12 Cinco de Mayo Food Ideas & Appetizers

Cinco de Mayo is the perfect excuse to gather friends and family for a festive feast packed with bold flavors and vibrant colors. Whether you’re hosting a lively party or just looking for an excuse to indulge in delicious Mexican-inspired bites, this collection of recipes has you covered.

From zesty dips and cheesy tostadas to crispy taquitos and refreshing aguachile, these appetizers and dishes bring the perfect balance of spice, crunch, and zest to your celebration.

Shrimp Aguachile Appetizer

Shrimp Aguachile served in small appetizer cups is a stunning and flavorful addition to any gathering. With its vibrant colors and refreshing taste, it’s sure to be a conversation starter at your next party.

Get the Shrimp Aguachile recipe.

Mini Sheet Pan Tostadas

Baking these Mini Sheet Pan Tostadas on a sheet pan keeps things simple while still delivering that perfect crunch. Load them up with your favorite toppings—seasoned meat, beans, cheese, and fresh garnishes—for a dish that’s as easy as it is delicious.

Get the Mini Sheet Pan Tostadas recipe.

Sombrero Chip & Dip Display with Salsa & Guacamole

This Sombrero Chip & Dip Platter is an easy way to add flair to your party while serving up a snack everyone loves. It’s festive, simple to assemble, and makes a fantastic conversation starter. Try it at your next fiesta, and watch your guests gather around to talk about it.

Get the Sombrero Chip & Dip Platter recipe.

Easy Mexican Street Corn Cups

If you love the flavors of traditional elote but want a mess-free way to enjoy it, these Easy Mexican Street Corn Cups are the perfect solution! Packed with creamy, cheesy, and spicy goodness, this dish takes all the best parts of Mexican street corn and serves them up in convenient, individual cups.

Get the Easy Mexican Street Corn Cups recipe.

Baked Chicken Taco Appetizers

These Mini Baked Chicken Tacos are everything you want in an appetizer—crunchy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re serving them for a party, game night, or just a fun twist on taco night, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.

Get the Baked Chicken Taco recipe.

Churros in Chocolate Sauce

Churros in Chocolate Sauce is a classic treat, golden on the outside and soft on the inside. Paired with a luscious chocolate dipping sauce, they’re completely irresistible! There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, crispy churro dipped in rich, velvety chocolate sauce.

Get the Churros in Chocolate Sauce recipe.

Warm & Creamy Mexican Street Corn Dip

If you love the flavors of elote – corn, creamy sauce, tangy lime, and a little spice—then this Warm & Creamy Mexican Street Corn Dip is a must-try! It takes all the delicious elements of classic Mexican street corn and transforms them into a rich and creamy dip that’s perfect for any gathering.

Get the Mexican Street Corn Dip recipe.

Mexican Street Corn Croquetas

Take everything you love about Mexican street corn—sweet, smoky corn, creamy cheese, and a kick of spice—and turn it into a crispy, golden-brown croquette! These Mexican Street Corn Croquetas are the perfect balance of crunchy and creamy, making them an irresistible appetizer or side dish.

Get the Mexican Street Corn Croquetas recipe.

30-Minute Hot Cheesy Taco Dip

Made with refried beans, cream cheese, seasoned ground beef, cheese, and tomatoes, this Hot Cheesy Taco Dip is one of the best tasting dips I’ve had all year. It’s served hot, and I dare you to stop scooping once you’ve had a taste.

Get the Hot Cheesy Taco Dip recipe.

Crispy Chicken Taquitos

If you’ve ever craved a snack or dinner that’s crispy, cheesy, and absolutely loaded with flavor, Homemade Chicken Taquitos are here to save the day. These rolled tortillas stuffed with shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty spices are quick to prepare, easy to cook, and wildly satisfying.

Get the Chicken Taquitos recipe.

Mexican Street Corn Deviled Eggs

Mexican Street Corn Deviled Eggs are one of our favorite variations for deviled eggs. Plus they’re ready in 25 minutes with just a few simple ingredients. These make great appetizers for a party because they’re unique and different than what people are used to. The corn and Tajin really change them up. Give it a try – you’ll love it!

Get the Mexican Street Corn Deviled Eggs recipe.

Mexican Charcuterie Board

This Mexican Charcuterie Board is loaded with Mexican favorites like spicy chicken, black beans, guacamole and salsa – all the ingredients you need for a taco or fajita night. This Mexican charcuterie board might seem daunting to put together, because of all the choices… but believe me, it’s simple and quick, and it makes a big impact.

Get the Mexican Charcuterie Board recipe.