Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix (2023)

The Yummy Bowl » Recipes » Dinner

by Julia | The Yummy Bowl · This post contains affiliate links · 1 Comment

Skip To Recipe

Make your own homemade Taco seasoning mix in just 5 minutes. Properly stored, this taco spice blend will keep fresh for many months ahead and can be used in multiple Mexican-inspired recipes such as tacos, ground meat, chilis, enchiladas, burritos and nachos.

Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix (1)

⭐ We like to use this seasoning in taco fillings! Try Shrimp tacos, Vegan tacos, and Street tacos.

There is a skip-to-recipe button in the top left corner along with a clickable table of contents list (just below) that will quickly take you to the part you are more interested in. Enjoy!

Jump to:
  • Ingredients
  • Instructions
  • Tips
  • Homemade VS Store Bought Taco Seasoning
  • Freezing And Storing Instructions
  • Serving Suggestions
  • FAQs
  • Easy Mexican-Inspired Recipes
  • Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix
Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix (2)

Ingredients

My few comments on the ingredients + don't forget to read the Tips section!

The full recipe and ingredients can be found in the recipe card below this post.

  • Chili powder - you can use a combination of paprika and cayenne pepper or smoked paprika and ground chipotle for a smoky flavor.
  • Cumin - ground or dried coriander can be used instead. Some people don’t like its strong overpowering flavor, if that is you, you can reduce the amount and substitute with ground or dried coriander or add more of the other spices instead.
  • Paprika - smoked, or sweet paprika.
  • Garlic powder - as we want to store this seasoning for longer, use ground garlic and onion powder. However, if you planning to use all of the homemade version at once, you can go for freshly minced garlic and finely chopped brown onion. Saute these on a skillet before mixing with other spices and taco meat, if using.
  • Salt - kosher salt, sea salt, or Himalayan salt for the best natural flavor.
  • Black pepper - black pepper will work better than white pepper, but you can experiment with flavored peppers as well.

Instructions

Mix all the taco seasoning ingredients in a bowl and store in an airtight container or mason jar for up to 6 months.

Keep the taco seasoning mix in a cool and dried place.

Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix (3)

This recipe makes about 3 tablespoons of taco seasoning which is enough for 1 pound of ground meat.

Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix (4)

📋 Homemade diy taco mix over store-bought. Grocery store packets often contain a mix of various spices, are high in sodium, sugar, and unnecessary additives such as colorants and HVP, MSG. While these ingredients give the seasoning its signature flavor and aroma, they are simply unhealthy and have high salt content.

Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix (5)

Tips

  • A good rule of thumb is to add less spicy seasonings such as chili powder and red chili flakes until you get the right balance and flavor. You can always add in more later if you feel comfortable with it.
  • Make a large batch - you can make a big batch of taco seasoning and store it in an airtight container in your pantry. This will save you time and effort in the future, and you'll always have taco seasoning on hand when you need it.
  • Add some sweetness - A pinch of sugar or a drizzle of honey can balance out the heat and acidity of the seasoning, making it more well-rounded.

Homemade VS Store Bought Taco Seasoning

Making homemade taco seasoning is a healthier and more affordable option for several reasons:

  • Ingredients - When making homemade taco seasoning, you have control over the spice level and all the ingredients that go into the mix without adding additives such as anti-caking agents, preservatives, and artificial colors and flavors.
  • Customization - You can adjust the amounts of spices, heat, and seasonings to create a unique seasoning blend that suits your taste preferences.
  • Cost-effectiveness - It seems a lot but it is more cost-effective than buying pre-made seasoning packets. Buying the seasonings separately and mixing them at home will add more bang for your buck. When properly stored, this seasoning will last you for many months ahead.
  • Lower sodium and sugar content - Most store-bought taco seasoning packets contain high amounts of salt and sugar. This will not happen if you have the entire control of the ingredients.
  • Flavor - Homemade taco seasoning is always fresh, which means your seasoning will have the best aroma, flavor, and vibrant color.

Freezing And Storing Instructions

  • To Store. Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

Serving Suggestions

The seasoning blend adds a depth of flavor and a kick of heat to any dish it is added to. Besides beef tacos, and classical taco meat there are plenty of other dishes that you can spice up with this homemade taco seasoning:

  • Fajitas
  • Chili
  • Roasted Vegetables
  • Beans
  • Soups and Stews
  • Tacos
  • Hummus
  • Tofu
  • Snack - use it to season for Kale chips, popcorn, nuts and pretzels or snack mixes.
  • Nachos
  • Quesadillas
  • Makes a great dry rub or seasoning for meat and poultry or fish

FAQs

What seasoning is similar to taco seasoning?

