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This Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe is so easy to make and perfect to have on hands for all of your favorite Mexican recipes like tacos, enchiladas, burritos, soups and more. It is so simple and you control the ingredients that go in it. Make this ahead of time so you have it on hand in a pinch!
In my house we love taco tuesday. My kids love all kinds of Mexican inspired dishes. Whether it is enchiladas, taco, nachos, tortilla soup or quesadillas we have them on repeat weekly. One of my own seasoning mixture that I make is this homemade taco seasoning recipe.
It is so nice to make your own spice blends so you can control what is in it and also control the salt. I find that some taco seasoning mixes are store-bought packets are too salty! I also like a homemade seasoning because I can make it a bit spicier if I want or add more chili powder or cumin as I see fit. It really is a taste and adjust kind of mix! I will often add this taco seasoning mixture to Mexican Pizza, Mexican Zucchini, Mexican Chicken Casserole, Beef Enchiladas or these Taco Beef Sliders.
Recipe Ingredients
There are a handful of spices that are used in this diy taco mix are probably already in your pantry. I think these are the perfect perfect blend of spices:
- Chili Powder
- Ground Cumin
- Paprika
- Garlic Powder
- Onion Powder
- Oregano
- Cayenne pepper or chili flakes
How to Make DIY Taco Seasoning
When it comes to making a homemade taco seasoning mix it is so simple and perfect for taco meat like ground chicken, ground turkey or ground beef when you are having taco night. You will measure out your spices and mix them together.
I like to make a big batch of this spice blend and double or triple the recipe so I have it in my pantry when I need it.
I usually will store it in a large mason jar with a label on the top so I know what it is or an airtight container in a dry place.
You can use this taco seasoning with ground beef tacos, taco salad, enchiladas or for a fajita seasoning.
Recipe Tips
- Using this Mix: When I use this spice mix I start with 2 tbsps. of the taco seasoning for one pound of ground beef. You can use more of less depending on your preference.
- Flavor: For the best flavor use fresh, good quality spices. This helps make sure you get the full flavor.
- Customize: You can easily customize this to your tastes. You can add more chili poweder or cayenne pepper for a spicy blend. You can add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Salt: The salt is an important part of the seasoning mix as it helps to enhance all of the other spices. If you are watching your salt intake just add a small amount.
- Sweet: If you like a touch of sweetness in your tacos you can add a small amount of sugar or brown sugar to your spice bend.
- Herbs: You can add dried herbs like cilantro and parsley for an herby flavor.
How to Use this Homemade Taco Seasoning
There are a lot of uses for a homemade taco seasoning. Here are some of my favorite things to add it to:
- One Pot Mexican Stuffed Pepper Casserole: the spices used in this one pot meal are similar to the spice mix you are making today. I suggest removing the spices and just use 1 or 2 Tablespoons of this in place of the spices.
- Easy Mexican Noodle Casserole: use 2 Tablespoons in this dish.
- Southwest Taco Egg Muffins: these taco egg muffins use taco seasoning and this would be great to use.
- Beef Taco Dip: everyone loves a cheesy taco dip and the taco seasoning works great in this one.
- Southwest Egg Tacos: we love starting our day with these tacos and the taco mix is the perfect use in these.
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How to Make Taco Seasoning
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons cumin
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika , you can use smoky for a smoky flavor
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder , or minced onion
- 1 tablespoon corn starch , {this helps thicken the spices with the meat and hold spices together but is optional}
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper , {optional for heat}
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Mix everything everything in a small mixing bowl and stir until mixed well.
- Use immediately, or store in an air-tight container like a mason jar, away from heat and in a dark area, until ready to use.
- To use the mix: Use about 2 tablespoons of the taco seasoning for every one pound of meat. Use more or less depending on your preference.
- Brown meat and drain the fat. Add your seasoning with about 1/2 cup of water. Simmer and stir until water is absorbed.
Notes
- 2 Tablespoons of this taco mix is equal to a packet of the taco mix you buy at the store. If you want a thick sauce add 1/4 cup water to 2 Tablespoons of the mix with ground beef for example, and let cook until the water is cooked off.
- In my opinion I would maybe start with 1 Tablespoon of the taco seasoning for 1 pound of ground beef and see how you like that and then add another 1 Tablespoon if you feel it is necessary.
- If you are trying to watch your salt intake you can leave it out or use 1/4 or 1/2 of a teaspoon. The mix is still great without the salt.
- For additional heat add crushed red pepper.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
So easy to make this homemade seasoning!