If your weeknights are a blur of deadlines, errands, and the eternal question “What’s for dinner?”, The Old El Paso Cookbook: 20 Minute-Prep Mexican-Style Meals might be the colorful solution your kitchen needs. This vibrant cookbook promises bold Mexican-inspired flavors with minimal prep time—and for busy home cooks, that promise is extremely appealing. Although not Canadian, many households have had this brand in their cupboard at one time or another. Since we’re traveling to Mexico in our Culinary Travel section, we thought you’d like to replicate some Mexican-inspired dishes by people who have made it their business. Old El Paso – Mexican Food, Recipe Ideas & Inspiration
Right away, the cookbook sets a lively tone. The recipes are designed around the kind of crowd-pleasing dishes many people already love—tacos, enchiladas, burritos, and nachos—but with creative twists that keep things interesting. Classic options like Chicken Chipotle Tacos and Soft and Crunchy Fish Tacos sit alongside playful surprises such as Mexican Hash Brown Breakfast Cupcakes or Stuffed Churro Waffle Sandwiches.
What stands out most is the book’s approachability. The instructions are straightforward and friendly, making the recipes feel achievable even for novice cooks. Many dishes rely on familiar grocery-store ingredients and pantry shortcuts, which aligns with the cookbook’s philosophy of getting food on the table quickly. It’s the type of book that encourages improvisation rather than intimidating readers with overly technical steps. For home cooks who prioritize speed and simplicity, that trade-off can feel worthwhile.
Another highlight is the variety. While tacos and enchiladas form the heart of the collection, the book goes well beyond typical dinner fare. There are sections for breakfasts, desserts, drinks, and party snacks, which means the recipes can carry you through everything from weekday dinners to game-day gatherings. Recipes like Mole Chicken Wings, Cheesy Chicken Taco Soup, and Dulce de Leche Pie Cups bring a fun, festive feel to the table.
The cookbook also includes helpful themed features that encourage customization. Ideas such as a “Customizable Quesadilla” guide, easy agua fresca recipes, and even an “Ultimate Game Day Nacho Bar” add a playful, interactive element that works well for entertaining friends or feeding a family. The ideas in the Nacho Bar can be used for backyard bbq’s and family gatherings. Check it out in our Recipe section.
Visually, the book is bright and inviting, with colorful food photography that emphasizes the fun, shareable nature of the dishes. Flipping through its pages feels a bit like scrolling through a taco-night mood board—vivid, appetizing, and full of easy inspiration.
The Old El Paso Cookbook: 20 Minute-Prep Mexican-Style Meals succeeds at what it sets out to do: deliver quick, flavorful recipes that bring people together around the table. It may not teach you the history of regional Mexican cuisine, but it will definitely help you put together a lively taco night in record time. Win a copy of the book in our Giveaway section or purchase it at Books – HarperCollins Canada
A cheerful, practical cookbook perfect for busy households, beginner cooks, and anyone who believes weeknight meals should be both fast and delicious.
Contents and images used with permission from The Old El Paso Cookbook: 20-Minute-Prep Mexican-Style Meals. Copyright@2023 by General Mills. All rights reserved. Books – HarperCollins Canada