40+ Mexican Recipes Perfect for Cinco de Mayo

Best Mexican Recipes for Cinco de Mayo

As someone who was born and raised in Southern California, I’ve been surrounded by incredible Mexican food my entire life. From taco trucks to taquerias, my love for authentic Mexican cuisine (and Mexican-inspired dishes) runs deep.

While many people assume Cinco de Mayo marks Mexico’s Independence Day, it actually commemorates the Battle of Puebla in 1862, when the Mexican army achieved an unlikely victory over French forces. Though it’s not widely celebrated in Mexico, in the U.S., it has become a day to honor Mexican heritage—especially through its incredible food!

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From slow-cooked meats to vibrant salsas and comforting stews, these Cinco de Mayo recipes will help you create a fun and flavorful feast. Whether you’re craving something traditional or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this list has something for everyone.

Must-Have Mexican Salsas and Dips

Cinco de Mayo is incomplete without a lineup of vibrant salsas and irresistible dips! From classic pico de gallo to creamy guacamole, these freshly made dip and salsa recipes add bold flavor to any dish.

Salsa Verde Recipe: This tangy green salsa is made with tomatillos, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. It’s bright, zippy, and perfect for drizzling over tacos or dipping chips. A total flavor bomb you’ll want on everything!

Mango Salsa Recipe: Sweet, juicy mango meets spicy jalapeño and tangy lime in this tropical twist. It’s a great way to balance out richer dishes like carnitas or grilled steak tacos—and it looks gorgeous on the table.

Homemade Guacamole Recipe: Creamy, chunky, and full of lime and garlic, this guac is always the first thing to disappear. Whether you’re scooping it with chips or slathering it on a burrito, it’s a non-negotiable Cinco classic.

Restaurant-Style Salsa Recipe: Smooth, slightly smoky, and packed with tomato flavor, this salsa rojo is just like the table salsa served at your favorite Mexican restaurant. It’s simple to make in a blender and totally addictive.

The Best Mexican Chicken, Beef, and Pork Recipes

Mexican food is full of mouthwatering meat dishes, from this slow-braised Carnitas Recipe to tender Chicken al Pastor and flavorful Chicken Tinga. These traditional recipes use a mix of spices, marinades, and slow-cooking techniques to create tender, juicy, and delicious meats that can be served on their own or used in tacos, burritos, and bowls.

Carne Asada Recipe: Thinly sliced grilled steak with big flavor from a garlicky lime marinade. Serve it with warm tortillas and a pile of fresh toppings—this one’s a must for any build-your-own taco bar.

Pollo Asado Recipe: This juicy grilled chicken is packed with citrusy, smoky flavor thanks to a zesty marinade of orange, lime, garlic, and achiote. Great for feeding a crowd and always a hit with taco lovers.

Chile Colorado Recipe: Tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich red chile sauce. It’s cozy, comforting, and full of deep, smoky flavor—amazing over rice or stuffed in burritos.

Homemade Chicken Mole Recipe: This rich, deeply flavorful sauce is made with dried chiles, chocolate, and warm spices, then poured over tender, juicy chicken. It’s a classic, comforting dish that adds a touch of tradition and bold flavor to your Cinco de Mayo spread. You can also use the same mole sauce to make ground turkey molé tostadas—a faster, lighter twist layered on crispy tostadas with beans, shredded lettuce, and all your favorite toppings. Two tasty ways to enjoy one incredible sauce!

Birria Recipe: This slow-cooked beef (or goat) is simmered in a rich, chile-based broth until it’s fall-apart tender and packed with flavor. Traditionally served as tacos dunked in consomé, birria is a must-have for your Cinco de Mayo table. Use the meat and broth to make cheesy, crispy quesabirria tacos or turn leftovers into birria ramen—a fun twist that combines all that bold flavor with comforting noodles. One batch, endless delicious options!

