How to Make Margaritas for a Crowd

Homemade margaritas take a tiny bit of effort but pay off in a big way. Hear us out: There’s no way store-bought mix tastes better than freshly squeezed juice and high-quality tequila! Make a batch for sharing—and be prepared to pour a second round.

On the Rocks or Blended?

True margarita aficionados drink their margaritas on the rocks. I learned this decades ago from the look a bartender shot me when ordering a blended margarita. He explained that they only served margaritas on the rocks—which made me promptly want to melt into the floor. But once I had that margarita on the rocks, I’ve never gone back. You get to taste your quality ingredients instead of mostly ice. If you’ve only had blended margaritas, this recipe is a great opportunity to try it on the rocks.

How to Make a Pitcher of Margaritas

This big-batch recipe makes 16 drinks.

What You’ll Need:

• 2 cups tequila (Make sure to get something smooth and delicious. You’ll thank me in the morning.)
• 1 cup triple sec
• 1 cup lime juice (Use the juice of real, fresh limes. You won’t regret it!)
• 1 cup lemon juice (Yes, both citrus fruits… and again, squeeze it yourself or use this trick.)
• 1/2 cup superfine sugar (It’s also known as caster sugar. Learn about all different kinds of sugars here.)
• 16 lime wedges
• 1/4 cup kosher salt
• 5 1/3 cups crushed or cubed ice

Step 1: Mix It Up

In a large pitcher or another vessel (e.g., glass beverage dispenser, stockpot, deep bowl—whatever’s handy; don’t make it too complicated) combine the first five ingredients until the sugar is dissolved. In the meantime, put all of the salt in a shallow bowl or rimmed plate.

Step 2: Salt, Serve, ¡Salud!

This margarita pitcher recipe is ready to go!

When serving, wet the rim of the margarita or cocktail glasses with a lime wedge and dip the rim of each glass in the salt. Put ice in glasses and pour the drink mix over. Be sure to stir the mixture gently before serving.

Once you savor the fresh citrus and smooth tequila of this recipe, you’ll be ruined for all lesser margaritas. Pair it with any one of these wonderful Mexican dishes and have fun!

Try These Other Takes on the Classic Drink

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Who doesn't love a frozen Margarita? This creamy frozen mousse combines ready-to-drink margarita mix and whipped topping; it's easy to put together and the freezer does all the work. Garnish with additional crushed pretzels and kosher salt to enhance the sweet and salty flavor. —Debbie Glasscock, Conway, Arkansas

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Pomgaritas

Pomegranate juice gives a tart and tasty twist to the traditional margarita. The ruby color is great for Christmas, but we enjoy the refreshing beverage all year long.—Bernice Knutson, Danbury, Iowa

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This sangria is reminiscent of a margarita with its tequila and agave kick! —Andrea Rivera, Westbury, New York

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Frozen Lemon-Berry Margaritas

I like to cool down with this absolutely fantastic frozen margarita recipe. It's slightly icy, thick and perfect for when you need a break. —Julie Hieggelke, Grayslake, Illinois

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Cranberry Pomegranate Margaritas

I came up with this beverage to serve at holiday celebrations for a festive twist on the traditional margarita. It's light and refreshing, and looks beautiful with sugar crystals on glass rims. —Mindie Hilton, Susanville, California

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The post How to Make Margaritas for a Crowd appeared first on Taste of Home.

Jennifer Schwarzkopf