Cinco de Mayo is just around the corner, and we’re ready to heat things up with these 18 spicy Cinco de Mayo appetizer recipes that will knock your taste buds off! From classic nachos to innovative takes on traditional Mexican dishes, our collection of flavorful and fiery bites is sure to be a hit at your fiesta.
Whether you’re in the mood for something cheesy and indulgent or light and refreshing, we’ve got a recipe to satisfy your cravings. With ingredients like chorizo, chipotle peppers, and jalapeños adding a kick to each dish, these appetizers are guaranteed to bring the heat. So why wait? Get ready to spice up your Cinco de Mayo celebration with these mouthwatering recipes!
Spicy Chorizo and Cheese Stuffed Jalapeños
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers. Spicy chorizo sausage and melted cheese add a bold kick to these crunchy jalapeño bites.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jalapeños
– 1/2 cup chorizo sausage, casings removed
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the stems of the jalapeños and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a pan, heat the chorizo sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Stuff each jalapeño pepper with the cooked chorizo mixture, dividing it evenly among the peppers.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the filling.
6. Place stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Avocado Fries with Chipotle Lime Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, spicy, and crispy avocado fry recipe.
Ingredients:
For the Fries:
– 3 ripe avocados, sliced into fry shapes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the Dip:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Dip each avocado slice into the flour mixture, then panko breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
4. Fry avocado slices in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
5. Drain on paper towels.
6. Mix all dip ingredients together; adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve crispy avocado fries with chipotle lime dip for a delicious snack!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on frying time)
Mini Mexican Street Corn Cups
Experience the flavors of Mexico in a bite-sized treat! These Mini Mexican Street Corn Cups combine the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them a great snack or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated cotija cheese (or crumbled feta)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 mini tortilla cups or small ramekins
– Optional: chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or shredded chicken for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together corn kernels, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Spoon the mixture into the mini tortilla cups or ramekins.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cups are lightly toasted and the filling is warm.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or shredded chicken if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Loaded Nacho Bites with Guacamole
These bite-sized nachos are the perfect snack for any gathering. Crunchy tortilla chips, melted cheese, and savory toppings come together to create a flavorful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup refried beans
– 1/4 cup diced cooked chicken or beef (optional)
– 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/2 avocado, mashed for guacamole
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chips.
4. Add refried beans, cooked chicken or beef (if using), diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro on top of the cheese.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Meanwhile, mix mashed avocado with a squeeze of lime juice and salt to taste.
7. Serve loaded nacho bites with guacamole on the side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Zesty Shrimp Ceviche Tostadas
This refreshing dish combines succulent shrimp marinated in a zesty mixture of lime juice, mixed with crunchy veggies and crispy tortillas. Perfect for a light and flavorful snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
– Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, lime juice, onion, cucumber, jalapeño, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the tostadas by placing a spoonful of the shrimp mixture onto each tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Chicken Taquitos
These mouthwatering taquitos are filled with tender chicken, smoky chipotle peppers, and creamy cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a quick snack or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the chopped chipotle peppers to the skillet and stir to combine with the chicken.
4. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and well combined with the chicken mixture.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Roll up the taquitos tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Drizzle with vegetable oil and sprinkle with salt to taste.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Queso Fundido with Chorizo
Warm up with this rich and flavorful Mexican dish that combines the spicy kick of chorizo sausage with melted cheese and toasted bread. Perfect for a cozy evening or as an appetizer to share.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Spanish-style chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1/2 cup shredded Oaxaca cheese (or Monterey Jack)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chorizo sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, toast the bread by baking it in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes or broiling for 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt the cheese over low heat, stirring constantly.
5. Assemble the quesadillas by placing a slice of toasted bread on a plate, topping with chorizo, and spooning melted cheese over the top.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Mango Salsa with Cinnamon Chips
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and spicy salsa, perfectly paired with crispy cinnamon chips!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt to taste
– Cinnamon chips for serving (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir to coat.
3. Add honey and salt; mix until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve with cinnamon chips and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy snack or appetizer.
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers Recipe
A spicy twist on a classic party favorite! These bite-sized appetizers combine the creaminess of cheese with the crunch of bacon, all wrapped up in a fiery jalapeño pepper.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jalapeño peppers
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into thirds
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut off the stems of the jalapeños and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese and cheddar cheese until smooth.
