49 Cinco de Mayo Party Food Ideas
Our best Cinco de Mayo party foods bring together classic flavors and creative twists for a colorful, crowd-pleasing spread.
1/49
Homemade Guacamole
From the Recipe Creator:
I always judge a Tex-Mex restaurant by its guacamole. And although it's simple to prepare, it can go wrong oh, so easily. I've spent many years perfecting mine, to the point where I think it's better than most restaurants. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 90 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 78mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 4g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat.
2/49
Slow-Cooker Chicken Tacos
From the Recipe Creator:
Our fun, simple recipe is perfect for taco Tuesdays or a relaxing dinner with friends. If we have any leftover filling, I toss it into a garden-fresh taco salad. —Tracy Gunter, Boise, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
2 tacos: 291 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 674mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2-1/2 starch.
3/49
Fresh Lime Margaritas
From the Recipe Creator:
This basic fresh margarita recipe is easy to modify to your tastes. Try it frozen or with strawberries. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1/3 cup (calculated without salt): 149 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 2mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
4/49
7-Layer Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
To make this zesty appetizer, you simply layer beans, salsa, cheese and other taco-like ingredients onto a platter. I like to call it a walking dip because you can scoop some on a plate with a few tortilla chips, then take it with you as you stroll around and talk with guests. —Marieann Johansen, Desert Hot Springs, California
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 102 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 283mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
5/49
Air-Fryer Churros
From the Recipe Creator:
Serve these cinnamon-sugar air-fryer churros fresh and hot with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. They're sure to become a family favorite! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 churro: 97 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 60mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
6/49
Mexican Street Corn
From the Recipe Creator:
Elote, otherwise known as Mexican street corn, is grilled, covered in mayo, and then sprinkled with chili powder, Cotija and cilantro. A squeeze of lime juice is the perfect finishing touch. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 ear: 278 calories, 22g fat (4g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 245mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.
7/49
Beef Enchiladas
From the Recipe Creator:
Beef enchiladas are typically prepared with corn tortillas, but my husband and I prefer flour tortillas. I use them in this saucy casserole that has irresistible home-cooked flavor and a subtle kick. —Jennifer Standridge, Dallas, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
2 enchiladas: 766 calories, 42g fat (24g saturated fat), 129mg cholesterol, 2643mg sodium, 61g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 6g fiber), 37g protein.
8/49
Cowboy Queso
From the Recipe Creator:
Loaded cowboy queso is the ultimate football dip! This easy appetizer loaded with cheese, beer, black beans, tomatoes and sausage is our family's favorite tailgating recipe. I often serve it with homemade tortilla chips sprinkled with taco seasoning. —Becky Hardin, St. Peters, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 110 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 26mg cholesterol, 461mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
9/49
Flan de Queso
From the Recipe Creator:
A small slice of this impressively rich, creamy caramel flan dessert goes a long way. What a delightful finish for a special meal or holiday celebration. —Pat Forete, Miami, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 345 calories, 16g fat (9g saturated fat), 140mg cholesterol, 189mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (41g sugars, 0 fiber), 10g protein.
10/49
Taco Pinwheels
From the Recipe Creator:
These pinwheels come together quickly when you start with leftover taco meat. They make an appealing party appetizer served with salsa or a fun lunch option with a salad on the side. —Cindy Reams, Philipsburg, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 pinwheel: 51 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 84mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
11/49
Pico de Gallo
From the Recipe Creator:
This easy and versatile pico de gallo recipe is a classic for a reason. The jalapeño peppers add just the right amount of kick. Let it chill for an hour or two before serving to help the flavors blend. —Jeannie Trudell, Del Norte, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 14 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 40mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 free food.
12/49
Sopes
From the Recipe Creator:
Sopes are a common Mexican street food, often eaten as snacks. Each cup is typically topped with refried beans, meat and cheese—but they're endlessly customizable. Experiment with toppings to see what variation of this sopes recipe is your favorite. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 sope: 179 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 380mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 9g protein.
