Homemade Taco Seasoning

4.97 from 26 votes

This easy homemade taco seasoning combines simple pantry spices for bold, balanced flavor without preservatives, fillers, or excess sodium.

Prep Time5

Total Time5

Course: Condiment

Cuisine: American, Tex Mex

Servings: packet

Author: Kristen Chidsey

Ingredients

½ tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt or ¾ teaspoon table salt
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes +/- to taste
⅛ tablespoon dried oregano

Instructions

Add the spices to a small bowl or jar and stir or shake until well combined.
Use immediately or keep in an airtight container in a cool, dark cabinet for up to 6 months.

Video

Notes

Note on Yield: This recipe replaces one standard (1-ounce) packet of taco seasoning, or approximately 2 tablespoons.

Low-Sodium Taco Seasoning: Cut the salt in half, or omit it completely if needed.

Note on Spice Level: As written, this taco seasoning is mildly spiced, like most standard store-bought packages. Omit the crushed red pepper flakes if needed/desired for even milder heat.

For Taco Meat: Brown 1 pound of ground beef, turkey, or chicken, and drain off excess grease if needed. Add one batch of taco seasoning, ½ cup tomato sauce, and ¼ cup water (or ½ cup water), then simmer until thickened.

For a Large Batch (~8 packets): Combine the following:

¼ cup chili powder
2 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons cumin
2 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon paprika
2 teaspoons black pepper
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon dried oregano

Store in an airtight jar in your pantry for up to 6 months. Use 2½ tablespoons for every 1-ounce packet of taco seasoning.

Nutrition is based on one full packet, not an individual serving.

Nutrition