Forget the store-bought packets, this Homemade Taco Seasoning is easy, flavorful, and made with pantry staples you likely already have in your kitchen.
This Homemade Taco Seasoning recipe is a simple blend of pantry spices that delivers bold, smoky flavor without the additives found in store-bought packets. Made with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and a pinch of cayenne, it adds warmth and depth to any dish. You can easily adjust the heat level to suit your taste making it better than store bought taco seasoning.
For recipes to use this taco seasoning on you have to check out my Cheesy Taco Skillet, Favorite Beef Tacos, or Easy Red Enchiladas.
Table of Contents
Why We Love This DIY Taco Seasoning
- This Homemade Taco Seasoning is free from additives—just pure, simple ingredients.
- I can make a big batch of Homemade Taco Seasoning and have it ready whenever we need it.
- Homemade Taco Seasoning saves the day when I don’t have time for a last-minute trip to the store.
Recipe Ingredients
- Chili Powder: Adds a rich, smoky heat and vibrant color to your seasoning.
- Ground Cumin: Brings a warm, earthy taste that’s essential for that authentic taco flavor.
- Paprika: Contributes a sweet, mild spiciness with a subtle smoky undertone.
For a full list of ingredients and amounts, see the recipe card below.
Variations
For a smokier flavor, try adding smoked paprika instead of regular paprika to your spice blend. If you prefer a bit more heat, increase the cayenne pepper or throw in some crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add a touch of cinnamon for warmth or some brown sugar for a hint of sweetness.
How to Make Homemade Taco Seasoning
Step 1: Add ingredients to a small mixing bowl. Mix until thoroughly combined.
Step 2: Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 9 months. This recipe can be easily doubled, tripled, or quadrupled. Use a heaping 3 tablespoons of mix as needed per recipe.
FAQs
To make taco meat with this seasoning: Brown 1 pound of ground beef, tofu, ground chicken, pork, or ground turkey in a large skillet with 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons of this taco seasoning, ¼ cup minced onions, ¼ cup minced red bell pepper, and ½ to ¾ cup water. Simmer, covered, for 5 minutes. Spoon onto warmed taco shells and serve with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, pico de gallo, cheese, salsa, sour cream, black beans, avocado, or guacamole.
Your taco seasoning is no longer fresh if it has lost its vibrant color, strong aroma, or flavorful taste. Typically, it’s best used within 9 months for optimal flavor.
Storage Info
To STORE your homemade taco seasoning, transfer it to a tightly covered spice jar and keep it in a cool, dark place, like your spice cabinet. It will stay at its best for up to 9 months, though its flavor might start to fade after that.
Consider doubling or tripling the recipe so that you have your own taco seasoning ready for any Mexican recipe.
Delicious Recipes to Try for This Taco Seasoning
Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Add ingredients to a small mixing bowl. Mix until thoroughly combined.
- Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 9 months. This recipe can be easily doubled, tripled, or quadrupled. Use a heaping 3 tablespoons of mix as needed per recipe.
I would have never thought about making homemade taco seasoning until I didn’t have any. I came across your recipe had most of the ingredients and it tastes great. Thanks.
This is really delicious! Thanks a lot for sharing this recipe it’s really helpful! Will surely make this again! Well done!
This is the only way I make tacos. We love this seasoning. It has so much more flavor than store bought.