13/49
Tres Leches Cake
From the Recipe Creator:
Tres leches means “three milks.” This cake gets its name because it uses three kinds of milk—evaporated, condensed and cream. The cake’s light and airy texture has made it a classic in Mexican kitchens for generations. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 392 calories, 23g fat (14g saturated fat), 142mg cholesterol, 104mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (33g sugars, 0 fiber), 8g protein.
14/49
Shrimp Ceviche
From the Recipe Creator:
Ceviche is a seafood recipe of raw fish marinated in citrus juice, which cooks it without heat. This version starts with cooked shrimp and adds tomatoes, cucumbers and serrano peppers. —Adan Franco, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup (calculated without chips): 61 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 128mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 10g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 lean meat.
15/49
Bloody Maria
From the Recipe Creator:
Tequila, lime and jalapenos give the brunch classic a fresh Mexican twist.—Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 122 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 525mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
16/49
Nacho Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
I have been serving this rich and zippy chicken casserole for years, and it's always a favorite of my family and friends. It's sure to disappear quickly at potluck suppers too. —Thom Britton, Three Rivers, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 496 calories, 27g fat (11g saturated fat), 81mg cholesterol, 1299mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 29g protein.
17/49
Baked Nachos
From the Recipe Creator:
I modified a nachos recipe I found, and my family loves it! It is now a regular at all our parties or any time we're craving nachos. —Denise Wheeler, Newaygo, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 313 calories, 16g fat (5g saturated fat), 29mg cholesterol, 786mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 11g protein.
18/49
Jalapeno Popper Spread
From the Recipe Creator:
I've been told by fellow partygoers that this recipe tastes exactly like a jalapeno popper. I like that it can be made without much fuss. —Ariane McAlpine, Penticton, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 239 calories, 23g fat (9g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 304mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
19/49
Slow-Cooked Carnitas
From the Recipe Creator:
Simmer succulent pork the slow-cooker way. Sometimes, instead of using tortillas, I put the seasoned meat on top of shredded lettuce for a tasty salad. —Lisa Glogow, Aliso Viejo, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 carnita (calculated without optional toppings): 363 calories, 15g fat (5g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 615mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein.
Try this recipe with our homemade taco seasoning mix.
20/49
Not-Fried Ice Cream Cake
From the Recipe Creator:
We created this ice cream cake to mimic the popular dessert made in many Mexican restaurants, but without the deep frying. It’s a no-fuss treat that feeds a crowd, and it’s conveniently made ahead. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 slice: 256 calories, 16g fat (7g saturated fat), 35mg cholesterol, 189mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (22g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
21/49
Refried Bean Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
My friends and neighbors expect me to bring this irresistible dip to every gathering. When I arrive, they ask, "You brought your bean dip, didn't you?" If there are any leftovers, we use them to make bean and cheese burritos the next day. —Wendi Wavrin Law, Omaha, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 55 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 151mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
22/49
Mini Chimichangas
From the Recipe Creator:
This south-of-the-border specialty is hearty enough to serve as a meal. The flavorful and filling wraps draw raves whenever I serve them. —Kathy Rogers, Hudson, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 chimichanga: 285 calories, 14g fat (8g saturated fat), 52mg cholesterol, 608mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 16g protein.
23/49
Pork Taquitos
From the Recipe Creator:
These taquitos freeze very well, so you can make a big batch and enjoy them anytime. Microwave the tortillas before filling for easier rolling. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 taquito: 155 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 29mg cholesterol, 118mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 10g protein.
24/49
Fried Jalapenos
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's an appetizer that will heat up any gathering. Family and friends often request that I make these jalapenos. —DeLea Lonadier, Montgomery, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed jalapeno: 109 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 433mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
25/49
Shredded Beef Tacos
From the Recipe Creator:
Make a taco bar or burrito bar for your next party! Set out the beef in the slow cooker on warm, along with tortillas, shredded cheese, salsa and sour cream, plus chopped lettuce, jalapenos, onions and tomatoes. For a variation, mix a can of refried beans into 3 or 4 cups of cooked beef filling. —Hope Wasylenki, Gahanna, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 379 calories, 21g fat (7g saturated fat), 123mg cholesterol, 509mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 39g protein.
