This easy taco seasoning takes only a moment to make and will replace your store bought seasoning packets. Made with easy to find spices that may already be in your cabinet.
For the longest time, I purchased taco seasoning packets at the grocery store. Nachos and tacos are a weekly occurrence in our home.
One evening, I started dinner only to realize I had forgotten to buy seasoning! I did a quick google search and found that taco seasoning was made with spices that I already had on hand in my pantry.
So, why not try to make my own instead. I pulled out my spices jars and made a few adjustments based on our tastes.
As a result, my homemade taco seasoning was born. I can never go back to the store bought packages, knowing I can make a more flavorful version in my own kitchen.
What can you use taco seasoning for? Taco seasoning is used in the US to season ground beef, chicken, or steak in Tex-Mex or Southwestern style dishes. It can also be used to season dishes like Slow Cooker Taco Chili, casseroles, or soups.
You’ll love this taco seasoning because it’s easy to make, filled with flavor, and easy to customize to suit your tastes.
How to Make Homemade Taco Seasoning
For this recipe, it’s as simple as gathering your spices and measuring them into a bowl.
For this recipe, you’ll need chili powder, cumin, paprika, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, and red cayenne pepper.
While it looks like a long list, you’ll appreciate the complex flavor of this taco seasoning. I couldn’t believe how much more flavorful my homemade seasoning was compared to a store bought mix.
It’s especially important to use fresh herbs and spices, because the longer the sit, the more their flavors will dull. Fresh spices are always best!
Next, stir your herbs and spices together until fully combined. Or, add them all directly to your spice container and shake until incorporated.
Keep stirring until all of your spices are evenly incorporated. Then, transfer to a spice jar, or a small mason jar, and store at room temperature.
How Much Taco Seasoning Do I Need?
When following any recipe that calls for taco seasoning, you can use your homemade seasoning at a 1:1 ratio compared to a store bought taco seasoning mix.
When adding seasoning to meat, start by adding 2 teaspoons of spice for every half pound of meat. This will give you a medium spice level. If you are looking for a very mild flavor, use 1 teaspoon of seasoning instead.
Remember – it’s always easier to add a little, taste, and add more if needed!
More Seasoning Blends
Want to make even more homemade seasoning blends? Try some of my other recipes!
Easy Taco Seasoning
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red cayenne pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients until well blended. Store in an airtight container.
- For every half pound of meat, add 2-3 teaspoons of spice and up to 1/4 cup of water to create a sauce. Feel free to add as much as you'd like to taste.
Notes
Nutrition
Thanks for this.. I have been looking for a great taco seasoning recipe. it is way crazy to spend .99 on a packed when I have everything right here already!.
Yes I agree! I am glad I don’t have to buy those seasoning packets anymore 🙂