I can get my kids to eat almost anything with ketchup or home farm dressing on top… or if I top it with taco seasoning! I know many moms who keep packets of taco seasoning on hand to use in tons of kid-friendly ways suggested by Pinterest.
I have lived in Texas for most of my life and fell in love with the flavors of Tex-Mex and authentic Mexican cuisine. This taco seasoning mix is a family favorite recipe that we've carefully perfected over many years.
Ground beef, chicken, eggs, or even a mix of veggies… it's better with this taco seasoning mix on top!
Why Make Homemade Taco Seasoning?
Why go through the trouble of making your own seasoning mix when you can buy a packet of taco seasoning at the store? Here are some reasons I like to do it:
- Benefit number 1: You get more for your money. If you've ever bought store-bought packs, this is a simple and cost-effective switch you can make right away. Store-bought taco seasoning is insanely overpriced for the two scoops of actual seasoning it contains. It also often contains things like MSG, anti-caking agents, preservatives, and artificial colors or flavors. For those with food sensitivities or allergies, you can also avoid added corn starch and it's gluten-free. Buying spices in bulk saves money and skips cheap fillers and harmful additives.
- Benefit #2: It's easy. This homemade version is so easy to make with almost no prep time! Total time to make a large batch is about 5 minutes. Store in an airtight container (I like it my mason jars for this) and store away from heat and light to have on hand for months to come. No more running to the store because you're out of taco seasoning!
- Benefit number 3: You can control the spice level. Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for heat. Double the cumin for a smoky, flavorful approach. However, the mild blend of flavors is great with much more than just tacos. Add it to scrambled eggs, mayonnaise, stir-fries, soups and even salad dressings! Since kids usually don't like spicy foods, I make this a mild taco seasoning and give the adults a red pepper mill or a bottle of hot sauce at the table.
How to Make Your Own Taco Seasoning Recipe
When you make your own taco mix, you'll know it's super easy! You only need a few basic spices:
- chili powder (here's how to do it make your own)
- ground cumin
- garlic powder
- onion powder (here's how to make it make your own)
- dried oregano
- paprika (or smoked paprika)
- Himalayan salt or sea salt (optional)
- black pepper
Measure in the ratios below, mix in a small bowl or jar and save for use! It's that easy. This recipe should give you a starting point, but feel free to adapt it to your family's tastes and make it your own “secret” recipe.
Taco inspired recipes to try
I use the above spices in many other recipes, so it's nice to have the option to use them on their own or combine them into different homemade spices. Check out the entire list of my favorite spice blends below.
We mostly use our DIY Taco Seasoning in:
There are so many options (not all of them good… I've seen some of the kitchen experiments my kids have come up with!). So try some of these seasonings for your next Taco Tuesday.
How to Substitute Homemade Taco Seasoning for Packets
Use 2-3 tablespoons of this spice + ¼ cup of water per kilogram of ground meat. Add the seasoning and water while the meat is browning and cook over medium-high heat until the water evaporates and the meat is fully cooked. You can use a pound of ground beef, turkey, or even ground chicken.
Homemade Taco Spice Recipe
Homemade taco seasoning is simple and cost-effective to prepare and easily replaces store-bought seasoning packets for fast food.
Nutrition facts
Homemade Taco Spice Recipe
Amount per serving (1 tablespoon)
Calories 4
Calories from fat 2
% Daily Value*
Fat 0.2 g0%
Saturated fat 0.02 g0%
Unsaturated fat 0.1 g
Monounsaturated fat 0.1 g
Sodium 67 mg3%
potassium 21 mg1%
Carbohydrates 1 g0%
Fiber 0.3 g1%
Sugar 0.1 g0%
Protein 0.2 g0%
Vitamin A 161 IU3%
Vitamin C 0.1 mg0%
Calcium 7 mg1%
Iron 0.4 mg2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
- Use 2-3 tablespoons of this seasoning + ¼ cup of water per kilogram of meat. Add the seasoning and water while the meat is browning and cook over medium-high heat until the water evaporates and the meat is fully cooked.
- This recipe makes about 3 cups total.
Want to make other spices too?
Watch full list of spices you can make at home with basic ingredients to overhaul your spice cabinet. The taste of fresh homemade spice blends is incredible and you'll save money too!
What are your favorite ways to use taco seasoning? Leave a comment and let us know!
