If you use Old El Paso taco seasoning, then you'll love this easy copycat recipe. The bold flavor works for all your favorite Tex Mex dishes. It's the perfect blend of spices that you can make at home so you can adjust the heat level to your taste preferences. Your Taco Tuesday will never be the same!
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We love our Mexican-inspired flavors around here, so a DIY taco seasoning is a no brainer in our spice cabinet. I usually triple this recipe because I use it ALL THE TIME.
Here's the deal, most store-bought options, including Old El Paso taco seasoning, have ingredients in them that you can avoid if you make your own. If you read the nutrition information, you'll find maltodextrin, soybean oil, monosodium glutamate or MSG, silicon dioxide, and corn starch to name a few.
When you make your own spice blends, you have complete control over the ingredients for that Tex-Mex flavor the whole family can enjoy without worry. If you want to check out some of my other homemade spice mixes, try my Authentic Fajita Seasoning or my Louisiana Rub recipe.
Another great thing about this homemade taco seasoning mix is that you can make it as spicy or as mild as you like by adjusting the cayenne pepper. So whether you're making classic tacos or a taco casserole, you can control the spice level and your taste buds will love you for it!
What Goes Into This Recipe?
- Chili powder
- Ground cumin
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika - or regular paprika. I prefer the added smokey flavor it offers.
- Mexican oregano - if you have or can only find Mediterranean oregano at your grocery store, that is fine to use. If your oregano is not labeled "Mexican" then it is likely "Mediterranean". Ground oregano was my go-to, but it's hard to find these days so dried works.
- Onion powder
- Salt and black pepper
- Cayenne pepper - keep in mind that a little bit goes a long way. Crushed red pepper flakes are more mild and can be substituted.
Directions
Add spices to a mason jar or another airtight container. Shake or stir well to combine thoroughly. You can also make this in a small bowl, mix the spices well then transfer them to a spice jar.
Store at room temperature in a dry place or with your other spices.
Expert Tips
How much taco seasoning is equal to one packet? There are about 4 tablespoons of spice in a packet of taco seasoning. I recommend using anywhere from 2-4 tablespoons of this recipe per one pound of meat.
Always use fresh spices. Check the expiration date on your spice containers. As time goes by, spices can lose their flavor.
You adjust the heat level. You can make this mix without cayenne pepper and it will still be packed with flavor. Add as much or as little based on your taste preference.
Vary the kind or amount of spices. The beauty of making your own taco seasoning mix is that you get to make it how you like it! Add more or less of any spice to personalize the flavor.
Use to spice up chicken, shrimp, or fish. Rub on roasts for BBQ or steak for fajitas. Add to soups and stews whenever you want to add a taste of Tex Mex.
Store Easy Taco Seasoning with your other spices. Easily double the recipe if you make a lot of Tex Mex dishes like I do!
How to use taco seasoning
- Turkey Taco Soup
- Chicken Dorito Casserole
- Ground Beef Tacos
- Ground Beef Mexican Cornbread
- Beef Chili
- Ground Beef Doritos Nachos Casserole
- Mexican Ground Beef and Potatoes
- Wet Beef Burritos
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Easy Taco Seasoning
Ingredients
- ¼ cup chili powder
- 2 tablespoons cumin
- 2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika or regular paprika
- 2 teaspoons ground Mexican oregano or dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne omit or adjust for your taste; can use crushed red pepper as a substitute
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together and store in a tight fitting container in a cool dry place along with your other spices.
- I recommend using anywhere from 2-4 tablespoons of this recipe per one pound of meat.
Beth
I agree 100%! Why buy the premixed stuff? It is loaded with salt! It's so easy to make your own at home and a great use up for your spices, so that they don't stale!
Nikole
Yes, I love using up my spices before the expiration date!
sheenam | thetwincookingproject.net
Totally saving this for taco night this weekend!! Such an easy recipe! Pinned it right away!
Nikole
Thank you for such a sweet comment!
Courtney
love making homemade taco seasoning! Great recipe!
Nikole
Thank you Courtney!
Jacqui
I agree, seasoning is that secret ingredient that makes tacos so good! And it is a great idea to have it mixed up beforehand to be able to enjoy tasty tacos even when there is no time to cook!
Nikole
Yes, it makes taco night even faster!
Amanda
I love making taco seasoning! So easy to make and healthier than store bought versions! Thanks for sharing!
Nikole
Your welcome Amanda!
Julie @ Running in a Skirt
What a great recipe! I love anything Mexican and using a DIY seasoning is perfect. Can't wait to cook with this.
Nikole
Thanks Julie!