Make your own taco seasoning from scratch with this recipe that combines basic herbs and spices for a flavorful blend to be used in a variety of dishes.
I used to buy taco seasoning packets at the store like most people do. Then I started just sprinkling in a little of this and that on the ground meat for tacos. After awhile, though, I wanted a simpler process that didn’t require me to dig out several seasoning containers every time. That’s when I started making this taco seasoning blend ahead of time and keeping it in its own container.
We add it to tacos, of course, but also to other Mexican-inspired dishes (e.g., quesadillas and breakfast burritos) to add the signature flavors. I ended up simplifying the combo for my Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas and Mexican Casserole recipes since there are a lot of other flavors going on. For this spice blend, though, I wanted the full experience.
Look at the spices above and I bet you could guess at least most of what’s included. Taco seasonings are all pretty similar, using a lot of the same ingredients. It’s the ratio of those (and an extra ingredient here or there) that really sets recipes apart.
There are 9 spices in my version (if you count salt and pepper), all of which I always have on hand, making this blend easy to throw together when it’s running low.
Homemade Taco Seasoning
Ingredients
- 2 Tbs chili powder
- 1 Tbs cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 tsp cornstarch optional
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients and store in an airtight container.
- Use about 2 Tablespoons of the seasoning blend (made with cornstarch) for every 1 pound of ground meat.
Adapted from Allrecipes.
You can adjust the measurements based on your preferences. If your family is big into spicy food, you can use more cayenne pepper. I like to keep my blend pretty mild and add spice in the form of Sriracha because it completes me.
The original version of this recipe was published on January 25, 2016.
Deborah @ Confessions of a mother runner says
This is great! The prepackaged seasoning has way too much salt for my family. It’s so easy to make your own. Hope you will link up with Meatless Monday today