This recipe for homemade taco seasoning is a flavorful combination of herbs and spices that are blended together to make the perfect mixture. You can use this taco spice blend with chicken, pork, turkey, beef or vegetarian tacos. It also makes a great seasoning for vegetables, potatoes and rice.
I make tacos at least once a week, we can’t get enough of them. I use my homemade Mexican seasoning for extra flavor, and add side dishes like pinto beans and rice to make a complete meal.
Mexican food is so fun and easy to make at home. That being said, the taco seasoning packets you get at the store are often loaded with undesirable ingredients like sugar, starch and preservatives. Next time it’s taco night, make your own homemade taco seasoning, you’ll be glad you did!
How do you make taco seasoning?
To make this recipe, place chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, salt and pepper in a bowl. Stir to combine the ingredients. Use the seasoning right away, or store it in an airtight container for up to 4 months.
Tips for the perfect spice blend
- I often make a double or triple batch of this seasoning mix so that I always have some on hand.
- Don’t be tempted to substitute the smoked paprika for regular paprika. The smoked version adds a ton of flavor and is readily available in the spice aisle of most grocery stores.
- Chili powder comes in different heat levels. I typically use a mild chili powder, but if you like spicy food, you can use medium or hot chili powder.
- There are two types of oregano that are typically sold at the store, both Mexican and Mediterranean. For this recipe, it’s best to use the Mexican oregano.
- I recommend using freshly ground black pepper for maximum flavor.
- This seasoning mix contains salt, which means you will not need to add any extra salt to your meat when you cook it.
How much is in a packet of taco seasoning?
A store bought packet of taco spice is approximately 2 tablespoons of seasoning. If you’re substituting this homemade seasoning in a recipe that calls for a packet, use two slightly heaping tablespoons for the closest measurement.
Ways to use taco seasoning
There are so many different ways to use this seasoning. The most obvious choice is in tacos, but it you can flavor everything from dips, to soups, to casseroles. I use this seasoning at least once a week in a variety of dishes.
- Taco Dip
- Avocado Fish Tacos
- Taco Casserole
- Cheesy Taco Pasta
- Chicken Taco Pinwheels
- Easy Taco Sliders
- Beef Taco Salad
- Taco Soup
Flavor variations
This taco is seasoning is delicious when made according to the recipe, but you can add other flavorings to the mix to customize it to your tastes.
- Garlic Lover’s: Double the amount of garlic powder in the recipe.
- Spicy Taco Seasoning: Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of ground chipotle powder. You can also double the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Add-Ins: You can add up to 1/2 teaspoon of any of the following: ground coriander, dried minced onion, or ancho chili powder. You can also add a pinch of cocoa powder or cinnamon for a more complex flavor.
Once you see how easy it is to make your own seasoning, you’ll never be tempted to buy the store bought stuff again!
Taco Seasoning Video
Taco Seasoning
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Place all the ingredients in a bowl. Stir to combine. Place the seasoning in an airtight container. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 4 months.
Donna Vickery says
Ratio to meat is 2 Tbsp of this to each pound of meat?
Sara says
Yes that’s correct!
Mary Ellen says
I didn’t have a packet of taco seasoning so decided to try this. It was very good! We don’t like real spicy foods and this was perfect. I guess you could add cayenne pepper if you want me heat. I won’t be buying store bought packets anymore. Thank you for sharing.
Mary Beth says
Do you add any water when you are cooking the seasoning and the taco meat?
Sara says
Yes I typically add about 1-2 tablespoons of water!
Lora says
Just curious…if a recipe calls for a packet of taco seasoning, how much of this would you use?
Sara says
The equivalent is 2 tablespoons!
Veena Azmanov says
This is surely a must try recipe. I can season so many amazing recipes with this Taco seasoning. Goes well with all type of dishes.
Bry says
What a fab idea – I can already think of a dozen ways to use this (that isn’t tacos!!). Can’t wait to mix this up on the weekend – thank you!
Dannii says
We use taco seasoning in so many things and homemade is always best.
Jacqueline Debono says
You are so right that homemade seasoning is better than ready-made store-bought! It’s good to be able to adjust the flavours to you own preference and know what’s gone into it!
cyndy says
Love a homemade seasoning mix – so much healthier! Looks fantastic.
Amanda says
I always forget to buy taco seasoning so this is perfect for me! And it’s delicious!
Toni says
This is so awesome! A new staple seasoning at my house!
Haley D Williams says
Homemade taco seasoning is the best! I have to try your version!
Catalina says
So glad to make this taco seasoning at home now! I use it a lot!
Dorothy Reinhold says
This sounds like the perfect blend! I love making homemade mixes like this. I love knowing exactly what is going in it!
Carrie Robinson says
Homemade seasoning mixes are the best! Definitely going to try this one soon. 🙂