I can get my kids to eat almost anything with ketchup or homemade ranch dressing on top…or if I season it with taco seasoning! I know many moms who keep packets of taco seasoning on hand to use in the thousands of kid-friendly ways Pinterest suggests.
I lived in Texas for much of my life and fell in love with the flavors of both Tex-Mex and authentic Mexican cuisine. This taco seasoning mix is a family favorite recipe that we have carefully perfected over many years.
Ground beef, chicken, eggs, or even a veggie scramble… it’s all better with this taco seasoning mix on top!
Why make homemade taco seasoning?
Why go to the trouble of making your own seasoning mix when you can buy a pack of taco seasoning at the store? Here are a few reasons why I like doing it:
- Benefit #1: You get more value for your money. If you’ve ever bought packages from the store, this is an easy and cost-effective switch you can make right away. Store-bought taco seasoning is way too expensive for the two tablespoons of real seasoning it contains. It also often contains things like MSG, anti-caking agents, preservatives and artificial colors and flavors. For those with food sensitivities or allergies, you can also avoid the added cornstarch and it is gluten-free. Buying herbs in bulk will save you money and avoid the cheap fillers and harmful additives.
- Benefit #2: It’s easy. This homemade version is so easy to make and requires almost no prep time! The total time to prepare a large batch is approximately 5 minutes. Store in an airtight container (I love my mason jars for this) and keep them away from heat and light so you have them on hand for months to come. No more running to the store because you’re out of taco seasoning!
- Benefit #3: You can control the spice level. Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for heat. Double the cumin for a more smoky and savory flavor. However, the smooth 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 children usually don’t like spicy food, I make this a mild taco seasoning and give the adults at the table a grinder with red pepper flakes or a bottle of hot sauce.
How to make your own taco seasoning recipe
If you make your own taco mix, you’ll find it incredibly easy! You only need a few basic spices:
- chili powder (this is how you make it yourself)
- ground cumin
- garlic powder
- onion powder (this is how you make it yourself)
- dried oregano
- paprika powder (or smoked paprika)
- Himalayan salt or sea salt (optional)
- black pepper
Measure the proportions below, mix in a small bowl or glass jar and reserve for use! It’s so easy. This recipe should give you a starting point, but feel free to adapt it to your family’s tastes and create your own “secret” recipe.
Taco-inspired recipes to try
I use the above spices in many other recipes, so it’s great to have the option of using them on their own or combining them in different homemade seasonings. Check out the entire list of my favorite spice mixes below.
We use our DIY taco seasoning most often in:
There are so many options (not all of them are good…I’ve seen some kitchen experiments that my kids have come up with!). So try some of these spices for your next taco Tuesday.
How to replace homemade taco seasoning with packets
Use 2-3 tablespoons of this spice + ¼ cup of water per pound of ground meat. While the meat is browning, add the spices and water and cook over medium heat until the water has evaporated and the meat is fully cooked. You can use a pound of ground beef, turkey, or even shredded chicken.
Homemade taco seasoning recipe
Homemade taco seasoning is simple and cost-effective to make and can easily take the place of store-bought seasoning packets for quick meals.
Nutrition facts
Homemade taco seasoning recipe
Amount per serving (1 teaspoon)
Calories 4
Calories from fat 2
% Daily Value*
Fat 0.2g0%
Saturated fat 0.02 g0%
Polyunsaturated fat 0.1 g
Monounsaturated fat 0.1 g
Sodium 67mg3%
Potassium 21 mg1%
Carbohydrates 1g0%
Fiber 0.3 g1%
Sugar 0.1 g0%
Egg white 0.2g0%
Vitamin A 161IU3%
Vitamin C 0.1mg0%
Calcium 7mg1%
Iron 0.4mg2%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
- Use 2-3 tablespoons of this spice + ¼ cup of water per pound of meat. While the meat is browning, add the spices and water and cook over medium heat until the water has evaporated and the meat is fully cooked.
- This recipe yields about 3 cups total.
Do you also want to make other herbs?
Check out my full list of spices you can make at home with basic ingredients to boost your spice cabinet. The taste of fresh, homemade spice blends is incredible and you save money too!
What are your favorite ways to use taco seasoning? Post a comment and let us know!