4. Stuff each jalapeño with the cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a piece of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
6. Place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Salsa Nachos
Get ready to elevate your nacho game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe featuring black beans, corn, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced yellow onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, red bell pepper, yellow onion, and jalapeño. Stir in lime juice and cumin.
3. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Spoon the bean-corn mixture over the chips, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Add desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pork Carnitas Sliders with Pickled Onions
Get ready to elevate your slider game with these tender and juicy Pork Carnitas Sliders topped with tangy Pickled Onions. This recipe combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork, crispy onions, and fresh cilantro for a truly unforgettable bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 slider buns
– Pickled Onions (recipe below)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Pickled Onions:
– 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cover and slow-cook for 8-10 hours or until tender.
3. Slice cooked pork into thin strips.
4. Split slider buns in half and toast.
5. Assemble sliders with Pork Carnitas, Pickled Onions, and chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker) + 30 minutes to assemble sliders.
Creamy Chipotle Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled egg game with the bold flavors of chipotle peppers and creamy horseradish sauce. These spicy little treats are perfect for a party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Paprika or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. In the bowl, combine the yolks, mayonnaise, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, horseradish, and chipotle pepper. Mix until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
6. Sprinkle with paprika or chives if desired.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold appetizer.
Grilled Pineapple and Jalapeño Skewers
Transform ordinary pineapple into a mouthwatering treat by combining it with spicy jalapeños on skewers. This unique fusion of flavors is perfect for summer gatherings or as a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
– 4-6 jalapeño peppers, sliced
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread pineapple chunks and jalapeño slices onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and honey. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pineapple and jalapeño.
4. Place the skewers on the grill or grill pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the pineapple is caramelized and the jalapeños are slightly charred.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Dip with Cotija Cheese
Add a flavorful twist to your snack game with this creamy and cheesy Mexican Street Corn Dip, topped with crumbly Cotija cheese. Perfect for dipping chips or veggies, this dip is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup grated Cotija cheese
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, mayonnaise, cilantro, Cotija cheese, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
4. Remove from oven and stir in chopped jalapeño (if using).
5. Serve warm with tortilla chips, veggies, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Tuna Tostadas with Avocado Crema
Elevate your snack game with these addictive Spicy Tuna Tostadas, topped with a creamy and refreshing Avocado Crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained)
– 1/4 cup of sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons of lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Avocado Crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced red onion
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, sriracha sauce, lime juice, and cumin.
2. Fry tortilla triangles in vegetable oil until crispy, about 30 seconds per side.
3. Drain excess oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble tostadas by placing a spoonful of tuna mixture on each triangle.
5. Top with Avocado Crema (recipe below) and desired toppings.
Avocado Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1 tablespoon of lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (excluding Avocado Crema preparation)
Crispy Potato and Chorizo Empanadas
A flavorful twist on traditional empanadas, these crispy potato and chorizo treats are perfect for a snack or light meal. With the combination of buttery potatoes, spicy chorizo, and flaky pastry, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 package empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan over medium heat, cook diced potatoes and chorizo sausage until potatoes are tender.
3. Roll out empanada dough to desired thickness.
4. Place a spoonful of potato-chorizo mixture onto one half of the dough.
5. Fold other half over filling and press edges to seal.
6. Brush with egg wash and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fiery Habanero Mango Guacamole
Elevate your snack game with this spicy-sweet twist on classic guacamole, featuring the bold flavors of habanero peppers and juicy mango.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 2-3 habanero peppers, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the avocados and lime juice. Mash with a fork until mostly smooth.
2. Add the diced mango, chopped habanero peppers, and red onion to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! Just mix and chill.
Cheesy Beef Picadillo Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of tender beef, crunchy bell peppers, and creamy cheese to create a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked picadillo (beef and vegetable mixture)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened. Stir in picadillo.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture, filling to the top.
6. Top each pepper with shredded cheese and sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your Cinco de Mayo celebration with these 18 mouth-watering appetizer recipes that pack a punch! From spicy chorizo and cheese stuffed jalapeños to crispy avocado fries with chipotle lime dip, there’s something for everyone. Savor the flavors of Mexico with mini Mexican street corn cups, loaded nacho bites, zesty shrimp ceviche tostadas, and more. Whether you’re in the mood for something cheesy, smoky, or just plain spicy, these recipes are sure to ignite your taste buds. ¡Buen provecho!
