Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe | Easy DIY Spice Blend

Save for later!

When it comes to making yummy homemade tacos or fajitas, your seasoning can really make a difference. Store-bought taco seasoning blends and taco seasoning packets can often contain additives, preservatives, or fillers like potato starch and silicone dioxide.

Why Make Your Own Taco Seasoning Mix?

Making your own taco seasoning has several advantages, customizable flavor being the biggest. Control the spice level and flavor intensity to suit your taste. The main stars include:

• Chili powder for a smoky, slightly spicy base
• Cumin adds warmth and earthiness
• Paprika add a deeper flavor
• Onion powder for a subtle, savory undertone
• Garlic powder adds a bold, aromatic kick
• Oregano for a hint of herbal freshness
• Coriander adds a citrusy note

Supplies

• Bulk Spices (We often buy from Gordon Food Service, Frontier Co-op, or Costco)
• Mason jar and lid, or storage container
• Measuring Spoons

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon associate or other affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. We try to recommend products we personally use or have used and trust. If you choose to purchase through our links in this post, we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you. Read the full disclosure here

Ingredient List for Homemade Taco Seasoning

Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect taco seasoning blend:

• 4 TBSP chili powder 
• 2 TBSP ground cumin 
• 1-2 TBSP salt 
• 1 TBSP paprika 
• 1 TBSP onion powder 
• 1 TBSP garlic powder
• 2 tsp dried oregano 
• ½ TBSP ground black pepper 
• 1 tsp Coriander
• ¼ to ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat lovers)

Notes:

• Feel free to half, fourth, or double ingredients
• Reduce salt as needed

Making Taco Seasoning Mix

This recipe is as simple as mixing the seasonings and spices in a mason jar. That’s it. Don’t over-complicate it, use what you have on hand and make it your own. 

1. Measure the Ingredients: Gather all your spices and measure them precisely for balanced flavor.
2. Combine the Spices: In a small bowl, mix all the spices together until well combined. Use a spoon or whisk to ensure even distribution. Or if you want to have a little fun, layer spices in a mason jar, seal, and then shake!
3. Store in an Airtight Container: Transfer the seasoning blend to an airtight jar or container. Glass spice jars or small mason jars work perfectly. Label the container with the date and name of the blend.
4. Shake Before Use: Before using, give the jar a gentle shake to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

How to Use Homemade Taco Seasoning

Use about 1/4 cup of your seasoning mix per pound of ground meat. Add the seasoning after browning the meat. You can also mix your seasoning with water and simmer for a couple minutes before adding to your meat for a full flavor infusion. The possibilities are truly endless, but here are some fun ideas to try:

• Homemade Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
• Seasoning ground meats for tacos or burgers
• Spicing up vegetarian and vegan dishes
• Using as a rub for grilled meats
• Flavoring scrambled eggs
• Popcorn salts
• Adding flavor to dips
• Spicing up roasted nuts or pumpkin seeds
• Casseroles (like our Shepherd’s Pie) and marinades 

Customizing Your Taco Seasoning Blend

This seasoning is naturally low in calories and carbs making it a great way to flavor your dishes. Unlike store-bought blends, it contains no sugar or artificial ingredients, making it perfect for Keto, Paleo, or Whole30 diets. Play around with the spices to see what works for you!

• Adjust to Taste: Like it spicy? Add more cayenne or red pepper flakes. Prefer it milder? Reduce the chili powder or omit cayenne entirely. Leave out the coriander if you’re not a fan.
• Double the Batch: Make a larger batch to save time in the future.
• Your Own Twist: Add a bit of cinnamon for a fun flavor profile.
• Salt-free? If you’re watching your sodium intake, feel free to skip the salt. You can always add salt directly to your dish later.

Making your own taco seasoning blend is a game-changer for your kitchen. It uses simple spices and is versatile and bursting with flavor. Use it on ground beef, ground venison, ground chicken, or ground turkey for easy meals. Whether you’re cooking up a classic taco dinner or experimenting with Tex-Mex recipes, this DIY spice mix is sure to become a pantry staple.

Try this recipe and transform your tacos with fresh, homemade seasoning that tastes better than anything store-bought!

How to Store

You can store your taco seasoning in a mason jar or plastic container. It may also be wise to add a desiccant packet to avoid clumping from moisture if you plan to store for a while. 

This spice blend is full of bold flavors and uses common pantry staples to create a blend that’s perfect for your favorite recipes like taco meat, burritos, fajitas, or even as a seasoning for roasted veggies and meats.

Let us know how you use like to use your DIY taco seasoning in your dishes. 

FAQ