The Best Homemade Taco Seasoning (Big Batch Recipe!)
There’s no reason to buy store-bought packets of taco seasoning when you can make your own homemade taco seasoning in just minutes! With a handful of spices you probably already have in your spice drawer, you can mix up a homemade version that’s fresher, healthier, and free from all those cheap fillers and unnecessary food colorings.
I’ve been making this homemade seasoning mix for years, and we use it all the time—ground beef tacos on Taco Tuesday, taco soup on cold nights, and even as a dry rub for carne asada tacos. The best part? You can customize it to your personal taste by adjusting the heat and salt levels!
Why Make Your Own Seasoning?
If you flip over the ingredient list on a packet of taco seasoning, you’ll see corn mea
l, cheap fillers, and much salt. Making your own spice blends means:
- No fillers—just actual spices
- Better flavor than any store-bought stuff
- Low sodium option (you control the salt content)
- Customizable heat with red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper
- Cheaper than the grocery store (buying in bulk saves money!)
How to Use Your DIY Taco Seasoning
This seasoning is versatile and works with all types of meat and dishes.
- Ground beef tacos – Brown a pound of ground beef, drain excess grease, and stir in 2 tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning with ½ cup water. Simmer until thickened.
- Ground turkey or ground chicken – Use the same method for a lighter option.
- Taco soup & sauces – Stir into taco soup, tomato sauce, or even sprinkle over nachos.
- Carne asada tacos – Use as a dry rub for steak before grilling.
- Taco Bell-style seasoning – Add a pinch of sugar for that Taco Bell flavor.
How to Store Homemade Taco Seasoning
Once you mix up this homemade seasoning, you’ll want to store it properly so it stays fresh.
- Storage: Keep it in an airtight spice jar or mason jar. A pint-sized mason jar works perfectly!
- Shelf Life: Stores well for 6+ months in a dark place (like your pantry or spice cabinet).
- Best Practice: Shake the jar before each use to evenly distribute the spices.
Common Questions About Homemade Seasoning
How much seasoning do I use per pound of ground meat?
Use 2 tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning per pound of ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken). Add ½ cup of water and let it simmer to develop flavor.
Can I make a low-sodium version?
Yes! Simply reduce the sea salt or leave it out entirely. This lets you control the salt content in your recipes.
Can I make this seasoning less spicy?
Of course! Just leave out the red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper or cut them in half.
Is this seasoning good for more than just tacos?
Absolutely! This seasoning is perfect for taco mix, taco soup, nachos, grilled meats, roasted veggies, and even eggs.
Does homemade taco seasoning go bad?
While dried spices don’t spoil, they lose potency over time. For the best flavor, use within 6-12 months.
The Best Tacos Start with the Best Flavor
Once you try this homemade seasoning, you’ll never go back to the store-bought packets. It’s fresher, healthier, and way more flavorful. Plus, you can adjust it for less salt, spicy taco seasoning, or whatever taste preference you like!
Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe (Makes 1 Pint!)
Taco Seasoning
Ingredients
- ½ cup chili powder
- ¼ cup ground cumin
- 3 tablespoons garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons onion powder
- 2 tablespoons regular paprika or sweet paprika for a milder flavor
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon sea salt adjust for taste preference
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes optional, for extra heat
- 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper or more for spicy taco seasoning
Instructions
- Measure the spices: In a medium bowl, combine chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, sea salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and cayenne pepper.
- Mix well: Use a whisk or spoon to evenly combine the spices. Make sure everything is well distributed for consistent flavor.
- Store properly: Transfer the seasoning to an airtight spice jar or pint-sized mason jar. Keep in a dark place like your pantry for up to 6 months.
- Use as needed: For ground beef tacos, brown 1 pound of ground beef, drain excess grease, and stir in 2 tablespoons of seasoning with ½ cup of water. Simmer until thickened.
- Shake before each use: Spices can settle over time, so give the jar a quick shake before measuring.
Notes
More Easy Recipes You’ll Love:
Pin this recipe card or share it on social media if you love taco night as much as we do! (Tag me on IG if you make it!) And let me know in the comments—do you prefer ground beef, ground turkey, or ground chicken for your tacos?
