Simple Guacamole Recipe

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

Simple Guacamole Recipe

Years ago, when Kevin and I were first dating, he and his kids came over for taco night with me, Logan, and Madeline. I’d been craving Mexican food, and knew everyone would be on board with a build-your-own taco bar.

Normally I’d toss my CrockPot Mexican Chicken in the slow cooker, but that night I went all in. And, since I was trying to follow my advice on these 7 Ways to Up Your Taco Tuesday Game, I made sure to serve the tacos with Cilantro Lime Broccoli Slaw and a side of this simple guacamole and chips.

His daughter loved it (she basically inhaled it), and even his son Kayden, who usually skips guac, came back for seconds. I was impressed… until Kevin casually told me how he usually makes guacamole: “I just mash up an avocado.”

I paused. I blinked. I laughed. Because, this girl who was practically raised on Tex-Mex has some constructive feedback about his guac skills.

Because mashing an avocado? That’s not guacamole. It’s actually, get this, just… a mashed up avocado. Why would you eat that when in 5 minutes you can make this super easy guacamole recipe?

Thankfully, making really good guacamole doesn’t take much more time. In about 5 minutes, you can have a fresh, flavorful homemade guacamole with garlic, lime, cilantro, and just the right kick of jalapeño. Totally worth it.

Tools to Make Simple Guacamole

You don’t need anything fancy to make this easy guacamole recipe, but a few basic kitchen tools will make the process quicker and cleaner:

• Sharp knife + cutting board – For prepping the avocados, onion, jalapeños, and cilantro.
• Measuring spoons – To add just the right amount of lime juice and seasoning.
• Citrus juicer – Makes juicing limes faster and mess-free.
• Mixing bowl – To combine everything together.
• Fork – I just use a simple fork to mash the fresh avocados when making this recipe. My daughter likes to use a pastry blender to mash the avocados and others prefer using a potato masher. Use whatever works best for you!
• Mixing spoon or spatula – To stir everything together once it’s mashed and seasoned.

Simple Guacamole Recipe Ingredients

To make a batch of homemade guacamole, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Don’t forget to reference the FREE printable recipe card at the bottom of the post for full measurements and instructions.

• Avocados – Ripe but not mushy. Their creamy texture is the heart of guacamole, so choose avocados that give slightly when gently squeezed.
• Lime juice – Adds brightness and helps balance the richness of the avocado. Fresh-squeezed is best. Here’s a tip for how to get the most juice from your limes.
• Garlic – A little goes a long way. It deepens the flavor without overpowering
• Red onion – For color, crunch, and sharpness. Finely dice it so you get a balanced bite, and rinse under cold water if you want to mellow the flavor.
• Jalapeño – Adds just the right amount of clean heat. Remove seeds for mild heat or leave some in if you like a little kick.
• Fresh cilantro – Bright and herbaceous, cilantro brings freshness that ties everything together.
• Chipotle powder – Optional, but I like a tiny pinch for smoky depth.
• Sea salt + black pepper – Essential for rounding out the flavors. Taste and adjust as needed!

Homemade Guacamole Recipe Tips

Simple Guacamole Recipe FAQs

Got questions about how to make this 5 minute guacamole? Here are the answers to a few commonly asked questions. Feel free to leave any other questions in the comments on this post and I’ll respond with answers.

What should I do if my avocados aren’t ripe?

To speed up ripening, place avocados in a paper bag with a ripe banana or apple. These fruits emit ethylene gas, which helps trigger the ripening process. Keep the bag closed at room temperature and check daily for softness​.

Avoid refrigerating unripe avocados. It can change their texture and prevent proper ripening.

How do you keep guacamole from turning brown?

Guacamole starts to brown when it’s exposed to air. To help prevent this:

• A little extra lime juice also helps slow browning thanks to its acidity​.
• Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole to block oxygen.
• Store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

How do you store leftover guacamole?

For short term storage, the best way to store any leftovers you have after making this simple guac recipe is in an airtight container with a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the guacamole.

How long does guacamole last?

When properly stored (see above), homemade guacamole will keep for up to 2 days. After that, the flavor can dull and browning is more likely, even if it’s still technically safe to eat.

Can I freeze this simple guacamole recipe?

Yes, but ut it works best if you freeze plain guacamole without watery ingredients like tomato or onion. These release moisture when thawed and can make the texture mushy.

To freeze:

1. Leave out onions or juicy mix-ins.
2. Spoon guacamole into a freezer-safe bag.
3. Press out as much air as possible.
4. Freeze flat for easy stacking.

It will keep for about 2–3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and give it a good stir before serving.