Craving those restaurant-worthy flavors but tired of takeout prices? This year, bring the fiesta home and create your own Mexican feast that’s both fun and budget-friendly for Cinco de Mayo. We’ve got 11 easy-to-follow recipes, perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
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Dessert Nachos
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Dessert nachos are a fun twist on a classic appetizer, and everyone raves about this super simple dessert. Layers of cinnamon sugar, chocolate sauce, and fresh berries create a delightful dessert experience that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Dessert Nachos
Crockpot Carnitas
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This recipe is filled with authentic Mexican flavors and yet so easy to make. Toss pork with spices and let your slow cooker work its magic. Shred the juicy, flavorful pork for delicious tacos, burritos, or nachos – the possibilities are endless.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Carnitas
Chicken Tortilla Soup
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Protein-packed with shredded chicken and beans, it simmers in a rich broth for a flavorful base. Add a dollop of creamy avocado and a sprinkle of cheese for an extra kick. Enjoy a satisfying and soul-warming dish any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortilla Soup
Roasted Tomatillo Salsa
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Leave the bland jarred salsa behind! This homemade version uses roasted tomatillos for a vibrant, fresh and tangy flavor. This is a perfect complement to all your Mexican-inspired dishes, adding a bright and delicious touch to chips, tacos, burritos, or anything else your heart desires.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomatillo Salsa
Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas
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Flaky puff pastry surrounds a seasoned ground beef filling, creating delicious and satisfying handheld pockets. They’re surprisingly easy to make at home, perfect for a quick lunch, satisfying snack, or impressive appetizer at your Cinco de Mayo celebration.
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas
Refried Beans
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Take your tacos, burritos, or enchiladas to the next level with these creamy refried beans. Simple to make at home, they add a comforting richness that complements every dish whether you mix them into your burrito filling or serve it on the side next to your tacos.
Get the Recipe: Refried Beans
Chunky Guacamole
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This guacamole bursts with garden-fresh flavor. Perfectly ripe avocados are roughly mashed, preserving their chunky texture. A squeeze of zesty lime adds brightness, while roasted tomatoes and peppers contribute smoky sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Chunky Guacamole
Spanish Rice
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No need for fancy restaurants! This easy Spanish rice recipe delivers restaurant-style flavor at home. Rich spices and perfect seasoning create a flavorful side dish that complements any protein, making your Mexican meal complete.
Get the Recipe: Spanish Rice
Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas
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Forget the kneading! These semi-homemade chicken empanadas utilize store-bought puff pastry for a shortcut to deliciousness. Flaky layers encase a savory chicken filling, creating a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas
Crockpot Mexican Beef in Masa Cups
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Tender beef simmers with warm spices, transforming into a flavorful filling for crispy masa cups or any other Mexican meal from tacos to burritos and more. This hassle-free recipe lets you enjoy a satisfying and impressive fiesta without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Mexican Beef in Masa Cups
Mexican Skillet Quinoa
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Fluffy quinoa and protein-rich black beans form the base, while bursts of sweet corn and tangy salsa add a fiesta of flavors. Whip it up in minutes for a healthy and delicious dinner that leaves you feeling happy and full.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Skillet Quinoa