Taco Seasoning

Quick and easy homemade taco seasoning that is better than any store-bought “seasoning packet”! It’s so simple to make, literally takes just 5 minutes of your time, and tastes amazing with tacos, chicken, pasta, vegetables, and more!

I know taco seasoning packets are so convenient, and I always bought them until I realized that I can easily make my own seasoning mix at home. If you have a well-stocked spice cabinet, then you can easily make this. It’s tastier, cheaper, and healthier than store-bought taco seasoning.

Store-bought ready blends are loaded with unnecessary ingredients and fillers that we all should avoid. And since making this DIY taco seasoning is so easy, you will find yourself adding it to not just tacos, but to chicken, casseroles, roasted vegetables, and much more!

Difference between taco and fajita seasoning

Taco seasoning mix is very similar to fajita seasoning. The difference between the two is that the taco seasoning contains a bigger amount/proportion of chili powder and oregano to give it a kick! So fajita seasoning is milder and more subtle in flavor, but to be honest, I use them interchangeably as I like both blends.

Homemade Taco Seasoning Ingredients

To make this seasoning mix, you will need:

• Chili powder
• Cumin – use ground cumin or grind cumin seeds.
• Oregano – use dried oregano leaves.
• Paprika – use sweet paprika or smoked paprika. Whatever you prefer or have on hand. I personally prefer smoked paprika.
• Garlic granules – you can either use garlic granules or garlic powder, the only difference between these 2 is the texture.
• Onion powder.
• Salt.

How to Make Taco Seasoning

Measure out all of the ingredients, mix them in a small bowl until well combined, and store in an airtight spice jar.

Top Tips

• You can double or triple the amounts depending on how much seasoning you want to make. I personally make a big batch, and always have a lot of taco seasoning in my kitchen.
• 2 tablespoons of this taco seasoning are equivalent to 1 packet of seasoning.
• Store the taco seasoning in little glass jars with lids at room temperature in your pantry for as long as you’d like. It is recommended to use it up within 6 months though, as the flavors will start fading away with time.
• You can reduce or increase the amount of kosher salt. The salt is moderate in this recipe, so if you are watching your sodium intake then you can reduce it.
• If you want a spicier taco seasoning mix, then just add more chili powder and/or cayenne and/or red chili flakes.
• Feel free to add more dried herbs if you like dried basil or dried parsley.

How Much Taco Seasoning Do I Need

I usually do around 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning per 1 pound of chicken, beans, or meat. My recipe below makes around 8 tablespoons of seasoning which should be enough for 4 pounds of meat or beans.

Saute the chicken or meat first, then season with taco seasoning and cook for a couple of more minutes. If seasoning beans, just season them straight away and heat through.

More Homemade Seasoning Recipes

• Homemade fajita seasoning
• Old bay seasoning
• French fry seasoning
• Italian seasoning
• Stone house seasoning
• Middle Eastern Baharat spice blend
• Pumpkin pie spice