Sweet, creamy, zesty, and a little unexpected—in the best way.
Ever tried guac with mango? It’s a game-changer. The creamy avocado mixed with juicy chunks of ripe mango is that perfect mix of savory and sweet.
It’s fresh, fast, and full of flavor. Great for tacos, chips, or just by the spoonful (no judgment).
I first made this on a whim during a beach day picnic—and it was gone before the chips were even halfway done. Now, it’s my go-to for summer BBQs, taco nights, and pretty much anytime I need a crowd-pleasing dip.
🛒 What You’ll Need
- 3 ripe avocados
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Optional: pinch of chili flakes
🍴 Why I Love This Recipe
This isn’t just regular guacamole—it’s guac with vibes. It’s bright, juicy, and super fresh. Here’s why I keep coming back to it:
- 🥑 It’s unexpected – People love the tropical surprise.
- 🌞 Tastes like summer – Mango brings sunshine in every bite.
- 🕒 Quick to make – Done in under 15 minutes.
- 🧂 Perfect balance – Creamy, tangy, sweet, and a little spicy.
- 🥣 Great with everything – Chips, tacos, bowls, you name it.
🍽️ Servings & Time
- Serves: 4–6 people (as an appetizer or snack)
- Total Time: 15 minutes
🔬 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Avocados are high in healthy fats, giving guac its creamy base. Mango adds natural sugars and acidity, which balances the richness of the avocado. Lime juice not only adds tang, but also helps prevent browning (thanks to the citric acid). Onion and jalapeño bring the punch, while cilantro adds that herby freshness to round it all out.
📝 Instructions
Step 1: Prep the avocados
Scoop the avocado flesh into a mixing bowl and mash with a fork—leave a few chunks for texture.
Step 2: Add the diced mango
Gently fold in the diced mango.
Step 3: Mix in onion, jalapeño, and salt
Add the finely chopped red onion, jalapeño, and salt. Stir gently to combine.
Step 4: Add lime juice and cilantro
Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and sprinkle in chopped cilantro. Give it a final gentle mix.
Step 5: Optional – Sprinkle chili flakes
For a little kick, sprinkle on a pinch of chili flakes before serving.
🔧 Tools You’ll Need
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Spoon
- Citrus juicer (optional)
🥄 Pro Tips
- Use ripe but firm mango – Overripe mango turns mushy fast.
- Mash avocado before adding mango – This keeps the mango pieces from breaking.
- Chop everything small – Makes for a smoother, scoopable texture.
- Serve right away – Guac is best fresh!
- Taste and adjust – Limes vary in juiciness; taste as you go.
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- Swap mango for pineapple for a tangier twist
- No jalapeño? Use a pinch of cayenne or leave it out
- Add black beans for more heartiness
- Not a fan of cilantro? Try chopped parsley or leave it out
⏰ Make Ahead Tips
You can chop the onion, jalapeño, mango, and cilantro a few hours in advance. Keep them in separate containers in the fridge. Don’t mash the avocado or add lime until just before serving to keep it fresh and green.
❄️ Leftovers & Storage
Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guac to minimize browning. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. After that, it might brown—but still tastes fine!
🍴 What to Serve With
- Tortilla chips or pita chips
- Tacos (especially shrimp or fish)
- Grilled chicken or steak
- Nachos
- Burrito bowls or rice bowls
🧠 Why You Might Mess This Up (Common Mistakes)
- Using under-ripe avocados (they won’t mash well)
- Overmixing (makes it mushy)
- Adding mango too early (gets squished)
- Not seasoning enough—always taste and adjust
- Making too far ahead (browning and watery texture)
📅 Meal Plan Ideas
- Taco Tuesday – Serve it on top or on the side
- Grilled protein night – Pairs great with chicken or shrimp
- Snack board – Add guac, chips, fruit, and cheese
- Lunch wraps – Spread it in wraps with turkey or beans
❓ FAQ
Can I use frozen mango?
Yes, but thaw and pat it dry first or it’ll water down your guac.
How do I keep guacamole from browning?
Add lime juice and press plastic wrap directly on top.
Is it spicy?
Only a little. Leave out the jalapeño or flakes if you want zero heat.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just taste as you go and adjust seasoning.
💬 Final Thoughts
If you’ve never added fruit to your guacamole, now’s your moment. This mango guac is bright, creamy, and super craveable. Make it once, and you’ll be hooked. Let me know how it turned out in the comments—or what you served it with. I love hearing from you!