Easy Taco Seasoning

It really is true when they say, “homemade is better.” This homemade taco seasoning recipe comes together in just a few minutes and is the perfect blend of spices. Kid and parent approved; I promise you’ll never want to use a taco seasoning packet again.

This recipe has converted me from using any other premade taco seasoning. It’s fresh and flavorful and really enhances the flavor to any dish you make.

The Cowboys’ Rating: 10/10

Every time I make a new recipe, I have my family rate the recipe out of 10. By the time, these recipes make the blog, they’ve been tried and tested by some of my hardest tiny critics!

What is in Homemade Taco Seasoning?

This taco seasoning recipe has a variety of different spices to give it different depth and flavor:

• Chili Powder – chili powder is a blend of a variety of spices and adds heat and spice to your recipe. It generally has cayenne pepper, paprika, cumin, oregano and garlic. The ratios will differ between brands, but any brand will work great for this recipe.
• Garlic Powder – garlic powder is dehydrated garlic that has been ground into powder. Adding garlic powder adds depth and flavor to your taco seasoning.
• Onion Powder – onion powder is also a dehydrated form that has been ground into powder. Because onions give a robust flavor in Mexican dishes, adding onion powder to this homemade taco seasoning recipe is a must.
• Oregano – oregano is a herb that has a strong flavor and pairs well with many different dishes, but especially those with a little extra spice to them. This is why it’s perfect in taco seasoning.
• Paprika – paprika is made from dried red bell peppers that are then ground. Paprika adds a subtle flavor to the taco seasoning pairing well with the other flavors.
• Cumin – cumin is a spice that comes from the Cuminum cyminum plant. Its flavor can be described as “earthly” or “nutty”. Cumin adds a warmth and depth to the taco seasoning.
• Salt – salt is an important ingredient in taco seasoning because it enhances the flavor of the other seasonings.
• Pepper – black pepper adds flavor, depth and a tiny bit of spice to this recipe.

Tools You’ll Need

• Small Mixing Bowl
• Measuring Cups
• Whisk

Why You’ll Love Making Your Own Taco Seasoning

• Quick and Simple: This recipe calls for pantry staple ingredients and comes together in less that 5 minutes. Dare I say, maybe even less than 3 minutes.
• Flavor: Using this homemade taco seasoning recipe adds so much more flavor to your dishes. It’s absolutely delicious but also not overpowering. The different seasonings pair well together. It’s basically the best DIY taco seasoning you will ever make.

How to Make Taco Seasoning

1. Measure all ingredients and add to a mixing bowl.
2. Mix together until all spices are well incorporated.

Tips and Substitutions

• Red Pepper Flakes – if you like a little extra kick to your taco seasoning mix, add in a 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes.
• Smoked Paprika – smoked paprika will add a bolder and obviously “smoked” flavor to your taco seasoning.

Is This Recipe Gluten Free?

Did you know that often times the premade taco seasoning packets aren’t gluten free? For those who are gluten free, this recipe is the perfect gluten free taco seasoning. No more standing in the spice isle reading the back of every taco seasoning packet to see if it’s truly gluten free.

Storage

Homemade taco seasoning can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 months.

What to Use Homemade Taco Seasoning For

Sprinkle this stuff on everything like confetti. Just kidding… but use this recipe in any of your Mexican dishes or wherever your heart desires. Here are a few recipes that I use my homemade taco seasoning for: