29 Recipes That Prove Cinco De Mayo Is Just An Excuse To Cook More

Some days feel made for bright colors, music, and good times. A little fun in the kitchen adds to the mood and brings people together. Simple steps, bold flavor, and a bit of heat can make things feel extra special. No need for a big event to enjoy cooking and sharing. These 29 recipes that prove Cinco de Mayo is just an excuse to cook more.

Guacamole

Whip up something creamy with a kick that’s perfect for dipping and sharing at any gathering. Guacamole takes no time to prepare, but it always manages to bring people together. Whether you’re spreading it on tacos or just pairing it with some chips, it’s always a win. A bowl of this feels like you’ve nailed a classic everyone appreciates.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Baked Beef Tacos

These take what you’d expect from a taco and crank it up a notch with a crispy twist. Baked Beef Tacos make the cheese melt perfectly, giving you that flavorful bite every time. They’re easy to make in batches, which means everyone gets to enjoy. Perfect for making your dinner table a little more exciting.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

7 Layer Dip

Layers of flavor stacked to make every bite something different and fun. 7 Layer Dip is all about grabbing a chip and loading up on the good stuff. It’s the kind of dish that’s ready to wow from the very first scoop. A perfect way to share some goodness with the crowd.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

Shrimp Tacos

Add something fresh and a little unique with a seafood twist that’s too good to ignore. Shrimp Tacos are light but packed with bold flavors that’ll make every bite memorable. Perfect for when you’re craving a taco but want a new spin. These are easy to make and great for anyone who loves mixing things up.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tacos

Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

A quick and fun appetizer that’s all about cheesy goodness with a bit of spice rolled in. Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel is easy to snack on and just as easy to make. The flavors pair perfectly with your favorite party dishes. It’s a crowd pleaser without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

Bring a restaurant favorite to your kitchen without breaking a sweat. Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl keeps it simple but loaded down with toppings you can make your own. You can layer it, mix it, or enjoy each part separately—it’s versatility at its best. Great for when you want something hearty but easy to change up.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Burrito Bowl

Mexican Casserole

Toss together something that’s filling, baked, and full of flavor all in one dish. Mexican Casserole keeps everything warm and comforting while being super simple to prepare. Each layer brings a little something different, making it fun to eat every bite. Great for when you need an all-in-one meal solution.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Casserole

White Chicken Chili

Warm and delicious with bold flavors while still being light enough to enjoy comfortably. White Chicken Chili makes for the perfect bowl of goodness when you’re in the mood for something hearty yet different. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy. It’s a solid choice for all the chili fans who want a twist on tradition.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Chili

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Take something spicy, wrap it in bacon, and you’ve got a snack no one will turn down. Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers hit that balance of heat and crisp perfection in every bite. Easy to whip up, they’re sure to disappear fast. Perfect for those moments when you want to impress without overthinking it.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas

Skip the flipping and make feeding a bunch easier with a one-pan approach. Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas are packed with cheesy goodness and are loaded with flavor in every bite. Great for slicing up and sharing without the hassle. This one’s a no-fuss way to keep the quesadilla love going strong.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Quesadillas

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Toss together something bold and colorful that’s great for pairing with your favorite dishes. Mexican Street Corn Salad is all about keeping the flavor big without complicating things. Perfect for enjoying with tacos or anything else on your table. A side dish that’s as easy as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Easy Burrito

Roll up everything that makes a meal simple, delicious, and entirely your own. Easy Burrito makes stuffing tasty and fun without much effort. Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it’s versatile enough to keep everyone happy. A quick, go-to meal that’s impossible to mess up.
Get the Recipe: Easy Burrito

Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

Sweet, smoky, and hearty all in one delicious plate. Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes brings comfort food up a notch with a flavor-packed sauce that ties everything together. Easy to make but guaranteed to go over big. It’s a meal that feels a little fancy without trying too hard.
Get the Recipe: Honey Chipotle Steak and Potatoes

Fajita Seasoning

Add a mix of spices that’ll transform your regular dishes into something exciting. Fajita Seasoning is the secret to making flavors pop whether used with chicken, beef, or veggies. It’s one of those things that works best on anything you’re cooking. Keep some on hand, and you’ll never run out of ideas.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Seasoning

