This homemade taco seasoning blend is a great alternative to store-bought seasoning mixes. It's made with a simple combination of spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and more, providing bold flavor that elevates any taco or Mexican-inspired dish. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat or reducing the amount of salt for a low-sodium version. The best part? It takes just a few minutes to mix up and can be stored in an airtight container, ready to use whenever you need it.
This Taco Seasoning blend is a quick and easy way to add bold, authentic flavor to your favorite Mexican dishes. Whether you're making tacos, fajitas, or a flavorful meat marinade, this seasoning mix provides a perfect balance of spices that can be easily adjusted to your taste. It’s a versatile and convenient homemade option that can replace store-bought taco seasoning packets.
Let’s take a closer look at the simple yet flavorful ingredients that make up this seasoning blend.
INGREDIENTS
- Chili Powder: 1 tablespoon of chili powder serves as the base for this seasoning mix, giving it a mild, smoky heat that complements the other spices.
- Ground Cumin: 1 ½ teaspoons of ground cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor that’s essential to any taco seasoning.
- Sea Salt: 1 teaspoon of sea salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients, making this seasoning mix well-rounded and savory.
- Ground Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon of black pepper adds a bit of sharp heat to balance the flavors.
- Paprika: ½ teaspoon of paprika adds a sweet, smoky flavor and enhances the color of the seasoning blend.
- Garlic Powder: ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder adds a subtle hint of garlic without overpowering the other spices.
- Onion Powder: ¼ teaspoon of onion powder brings a mild, savory flavor to the mix.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes gives the seasoning a touch of heat. Feel free to adjust this amount depending on your spice preference.
- Dried Oregano: ¼ teaspoon of dried oregano adds a slight herbal note that complements the other spices beautifully.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Gather the Ingredients
- Measure out all the spices: 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 ½ teaspoons of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper, ½ teaspoon of paprika, ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon of onion powder, ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, and ¼ teaspoon of dried oregano.
- Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a small mixing bowl, combine all of the measured spices. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed and well combined. You can adjust the quantities of spices to your taste if desired.
- Step 3: Store the Seasoning
- Transfer the mixed taco seasoning into an airtight container or small spice jar. Store it in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. This seasoning mix can be used for tacos, fajitas, or as a marinade for meats and vegetables.
- Step 4: Use the Seasoning
- To use the seasoning, sprinkle it over ground beef, chicken, or your preferred protein while cooking. For tacos, use about 2 tablespoons of seasoning per pound of meat. You can also add it to soups, roasted vegetables, or other dishes for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving and Storage Tips
- This taco seasoning blend can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. Make sure to give it a quick stir before each use to ensure all the spices are evenly mixed.
- For a milder seasoning, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes. If you prefer more heat, add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the blend.
- This seasoning is not just for tacos! Use it to season roasted vegetables, sprinkle it over popcorn for a savory snack, or add it to soups and stews for a flavor boost.
Helpful Notes
- Double or triple the recipe to keep a larger batch on hand for convenience. It’s a great time-saver when preparing weeknight meals.
- If you’re on a low-sodium diet, feel free to reduce the amount of sea salt or omit it entirely, adjusting the seasoning when cooking the dish.
- For a smoky twist, try adding a little smoked paprika to the mix for a deeper, richer flavor profile.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Bobby Flay: Always toast your spices lightly in a dry pan before mixing them to bring out their natural oils and enhance the flavor.
- Ina Garten: Using fresh, high-quality spices makes all the difference in homemade seasoning blends. Replace old spices every 6 months to keep your flavors fresh and vibrant.
- Rick Bayless: For an authentic taco seasoning, be sure to use Mexican oregano, which has a different flavor from Mediterranean oregano and pairs better with Mexican dishes.