Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix: Easy to Make Recipe
Ditch the packet, you know what I mean! Make this Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix using this easy-to-make recipe. Have you ever peeked at the back of a grocery store-bought taco seasoning packet and thought, “What even is maltodextrin?” If so, you’re not alone. Store-bought mixes are often filled with numerous mystery ingredients. But here’s the good news: blending your taco seasoning is super easy, and chances are you already have the basic spices you need in your spice cabinet. In this post, you’ll learn how to whip up a DIY taco seasoning that’s healthier and more flavorful than its store-bought counterpart.
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Why You’ll Love This Homemade Taco Seasoning
- Clean Ingredients, Big Flavor: No mystery additives—just real spices from your pantry.
- Customizable Heat & Taste: Prefer it mild or spicy? You’re in charge of the kick.
- Budget-Friendly & Bulk Ready: Cheaper than store-bought packets and easy to make in big batches.
- Multipurpose Marvel: Perfect for tacos, soups, casseroles, roasted veggies—you name it.
- Less Sodium, More Control: This mix has a lower salt content than most commercial mixes, making it ideal for heart-healthy eating. The best part is that you can add as little or as much salt as you like for your taste buds.
Gather these Pantry Staples:
- ¼ cup chili powder
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- ½ tablespoon sea salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions to make Homemade Taco Seasoning
- Measure: Gather all your spices in the specified amounts.
- Mix: Combine them in a small bowl and stir until well blended with a wooden spoon.
- Store: Transfer the mix to an airtight container, like mason jars or spice jars.
- Label: Don’t forget to label your jar with the date.
Pro Tip:
I like to make a big batch of this recipe so I also have this homemade blend ready for my favorite recipes.
How to Spice up the Homemade Taco Seasoning
- More Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Double (or even triple) the amount—½ tsp becomes 1 to 1½ tsp for a noticeable kick.
- Add Cayenne Pepper – Start small, 1/4 to 1/2 a teaspoon can make a big difference.
- Chipotle Powder for Smoky Heat – Add ½ to 1 teaspoon of chipotle chili powder. It brings a smoky, slow-building spice that’s next-level.
- Hot Smoked Paprika – Swap regular paprika for hot smoked paprika to sneak in some smoky fire. It layers beautifully with cumin and garlic.
- Dried Ground Jalapeño or Habanero Powder – Just a pinch of dried habanero or jalapeño powder will do. Use with caution—they pack severe heat.
Tip:
Always taste your blend before using the full amount, especially if serving guests or kids
How to Make Easy Tacos
Making taco-seasoned ground turkey or beef at home couldn’t be simpler. Here’s how to do it:
- Brown the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground meat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Seasoning: Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of homemade spice mixture.
- Add Water: Pour in ½ cup water to help the spices coat the meat evenly.
- Simmer: Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Pro Tip:
For a juicier result, add a splash of tomato sauce or a squeeze of lime during the simmer! This method is perfect for taco night, nacho toppings, or meal-prep burrito bowls.
How to Build the Perfect Taco
- Step 1: Choose the Right Shell
- Soft tortillas (corn or flour) bring a rustic, homemade feel.
- Crispy taco shells give you that satisfying crunch.
- Step 2: Flavor-Packed Filling
- Use your homemade taco-seasoned ground beef (see recipe above).
- Other options: shredded chicken, black beans, or roasted veggies.
- Add a splash of lime juice to your cooked meat for a fresh twist.
- Step 3: Fresh Toppings Galore
- Crunch: shredded lettuce or cabbage
- Creamy: sour cream, Greek yogurt, or avocado slices
- Tangy: pickled onions or jalapeños
- Zesty: fresh salsa, pico de gallo, or diced tomatoes
- Cheesy: shredded cheddar or queso fresco
- Step 4: Finishing Touches
- Garnish with fresh cilantro
- Squeeze of lime
- If you want to up the spice level, add a dash of hot sauce
Serving Suggestions
This versatile seasoning isn’t just for tacos. Try it in:
- Classic Tacos: Season ground beef, chicken, or turkey.
- Taco Bake: Mix with pasta, cheese, and meat for a hearty casserole.
- Taco Salad: Sprinkle over greens, beans, and your choice of protein.
- Mexican Rice: Add to rice for a flavorful side dish.
- Soup: Enhance your chili or tortilla soup.
How to Store Homemade Taco Seasoning
- Store your homemade taco seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
- It will stay fresh for up to six months
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I adjust the heat level?
Absolutely! Increase or decrease the crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
2. Is this seasoning gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all your individual spices are certified gluten-free.
3. How much should I use per pound of meat?
Use about three tablespoons of seasoning per pound of meat
4. Can I make a larger batch?
Certainly, multiply the ingredients accordingly and store the excess.
5. What if I don’t have all the spices?
You can still make a simplified version with the spices you have, though the flavor profile will change.
Creating your own taco seasoning is a simple yet impactful way to enhance your meals while taking control over what goes into your food. It’s healthier, customizable, and brings a touch of homemade goodness to your table. So, skip the packet and reach for your blend next time you’re planning taco night.
If you whip up your own taco seasoning and love it, I’d be thrilled to see it in action! Tag me on Instagram or Facebook @grindinggearsfarmstead and share how you’re using it in your favorite Mexican dishes.
Lechyd Da, (means “Cheers to Good Health” in Welsh)
Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix: Easy to Make Recipe
Ingredients
- ¼ cup chili powder
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- ½ tablespoon sea salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Measure: Gather all your spices in the specified amounts.
- Mix: Combine them in a small bowl and stir until well blended with a wooden spoon.
- Store: Transfer the mix to an airtight container, like mason jars or spice jars.
- Label: Don’t forget to label your jar with the date.
