Looking for the best margarita recipes? From a classic margarita to fruity and frozen margaritas, I’ve got you covered! Also the best tequila for a margarita and other important things to know.
What’s in a margarita?
Classic margaritas are typically made with tequila, an orange liqueur like Triple Sec or Cointreau, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Of course, there are many variations that incorporate other types of juice or add ingredients like jalapenos, cucumbers, or berries.
What’s the best tequila for a margarita?
The best tequila for a margarita is one you enjoy drinking. In general, a silver or white tequila is the best option. It’s a little sweeter and smoother than Reposado, and since we add so many other ingredients, there’s no need to splurge on a bottle of aged tequila.
While you definitely don’t have to use premium tequila to make any of these margarita recipes, I recommend avoiding cheap tequila. Using cheap tequila in a margarita is like asking for a hangover! Also, it just doesn’t taste that good. Patron is always a good place to start if you don’t know which one to choose.
Can you make margaritas for a crowd?
Margaritas are a great cocktail for parties or for a crowd in general as you can easily make a large batch of them! Most of the margarita recipes I’ll share below have specific directions, but the general idea for making margaritas for a crowd is to combine all the ingredients except ice in a pitcher and refrigerate until ready to serve. (This is perfect for prepping!)
Then pour into glasses with the desired garnishes on ice. Dead easy!
How to salt a rim
Margaritas traditionally have a salted rim, although some fruity margaritas have a sugar rim instead and others may have a spicy tajine rim.
Anyway, salting (or sugaring) a margarita glass rim is super easy:
- Moisten the edge. The easiest way to do this is to grate a lime wedge along the edge. However, if you decide to use a sugar rim, you might want to dip it in plain syrup instead.
- Dip directly in salt. Spread coarse salt in a shallow bowl, then dip the glass straight in and back up. Avoid twisting it as this may cause the salt to fall off.
What to serve with margaritas
I’m all about sipping a marg anytime, for any reason. But for me, the best excuse to make a margarita or two is… Mexican food.
There really is nothing better than relaxing with friends, grabbing some queso and chips, and sipping on a classic margarita.
Here are a few other Mexican-inspired dishes that go well with a margarita:
The 12 Best Margarita Recipes
One thing I love about margaritas is that while you can never go wrong with a classic margarita, there are so many ways to transform it! These margarita recipes are perfect for all seasons and all occasions.
Frozen Mango Margaritas
With a little kick from the spicy tajin rim, these Frozen Mango Margaritas are the perfect combination of sweet, tart, and refreshing. Perfect for hot summer days!
Blood Orange Margarita recipe
With a bright citrus flavor and a beautiful red-orange color, this blood orange margarita is sure to become a favorite. Easy to prepare for a crowd!
The ultimate skinny margarita recipe – only 132 calories!
Drink as many of these skinny margaritas as you want without the guilt! Made with just 4 ingredients, this refreshing margarita is sure to be a regular!
Easy and Refreshing Spicy Margarita Recipe
Turn up the heat with this flavorful margarita recipe! Jalapeno-infused tequila mixes with fresh lime, orange juice and agave for a cocktail that has just the right amount of spice.
How to Make a Margarita – the BEST recipe!
If you’re looking for the best classic margarita recipe, you’ve found it! All you need are 5 ingredients!
Easy White Christmas Margarita Pitcher Recipe
If you’re looking for a Christmas cocktail that everyone will love, then this White Christmas Pitcher Margarita is for you. With creamy coconut, lime juice, tequila and cranberries, it looks festive and tastes light and refreshing.
The Ultimate Blender Frozen Strawberry Margaritas
These Frozen Strawberry Margaritas are just the thing to cool you down on a hot summer day! You can even prepare them in advance. Perfect for summer parties!
Frozen margaritas with mixed berries
Made with fresh berries, agave, tequila, and fruit juice, these Mixed Berry Frozen Margaritas are perfect for a crowd. Smooth, refreshing and super aromatic!
Thyme Blackberry Margaritas
Fancy something different? Try these Thyme Blackberry Margaritas! They’re easy to make and have a unique flavor profile of citrus, berries, and thyme that you’re sure to love.
Pomegranate Margarita Recipe
These easy pomegranate margaritas are light, refreshing, and perfect to enjoy year-round. They’re lovely by the pool in the summer, but the color makes them perfect for vacations too.
Spicy Blackberry Margarita
This spicy blackberry margarita offers the best of both worlds—jalapeno-infused tequila and simple blackberry syrup. The end result is a cocktail with the perfect balance of sweet and spicy!
Cadillac Margarita
You can’t beat this classic. A Cadillac Margarita will be your summer cocktail, topped with tequila, Cointreau, fresh lime juice and the classic Grand Marnier Floater, then served over salt-rimmed ice.