Typically in taco seasoning you’ll feel strong flavor of cumin and chili powder or cayenne. You can mix these ingredients together for a very similar result. Or a combination of cumin, paprika, chili powder garlic and onion powder and salt.

What is the purpose of taco seasoning?

The purpose of taco seasoning is to add flavor and depth to ground meat, such as beef or chicken, that is used as a filling for tacos, burritos, and other Mexican-inspired dishes.

How important is cumin in taco seasoning?

It is a main ingredient in many Mexican-inspired dishes. Cumin adds a distinct earthy and warm flavor to any seasoning blend. It complements the other spices such as chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder, to create a well-rounded flavor profile.

What is taco seasoning made of?

Chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

Easy Mexican-Inspired Recipes

Use this taco seasoning in multiple Mexican recipes. This mix makes one of the best tacos!

  • Chicken Fajita Pasta
  • Mexican Chicken Sweet Potato Skillet
  • Easy Mexican Slaw Recipe
  • Taco Salad With Catalina Dressing

For more inspiration check out our collection of recipes for Cinco De Mayo.

💗I hope you'll enjoy this taco seasoning recipe, please leave a rating on this recipe below and leave a comment, take a photo of your food and tag me on Instagram @theyummy_bowl. I love seeing your creations! 💗

Happy Cooking,

Love,

Julia

Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix (10)

Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix

Make your own homemade Taco seasoning mix in just 5 minutes. Properly stored, this taco spice blend will keep fresh for many months ahead and can be used in multiple Mexican-inspired recipes such as tacos, ground meat, chili, enchilada, burritos and nachos.

5 from 2 votes

Print Pin

Author: Julia | The Yummy Bowl

Course: Main Course, Sauces & Condiments

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Servings: 3 tablespoons

Calories: 19kcal

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon sea or kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano or ground oregano
  • teaspoon red chili flakes

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Mix all the taco seasoning ingredients in a bowl and store them in an airtight container or mason jar for up to 6 months.

  • Keep the taco seasoning mix in a cool and dried place.

  • This seasoning makes about 3 tablespoons of taco seasoning which is enough for 1 pound of ground meat.

NOTES

  • Chili powder- you can use a combination of paprika and cayenne pepper or smoked paprika and ground chipotle for a smoky flavor.
  • Cumin- ground or dried coriander can be used instead. Some people don’t like its strong overpowering flavor, if that is you, you can reduce the amount and substitute with ground or dried coriander or add more of the other spices instead.
  • Paprika- smoked, or sweet paprika.
  • Garlic powder- as we want to store this seasoning for longer, use ground garlic and onion powder. However, if you planning to use all of the homemade version at once, you can go for freshly minced garlic and finely
  • chopped brown onion. Saute these on a skillet before mixing with other spices andtaco meat,if using.
  • Salt- kosher salt, sea salt, or Himalayan salt for the best natural flavor.
  • Black pepper- black pepper will work better than white pepper, but you can experiment with flavored peppers as well.

PRIVATE NOTES

Click here to add your own private notes.

Nutrition Facts

Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix

Amount Per Serving

Calories 19Calories from Fat 9

% Daily Value*

Fat 1g2%

Saturated Fat 0.1g1%

Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3g

Monounsaturated Fat 0.2g

Sodium 823mg36%

Potassium 109mg3%

Carbohydrates 3g1%

Fiber 2g8%

Sugar 0.3g0%

Protein 1g2%

Vitamin A 1166IU23%

Vitamin C 0.2mg0%

Calcium 30mg3%

Iron 2mg11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

(Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate.)

« Best Taco Meat Recipe With Homemade Taco Seasoning

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Julia | The Yummy Bowl

    Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix (11)
    This homemade taco seasoning makes a perfect addition to taco beef, taco salads and tacos!

    Reply

Leave a Reply

FAQs

Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix? ›

Most taco seasoning mixes contain salt, warming spices (such as paprika, oregano, and chili), onion powder, and garlic powder. This top-rated recipe is made with chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, sea salt, black pepper, ground paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes.

