Homemade Taco Seasoning

Skip the store-bought packet; homemade taco seasoning is quick to make and packed with flavor! A bold, zesty spice mix that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, and beyond.

bowl of Taco Seasoning with vegetables and seasonings around the bowl

Versatile: It tastes great in almost any recipe and pairs well with chicken, beef, fish, or shrimp.
Why I Love It: It doesn’t contain additives, and you can control the salt and heat levels.
Budget Tip: Make your own taco seasoning in large batches; it costs less than buying packets.

spices on a plate to make Taco Seasoning

Ingredient Tips

This taco seasoning recipe uses a blend of spices, many of which you likely have in your pantry.

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.

whisking together seasonings to make Taco Seasoning

To replace a store-bought taco seasoning packet, use 2½ tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning.

For 1 pound of ground beef, use 2½ tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning. Add ½ cup of water to the seasoning and let it simmer.

Storing Made Simple

Store this DIY 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 taco mix.

Tasty Taco Twists

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This homemade taco seasoning is an easy way to add bold, zesty flavor to tacos, burritos, and all your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes.

Prep Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

In a small bowl, add chili powder, cumin, black pepper, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and cayenne pepper. Mix with a whisk 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.

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 ½ cup of water with the seasoning and let it simmer.
Optional: Add ½ 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.

Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.

Course Pantry, Seasonings

Cuisine American, Mexican, Tex Mex

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