Easy Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe

Last week, I grabbed a packet of taco seasoning from the store and noticed something odd. The ingredient list was longer than a grocery receipt. It included things like cornstarch, caramel color, and preservatives I couldn’t pronounce.

That’s when I decided to make my own taco seasoning recipe. The results? A fresher, bolder flavor that takes just five minutes to mix together.

Why Make Your Own Taco Seasoning?

Store-bought packets might seem convenient, but they’re filled with unnecessary additives. When you make taco seasoning at home, you control every ingredient that goes into your food.

The taste difference is remarkable. Fresh spices create a more vibrant flavor than anything you’ll find in a packet. Plus, you can adjust the heat level to match your family’s preferences.

Making a large batch saves money too. One homemade batch costs less than a single store packet and provides enough seasoning for multiple meals.

What You Need for This Taco Seasoning Recipe

This recipe uses seven simple spices you probably already have in your kitchen:

• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

How to Make Taco Seasoning

Making this taco seasoning recipe couldn’t be easier:

1. Combine all spices in a small bowl
2. Stir until well mixed
3. Use immediately or store in an airtight container

That’s it! The entire process takes less than five minutes.

Tips for the Best Results

• Choose quality spices. Fresh spices make a huge difference in flavor. If your spices have been sitting in your cabinet for years, it’s time to replace them.
• Make larger batches. Double or triple this recipe to have seasoning ready when taco night strikes. Store the extra in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
• Skip the onion powder. I don’t include onion powder in this mix because I prefer using fresh diced onions in my recipes. But feel free to add half a teaspoon if you want that flavor.
• Label your container. Write the date on your storage container. This seasoning stays fresh for up to one year.

How Much Seasoning to Use

This recipe makes about two tablespoons of taco seasoning. That’s the perfect amount for one pound of ground meat, whether you’re using beef, turkey, or chicken.

For best results, brown your meat first, then add the seasoning with a splash of water. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Beyond Tacos: Other Ways to Use This Seasoning

This versatile blend works well in many dishes:

• Sprinkle it on roasted vegetables
• Mix it into soup for extra flavor
• Season shrimp or fish before grilling
• Add it to scrambled eggs for breakfast tacos
• Use it as a dry rub for chicken or pork

Storage and Shelf Life

Store your homemade taco seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Glass jars work best because they don’t absorb odors or flavors.

The seasoning will maintain its best quality for up to one year. After that, it won’t spoil, but the flavors will start to fade.

The Bottom Line

Making your own taco seasoning recipe is one of the simplest ways to improve your cooking. It takes just five minutes, costs less than store-bought packets, and tastes infinitely better.

You’ll never go back to those artificial-tasting packets once you try this fresh, homemade version. Your family will notice the difference immediately.

Next time you’re planning taco night, skip the seasoning aisle and head straight to your spice cabinet. Your taste buds will thank you for making this simple switch to homemade seasoning.

Homemade Taco Seasoning

Skip the store-bought packets and make this fresh, flavorful taco seasoning at home in just 5 minutes. This blend of seven simple spices creates a bold, authentic taste that's perfect for tacos, fajitas, and so much more. No fillers, no preservatives – just pure, delicious flavor you can customize to your taste.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 0 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Seasoning

Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex

Calories: 46

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon chili powder American chili powder blend preferred
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder pure garlic granules, not garlic salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika sweet or smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground preferred
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional, for extra heat

Equipment

• Small Mixing Bowl
• Measuring Spoons
• Airtight storage container

Method

 

1. Add all spices to a small mixing bowl: chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Include red pepper flakes if you want extra heat.
2. Stir all ingredients together until well combined and evenly distributed.
3. Use immediately in your favorite recipes, or transfer to an airtight container for storage. Label with the date for freshness tracking.

Notes

Storage: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 1 year.

Usage: Use 2 tablespoons per 1 pound of meat. This recipe makes about 2 tablespoons total.

Scaling: Double, triple, or quadruple this recipe to make larger batches for meal prep.

Customization: Adjust spice levels to taste. Add onion powder if desired, though fresh onions work better in most recipes.

Cost Savings: Making your own seasoning costs about 75% less than store-bought packets.