Pitcher Margaritas

Pitcher cocktails are smart party choices; they easily serve a crowd and don’t require you to be constantly shaking and stirring. These pitcher margaritas are even wiser than the rest, seeing as this recipe isn’t even a recipe — it’s a ratio. Just follow a ratio of three parts tequila, two parts orange liqueur, and one part lime juice.

Commit it to memory and you’ll have an easy, crowd-pleasing cocktail to stir up whenever friends drop by, which will probably be more often once they get wind of it. After all, few can resist the tangy, refreshing taste of a homemade margarita.

• It’s nice and strong. But don’t worry! The ice helps mellow it out, which is why we like to let it sit for at least 5 minutes before serving.
• It’s so easy. Making margaritas aren’t complicated, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. If you have tequila, orange liqueur, and plenty of limes on hand, you have everything you need!
• The ratio is foolproof. Just follow the simple 3-2-1 ratio of three parts tequila, two parts orange liqueur, and one part lime juice.

• Tequila: We recommend blanco tequila, also known as silver tequila. This variety of tequila is considered the purest form of tequila, as it’s typically bottled directly after distillation.
• Orange liqueur: Use your favorite orange liqueur, such as Cointreau or Triple Sec.
• Lime juice: Use freshly squeezed lime juice (from about 8 limes).

1. Combine all the ingredients in a pitcher. Place the tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and ice in a large pitcher, and stir to combine. Top with the lime slices.
2. Let sit for 5 minutes. This allows for some of the ice to melt and mellow the margaritas.
3. Pour into glasses. Add more ice from the pitcher to each glass as needed. Scoop a couple of lime slices into each glass when serving.

The 3-2-1 ratio makes for a strong sip, but because margaritas are usually shaken, the ice mellows out the boozy bite as it melts. Since it’s a little impractical to shake a whole pitcher of margaritas, you’ll stir the ice directly into the pitcher, then let it sit for five minutes before serving so some of the ice starts to melt. Add more ice from the pitcher to each glass as needed.

• For sweeter margaritas: If you prefer a sweeter drink, make a simple syrup and stir in a few spoonfuls to taste.
• For more tart margaritas: You can add more freshly squeezed lime juice, to taste.

• Spicy Margarita
• 3-Ingredient Watermelon Margarita
• Strawberry Pitcher Margarita
• Blood Orange-Jalapeño Margaritas
• 2-Ingredient Frozen Italian Ice Margaritas
• Cranberry Pitcher Margaritas
• Shishito Pepper Margarita
• Frozen Margaritas

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• Air Fryer Tortilla Chips
• Salsa Verde
• Crispy Chicken Taquitos
• Pineapple Salsa
• Shrimp and Avocado Tostadas
• Salsa Fresca (Fresh Salsa)
• Black Bean Tostadas
• Avocado Salsa
• Chicken Flautas
• Mango Salsa

The pitcher can be made, without the ice and sliced limes, up to 1 day ahead. Cover and store in the refrigerator and add the ice and limes before serving.