This easy homemade taco seasoning is quick to make, full of flavor, and perfect for tacos, bowl, and meal prep.
Having taco seasoning on hand in our pantry is a MUST. Cooking for a large family and constantly hosting can be a challenge...But let's be honest. Everyone loves a good Mexican dish, and they are easy to throw together! We add this taco seasoning to Mexican Pizza, Griddle Nachos, 5 Ingredient Crockpot Chicken Tacos with Salsa, Easy Beef Enchiladas and for Taco Tuesdays.
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Why Homemade matters
Why this recipe is worth making from scratch:
- Cost - Homemade taco seasoning is cheaper than store-bought packets.
- Control - you can control the salt and spice level. You can also leave out additives that are found in pre-packaged foods.
- Healthier - There are no fillers, preservatives, or unnecessary ingredients.
- Fresh Taste - Freshly mixed spices deliver bolder, more vibrant flavor.
Ingredients you'll need:
- Chili Powder - the base of the seasoning, adding mild heat and classic taco flavor.
- Cumin - warm, earthy, and slightly smoky. This is essential for authentic taco taste.
- Black Pepper - adds subtle heat and balance
- Kosher Salt or Sea Salt - Enhances all the flavors
- Oregano - Adds a light herbal note that complements the spices.
- Onion Powder - brings mild sweetness and depth
- Garlic Powder - the savory flavor to round out the seasoning.
- Cayenne Pepper - provides the heat - you can adjust or omit for spice preference.
- Paprika - Adds color and a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
See Recipe Card below for exact measurements
Instructions for Taco Seasoning
- In a mixing bowl, combine all of the ingredients. Mix well!
- Use 2 ½ tablespoon of seasoning mix per 1 lb of ground meat. Enjoy!
ProTip: Mix a little water when cooking meat so the seasoning coats evenly and doesn't burn.
Equipment and supplies
This recipe is easy to make with just the right tools!
- Measuring Spoon Set - scooping has never been easier!
- Mixing Bowl Set - These bowls are my favorite and are used daily.
- Whisk - Every kitchen needs a good whisk.
- Seasoning Jars - 4 oz jars with labels for seasoning.
Serving Ideas
Classic Ways to Use Taco Seasoning
- Tacos - Perfect for ground beef, chicken, or turkey
- Taco Bowls - Use with rice, beans, and your favorite fresh toppings
- Nachos or Quesadillas - Adds bold flavor to melted cheese
- Burritos and wraps - Great on pork or steak for hearty, flavorful wraps.
- Taco Salad - Season the protein and serve over crisp greens with classic taco toppings.
Creative & Fun Ways to Use It
- Roasted Vegetables - Sprinkle on our roasted sheet pan vegetables before roasting for extra flavor.
- Sheet Pan Chicken or Shrimp- a quick way to add bold seasoning to any easy dinner.
- Seasoned fries or potato wedges - Try using it on our air-fryer sweet potato wedges or our crispy air-fryer red potatoes.
- Scrambled eggs or breakfast hash - Add a savory, Tex-Mex twist to breakfast.
Easy Substitutions & Flavor Twists
- Smoky - Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika
- Spicy - Add extra cayenne or a pinch of chipotle powder
- Mild - skip the cayenne
- Low-Sodium - Reduce or omit salt and season to taste while cooking
- Sweet & Savory - Add a pinch of brown sugar to balance the heat
Video of Recipe
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight jar for up to 6 months
- Label the jar with the name and date made.
- Keep in a cool, dark pantry for best flavor and freshness.
- Shake well before using to redistribute the spices.
Salsa Pairings
Recipe
Taco Seasoning
A taco seasoning that'll take your Mexican dish to the next level!
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoon Chili Powder
- 2 tablespoon Cumin
- 2 tablespoon Pepper
- 2 ½ tablespoon Kosher Salt or sea salt
- 2 tablespoon Oregano
- 2 tablespoon Onion Powder
- 2 tablespoon Garlic Powder
- ½ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
- 1 tablespoon Paprika
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine all of the ingredients.
- Mix well.
- Use 2 ½ tablespoon of seasoning mix per 1 lb of ground meat.
Nutrition
Calories: 53kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 2gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 0.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 6367mgPotassium: 265mgFiber: 4gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 2260IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 91mgIron: 4mg
Tried this recipe?Rate it and let me know how it was!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much taco seasoning should I use per pound of meat?
Use 2 to 3 tablespoons per pound of meat, adjusting to taste. Add a splash of water to help the seasoning coat evenly while cooking.
How long does homemade taco seasoning last?
When stored in a sealed container in a cool, dark pantry, it will stay fresh for up to 6 months.
Chef Tim Clowers says
Flavor is so much better than those store bought packets!