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23 Irresistible Cinco de Mayo Eats When You Want Flavor Without the Hassle

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There is no need to spend hours in the kitchen to celebrate Cinco de Mayo! These 23 recipes are bursting with flavor, giving you maximum deliciousness with minimal effort.

Mexican casserole in a glass dish.
Walking Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Slow Cooker Barbacoa

Barbacoa tacos on a tray topped with peppers and onions.
Slow Cooker Barbacoa. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Whip up this slow cooker barbacoa to bring amazing flavor to your kitchen. This low effort recipe is simple to follow and results in tender, flavorful beef that’s perfect for a Cinco de Mayo taco feast.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Barbacoa

Shrimp Fajitas

Shrimp and peppers on a plate with a fork.
Shrimp Fajitas. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Air fryer shrimp fajitas are a quick and effortless Cinco de Mayo dish that packs a punch with juicy shrimp and a medley of bell peppers. Have this vibrant meal on the table in just 20 minutes, making it a go-to for a festive yet easy dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Fajitas

Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes

Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes in a white ramekin topped with sour cream and green onions.
Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Taco Bell-inspired Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes recipe is a cinch to whip up for a fun side dish. Spicy, crispy potatoes smothered in creamy nacho cheese make for an irresistible Cinco de Mayo treat that’s ready in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes

Crock Pot Chicken Tacos

Three slow cooker tacos with chicken, lime, avocado and tomatoes.
Crock Pot Chicken Tacos. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This crock pot chicken tacos recipe is a fuss-free way to add zest to your Cinco de Mayo festivities. Let the slow cooker work its magic with honey and lime to produce tender chicken that’s perfect for a relaxed meal.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chicken Tacos

Chicken Fajitas

Plate of chicken fajitas with chicken, red bell peppers and onion.
Chicken Fajitas. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Simplify your Cinco de Mayo meal prep with air fryer chicken fajitas, a versatile and flavorful dish ready in a snap. Combine tender chicken strips with colorful veggies for a complete meal that’s ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for a speedy celebration.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fajitas

Air Fryer Nachos

Scooping up air fryer nachos topped with cheese, sour cream, tomtao and green onions.
Air Fryer Nachos. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Prepare these loaded Air Fryer Nachos for a quick and easy Cinco de Mayo treat. Layers of crispy tortilla chips, pulled pork, and melted cheese are topped with a selection of garnishes for a customizable and delicious snack.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Nachos

Arroz Verde

Bowl of green rice on a cutting board with cilantro in the background.
Arroz Verde. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Arroz Verde is an effortlessly flavorful side dish that brings a pop of color and freshness to your Cinco de Mayo table. This simple recipe pairs well with any main course, adding a herby touch to your festive spread.
Get the Recipe: Arroz Verde

Walking Taco Casserole

Mexican casserole in a glass dish.
Walking Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Enjoy the flavors of a walking taco with less mess by making this Walking Taco Casserole for Cinco de Mayo. It’s an easy-to-assemble dish packed with layers of seasoned beef, cheese, veggies, and crunchy Fritos, perfect for a family-friendly fiesta.
Get the Recipe: Walking Taco Casserole

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Mexican chicken tortilla soup in a white bowl.
Chicken Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Capture the essence of Chicken Tortilla Soup with this homemade version, perfect for a comforting Cinco de Mayo meal. The recipe is straightforward, ensuring a rich and flavorful soup that will become a quick favorite at your table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortilla Soup

Air Fryer Enchiladas

Plate of air fryer enchiladas topped with lots of cheese.
Air Fryer Enchiladas. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

For a Cinco de Mayo celebration, these air fryer chicken enchiladas offer an easy way to enjoy a Mexican classic. Utilize leftover chicken and tortillas to create a meal that’s both satisfying and simple to make.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Enchiladas

Easy Guacamole

Yellow bowl with guacamole with avocado, and jalapenos next to it.
Easy Guacamole. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This easy guacamole recipe is a must-have for any Cinco de Mayo celebration, combining tomatoes, chilies, and lime for a fresh, homemade dip. It’s a simple and flavorful complement to chips or as a topping for your favorite Mexican dishes.
Get the Recipe: Easy Guacamole

Fish Tacos

Fish tacos on a plate in tortillas with coriander and lemon wedges.
Fish Tacos. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Fish tacos are an ideal solution for a quick and healthy Cinco de Mayo meal. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen fish, these tacos come together in about 30 minutes, making them a stress-free option for a festive dinner.
Get the Recipe: Fish Tacos