26/49
Salsa Rice
From the Recipe Creator:
It's a snap to change the spice level in this popular rice side dish by choosing a milder or hotter salsa. It's a delicious way to round out burritos or tacos when the clock is ticking. —Molly Ingle, Canton, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 232 calories, 4g fat (3g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 506mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 9g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 lean meat.
27/49
Mini Phyllo Tacos
From the Recipe Creator:
For a winning appetizer, serve crispy phyllo cups filled with taco-seasoned ground beef and shredded cheese. These hand-held bites will be a surefire hit with a hungry crowd. —Roseann Weston, Philipsburg, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 63 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 156mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
28/49
Easy Tres Leches Cake
From the Recipe Creator:
My mom's favorite cake is tres leches, a butter cake soaked in three kinds of milk. I developed a no-fuss version that’s rich and tender. —Marina Castle Kelley, Canyon Country, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 343 calories, 20g fat (12g saturated fat), 89mg cholesterol, 257mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (28g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.
29/49
Cheese Quesadillas
From the Recipe Creator:
We serve these quesadillas as chili dippers, or load them up with salsa and sour cream for a super starter. —Terri Keeney, Greeley, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 111 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 203mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
30/49
Chipotle Lime Corn Cobs
From the Recipe Creator:
In Mexico, grilled corn sometimes comes slathered in mayonnaise, rolled in grated cheese, and served with lime and chili powder. This is my family’s take on the dish, with our own flavor enhancements. —Carolyn Kumpe, El Dorado, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 ear of corn: 289 calories, 18g fat (3g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 240mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 7g protein.
31/49
Sweet & Smoky Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
I love the roasted flavor that grilling gives food, so I decided to make a salsa from grilled vegetables. I think this recipe would also taste great using plum tomatoes. If you can’t use wood chip charcoal, you might try adding a little liquid smoke to the salsa while it cooks. —Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 49 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 180mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch.
32/49
Paloma
From the Recipe Creator:
Soon after I learned about this cocktail, I brought the ingredients to a family dinner at my parents' house. The next time we got together, my dad had the fixings set out and ready to go. —Ian Cliffe, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 148 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 163mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
33/49
Avocado Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
I was planning a party and thought it might be fun to try a different kind of avocado salsa. This recipe was an absolute success. Scoop it up with chips, spoon it over chicken or steak, or eat it on its own! —Susan Vandermeer, Ogden, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 82 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 85mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat.
34/49
Chicken Tamales
From the Recipe Creator:
I love making these homemade tamales. They take a little time to make but are so worth the effort. I usually make them for Christmas, but my family wants them more often, so I freeze a big batch. —Cindy Pruitt, Grove, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
2 tamales: 564 calories, 35g fat (7g saturated fat), 44mg cholesterol, 835mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 7g fiber), 20g protein.
35/49
Mexican Chocolate Sugar Crisps
From the Recipe Creator:
My grandma loved these so much, she would hide them from my grandpa! I think of her every time I make a batch. Like Mexican spice? Try stirring in a little chili powder. —Michele Lovio, Thousand Oaks, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 cookie: 85 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 37mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
36/49
Mexican Roasted Potato Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband is the No. 1 fan of this south-of-the-border potato salad. The leftovers make an awesome late-night snack straight from the fridge. —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 334 calories, 17g fat (4g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 588mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 6g fiber), 6g protein.
37/49
Chili Bake
From the Recipe Creator:
A homestyle Tex-Mex casserole is all it takes to gather the whole family around the dinner table. With its popular flavors and bubbly cheese topping, there is never a need to worry about leftovers. —Celine Weldy, Cave Creek, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 413 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 590mg sodium, 47g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 8g fiber), 28g protein.
