A homemade Taco Seasoning Blend is a pantry staple that brings bold, zesty flavor to everything from ground beef tacos to grilled vegetables. Unlike store-bought packets that often contain preservatives, fillers, or excess sodium, this DIY mix uses simple spices you likely already have on hand. It’s easy to whip up in minutes and can be customized to suit your heat preferences or dietary needs.

The Best Taco Seasoning Recipe

If you’re looking for more seasoning mix recipes, Homemade Poultry Seasoning Mix and Nashville Hot Chicken Seasoning will leave your taste buds happy!

The foundation of a good taco seasoning begins with chili powder, cumin, and paprika, each adding a distinct layer of warmth and smokiness.

Garlic and onion powders bring depth and that savory kick we associate with Mexican-inspired dishes, while a pinch of oregano introduces an earthy note that ties everything together.

Sea salt enhances the flavors, and black pepper offers just a hint of sharp heat. For those who love spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a fiery edge to the mix.

One of the best aspects of making your taco seasoning is its versatility. Use it for your favorite meats or sprinkle it over roasted potatoes, beans, or even popcorn for a flavor boost. Store your blend in an airtight jar in a cool, dark cabinet, and you’ll have a go-to spice mix ready for anything taco night rolls around.

Why should you make your own homemade seasoning mixes?

• Creating your own spice mixes is significantly less expensive than purchasing packaged spice blends.
• You can adjust the amount of seasoning that goes into each blend for your family’s taste.
• When you make your spice blends, you know the quality of the spices and ingredients you use. However, some of those spice blend mixes still contain MSG.
• Homemade seasoning mixes make great gifts for your friends and family.

Taco Season Mix vs Fajita Seasoning

Taco seasoning and fajita seasoning utilize different combinations of spices, imparting distinct flavors to your dishes. While you can substitute fajita seasoning with taco seasoning, your fajitas will not have the same flavor.

Ingredients to Gather

• Chili Powder – Chili powder forms the bold, smoky-sweet backbone of taco seasoning, giving it that classic Tex-Mex flavor.
• Cumin – Cumin adds earthy warmth and a slightly nutty, aromatic depth that defines authentic taco flavor.
• Paprika – Paprika provides a subtle sweetness and vibrant color that rounds out the spice blend.
• Garlic Powder – Garlic powder infuses a savory richness that enhances the overall umami of the seasoning.
• Onion Powder – Onion powder brings a mellow, slightly sweet base note that helps balance the more pungent spices.
• Sea Salt – Sea salt sharpens all the other flavors and ties the seasoning blend together.
• Black Pepper – Black pepper adds a gentle heat and a touch of sharpness.
• Oregano – Oregano adds a layer of Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Red pepper flakes introduce a kick of heat and a touch of texture for those who like a spicy edge.

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Since you’re looking to make your own homemade seasoning mixes, I’m guessing you like all things cozy living. I created a Facebook group called Creating a Cozy Life with over 214,000 like-minded souls.

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Ingredients

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon ground pepper

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Directions

1. Mix ingredients together and store in an airtight container.

Tips

• If you have toddlers or family members who don’t like spicy food, leave out the crushed red pepper.
• Use ground black pepper so it’s evenly distributed.
• Ensure the meat is cut into small pieces so the spice mixture can properly coat the food.
• Label and date your mix – Homemade blends stay fresh for about 6 months, so keep track of when you make it.
• Mix thoroughly – Whisk or shake your spices together in a jar to ensure even distribution in every scoop.
• Double or triple the recipe – Make a larger batch and store in an airtight jar so it’s ready to use anytime.
• Toast spices for depth – Lightly toasting your spices in a dry pan before mixing can enhance their aroma and flavor.
• Use fresh, high-quality spices – Spices lose potency over time, so for the boldest flavor, use freshly opened jars or grind whole spices when possible.

Storage

Your taco meat seasoning will last up to six months if stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark spot. You’ll want to keep your homemade seasoning mixes away from the stove’s heat.

How do you make taco meat using homemade taco seasoning mix?

• Brown 1 pound (1 lb) ground beef.
• Drain excess grease.
• Add 3 tablespoons of taco seasoning mix to browned ground beef.
• Add 1/2 cup of water to the mixture and simmer for about five more minutes. When the ground beef is thoroughly cooked and the water has evaporated, remove from heat and serve.

How to Use DIY Taco Spice Mix

Make a Taco Bar

If you have a crowd, ensure there’s a variety of taco fillings to suit everyone’s taste. Ground beef, shredded beef, chicken, shrimp, rice, vegetables, and beans are just some suggestions to get you started.

You’ll want to offer both hard and soft taco shells to cater to everyone’s taste buds. Toppings such as shredded cheese, sliced black olives, thinly sliced lettuce, chopped tomatoes, chopped red onion, guacamole, cilantro, salsa, sour cream, green onions, and pickled jalapeños are just a few ideas.

Remember to add margaritas, salsa, and chips for the perfect night at home.

Taco Salad

If you’re short on time, making a taco salad is a quick way to make dinner.

Make your favorite taco meat, chop up romaine lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced black olives, cut green onions, and chop tomatoes. Top your taco salad with corn chips. I love Catalina or honey French salad dressing for my taco salads.

Seasoning Mix Toolbox

• Mortar and Pestle or Spice Grinder – Using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder allows you to freshly grind spices, enhancing their aroma and flavor. 
• Spice Jars – Storing your freshly ground spices in cute spice jars not only keeps them fresh but also adds a charming, personal touch to your kitchen.

Let me know in the comments below how you liked this easy taco seasoning mix recipe.

Make sure you join our Creating a Cozy Life Facebook group. You’re not going to believe how amazing it is!

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Thanks for stopping by. I’m so happy you found us!

More Seasoning Mixes You’ll Love!

• Homemade Fajita Seasoning Mix
• DIY Herb Salt
• Dry BBQ Rub Recipe
• Homemade Cajun Seasoning Mix
• The Best DIY Seasoning Mixes
• Easy Creole Seasoning Mix

Recipe Card for Taco Season Mix with Nutrition Facts