: Guajillo Spiced Scalloped Potatoes 

Your guests will practically begging for seconds after tasting this incredible dessert. Note that if you want to add this to your Thanksgiving menu, you will have to make it the day before, because it needs time to chill.

Get the recipe: Tres Leches Pumpkin Flan

Try something new this year and make this spicy stuffing.

Get the recipe: Chorizo and Cornbread Stuffing

This Creamy Mexican Turkey Soup is healthy, creamy and so delicious!

Get the recipe: Mexican Turkey Soup

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Related: 150+ Easy Thanksgiving Dessert Recipes For Everyone