38/49
Quick Tacos al Pastor
From the Recipe Creator:
We loved the pork and pineapple tacos from a food truck in Hawaii. My husband, a high school football referee, gives my version a thumbs-up. —Lori McLain, Denton, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
2 tacos: 317 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 57mg cholesterol, 573mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 5g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 fat.
39/49
Guava Coconut Rum Cocktail
From the Recipe Creator:
This beverage is so sensational, it’s like a taste of the tropics in a glass. The guava adds a touch of sweetness to this coconut drink. —Melanie Milhorat, New York, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 197 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 77mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein.
40/49
Dulce de Leche Cheesecake
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm originally from Paraguay, and dulce de leche reminds me of where I came from. If you can't find it at your grocery store, try caramel ice cream topping instead. It tastes different, but this decadent dessert will still be amazing. —Sonia Lipham, Ranburne, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
1 slice: 468 calories, 28g fat (16g saturated fat), 104mg cholesterol, 327mg sodium, 50g carbohydrate (37g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
41/49
Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a rich and surprisingly tasty rendition of a number of Tex-Mex dishes molded into one packed, beautiful casserole. Best of all, it’s ready in hardly any time! —Janet McCormick, Proctorville, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 400 calories, 23g fat (13g saturated fat), 102mg cholesterol, 637mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 26g protein.
42/49
Grilled Street Corn
From the Recipe Creator:
Mexican food is my grandmother’s favorite. I wanted a perfect side for her legendary tacos, and this chile-lime grilled corn turned out to be just right. —Ashley Crainshaw, Shawnee, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 ear of corn with about 1 tablespoon sour cream mixture: 143 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 16mg cholesterol, 180mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat.
43/49
Beer Margarita
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm always surprised when people say they didn't know this drink existed. It's a really refreshing cocktail, and it's easy to double or triple the recipe. —Arianne Barnett, Kansas City, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 244 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 8mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (33g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
44/49
Mango Avocado Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
When serving a crowd, double or quadruple this guacamole. The onion, tomato and mango can be chopped in advance. Add avocado just before serving. —Diana Nienberg, McComb, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup (calculated without chips and vegetables): 67 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 151mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
45/49
Favorite Jalapeno Corn Muffins
From the Recipe Creator:
Honey butter tastes so yummy spread over these hot and snappy jalapeno cornbread muffins. They're delicious with soups, stews and chili. —Mary Thomas, Hugo, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 muffin: 175 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 40mg cholesterol, 277mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
46/49
Ground Beef Taco Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
What’s a football party without taco dip? This version made with spicy ground beef and fresh toppings does not disappoint the diehards. It is full of classic flavors and is a little extra-filling for game-day appetites. —Errika Perry, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 116 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 378mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 7g protein.
47/49
Horchata
From the Recipe Creator:
In this horchata recipe, the mixture of ground rice and almonds is accented with a hint of lime. Depending on your preference, you can use more or less water for a thinner or creamier beverage. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 134 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 82mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (21g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
48/49
Chicken Nachos
From the Recipe Creator:
This chicken nachos recipe is delicious and so simple. Rotisserie (or leftover) chicken keeps it quick, and the seasonings and splash of lime juice lend fantastic flavor. My husband enjoys this snack so much that he often requests it for dinner! —Gail Cawsey, Geneseo, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 221 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 41mg cholesterol, 314mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 12g protein.
49/49
Mexican Chicken Wings
From the Recipe Creator:
I make these spicy appetizers for parties and football games and never have any leftovers. The hot wings contrast nicely with the cool but zippy dip. When the wings run out, we use the extra cilantro dip on tortilla chips. —Barbara McConaughey, Houlton, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3 each: 360 calories, 24g fat (12g saturated fat), 96mg cholesterol, 1416mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 19g protein.
















































