Homemade Taco Seasoning

 

This taco seasoning recipe takes just minutes to make, using spices that you probably have in your kitchen. This homemade taco seasoning mix tastes so much better than the packets from the store!

One of the first packaged foods that I eliminated from my family’s diet (we’re going back a few years here) was store-bought taco seasoning. Yes, those little taco seasoning packets from the store are convenient, but their ingredient lists often contain some questionable items. I’d much rather take a few minutes to mix together some spices from my spice drawer, so I know exactly what’s in my taco seasoning.

This recipe is quick and easy to make, and it makes the best taco meat, chicken tacos, and more. Once you mix together the spices, your DIY taco seasoning will stay fresh for months so that you can use it in your favorite taco recipes. Below you’ll find a list of my favorite recipes to use your homemade taco seasoning.

This taco seasoning has a little heat but it’s not too spicy. Making your own taco seasoning from scratch allows you to customize your spice blend to your tastes. You can add more or less chili powder or cayenne to this recipe. You can also use mild or hot chili powder depending on how spicy you like your meals. If you don’t care for a specific spice in this taco seasoning recipe, or if you have an allergy, you can leave it out.

I decided to leave salt and black pepper out of my seasoning, and instead I season my taco meat to taste after cooking. This homemade taco seasoning recipe has plenty of flavor from herbs and spices, so you won’t miss the extra salt found in the little packets from the store.

TACO SEASONING INGREDIENTS

• Chili Powder: I use mild chili powder because my kids don’t like too much spice. Try adding a little chipotle chili powder for lots of smoky spice.
• Paprika: You can use sweet paprika or smoked paprika, depending on your preference.
• Cayenne Pepper: This recipe uses just a small amount as cayenne is spicy.
• Ground Cumin: Cumin is a common, earthy spice that is often used in Mexican cuisine.
• Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: Onion powder and garlic powder are often used in spice mixes and add mild onion flavor and mil garlic flavor, respectively.
• Dried Oregano: Dried oregano adds another layer of flavor. While it’s often used in Italian cuisine, oregano is also commonly used in chili and Mexican dishes.

The freshness of your spices will determine the freshness of your taco seasoning, so check the expiration dates before you mix the ingredients together.

HOW TO MAKE TACO SEASONING

This taco seasoning couldn’t be simpler to make:

1. Combine the taco seasoning ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Use a small whisk or spoon to mix the spices together until everything is well combined.
3. Use right away or store in an airtight container.

HOW MUCH TACO SEASONING PER POUND OF MEAT

Use 2 heaping tablespoons of taco seasoning per pound of ground beef or ground turkey. To make taco meat, first brown the ground meat in a large skillet. Then add the taco seasoning and 1 cup of water. Cook at a low simmer until most of the liquid has evaporated, stirring occasionally. After cooking, season with salt and pepper to taste.

HOW TO STORE HOMEMADE TACO SEASONING

You can store your homemade taco seasoning in a labeled zip-top bag or other sealed container. I like to use these small Weck jars to store my spice mixes.

Store taco seasoning in a cool, dry place, at room temperature. I keep mine in a drawer in my kitchen where I store the rest of my spices.

When the jar is running low, I make another batch of taco seasoning right away so I’ll have it ready the next time I need it. It keeps for quite a while when sealed airtight in a cool, dry place. I usually use mine up within a couple of months but it will be good for about a year, or for as long as the individual spices would be fresh.