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Home » Recipe Collections

29 Lazy Cinco de Mayo Recipes That Will Make You Look Like a Genius

Published: May 5, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

If you're short on time but still want to crush Cinco de Mayo, these lazy cinco de mayo recipes are exactly what you need. They’re quick, they’re easy, and they’ll make you look like you actually planned ahead—even if you totally didn’t. Whether you’re feeding a few friends or just want something great without going full chef mode, this is the kind of low-effort, high-reward situation we all want more of. Let’s keep it simple and still come out looking like a genius.

Mexican enchiladas in a baking dish.

Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Air Fryer Nachos

A close-up imag of loaded nachos topped with melted cheese, avocado chunks, black beans, diced tomatoes, green onions, and dollops of sour cream.
Air Fryer Nachos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Air fryer nachos are a quick, easy snack that takes just 10 minutes to make. A simple way to impress guests without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Nachos

Mexican Corn Salad

An overhead image of Mexican corn salad with the ingredients fully mixed together.
Mexican Corn Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This Mexican corn salad is a simple side that comes together easily and adds bold flavors to any meal. A great option for a festive spread.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Corn Salad

Sweet Potato Black Bean Tacos

Sweet Potato Black Bean Tacos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Sweet potato black bean tacos are made with roasted potatoes, spiced beans, and lime crema. A hearty, meat-free choice that’s perfect for last-minute meals.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Black Bean Tacos

Vegetarian Nachos

Vegetarian Nachos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegetarian nachos are loaded with crispy chips, melted cheese, and fresh toppings. They’re a customizable and shareable snack that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Nachos

Mexican Street Corn Salad

An overhead image of Mexican street corn salad in a bowl with two slices of lime resting on the side.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Mexican street corn salad mixes charred corn with creamy, bold flavors. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing side dish that works for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Gochujang Cauliflower Tacos

A close-up image of gochujang cauliflower tacos on a plate, accompanied by a small bowl of lime slices and sliced red onions.
Gochujang Cauliflower Tacos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Korean-spiced cauliflower tacos are crispy and easy to prepare, with a variety of toppings. They bring bold, exciting flavors to the table.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Cauliflower Tacos

Tortilla Chips

An image of tortilla chips with a dip on the side.
Tortilla Chips. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Air fryer tortilla chips are quick to make and require almost no oil. A lighter, homemade option that’s ready in under 15 minutes to pair with your favorite dips.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Chips

Chicken and Queso Rice Bake

Close-up image of Chicken and Queso Rice Bake garnished with fresh chopped parsley on a plate.
Chicken and Queso Rice Bake. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Chicken and queso rice bake is a cheesy, flavorful dinner option that’s simple to prepare. An easy way to bring a Mexican-inspired meal to your table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Queso Rice Bake

Chicken Enchiladas

Mexican enchiladas in a baking dish.
Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Soft tortillas filled with tender chicken and homemade enchilada sauce make this dish a crowd favorite. It’s a classic choice that’s easy to prepare for family meals.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gluten Free Enchiladas

Cowboy Beef and Rice Skillet

Two plates of cowboy beef and rice casserole skillet.
Cowboy Beef and Rice Skillet. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Cowboy beef and rice skillet combines hearty ingredients in one pot for a no-fuss meal. A Tex-Mex dinner that’s perfect for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Beef and Rice Skillet

Grilled Rockfish Tacos

Grilled Rockfish Tacos. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Grilled rockfish tacos with pickled slaw, mango salsa, and avocado dressing bring fresh, bold flavors to the table. Perfect for casual celebrations or cookouts.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Rockfish Tacos

Sopa de Camaron

A bowl of shrimp soup.
Sopa de Camaron. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Sopa de Camarones is a refreshing shrimp soup with a chili-infused broth. It’s a light yet bold Mexican-inspired dish that’s quick to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Sopa de Camaron

Ground Beef Tacos

A top view of ground beef tacos on a white plate.
Ground Beef Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ground beef tacos with fresh toppings and simple spices are quick and easy to make. A classic, no-fuss choice that’s perfect for any casual meal.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Tacos

Walking Taco Casserole

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

Walking taco casserole layers beef, cheese, veggies, and Fritos into a fun, shareable dish. A playful way to enjoy taco flavors at your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Walking Taco Casserole