What can I use if I don't have enough taco seasoning? ›

Packet Taco Seasoning replacement: if you only want to make enough taco seasoning to replace 1 packet, use the following amounts:
  1. 1 tablespoon chili powder.
  2. ¼ teaspoon garlic powder.
  3. ¼ teaspoon onion powder.
  4. Pinch of cayenne pepper.
  5. ¼ teaspoon dried oregano.
  6. ½ teaspoon paprika.
  7. 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin.
  8. 1 teaspoon salt.
Mar 16, 2021

What is taco seasoning mix made of? ›

Most taco seasoning mixes contain salt, warming spices (such as paprika, oregano, and chili), onion powder, and garlic powder. This top-rated recipe is made with chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, sea salt, black pepper, ground paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes.

How many tablespoons of taco seasoning equals one packet? ›

Notes. About 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning are equivalent To 1 taco packet. To make enough for 1 packet, reduce the serving size to 1 serving via the button above.

How much water do you put in a packet of taco seasoning? ›

How much water do I add to taco seasoning? A good ratio to follow is per 1 pound of raw ground meat, you want to add 1 cup of water, and then the seasoning.

Can I use chili seasoning if I don't have taco seasoning? ›

The primary difference between the two is that chili seasoning will have a higher concentration of chili powder and paprika. Taco seasoning will most likely have a higher amount of cumin. When in a pinch, you can use these two spices interchangeably with only a subtle difference in taste.

How do you know how much seasoning is enough? ›

The Rules. Remember the ½ Rule - Start off with 1/2 teaspoon of spice for any dish that serves four to six people. And for herbs, use 1/2 teaspoon for powders and 1-1/2 teaspoon for dried or chopped.

How many cups is 1 packet of taco seasoning? ›

A package of Taco Seasoning is equivalent to 1 ounce/2 tablespoons. The serving size for a 1 oz package is 6 servings. This Taco Seasoning is 8 tablespoons/1 cup total which I guesstimate to be 48 total servings.

How do you calculate seasoning? ›

How to Use a Scale to Measure Seasoning for Smaller Batches
  1. Take the weight of the seasoning and divide it by the number of pounds it is meant to season - 1.125 / 25 = 0.045.
  2. Take the result from step 1 and multiply it by the number of pounds you want to make - 0.045 x 5 = 0.225.

What happens if you don't add water to taco seasoning? ›

Taco seasoning used on meat for the tacos needs a bit of water to help distribute the spice mix. Packaged seasonings may contain thickeners to keep the finished product from becoming watery. In other recipes you might use the seasoning without water but would need some moisture to make it stick.

How much taco seasoning to use for 1 pound of meat? ›

To use: Use about 2 tablespoons of the taco seasoning for every 1 pound of meat. Use more or less depending on your preference. Brown meat and drain the fat. Add your taco seasoning along with about 1/2 cup of water.

How many ounces is 2 tbsp of taco seasoning? ›

For dry herbs and spices, one ounce is typically equivalent to 2 tablespoons.

Should I use the whole taco seasoning packet? ›

Most taco seasoning mixes contain about 1 ounce of spices and seasonings, enough to flavor 1 pound of ground meat. The manufacturer's directions usually indicate to cook the ground beef, drain off the fat then add the full package of seasoning mix, along with some water.

How do you use taco seasoning packets? ›

Directions:
  1. Brown meat in large skillet on medium-high heat. Drain fat.
  2. Stir in Seasoning Mix and water.
  3. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer 5 minutes stirring occasionally. Spoon into warm taco shells. Serve with desired toppings.

How to layer ingredients in a taco? ›

To assemble tacos, layer beef mixture, cheese, lettuce and tomatoes in each taco shell. Serve with salsa; top with sour cream.

Is it better to make your own seasoning? ›

They're fast and easy to make, all natural, and have incredible flavor—loads better than store bought. Did you know you can mix up your own homemade seasoning blends? They're fast, easy to make, and taste so much better than store-bought versions. Even better: it's a fun project!

What are the 4 basic types of seasoning ingredients? ›

There are four basic types of seasoning ingredients: • Salt • Pepper ⚫ Sugar and light-flavored sweeteners • Acids When you season a food, you add just enough of one or more of these ingredients to change the food's basic taste, but not enough to add a whole new taste.

What is the most important seasoning ingredient? ›

The king of all seasonings, salt is a necessary ingredient in just about every recipe. But with so many varieties of salt available, it can be difficult to choose one kind to keep stocked at all time.

What is similar to taco seasoning? ›

If you don't have taco seasoning, you can easily mix chili powder and cumin together to create a similar flavor profile. Simply combine equal parts chili powder and cumin, or adjust the ratio to your liking. To create a more complex flavor, you can add other spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or oregano.

