Learn how to make Homemade Taco Seasoning with this easy recipe using a handful of common spices. This spice blend is perfect for taco night and other Mexican-style dishes — it’s cheaper and fresher than store-bought packets. This version is made without sugar and is naturally gluten-free and low-carb.
Table of Contents
- What’s in Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix
- How to Make Homemade Taco Seasoning
- Recipe Variations
- How to Store
- Recipes with Taco Seasoning
- Recipe FAQ
- Easy Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe
We use taco mix often and prefer making our own. Store packets often contain preservatives and can be costly when you cook Mexican-style dishes frequently. Making your own blend lets you control the flavor, heat level, and ingredients.
What’s in Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix
This recipe uses eight simple pantry spices. You can make a small amount for one use or a larger batch to store.
- Salt — sea salt or kosher salt recommended
- Black pepper
- Ground cumin — warm, earthy flavor
- Dried minced onions — or substitute onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Ancho chili powder — regular chili powder works too
- Smoked paprika — regular paprika is fine if preferred
- Dried oregano — Mexican oregano or regular oregano
How to Make Homemade Taco Seasoning
Measure the spices and combine them in a small bowl or jar. Stir or shake until evenly blended. For a single use (about 1 pound of ground meat) you can mix in a small bowl; for a larger batch store it in a sealed jar.
I usually make a bigger batch and keep it in a mason jar or repurposed jam jar for convenience.
Recipe Variations
Adjust the spices to suit your taste. This base blend is mild; add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for more heat. You can increase or decrease cumin, paprika, or onion to match your preferred flavor profile.
How to Store
Keep the seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry place such as a pantry or spice drawer away from heat. Properly stored, it stays fresh for up to 6 months.
Recipes with Taco Seasoning
This blend is great on ground beef, ground chicken, or turkey, and works well in enchiladas, carnitas, taco pasta, casseroles, and slow-cooker or instant-pot chicken recipes. Use it anywhere a taco seasoning packet is called for.
Recipe FAQ
About 3 tablespoons of this homemade taco seasoning is equivalent to one standard store-bought packet and seasons approximately 1 pound of ground meat.
For 1 pound of ground meat and 3 tablespoons of seasoning, use 1 cup of water. Add more liquid if needed to reach your preferred sauce consistency.
Easy Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onions
- 1 tablespoon ground oregano
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ancho chile powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Add all spices to a bowl or jar.
- Stir or shake until well combined. Use in any recipe that calls for taco seasoning.
Notes
This recipe seasons 1 to 1½ pounds of meat. Double or triple the ingredients to make a larger batch. Store tightly covered in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an estimate and should be used as a guide.
Additional Info
We think this simple blend makes the best homemade taco seasoning. Try it with your favorite recipes and, if you like it, leave a comment or rating.
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Recipe first published in 2020 and updated in 2023.