Halloumi Tacos With Pepita Salsa, Cherry Tomatoes And Avocados

Halloumi Tacos With Pepita Salsa, Cherry Tomatoes And Avocados. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Halloumi tacos with salsa macha, cherry tomatoes, and avocado offer fresh, bold flavors. A vibrant addition to your spread that’s easy to make and customize.
Get the Recipe: Halloumi Tacos With Pepita Salsa, Cherry Tomatoes And Avocados

Mexican Ground Beef Skillet

Mexican ground beef skillet recipe with melted cheese.
Mexican Ground Beef Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Taco seasoning and ground beef come together for a simple one-pan meal. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a quick and flavorful dinner option for any night.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Ground Beef Skillet

Honey Habanero Tacos

Image shows three honey habanero tacos with corn shells sitting on a wooden board.
Honey Habanero Tacos. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Ground beef tacos with fresh spices and simple ingredients are fast to prepare. A classic dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Honey Habanero Tacos

Easy Keto Mexican Casserole

Easy Keto Mexican Casserole in a casserole dish with cilantro, green onion, and a spatula.
Easy Keto Mexican Casserole. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Made with ground beef, tortillas, and taco toppings, this Mexican casserole is quick to assemble. A great choice for busy nights or prepping meals ahead of time.
Get the Recipe: Easy Keto Mexican Casserole

Ground Pork Tacos

Ground Pork Tacos. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Ground pork tacos are quick and easy, with bold seasoning and fresh toppings. A hassle-free way to bring big flavors to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Ground Pork Tacos

Low Carb Taco Casserole

Taco casserole with fresh vegetables.
Low Carb Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

Low Carb Taco Casserole combines seasoned ground beef, cheese, and your favorite taco toppings. A hearty yet light meal that’s easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Taco Casserole

Taco Skillet

Mexican breakfast pizza on a plate with tomatoes and avocado.
Taco Skillet. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast skillet of ground beef, eggs, cheese, and taco spices. Add fresh toppings for even more flavor and a satisfying start to the day.
Get the Recipe: Taco Skillet

Stovetop Chicken Tinga

Two Chicken Tinga tacos on a plate with slaw and limes.
Stovetop Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Chicken tinga is made with smoky chipotle, shredded chicken, and bold spices. Quick to prepare, it’s an easy way to enjoy a flavorful Mexican-inspired dish.
Get the Recipe: Stovetop Chicken Tinga

Blackened Cod Tacos

Blackened Cod Tacos. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Blackened cod tacos combine seasoned fish, crisp cabbage, and fresh pico de gallo. A simple seafood option that adds plenty of flavor to the table.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Cod Tacos

Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake

Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Fiesta chicken pasta casserole mixes chicken, corn, beans, and Tex-Mex seasonings for a flavorful bake. It’s an easy dish that’s perfect for busy nights or a crowd-pleasing meal.
Get the Recipe: Fiesta Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake

Beef Steak Fajitas

Beef Steak Fajitas. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Steak fajitas bring together tender beef, peppers, and onions for a bold Tex-Mex favorite. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for bringing the fiesta to your table.
Get the Recipe: Beef Steak Fajitas

Chicken Fajita Sliders

Slider on a blue plate with rice.
Chicken Fajita Sliders. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Chicken fajita sliders stack juicy chicken and fresh toppings in a simple, handheld bite. A fast way to serve big flavors without slowing down the action.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fajita Sliders

Homemade Ground Beef Low Carb Tacos

Tacos in a brown basket.
Homemade Ground Beef Low Carb Tacos. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

Taco salad bowls with ground beef are fun, customizable, and easy to prepare. The edible bowl adds a creative touch to a classic meal that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ground Beef Low Carb Tacos

Cool Ranch Turkey Taco Casserole

Cool Ranch Turkey Taco Casserole. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Cool ranch turkey taco casserole combines ground turkey, Doritos, and Tex-Mex flavors. It’s a festive option that’s perfect for taco night or any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Cool Ranch Turkey Taco Casserole

White Bean Green Chile Chicken Soup

White Bean Green Chile Chicken Soup. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Green chile chicken soup features white beans and chilies in a simple broth. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s an easy, flavorful option.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Green Chile Chicken Soup

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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