Is Mexican spice mix the same as taco seasoning? ›

Most of the time, Mexican spice blend is synonymous with “taco seasoning,” a chile and cumin heavy concoction that goes great on ground beef, delivering a satisfying, albeit vague, south-of-the-border sensation.

Is Mexican spice the same as taco seasoning? ›

Ultimately, the difference between these two comes down to the composition of spices. Taco seasoning is usually milder than Mexican seasoning. Mexican seasoning contains ancho powder and chipotle chile pepper, both of which give it a little more of a kick.

What happens if you put too much seasoning? ›

Over-Seasoning

However, you can ruin food if you use too much seasoning on it while it cooks. Seasonings are meant to enhance the flavor of the meal you're preparing; they aren't meant to be the star of the dish. Be careful with seasoning, especially when using more potent spices.

What is the basic rule for seasoning and flavoring? ›

Rule #1: Taste as you go.

The solution: Dip a spoon into the pot and taste early and often. When you try a recipe at various points during cooking, you'll learn how the flavours of ingredients change and how to adjust different elements so the seasoning is just right.

What happens if you use too much spices? ›

Although spicy foods don't cause ulcers, they can trigger abdominal pain in some people. One study specifically highlighted that frequent consumption of spicy foods can trigger upper gastrointestinal symptoms in some people with dyspepsia (or, indigestion).

Do you drain beef before adding taco seasoning? ›

Do you cook taco meat before adding taco seasoning? Add the homemade taco seasoning mix to your taco meat AFTER you have cooked (and drained, if necessary) your taco meat.

How many ounces are in a 1 4 cup of taco seasoning? ›

Taco Seasoning By Penzeys Spices 1.4 oz 1/4 cup jar (Pack of 1)

How much taco meat do you need per person? ›

How Much Taco Meat Per Person. The usual rule of thumb is about ¼ cup taco meat per taco so you have room for all those other fillings and toppings! Generally speaking, it's good to budget about 3 tacos per person, which means almost 1 cup of meat for each guest.

What is spices ratio? ›

If you're still getting familiar with combining spices, I recommend trying out two ratios as a starting point. A 1:1:1 ratio of top, middle and base spices will be nicely balanced and versatile for most applications while a 3:2:1 or 1:2:3 ratio allows you to pronounce top or base notes for a specific dish.

What are the 5 elements of seasoning? ›

The five flavors of the spices (sweet, bitter, sour, salty, and savory) refers to the five traditional Chinese elements.

How do you sample seasoning? ›

Sample Preparation
  1. On white paper, spread out a thin layer of each spice. Samples of the spices to be compared should be next to each other.
  2. In a clear beaker prepare a 'tea' or flavor extract of each sample by dispersing 1% spice in water. Heat to 140ºF to 150ºF. Allow to steep for 5. minutes. Cool to room temperature.

How important is cumin in taco seasoning? ›

Ground cumin – A potent little spice, it helps give this seasoning it's kick. Smoked paprika – This can also be replaced for paprika, but you'll be missing the depth that the “smoked” in smoked paprika brings. Garlic powder – Becaus garlic. Plus, it brightens and enhances the flavor.

How much water do you add to Old El Paso taco seasoning Mix? ›

Directions: You Will Need: 1 lb Lean Ground Beef, 2/3 cup water.

How do you thicken taco mix? ›

How add thickness: Most premade taco seasoning packets have a thickening agent in them and you add in a little water to make the taco meat a little saucy. If you are looking to recreate that add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the taco seasoning mix. Add 1/2 cup of water to the meat when you add your taco seasoning.

How many pounds of meat do I need for 50 walking tacos? ›

Walking Tacos For 50

Brown 3 pounds of meat with 3 chopped onions and about 9 pressed garlic cloves. Open three freezer bags and in each bag place, one can of tomatoes, one can of refried beans, 1 pound of meat, and the spices. Seal bag and squish it a bit to mix the ingredients.

How many pounds of taco meat do I need for 2 people? ›

Generally, you will want about ¼ pound of taco meat per person. The average person eats about 3 tacos. This recipe for crockpot taco meat yields 3 pounds of taco meat, which is enough for 12 servings, making it perfect for serving a crowd or for meal prepping for the week.

How much taco meat do I need for 100 people? ›

I figure about 15 pounds of meat per 100 people, but that may depend how hungry your guests are and what sides you serve at your party. You could think about steak too, but that could get pretty pricey depending on this size of your crowd! Taco meat ideas and recipes: ground beef taco meat.

