Wondering how to make your own taco seasoning? With this Easy Homemade Taco Seasoning recipe, you’ll never buy the store-bought stuff again. With a mix of 9 spices that you likely already have in your spice drawer, this taco spice mix is the way to go!
How to Make Your Own Taco Seasoning
Have you ever looked at the label of a store-bought taco spice mix? They usually come in an envelope or large plastic container. I was taken by surprise when I looked at the ingredients of my favorite taco seasoning. The first listed ingredient (this means it contains the MOST of this ingredient when listed first) was yellow corn meal!?! What? Is wasn’t even a spice – but the first ingredient was a “filler.” The 6th listed ingredient was sugar. Of course it was.
After this experience, I vowed to start making my own taco spice mix. It’s actually very easy and includes spices that I already had. Since I make tacos for dinner on a pretty regular basis, I needed to come up with an easy homemade taco seasoning recipe.
How do you make taco seasoning from scratch?
It is very simple. To a bowl, add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic salt, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper and red pepper flakes. Stir together to combine.
It is now ready to add to ground beef, ground turkey, steak or chicken to make your favorite tacos.
Check out all of the easy taco recipes 5 different ways, plus all of the essential sides and toppings that go along with making amazing tacos.
How should I store this homemade taco seasoning recipe?
Because this recipe makes taco spice mix for multiple batches, so I recommend storing in a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid to keep out any moisture or humidity. Keep in your spice cabinet or pantry to store in a cool, dry place.
How much taco spice mix should I use for tacos?
Here is the ratio of spices to ground meat: 2 tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning to 1 pound of ground or shredded meat.
What can I use if I don’t have taco seasoning?
When you don’t have store-bought taco seasoning on hand, I recommend making this easy homemade taco seasoning recipe. Mix together chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic salt, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper and red pepper flakes.
Can I use chili powder instead of taco seasoning?
No. Chili powder is just one component/ingredient of taco seasoning. Taco seasoning is a mix of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic salt, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper and red pepper flakes.
Once you discover how to make your own taco seasoning, you’ll never buy the store-bought stuff again. No need to worry about added corn meal fillers or sugar. Best of all, this easy homemade taco seasoning is cheaper and less expensive to use than the store-bought stuff. Saving money is always a good thing!
While you’re at it. Forget about store-bought taco toppings. Those are expensive, and when you make them at home they taste better. Check out my recipes for your favorite taco toppings and sides:
- Black Bean Corn Salsa
- Tropical Pineapple Mango Salsa
- Classic Pico de Gallo Salsa
- Homemade Taco Sauce Recipe
- Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe
- Loaded Guacamole
- Hot Queso Blanco Dip
- Greek Yogurt Ranch Dressing
If you loved this Easy Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe, check out some of my recipes where you can use it:
- Air Fryer Shrimp Tacos
- Beef Enchilada Casserole
- Taco Mac and Cheese
- Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet
- Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
- Cheesy Taco Tater Tot Casserole
- Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats
- Healthy Taco Stuffed Peppers
- Lime Chicken Chili
- Taco Mac and Cheese
- Sour Cream Enchiladas
- Sweet Potato Taco Bowls
Here’s the recipe for my Easy Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe:
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Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls These stainless steel mixing bowls are an essential cooking tool for every kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons chili powder
- 1 Tablespoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine all the spices; chili powder, cumin, smoke paprika, oregano, pepper, onion powder, garlic salt, garlic powder and red pepper flakes.
- Store spice mix in an airtight container. A small mason jar with a tight-fitting lid works well. Taco seasoning mix will last for up to six months.
Notes
Nutrition
My taco was the best taco with this seasoning recipe. Thanks for making my taco the best!