Carnitas Recipe: Tender, juicy pork that’s slow-cooked until it’s melt-in-your-mouth soft, then crisped up to golden perfection. Carnitas are super versatile—perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, nachos, or even sliders. They’re rich, savory, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Favorite Mexican Tacos and Enchiladas

Tacos and enchiladas are always a hit—and for good reason! With so many ways to fill, top, and sauce them, they’re endlessly customizable and totally delicious. From easy shredded chicken tacos to cheesy, veggie enchiladas, these party favorites bring the fun and flavor to any Cinco de Mayo celebration.

Quesabirria Tacos Recipe (Cheesy Birria Tacos): Rich, cheesy, and crispy from the griddle, these tacos are stuffed with slow-cooked birria and gooey melted cheese, then dunked in that delicious consomé. Absolute showstoppers.

Carnitas Tacos Recipe: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these slow-cooked pork tacos are perfect for feeding a crowd and taste amazing with a squeeze of lime and some fresh salsa.

Shredded Chicken Tacos: Simple, juicy, and super versatile. Pile the chicken high on tortillas with your favorite toppings for an easy taco night win—great for picky eaters and big groups alike.

Carne Asada Taco Recipe: Juicy grilled steak, sliced thin and loaded into warm tortillas. Add some guac and salsa, and you’ve got a taco that everyone will be talking about.

Shrimp Taco Recipe: Light, fresh, and a little spicy, shrimp tacos are a great option if you’re looking to mix it up with seafood. Bonus points for slaw and chipotle crema on top!

Chicken Enchiladas Recipe Recipe: Classic red enchiladas filled with your choice of meat or cheese, baked until bubbly and smothered in homemade enchilada sauce. Comfort food at its finest and perfect for prepping ahead.

Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas Recipe: Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, these white sauce enchiladas are always a hit—especially with guests who love something rich and cozy.

Essential Sides and Appetizers

Round out your meal with some tasty Mexican side dishes and appetizers like arroz rojo (Mexican rice), creamy refried black beans, esquites (that super flavorful street corn salad), and bright, zesty ceviche. These bites bring the flavor, the crunch, and all the fun to your party table.

Carne Asada Fries Recipe: French fries loaded with juicy carne asada, melted cheese, sour cream, guac, and salsa—basically nachos’ indulgent cousin. Great for game-day vibes and late-night cravings.

Mexican Black Beans Recipe: Simmered with onion, garlic, and spices, these black beans are hearty, flavorful, and a great complement to tacos, rice, or enchiladas. A simple staple you’ll want on every plate.

Drunken Beans with Poblano Peppers Recipe: These pinto beans are cooked with tequila, lime, cilantro, and poblano peppers. They’re hearty, slightly spicy, and the perfect way to round out your meal with something a little extra.

Fish Ceviche Recipe: Fresh, citrusy, and full of bright flavor, classic ceviche is made with tender white fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. For a less fishy version, try this equally light and refreshing shrimp ceviche recipe and enjoy with chips or tostadas.

Beef Empanadas Recipe: Golden, flaky pastry filled with seasoned ground beef and a little melty cheese. These hand-held bites are savory, satisfying, and perfect for snacking.

Elote Recipe: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime. It’s messy in the best way and totally irresistible—basically a must for any Mexican feast.

Mexican Rice Recipe: Also known as arroz rojo, this tomato-based rice is fluffy, flavorful, and the perfect base for just about anything—from tacos to tamales.

Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe: Bright and fresh with a pop of citrus, this green rice pairs perfectly with grilled meats, seafood, or a scoop of beans. It’s a great lighter option with tons of flavor.

Chicken Flautas Recipe: These crispy rolled tacos are stuffed with shredded chicken and fried until golden. Serve them with sour cream or guac for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer that disappears fast.

Comforting Mexican Soup and Stew Recipes

Whether you’re kicking things off with a cozy starter or feeding a crowd something warm and hearty, these Mexican soup and stew recipes bring big flavor and comforting vibes—perfect for any Cinco de Mayo menu!

Albondigas Soup Recipe (Mexican Meatball Soup): A personal favorite of mine, this comforting soup features juicy meatballs made with rice simmered in a flavorful veggie-filled tomato-based broth. Hearty enough for a main dish and loved by both kids and adults.

