Easy Classic Margarita Recipe (On The Rocks)

Looking for a go-to summer cocktail? This simple classic margarita recipe is just the thing. Served on the rocks and made with fresh, real ingredients—no syrupy mix here—it’s perfectly tart, smooth, and incredibly refreshing.

Skip the artificial stuff and mix up this fresh margarita with just a few easy-to-find ingredients. You’ll get all the crisp citrus flavor from lime juice and orange liqueur, rounded out with a splash of agave for balance. It’s an easy recipe that you'll make on repeat.

Whether you're hanging out on the patio or hosting friends, this cocktail is always a hit.

Here's What You'll Need

You only need a few basic ingredients to mix up this classic margarita at home.

• Tequila – Go with a good-quality blanco or silver tequila for clean flavor.
• Orange liqueur – Cointreau, Grand Marnier, or Triple Sec all work great to add that sweet citrusy note.
• Fresh lime juice – Freshly squeezed limes make all the difference. Skip the bottled stuff!
• Agave nectar – Just enough to smooth out the tartness. You can use simple syrup instead, if needed.
• Lime wedges – For garnish and rimming the glass.
• Salt – For rimming the glass. Kosher salt, sea salt or flavored margarita salt all work.
• Ice cubes – For shaking the drink and serving on the rocks.

Bar Equipment

Keep it simple with a few basic tools

• A cocktail shaker helps mix and chill everything quickly. One with a built-in strainer makes it even easier.
• You'll want a jigger or measuring glass to keep the ratios right for that perfect balance of flavors.
• A citrus juicer makes squeezing limes so much faster and easier.
• For serving, try rocks glasses or margarita glasses for a fun touch.

How To Make It

Step 1: Salt the Rim

Pour some kosher salt or coarse sea salt onto a small plate. Take a lime wedge and run it around the rim of your glass to moisten it.

Dip the moistened rim into the salt, rotating gently to coat evenly. Or try a half rim if you prefer less salt.

Set the glass aside while you mix your drink.

Step 2: Shake It Up

Fill your cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Add the tequila, orange liqueur, fresh squeezed lime juice, and agave to taste.

Shake it up for about 15 seconds, until the shaker feels icy cold.

Step 3: Serve It Up

Fill your salt-rimmed glass with fresh ice, then strain the margarita over the top.

Add a fresh lime wheel or wedge for garnish.

Fun Variations

Want to put a twist on your margaritas? Try one of these tasty variations.

Party-Size Pitcher: Multiply the ingredients for as many servings as you need, mix in a pitcher, and stash it in the fridge until party time.

Skinny Margarita: Swap orange juice for the orange liqueur and skip the sweetener for a lighter version.

Cadillac Margarita: Go full top shelf with reposado tequila and Cointreau in the mix. Then float Grand Marnier on top.

Spicy Margarita: Toss in a few jalapeño slices and let it steep for a few minutes before shaking. You can also rim the glass with Tajín for a spicy kick.

More Margarita Recipes

If you love this classic version, here are a few more margarita flavors to try next.

• Coconut Pineapple Margarita – Pineapple juice and coconut tequila make this one taste like a beach vacation.
• Strawberry Margarita – Blend fresh strawberries with lime juice and tequila for a juicy pink drink.
• Cranberry Margarita – Great for the holidays with tart cranberry juice and a touch of orange liqueur.
• Apple Cider Margarita – A cozy fall version made with cider and finished with a pumpkin spice rim.

You really can’t go wrong with the classic—just tequila, fresh lime juice, and a splash of orange liqueur. Serve it over ice with a salted rim, and you’re set.

Margaritas are great any time of year—whether it’s summer sipping, taco Tuesday, or just a casual get-together. They’re easy to make, always refreshing, and a favorite for everything from pool days to holiday parties.