I always keep a jar of this authentic taco seasoning in my pantry. It's quick and easy to make and brings more flavor and freshness to Mexican-inspired dishes than a store-bought packet. In just 3 minutes, you can whip up a batch of this homemade blend and give any dish a bold Tex-Mex flavor boost!
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Homemade is Best!
I've been making this homemade taco seasoning recipe for years, and trust me-it's a total game-changer! No unnecessary salt, sugar, or preservatives-just pure, bold spices that taste delicious!
Of course, it's perfect for tacos (hello, crockpot shredded chicken tacos and ground beef taco salad), but why stop there? I love sprinkling it into beef queso dip or mixing it into my tamale pie with Jiffy for an instant boost of Tex-Mex flavor. The meal possibilities are endless!
Plus, it's easy to customize and cheaper than buying those little store-bought packets every time you grocery shop. This versatile seasoning mix can be used on anything from chicken and ground turkey to veggies. You'll never go back to store-bought again!
Once you realize how simple it is to create your own seasoning blends, you'll want to make more-like my Cajun seasoning recipe that's perfect for grilled meats and seafood.
Notes on Ingredients
Good news-the spices needed to make your own taco seasoning blend are probably already in your pantry or spice drawer!
- Chili powder is the base of any authentic taco seasoning. It has a mild to moderately spicy flavor. Occasionally, I substitute chipotle chili powder for a bolder flavor and more intense heat.
- Ground cumin is my husbands flavor spice, so I typically add an extra teaspoon when making this blend. Cumin has a warm, earthy flavor.
- Smoked paprika is one of my favorite spices because it has a rich, smoky flavor. If you don't have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work too.
- Garlic powder and onion powder add savory flavors with subtle sweetness.
- Mexican oregano has a bolder, more citrusy flavor than regular dried oregano. If using regular oregano, try adding a pinch of ground coriander for a closer match.
- Salt and black pepper balance all the spices and enhances their flavors. Only a small amount of salt is added and it can be removed completely for a no salt taco seasoning, if you prefer.
DIY Taco Seasoning
Gather your ingredients because this easy taco seasoning recipe comes together quick!
Simply combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well-that's it!
Storage
I keep my homemade taco seasoning fresh and flavorful by storing it in an airtight container like a small glass jar or spice shaker. Keep it in a cool, dark place-like a pantry or spice cabinet-to prevent the spices from losing their potency.
I like to label the jar with the date I made it, so I can keep track of its freshness. Properly stored, it will stay fresh for up to 1 year, though let's be honest-you'll probably use it up long before then!
Pro Tip: Ground spices lose potency and flavor over time; replace them if they're older than 12 months. Use fresh herbs and spices when making this recipe.
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If you try this recipe or any recipe from Happy Honey Kitchen, please rate the recipe and leave a comment below! Enjoy!
3-Minute Taco Seasoning Recipe
Save this Recipe!
I'll email this recipe to you, so you can come back to it later!
Equipment
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon Mexican oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix well.
- Store in an airtight container until ready to use.
Notes
- Store-bought taco seasoning packets usually contain 1 ounce, or 2 tablespoons, of seasoning. This recipe makes about 2 tablespoons.
- I seasoning 1 pound of meat with 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning.
- If you want this seasoning blend to be spicier, add an extra teaspoon of chili powder and consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Omit the salt if you want a no salt taco seasoning.
Henry
This 3-Minute taco seasoning recipe is perfect and delicious. It’s great on tacos and so useful for many other things. I’m so happy I found this recipe.
Asia
This is EXACTLY how I make my taco seasoning too. It always tastes so delicious!
Christine
Can’t wait to try this recipe! Thank you! 😊