Homemade Taco Seasoning

4.86 from 7 votes

This simple recipe for homemade taco seasoning will quickly become a pantry staple! A perfect blend of spices, so much healthier and cheaper than packets!

Prep Time5

Total Time5

Course: Spice Blend

Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex

Keyword: homemade taco seasoning

Servings: cup

Calories: 529kcal

Author: Monica Lensink

Equipment

Ingredients

4 Tablespoons chili powder
3 Tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon paprika
3 Tablespoons ground cumin
1 Tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons dried minced onion
1 Tablespoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

Combine all spices and mix well to blend. Store in an airtight container until ready to use.
4 Tablespoons chili powder, 3 Tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon paprika, 3 Tablespoons ground cumin, 1 Tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons dried minced onion, 1 Tablespoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
For example, to prepare simple tacos, use 2 heaping Tablespoons of seasoning mix per one pound of ground beef, chicken, or turkey. Begin to brown the meat in a skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of water or salsa if desired, and sprinkle the seasoning on top as it cooks. Simmer until ready to serve. Tacos!

Notes

Chili Powder: American chili powder is actually a blend, not a single type of chili dried and ground. Taco seasoning has a lot of chili powder, so be mindful that if you choose a particularly spicy one, it will carry over to the full batch of seasoning.
Paprika: I default to sweet paprika but using smoked is another way to customize. I suggest using only part smoked, otherwise it is likely to be overpowering.
Dried Minced Onion: This is dried, flaked onion—it adds great texture and flavor. Onion powder is a good substitute, but use about half the amount.
Helpful Equipment: A set of rectangular measuring spoons makes it easy to portion spices straight out of jars. Blend with a miniature whisk or any spoon.
Storage: Keep the extra in any tightly-sealing jar. I use an old jam jar and a Sharpie to label. Close the lid tightly and store in a cool, dark spot. It will stay fresh this way for about 6 months.

Nutrition