This easy Homemade Taco Seasoning recipe is the perfect way to spice up your chicken or beef!
Making your own taco seasoning mix allows you to control what ingredients go into it (and control the salt and spice levels). It takes just minutes to make and you likely have all of the ingredients you need on hand!
So, exactly what is in taco seasoning? It’s a blend of spices, most of which you likely have in your pantry.
Chili Powder makes up the largest portion and adds a southwestern flavor. It’s great in the mixture but also for soups and of course chili recipes.
Ground cumin adds a slightly nutty warm flavor while onion and garlic powder are the aromatics in this recipe. A pinch of cayenne pepper adds heat.
Dried oregano, salt, and black pepper are included in this taco seasoning. I sometimes add a little sweet paprika or smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon) if I have it on hand.
Since this is made from spices, it’s naturally gluten free (just make sure your chili powder and all spices are GF).
This spice blend is perfect for your Mexican-inspired dishes (like tacos) but it can be used for so many other dishes in the kitchen. Whether it’s weeknight chicken tacos, or fajita Friday, skip the seasoning packet and make your own.
Homemade taco seasoning will last 6 months stored in a cool, dry place like your spice cupboard! I use cute little spice jars found on Amazon to keep my spices, but check the dollar store or use a small mason jar.
I usually make a triple batch so it’s ready to go whenever I need a little taco mix!
Did you enjoy this Homemade Taco Seasoning? Be sure to leave a rating and a comment below!
The Best Homemade Taco Seasoning
The perfect amount of spices come together in the homemade taco seasoning! You will never buy from the store again!
Prep: 5min
Total: 5min
Yield: 4
Serving Size: 1 serving
Nutrition Facts: calories 12 kcal, Carbohydrate 2 g, Protein 1 g, Fat 1 g, Saturated Fat 1 g, Sodium 616 mg, Fiber 1 g, Sugar 1 g, unSaturated Fat 2 g, servingSize 1 serving
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instruction:
- Combine all seasonings together and store in an airtight container.
- I used one recipe in one pound of ground turkey. Recipe can easily be doubled and use more or less to taste. I also like to add 1/2 cup of water to the meat and seasonings to make the meat more moist.
Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe
I love Taco Seasoning! It’s not JUST for Tacos! I use this DIY Taco Seasoning Recipe to add a little zip to items like soups and casseroles.
Prep: 5min
Total: 5min
Serving Size: 2.25 tablespoons
Nutrition Facts: calories 24 kcal, Carbohydrate 4 g, Protein 1 g, Fat 1 g, Saturated Fat 1 g, Sodium 655 mg, Fiber 2 g, Sugar 1 g, servingSize 2.25 tablespoons, unSaturated Fat 2 g
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- ½ tablespoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
Instruction:
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Quick & Easy Homemade Taco Seasoning
FAQ
What is taco seasoning mix made of?
What do you use when you don’t have taco seasoning?
- 1 tablespoon chili powder.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder.
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder.
- Pinch of cayenne pepper.
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano.
- ½ teaspoon paprika.
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin.
- 1 teaspoon salt.
How much taco seasoning and water for 1 pound of meat?
How important is cumin in taco seasoning?