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Homemade seasoning mixes are great because you can adjust the salt and spice levels.
This easy taco seasoning recipe is flavorful and perfect for homemade tacos or to use in recipes.
This is The Only Taco Seasoning Recipe You’ll Ever Need Because…
- It tastes great in almost any recipe and pairs well with chicken, beef, fish, or shrimp.
- It doesn’t contain additives, and you can control the salt and heat levels.
- It’s easy to make in large batches and costs less than packets!
Spices For Homemade Taco Seasoning
This taco seasoning recipe uses a blend of spices, many of which you likely have in your pantry.
- Chili Powder: It’s not just for chili; it adds depth, warmth, and heat. You can use mild or hot chili powder.
- Ground Cumin: Adds a slightly nutty warm flavor
- Garlic Powder: Adds color, sweetness, and classic taco flavor.
- Onion Powder and Dried Oregano: Adds savory depth of flavor.
- Seasoning: Salt and pepper can be adjusted to taste.
- Options: A pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes adds heat, and a pinch of smoked paprika adds a nice smoky flavor.
Variations
- To make a low-sodium version, add less salt (or no salt) based on your dietary needs.
- To make mild taco seasoning, skip the cayenne pepper and/or chili flakes.
- To make it spicy, double the cayenne or add other dried chili peppers to taste.
How Much Taco Seasoning to Use
Once you try this homemade taco seasoning, you’ll be making it on repeat!
- To replace a store-bought packet of taco seasoning, use 2 ½ tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning.
- For 1 pound of ground beef, use 2 ½ tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning. Add ½ cup of water to the seasoning and let it simmer.
Storage
Store this taco seasoning recipe in a spice jar in a cool dry place. It will last at least 6 months. I usually prepare a triple batch so it’s ready to use whenever I need a little taco mix!
Ways to Use Taco Seasoning
Of course, it’s great for ground beef tacos, but this DIY taco seasoning recipe can also be used for other types of tacos or as a seasoning for meat and vegetables.
- Use it on ground beef, ground chicken, or ground turkey.
- Sprinkle it on shrimp or chicken before grilling.
- Use this recipe to make Dorito taco salad and slow cooker chicken tacos.
Did you enjoy this Homemade Taco Seasoning? Be sure to leave a rating and a comment below!
Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- pinch cayenne pepper optional
Instructions
- In a small bowl, add all ingredients and mix well to combine.
- Store in an airtight container in a cool dry place for 6 months.
To Prepare Tacos
- Add 1 pound of lean ground beef or turkey to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, for 5 to 7 minutes or until no pink remains. Drain any fat.
- Add 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning to the meat and cook for 1 minute more.
- Stir in ½ cup water and, if desired, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. Simmer uncovered until most of the water has evaporated.
- Serve in taco shells or tortillas.
Notes
- To replace a packet: 2 ½ tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning will replace one packet of store-bought seasoning.
- Use 2 to 2 ½ tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning for 1 pound of ground beef. Add 1/2 cup of water with the seasoning and let it simmer.
- Optional: Add 1/2 diced onion to the meat while browning. Once browned, stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste or a diced tomato if you’d like.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.
Course Pantry, Seasonings
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Thanks for sharing this delicious and simple recipe!