How much is 1 oz of dry seasoning mix? ›

Spice Conversions. ounces to tablespoons- based on a level tablespoon. 1 Oz. = 4 Tbs.

How many tablespoons is 1 oz of dry seasoning? ›

Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to measure how many dry ounces are in your recipe. Remember that one ounce is equal to four tablespoons, and one fluid ounce is equal to two tablespoons.

What is 1 4 cup in tablespoons? ›

How many tablespoons are in a quarter cup? There are 4 tablespoons in one quarter cup.

How do you season without seasoning? ›

Add a splash of lemon and other citrus fruits, or wine, to soups and other dishes. Use them as a marinade for chicken and other meats. Avoid onion or garlic salt. Instead, use fresh garlic and onion, or onion and garlic powder.

Can I add taco seasoning after cooking? ›

Do you cook taco meat before adding taco seasoning? Add the homemade taco seasoning mix to your taco meat AFTER you have cooked (and drained, if necessary) your taco meat.

How many teaspoons is a taco seasoning mix? ›

How much taco seasoning in a packet: (28g) of McCormick® Original Taco Seasoning Mix in each packet. About 12tsp. per packet.

Can I substitute Cajun seasoning for taco seasoning? ›

Cajun Seasoning vs Taco Seasoning

It is not the case. Taco seasoning is actually quite different from cajun seasoning. Taco seasoning contains Paprika, Chili Powder, Ground Cumin, Mexican Oregano, Red Pepper Flakes, Salt and Black Pepper. Click here to learn more about Taco Seasoning.

What are the 4 elements of seasoning? ›

The 4 Elements of Flavor
  • Taste.
  • Aroma.
  • Temperature.
  • Texture.
Nov 1, 2022

What are the four basic seasonings? ›

There are four basic types of seasoning ingredients: • Salt • Pepper ⚫ Sugar and light-flavored sweeteners • Acids When you season a food, you add just enough of one or more of these ingredients to change the food's basic taste, but not enough to add a whole new taste.

What is the basic ingredient in seasoning? ›

The ingredients of seasoning

Salt, aromatic herbs, spices and bouquet garni are the main ingredients. Salt adds its own flavour, saltiness, and brings out the aromas in dishes. Spices and aromatic plants add aromas or other sensations, such as heat and spiciness. Spices may be used alone or blended, whole or powdered.

Do you season taco meat before or after draining? ›

Season taco meat after draining grease by adding to the pan and simmering for several minutes in the seasoning. If not draining, you can add the seasoning as the beef cooks.

Do you drain grease from ground beef before adding taco seasoning? ›

The higher fat content gives much better flavor to the taco meat and helps it stay juicy. And you will drain the grease off the ground beef prior to adding the spices in the homemade taco seasoning.

Do you brown meat before taco seasoning? ›

Brown your taco meat and seasoning as before. Once the meat is browned, add in the cooked beans and a bit of water to mix the seasoning up. Simmer for a few minutes.

How much seasoning do I use? ›

The Rules. Remember the ½ Rule - Start off with 1/2 teaspoon of spice for any dish that serves four to six people. And for herbs, use 1/2 teaspoon for powders and 1-1/2 teaspoon for dried or chopped.

What is in slap ya mama? ›

Slap Ya Mama is a Louisiana-made blend that captures the characteristic flavor of Cajun cooking. It's made with salt, pepper, red pepper (for a hint of signature heat), and garlic.

What seasoning is similar to Old Bay? ›

Some popular substitutions for Old Bay include crab boil, cajun seasoning, and celery salt mixed with paprika. When using a substitute, make sure to start with a small amount to begin with and taste as you go.

Is taco and Mexican seasoning the same? ›

Taco Seasoning and Mexican seasoning are basically the same.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Jonah Leffler

Last Updated: 29/11/2023

Views: 5779

Rating: 4.4 / 5 (45 voted)

Reviews: 84% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Jonah Leffler

Birthday: 1997-10-27

Address: 8987 Kieth Ports, Luettgenland, CT 54657-9808

Phone: +2611128251586

Job: Mining Supervisor

Hobby: Worldbuilding, Electronics, Amateur radio, Skiing, Cycling, Jogging, Taxidermy

Introduction: My name is Jonah Leffler, I am a determined, faithful, outstanding, inexpensive, cheerful, determined, smiling person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.