Sopa de Fideo Recipe (Mexican Noodle Soup): This simple noodle soup is made with toasted vermicelli and a light tomato broth. It’s cozy, kid-friendly, and a nostalgic favorite that’s perfect as a starter or light side.

Caldo de Pollo Recipe (Mexican Chicken Soup): A classic Mexican chicken soup loaded with veggies, herbs, and tender chicken. It’s warm, healing, and totally satisfying—great for balancing out richer party dishes.

Caldo de Res Recipe (Mexican Beef Soup): A beefy, veggie-packed soup made with various types of beef and bones, corn, carrots, and potatoes. It’s pure comfort in a bowl and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.

Spicy Camarones Recipe (Spicy Mexican Stewed Shrimp): Tender shrimp simmered in a spicy tomato-chile sauce. It’s quick, bold, and brings a little heat to your Cinco menu—perfect with rice or warm tortillas on the side.

Pozole Rojo Recipe: Rich, bold, and deeply satisfying, this red chile stew is made with pork and hominy. Serve it with all the toppings—radishes, cabbage, lime—for a festive and traditional Cinco favorite.

Pozole Verde Recipe: A bright and zesty take on traditional pozole, this version uses green chiles, tomatillos, and tender shredded chicken. It’s lighter but still super flavorful—perfect for spring celebrations.

Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe: Loaded with shredded chicken, tomatoes, and spices, this soup is topped with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese. It’s flavorful, customizable, and always a hit.

Quick and Easy Mexican-Inspired Dinners

Short on time but still want big flavor? These easy Mexican-inspired dinners come together fast and are perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute Cinco de Mayo celebrations. No stress—just bold, delicious food on the table in no time!

Ground Beef Taco Meat Recipe: Simple, flavorful, and super versatile. Use it for tacos, nachos, burritos, or salads. Make a big batch and keep the party going all week!

Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe: Skip the store-bought packet and whip up your own blend with pantry spices. It’s fresher, customizable, and adds just the right kick to anything from taco meat to grilled veggies.

Taco Spaghetti Recipe: A fun twist on two favorites—this dish combines seasoned ground beef, homemade taco seasoning, and spaghetti noodles in a cheesy, saucy one-pot dinner. It’s easy, comforting, and totally kid-approved.

Taco Salad Recipe: All the taco goodness without the tortilla. Crisp lettuce, seasoned meat, beans, cheese, and all the toppings—toss it together for a fresh, fast meal everyone can dig into.

Mexican Picadillo Recipe: A quick ground beef dish simmered with potatoes, tomatoes, and warm spices. It’s cozy, super satisfying, and perfect with rice or stuffed into tacos or empanadas.

Chipotle Shrimp Recipe: These smoky, spicy shrimp cook up in minutes and are perfect for tacos, salads, or rice bowls. Great if you want something a little lighter but still packed with flavor.

Refreshing Margaritas and Cocktails

Nothing says Cinco de Mayo like a cold, refreshing drink in hand! These easy cocktail recipes are fun, festive, and guaranteed to keep the good vibes flowing all party long.

How to Make the Absolute BEST Margarita Recipe: A classic for a reason—this perfectly balanced margarita is made with fresh lime juice, tequila, and a splash of orange liqueur. Simple, smooth, and my personal favorite.

3-Ingredient Watermelon Margarita Recipe: Sweet, juicy watermelon, tequila, and lime juice come together in this easy, ultra-refreshing drink. It’s light, fruity, and just the thing for sipping on a sunny day.

Michelada Recipe with Homemade Clamato Juice: This savory Mexican beer cocktail is like a spicy, tangy cousin to the Bloody Mary—perfect with chips, tacos, or any salty snack. Great for beer lovers who want something bold and refreshing.

Spicy Orange Margarita Recipe: A fun twist on the classic, this margarita blends fresh orange juice with a little jalapeño heat. It’s sweet, spicy, and totally sippable—ideal if you like a little kick in your cocktail.

Paloma Recipe (with Homemade Chili Salt): Made with grapefruit soda, tequila, and lime, the Paloma is fizzy, citrusy, and super refreshing. A great choice if you’re looking for something a little less sweet than a margarita.