This homemade taco seasoning blend brings authentic Mexican flavors to your kitchen in just 5 minutes. Skip the store-bought packets loaded with preservatives and create your own perfect mixture that packs more punch and saves money. With the ideal balance of essential spices and just the right kick, this versatile seasoning transforms ordinary ground meat, chicken, or vegetables into mouthwatering taco filling. Plus, you can easily adjust the heat level to match your family’s preferences.
Ingredients for Homemade Taco Seasoning
- Chili Powder: ¼ cup, forms the flavorful base
- Ground Cumin: 2 tablespoons, adds earthy warmth
- Paprika: 2 teaspoons, provides mild sweetness and color
- Salt: 4 teaspoons, enhances overall flavors
- Black Pepper: 2 teaspoons, freshly ground for best results
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, adds savory depth
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon, provides aromatic base
- Oregano: 1 teaspoon dried leaves, adds herbal notes
- Cayenne: ¼ teaspoon, brings gentle heat
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for extra spiciness
Preparation Steps
- Blend: Combine all spices in a mixing bowl until thoroughly incorporated
- Portion: Use 2 tablespoons to season one pound of meat
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container away from direct sunlight for up to 6 months
Storage Tips
Keep your homemade taco seasoning fresh and flavorful by storing it in a clean, dry jar with a tight-fitting lid. Mason jars or spice containers work great! Put it in a cabinet away from heat and direct sunlight. While this mix can last up to 6 months, the flavors are most bold in the first 3 months. A quick shake before each use helps blend the spices perfectly.
Substitutions & Heat Level Options
Make this seasoning blend your own! If you want it milder, skip the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes. For extra kick, add more cayenne or double the red pepper flakes. No paprika? Sweet paprika or smoked paprika work too. You can also cut back on salt or use less cumin if you prefer. The beauty of making your own taco seasoning is adjusting it exactly how you like it!
Ways to Use
This mix goes way beyond basic tacos! Sprinkle it on roasted potatoes, corn on the cob, or popcorn for a zesty snack. Mix it into ground beef, chicken, or turkey for amazing tacos. Add it to beans, rice, or scrambled eggs. You can even rim a Bloody Mary glass with it! One batch makes enough for several meals, about 3-4 standard “packets” worth of seasoning.
Money-Saving Tips
Making your own taco seasoning saves money and tastes better than store-bought packets. Buy spices in bulk when they’re on sale, especially ones you use often like cumin and chili powder. Store brands work just as well as name brands for the basic spices. Plus, you’ll know exactly what’s in your mix – no fillers or mystery ingredients!
Taco Seasoning
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
- 2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- 4 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- crushed red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Mix all spices together until well combined.
- Use 2 tablespoons in place of one “packet” of taco seasoning, or to season one pound of meat.
- Store taco seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, for up to 6 months.
