Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Taco Seasoning is a quick, flavorful blend of pantry spices that brings bold, zesty flavor to your tacos, burritos, and more. Free from preservatives and customizable to your taste, this DIY mix is more economical and versatile than store-bought packets, making it a must-have in your kitchen.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chili powderground cuminpaprika (smoked or sweet)garlic powderonion powdersaltblack peppercrushed red pepper flakesoregano

directions

In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and oregano.

Stir well until all spices are evenly mixed.

Transfer the seasoning to an airtight container or spice jar.

Use about 2 tablespoons of the mix per pound of meat, or adjust to taste.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about ½ cup of taco seasoning, enough for 4-5 meals.Preparation time: 5 minutesTotal time: 5 minutes

Variations

Add a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder for a deeper flavor profile.

Adjust the heat by increasing or omitting the red pepper flakes.

Include smoked paprika for a smoky flavor twist.

Mix in a little cornstarch if you want a seasoning that also thickens sauces.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months. No reheating necessary, just stir before each use to redistribute any settled spices.

FAQs

Can I double or triple this recipe?

Yes, it’s easy to scale up and store for later use.

Is this seasoning spicy?

It has a mild kick, but you can make it spicier by adding more red pepper flakes.

How much should I use per pound of meat?

Use about 2 tablespoons per pound, or adjust to your preference.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check your labels to be sure.

Can I use this for vegetarian dishes?

Absolutely—it’s great on beans, lentils, tofu, and roasted veggies.

Can I reduce the salt?

Yes, you can omit or reduce the salt to control sodium levels.

What’s the best paprika to use?

Smoked paprika adds depth, while sweet paprika gives a milder flavor—choose based on your preference.

Does this work with ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, it’s delicious on all ground meats, not just beef.

Can I use fresh garlic or onion instead?

For shelf life and even mixing, stick to powders in this mix. Add fresh when cooking if desired.

Is this better than store-bought?

Yes—no preservatives, customizable, and more cost-effective.

Conclusion

Homemade Taco Seasoning is an essential kitchen staple that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re seasoning ground beef, sprinkling it on roasted vegetables, or adding flair to soups and stews, this blend is sure to enhance your meals and become a go-to favorite in your spice cabinet.