Taco Seasoning Recipe – Did you run out of store-bought taco seasoning just in time for taco night? No worries- we’ve got you! Whip up our favorite taco seasoning recipe using spices from your pantry.
WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE THIS RECIPE
- Chili Powder: American chili powder, made up of dried chilies and herbs, lends a savory profile to the taco seasoning recipe.
- Smoked Paprika: Create a smoky heat using smoked paprika.
- Cumin: Cumin lends a warm, citrusy flavor to the spice blend.
- Onion Powder: Onion powder is a necessary ingredient in our taco seasoning, but be sure you’re using onion powder and not onion salt.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder brings the garlicky flavor it’s named after, but unlike fresh garlic, garlic powder has a sweetness to it.
- Mexican Oregano: The earthy bitterness of Mexican oregano makes it my favorite spice in the blend; I love the way it stands out.
- Salt: Balances the spice with a savory component.
- Cayenne Pepper: Adds heat that doesn’t overwhelm with cayenne pepper.
HOW TO MAKE TACO SEASONING
Add all the ingredients to a mixing bowl; stir to combine. Store the spice blend in an airtight container.
PREPARATION TIPS
- Start with fresh spices – this makes all the difference; spices lose their flavor over time, especially ground spices.
- This taco seasoning recipe yields about 1 cup; make what you need for a particular meal, or you may want to double or triple the recipe for quick use later on.
SEARCHING FOR MORE LIKE THIS?
If you love this recipe, try one of these spice blend favorites!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Homemade Tacos with Ground Beef
- Flavor meat, vegetables, or tofu to make tacos.
- Generously season shredded chicken or beef to make homemade taquitos or enchiladas.
- Add taco seasoning to black beans for a quick side.
- Whip up Southwest spaghetti Squash.
- Create a burrito bowl.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is the taco seasoning spicy?
This taco seasoning recipe includes cayenne, smoked paprika, and chili powder which can be too spicy for some. I suggest adding a teaspoon or two of white or brown sugar to cut the heat if you’re sensitive to spice.
How do I store the leftover taco seasoning?
Once you’ve placed the leftovers in an airtight container, it will keep in your pantry or cabinet for up to 1 year. And for that reason, I recommend making double to use later on.
YOU SHOULD ALSO TRY:
- Simple Guacamole
- Chunky Salsa
- Carne Asada Tacos
- Vegan Mexican Rice
- And more Central and South American favorites!
Taco Seasoning Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons chili powder
- 5 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 5 tablespoons cumin
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon cayenne powder
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients to a mixing bowl; stir to combine.
- Store the spice blend in an air-tight container.
Notes
- Start with fresh spices – this makes all the difference; spices lose their flavor over time, especially ground spices.
- This taco seasoning recipe yields about 1 cup; make what you need for a particular meal, or you may want to double or triple the recipe for quick use later on.
- The nutritional information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for professional advice.