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If you’re looking for easy Cinco de Mayo recipes for your gathering, this list that I’ve put together has you covered. These recipes use simple ingredients and bold flavors, and they’re meals you can actually make without much fuss.

Is Cinco De Mayo a fun celebration for you, but you often worry over what you will be making? I usually keep things pretty simple for Cinco de Mayo, and I think you can totally do the same. I don’t make anything that’s too complicated (sometimes I am just lazy), just a few recipes that I know everyone will eat without complaints.
Tips From My Kitchen
- Prep whatever you plan to make ahead of time. Wash and chop the veggies ahead, make whatever sauces you will be using, and store them in the fridge the day before, so you save a lot of time the day of.
- Try to keep it simple and less complicated. You don’t need a huge spread, just a few main recipes that pair well together.
- Use fresh toppings like cilantro, lime, avocado, and salsa to make everything taste better.
I’ve put together the list below based on what you may be interested in. Whether you are looking for tacos, bowls, salsas & Dips, or Classics. There is something for everyone.
Cinco De Mayo Tacos
Here are some of my favorite taco recipes that I make all year round, but really shine during occasions like Cinco de Mayo.

Chicken Street Tacos

Chicken Birria Tacos

Salmon Tacos With Corn Salsa

Cauliflower Tacos
Cinco De Mayo Bowls
If you want something simple but still flavorful, these bowls are a great option. You can mix and match ingredients and build them just how you like.

Chicken Burrito Bowl

Carne Asada Steak Bowls

Shrimp Burrito Bowl

Beef Burrito Bowl
Cinco De Mayo Favorites
You can’t go wrong with the classics. These are the go-to recipes that always show up and always get eaten first.

Chicken Fajita Casserole

Healthy Chicken Enchiladas

Easy Chicken Quesadilla

Mexican Shrimp Quesadilla
Salsas and Dips
These salsas and dips add that extra layer of flavor that takes everything up a notch. Simple, fresh, and easy to serve.

Pico De Gallo

Mango Salsa

Cottage Cheese Queso Dip

Easy Taco Dip
Common Questions
If I am having a small group over, I like to stick to 2 to 3 main dishes and a couple of sides. You don’t need a big menu to make it perfect.
Some popular dishes for Cinco De Mayo include tacos, enchiladas, guacamole, rice, beans, and fresh salsas. Simple, flavorful meals are usually the focus.
Yes. Many sides, like salsa, dips, and slaws, can be made a day in advance. Proteins can be prepped early and reheated.

More Recipe Roundups
- Spring Dinner Recipes
- Chicken Bowl Recipes
- Easter Dinner Ideas
- Pasta Salad Recipes
- Taco Recipes
- Healthy Wraps
- Meal Prep Salad
Thank you so much for being here and for cooking along with me. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Leave a comment and rating below.
