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Homemade Taco Seasoning is easy to make with just a few simple ingredients, and the flavor is much richer than the store-bought packets. This fresh DIY recipe is gluten-free and customizable. Make the taco seasoning mix ahead of time and store in an airtight container.

Taco Seasoning Ingredients

I love Mexican food and some recipes such as Taco Casserole have become family favorites. What makes these dishes taste better is this homemade taco seasoning.

It’s healthier, cheaper and tastes great on meats, vegetables and pasta. Like Fajita Seasoning, Taco Seasoning is also a popular Mexican seasoning that’s common in Tex-Mex cuisine. This recipe uses a few simple spices in your pantry and it takes just 5 minutes to prepare.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Can Homemade Taco Seasoning Last?

If it’s properly stored in an airtight container, this Taco Seasoning Mix can be stored for 6 months in a cool and dry place. Make sure to keep the lid tightly closed at all times.

How Much Taco Seasoning to Use for a Pound of Meat?

Usually 1 pound of meat needs 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning although you can adjust according to your taste. Use this taco seasoning 1:1 in place of packaged taco seasoning, but always taste the dish while cooking and adjust if needed.

Taco Seasoning in a mason jar

What is Taco Seasoning Made of?

Making taco seasoning is so simple with pantry ingredients. All you need is:

  • Chili powder
  • Garlic powder
  • Oregano
  • Cumin
  • Paprika
  • Onion powder
  • Salt & pepper

How to Make Taco Seasoning?

Just add all spices to a mason jar. Then cover with the lid and shake to mix well.

Top Tips for Making Great Mexican Dishes

  • Use 2 tablespoons taco seasoning mix per pound of meat, but feel free to use less or more depending on your personal preference. You can also add more cayenne pepper or chili powder if you prefer a spicier flavor
  • You can add 1/3 cup of water to ground meat. Water will make the meat tender and moist.
  • Add 1 tablespoon cornstarch towards the end of the cooking process if there is too much liquid. The cornstarch will thicken them into a delicious taco sauce.
  • You can make taco seasoning mix in a batch ahead of time. Since spices can lose their flavor over time, be sure to label the container with a date and store for no more than 6 months in an airtight container.

Ways to Use Taco Seasoning

You can use this seasoning in some popular recipes:

View All Mexican Recipes

Recipe Video: How to Make Taco Seasoning:

Homemade Taco Seasoning
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4 from 2 votes

Homemade Taco Seasoning

This Homemade Taco Seasoning is so easy to make and you only need a few simple ingredients. The flavor is so much richer than the store-bought packet. Make it in advance and store for up to 6 months!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients 

  • 3 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 3 tablespoons ground cumin
  • 1/2 tablespoon Kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne powder, optional

Instructions 

  • In a mason jar, add chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, cumin, paprika, onion powder, and salt & pepper
  • Cover with the lid and shake to mix well. 
  • Use immediately or store for up to 6 months in a cool and dry place.

Notes

  • Use 2 tablespoons taco seasoning mix per pound of meat.
  • You can add 1/3 cup of water to ground meat. Water will make the meat tender and moist.
  • Add 1 tablespoon cornstarch if there are excess juices from the meat. The cornstarch will thicken them into a delicious taco sauce.
  • You can make taco seasoning mix in a batch ahead of time. Be sure to label the container with a date and store for no more than 6 months in an airtight container.
Nutrition Facts
Homemade Taco Seasoning
Amount per Serving
Calories
14
% Daily Value*
Sodium
 
326
mg
14
%
Potassium
 
82
mg
2
%
Carbohydrates
 
2
g
1
%
Fiber
 
1
g
4
%
Net Carbs
 
1
g
2
%
Vitamin A
 
800
IU
16
%
Vitamin C
 
0.1
mg
0
%
Calcium
 
24
mg
2
%
Iron
 
1.5
mg
8
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Please read our nutrition disclaimer.

Author: Cindy
Course: Seasoning
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Homemade Taco Seasoning, Taco Seasoning
Did you make this recipe? Leave a comment below!