Slow Cooker Nacho Meatballs

Take party food to the next level with something warm, cheesy, and easy to share. Slow Cooker Nacho Meatballs let you set it and forget it, but the results are always worth the wait. Great for snacks or even a casual dinner. They bring together bold flavors with no stress in prep.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Nacho Meatballs

Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Crispy edges with gooey melted cheese make this a quick fix to satisfy your cravings. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy it as is for a simple snack. Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla is ready in minutes and is perfect for those moments when you need something fast. A fun twist on a classic dish that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Creamy pasta with a kick of chipotle creates an irresistible combination. Perfect for dinner, it’s bold and flavorful without being complicated to make. Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta is a dish that can easily become a weekly favorite. It’s hearty and packs just the right punch to keep things interesting at the table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Vegetarian Chili

Loaded with beans and spices, it’s a tasty bowl of comfort. You won’t even miss the meat once you dig into Vegetarian Chili, filled with bold flavor and texture. A great option for anyone looking to switch things up. Pair it with a side or eat it on its own—either way, it’s filling and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Chili

Huevos Rancheros

Start the day with a hearty plate exploding with flavor. Huevos Rancheros features an egg dish that brings together rich sauces and simple ingredients. It’s perfect when you want something quick but still delicious. A classic favorite that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Huevos Rancheros

Refried Beans

Creamy and rich, these beans pair wonderfully with almost any meal. Refried Beans are always a fantastic addition to enhance your plate. Simple to prepare and full of flavor, they’re a no-fuss side dish. Perfect for spreads, dipping, or enjoying straight from the bowl.
Get the Recipe: Refried Beans

Mexican Street Corn

Sweet, smoky, and vibrant, it’s a crowd favorite for any occasion. Mexican Street Corn brings dynamic flavors together on a cob. Bursting with texture and a fun topping twist, it’s hard to say no to seconds. A dish that adds energy and boldness to your table effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn

Flour Tortilla

Light and versatile, it complements almost anything you pair it with. Whether stuffed, rolled, or folded, Flour Tortilla is a must-have kitchen staple. Use it to wrap up your favorite fillings or create new food experiments. A reliable base for endless recipe possibilities.
Get the Recipe: Flour Tortilla

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

A refreshing mix of seafood and spice that’s both light and bold. Mexican Shrimp Cocktail brings together shrimp with tangy additions in a chilled dish. Whether served as a starter or snack, it’s a quick way to impress. Great for when you want something tasty without too much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

Packed with sweetness and a hint of spice, it’s an easy way to upgrade any meal. Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa delivers the magic of your favorite restaurant in your own kitchen. A fun topping for tacos, quesadillas, or anything needing an extra boost. It’s a quick choice to add flavor without overthinking.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

Tamales

Soft and flavorful, they’re unique bundles made for celebrations or any day. Tamales provide a hearty bite packed with spices and tradition. A dish with character, ready to be explored or shared with loved ones. Simple, filling, and always worth the effort to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Tamales

Jalapeno Poppers

These are spicy bites with a cheesy surprise inside—you won’t stop at just one. Grab a plate of Jalapeno Poppers for something fun and snack-worthy. They check off crunchy, spicy, and creamy all in one easy dish. A great way to keep things lively with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeno Poppers

Taco Casserole

When you need something easy and hearty, this layered dish hits the mark. Taco Casserole combines all your favorite taco ingredients into one dish that’s perfect for sharing. It’s flavorful and filling without any of the fuss of individual tacos. Comforting, simple, and ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Taco Casserole

Tortilla Pizza

Crunchy, flavorful, and customizable, you can whip up dinner in no time. Tortilla Pizza uses a familiar base paired with whatever toppings you love. It’s a quick fix that’s both fun and perfect for everyone at the table. Perfect for when you need a change from the usual dishes.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

Sweet Potato Tacos

Soft and earthy, they’re a fresh twist on traditional tacos with no complexity. Sweet Potato Tacos balance wholesome ingredients with bold seasonings in a way that feels familiar yet new. You’ll love how effortlessly they come together while still being packed with flavor. A creative option when you want something fun and different for taco night.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Tacos