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.
- It tastes great on 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!
Ingredients for 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 & pepper can be adjusted to taste.
- Options: A pinch of cayenne pepper 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, leave out the cayenne pepper and/or chili flakes.
- To make it spicy, double the cayenne or add other dried chili peppers to your liking.
How Much Taco Seasoning to Use
Once you make your own taco seasoning, you’ll be making it on repeat.
- To replace a store-bought packet of taco seasoning, use 2 tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning.
- For 1 pound of ground beef, use 2 ½ tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning. Add 1/2 cup of water to the seasoning and let it simmer.
- Options: 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.
Other Way to Use Taco Seasoning Mix
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.
- 1 pound of ground meat: ground beef, ground chicken, or ground turkey
- Sprinkle it on shrimp or chicken before grilling.
I love using this recipe to make Dorito taco salad and slow cooker chicken tacos.
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 go whenever I need a little taco mix!
Ways to Use Taco Seasoning
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Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe
This Taco Seasoning recipe is easy to make and it’s not just for tacos! Use it as a seasoning for meats and veggies or to add a little zip to soups and casseroles.
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In a small bowl, add all ingredients and mix well to combine.
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Store in an airtight container in a cool dry place for 6 months.
To Use:
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To prepare ground beef tacos, add 2 ½ tablespoons (or more to taste) of seasoning mix to 1 pound of cooked ground meat (optional, add diced onions or 1 tablespoon of tomato paste) in a large pan or skillet.
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Add ½ cup water, mix, and simmer until most of the water has evaporated.
- 2 tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning is equal to one packed of store-bought seasoning.
- Use 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.
- Options: 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.
Tuck the taco meat into taco shells or tortillas and top with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes and cheese.
Serving: 2.25tablespoons | Calories: 24 | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 655mg | Potassium: 139mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1293IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 43mg | Iron: 2mg
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.
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