If you’re looking for a refreshing cocktail to enjoy this summer, a Spicy Watermelon Margarita is our new go to. This unique twist on a classic margarita combines the sweetness of fresh watermelon with the kick of spicy jalapeño peppers, creating a drink that’s both cooling and invigorating.
» You might also like this Blueberry Basil Mezcal Cocktail and Candied Jalapenos.

We were introduced to this Spicy Watermelon Margarita recipe by Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California. You can order this drink at The Cove, their 4.5-acre tropical pool oasis. I can just imagine myself sitting next to the pool drinking one of these on a sunny Southern California afternoon, can’t you?
Ingredients You Need
When it comes to making a spicy watermelon margarita, there are a few key ingredients that you’ll need to have on hand.
- Milagro Tequila – The most important ingredient is a high-quality tequila. We use Milagro tequila for this. Look for a 100% agave silver or blanco tequila for the best flavor.
- Triple Sec – You’ll need some orange-flavored liqueur, such as Triple Sec or Cointreau, to give the drink a little sweetness.
- Watermelon Puree – You’ll need seedless watermelon cubes to make the drink, which you’ll then blend to create the watermelon puree.
- Lime Juice – You can also add a little bit of lime juice to the mix to give the drink a little bit of tartness. Save a wedge for garnish!
- Jalapeno – Muddled jalapeno will give a spicy kick to the cocktail.
- Tajin – This is a mildly spicy dried chili and lime seasoning blend from Mexico that will add a ton of flavor to the margarita, but just on the rim!
» If you have watermelon leftover try these Margarita Watermelon Appetizers.
Sweeteners and Spices
To balance out the spicy kick of the jalapeño, you might want to also add a little sweetness to the drink. You can use simple syrup or agave nectar to sweeten the cocktail, depending on your preference. I would encourage you to try it first before adding any extra sweetener.
Garnish
You’ll need some garnishes to finish off the drink. A lime wedge is a classic choice, but you can also use a watermelon wedge to tie in the watermelon flavor. You can also add a slice of jalapeño to the rim of the glass for an extra kick.

How to Make a Spicy Watermelon Margarita
Start by preparing your margarita glasses. Pour some of the Tajin onto a small plate.
To get the Tajin to stick to the rim, run the lime wedge gently around the rim of each glass. Then run the rim through the Tajin until it’s thick enough for your taste. Fill the glass with ice.
To make the spicy watermelon margarita, start by blending fresh watermelon chunks to create a smooth puree. Strain the watermelon juice to remove any pulp or seeds.
Next, add the watermelon puree, tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and a slice of jalapeño to a cocktail shaker with ice.
Shake the cocktail shaker for 30 seconds to chill the mixture., Then strain the mixture into the Tajin-rimmed glass filled with ice. Garnish with a slice of watermelon or a wedge of lime, and enjoy!
Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard barbecue, this refreshing cocktail is sure to be a hit.
Recipe Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up with your watermelon margarita recipe, here are a few variations to try:
- Watermelon Mojito – For a refreshing twist on the classic mojito, try adding watermelon puree to the mix. In a cocktail shaker, muddle fresh mint leaves and lime slices. Add watermelon puree, white rum, and simple syrup. Shake with ice and strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with club soda and garnish with a mint sprig and watermelon wedge.
- Sweet Watermelon Margarita – For those who don’t like heat in their drinks, you can make a sweet watermelon margarita instead. In a cocktail shaker with ice, combine watermelon puree, triple sec, lime juice, tequila, and agave nectar. Strain into a glass filled with ice and garnish with a lime wedge.
- Watermelon Daiquiri – For a watermelon cocktail that uses rum instead of tequila, you can make a watermelon daiquiri. In a cocktail shaker with ice, combine watermelon puree, rum, lime juice, and simple syrup. Shake until chilled and pour into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a watermelon wedge and a sprinkle of salt.
Experiment with these variations and find the one that suits your taste buds best. Whether you prefer strong and heat or sweet and salty, there’s a watermelon drink out there for you.
Conclusion
Congratulations, you have just learned how to make a delicious spicy watermelon margarita! This cocktail is perfect for any summer day and will definitely impress your guests.
Remember to always use fresh, seedless watermelon juice to ensure the best taste. You can easily make watermelon juice by blending fresh watermelon chunks and straining the mixture through a fine mesh sieve.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your garnishes! Some popular options include a slice of watermelon, a sprig of mint, or a wedge of lime. You can even rim your glass with salt or chili powder for an extra kick.
Now that you know how to make a spicy watermelon margarita, you can impress your friends and family with your bartending skills. Enjoy this refreshing cocktail on a hot summer day or at your next party. Cheers!

Spicy Watermelon Margarita
This Spicy Watermelon Margarita has just the right sweetness and kick for a poolside cocktail.
Ingredients
- 1.5 ounces Milagro Tequila
- 0.5 ounces Triple Sec
- 3 ounces Watermelon Puree
- 0.5 ounces Lime Juice
- 1/2 jalapeno, sliced
- 1 teaspoon Tajin
- Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Start by preparing your margarita glasses. Pour some of the Tajin onto a small plate.
- Run the lime wedge gently around the rim of each glass. Run the rim through the Tajin until it's thick enough for your taste. Fill the glass with ice.
- Strain the watermelon puree to remove any pulp or seeds.
- Add watermelon puree, tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and a few slices of jalapeño to a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake the cocktail shaker for 30 seconds to chill the mixture., Then strain the mixture into the Tajin-rimmed glass filled with ice. Garnish with a slice of watermelon or a wedge of lime, and enjoy!
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Laura is the founder and editor of the travel blogs Savored Sips and Savored Journeys. She is dedicated to sharing the best information about drinks found around the world.