Chile Relleno Casserole

Casserole dish with chile relleno casserole topped with sliced jalapenos.
Chile Relleno Casserole. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Chile Relleno Casserole brings the essence of Mexican cuisine to your Cinco de Mayo celebration with minimal effort. Fresh chile peppers layered with gooey cheese create a comforting casserole that’s as easy to make as it is flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Chile Relleno Casserole

Mexican Street Corn Soup

Street corn soup with potatoes, corn and red pepper in the crock pot with a spoon on the side.
Mexican Street Corn Soup. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Embrace the flavors of Mexican street food with this Slow Cooker Mexican Street Corn Soup, a perfect choice for an easy Cinco de Mayo meal. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work, coming home to a creamy, corn-filled soup that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Soup

Taco Rice Skillet

Closeup of a skillet with ground beef, cheese and tomatoes.
Taco Rice Skillet. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Simplify your Cinco de Mayo dinner with this one-pan Taco Rice Skillet, a dish that brings together all the flavors of a taco in an easy-to-make meal. Ready in about 20 minutes, it’s a straightforward and satisfying option for a festive weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Taco Rice Skillet

Quick Pickled Jalapenos

Jar of pickled jalapenos on a cutting board with a pepper next to it.
Quick Pickled Jalapenos. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Quick Pickled Jalapenos are an effortless way to add some spice to your Cinco de Mayo dishes. They’re simple to make and ready to accompany any meal, from tacos to pulled pork, in just 15 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Quick Pickled Jalapenos

Taco Bell Mexican Pizza

Copycat recipe: Cheesy corn tortillas with tomatoes and cheese on a plate.
Taco Bell Mexican Pizza. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Recreate the iconic Taco Bell Mexican Pizza at home with this easy recipe. Layers of crispy tortillas filled with meat and beans, then smothered in melted cheese and toppings, make for a fun and festive Cinco de Mayo meal. Bake it in the oven or try making it in the air fryer for a quick dinner.
Get the Recipe: Taco Bell Mexican Pizza

Air Fryer Churros

Air Fryer Churros dipped in chocolate.
Air Fryer Churros. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Treat yourself to air fryer churros this Cinco de Mayo, a sweet and crispy delight that’s simple to make. Follow this easy step-by-step recipe to create churros that are perfect for dipping in chocolate, offering a sweet end to your festive meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Churros

Mexican Rice

Brown bowl with Mexican rice on a wooden cutting board with cilantro and lime.
Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Instant Pot Mexican Rice recipe makes for a quick and easy side dish to complement your Cinco de Mayo feast. With just a few steps, you can have a flavorful and aromatic rice ready to pair with tacos, burritos, or any Mexican-inspired dish.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Rice

Blackened Shrimp Tacos

Shrimp tacos with cabbage and lettuce on a white plate.
Blackened Shrimp Tacos. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These Blackened Shrimp Tacos are a quick and flavorful addition to your Cinco de Mayo menu. Seasoned shrimp paired with a creamy garlic aioli makes for a taste sensation, all wrapped up and ready to enjoy in less than 15 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Tacos

Air Fryer Carnitas

Three tacos made from air fryer carnitas on a plate with onions, cilantro and lime.
Air Fryer Carnitas. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Enjoy effortless carnitas this Cinco de Mayo with this air fryer recipe. Marinated pork cooks to perfection with crispy edges, ideal for filling tacos or burritos, or serving alongside your favorite Mexican dishes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Carnitas

Mexican Pickled Onions

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Mexican Pickled Onions. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Brighten up your Cinco de Mayo meals with these quick and easy Mexican pickled onions. With just a few ingredients and 30 minutes, you can create a vibrant and tangy condiment that’s perfect for topping off your dishes.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Pickled Onions

Salsa Chicken

Instant pot shredded chicken tacos on a plate.
Salsa Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Make Salsa Chicken effortlessly in the Instant Pot for a versatile Cinco de Mayo dish. This recipe requires only three ingredients and is perfect for shredding and using in tacos, bowls, or as a flavorful protein for your celebration.
Get the Recipe: Salsa Chicken

anne

Hi, I’m Anne!

I love to cook and I want to share my recipes with you. I believe cooking should be approachable and fun, not a chore. I want to make simple recipes using everyday ingredients that you can make again and again, whether it is for a busy weeknight, a summer cookout or a special dessert. Read more...

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