Homemade Taco Seasoning
Introduction
Homemade Taco Seasoning is an easy, flavorful blend that transforms ordinary ground beef, chicken,
shrimp, or vegetables into a delicious taco filling. With just a handful of pantry spices, you can
create a seasoning mix that’s fresher, healthier, and more customizable than store-bought packets.
It’s budget-friendly, free of additives, and perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Add all spices to a small bowl.
- Mix until evenly combined with no clumps.
- Transfer the seasoning to an airtight container.
-
To use: Add 2 tablespoons of seasoning per 1 pound (450 g) of browned meat, along with
½ cup of water. Simmer until thickened.
Description
This Homemade Taco Seasoning is bold, smoky, and perfectly balanced with a hint of heat.
The blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and savory aromatics creates a seasoning mix ideal
for tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables. Unlike packaged
mixes, this homemade version allows you to control salt, heat, and flavor intensity.
Tips
- Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a spicier blend.
- Use smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.
- Reduce the salt if you prefer low-sodium seasoning.
- Double or triple the recipe for long-term storage (up to 6 months).
- If you have no chili powder, mix paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and cayenne as a substitute.
- Sprinkle on roasted vegetables for extra flavor.
- Add 1 teaspoon cornstarch for a thicker taco sauce.
Correction
- Too salty: Add more chili powder or cumin.
- Too spicy: Reduce red pepper flakes and add more paprika.
- Too bland: Increase cumin and chili powder slightly.
- Too smoky: Replace smoked paprika with regular paprika.
Enjoy
Sprinkle this homemade taco seasoning on your favorite meats or vegetables and enjoy
restaurant-style tacos bursting with flavor! Perfect for taco night, meal prep, or
quick weekday dinners.
