This easy-to-make Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix is the perfect way to add bold, robust flavors to any of your favorite Mexican recipes. One taste, and you’ll never buy taco seasoning packets from the grocery store again.

A scoop of Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix in a jar.

Taco Spice Blend Recipe

Taco Tuesday is one of those nights when you know that you’re cooking a meal the whole family will love. And while there are plenty of brands of store-bought packets of taco seasonings you can buy, it’s never been easier to make your own, using just a few basic spices. Not only does DIY taco seasoning taste better, but you can also be assured that there are no unwanted additives or preservatives.

Another great thing is that by creating a homemade spice mix, you’re able to customize each of the ingredients and adjust the spice levels to suit your personal preference. Make up a big batch of this seasoning to keep on hand for your next taco night. Or add it to other favorite Mexican dishes, like this Crockpot Mexican Casserole or this easy Taco Bake with Crescent Rolls.

Why We Love This Recipe

Easy recipe – It only takes a handful of spices and a couple of minutes of prep time to whip up a batch of this taco seasoning blend.
Amazing flavor – This homemade seasoning gives taco meat or any Mexican food so much flavor that is much better than a packet of taco seasoning from the grocery store.
Healthier option – Not only does making your own seasoning mixes save you money, but it also enables you to choose quality spices that are free from unnecessary additives and fillers, like you see in store-bought taco seasoning.

Ingredients

Chili Powder
Ground Cumin
Garlic Powder
Onion Powder
Smoked Paprika
Oregano
Cracked Black Pepper
Salt

How to Make Your Own Taco Seasoning Mix

A white bowl containing separate piles of ground spices, including paprika, black pepper, oregano, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder—perfect for homemade taco seasoning.

A spoon rests in a white bowl containing various ground spices and herbs, ready to be mixed together for homemade taco seasoning.

Combine all ingredients in a bowl or jar and mix well.

A jar of Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix on a wooden table.

Store in an airtight jar for up to 10-12 months. I like to mason jars for storage.

Easy Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe Variations

Chipotle powder – Just a pinch adds a smoky and slightly spicy flavor that makes the best tacos and other Mexican recipes.
Spicy pepper – Cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can also be added for those who enjoy extra heat.
Coriander – Ground coriander adds a slightly sweet and citrusy flavor that works great with the other spices in this mix.
Turmeric – It only takes a small amount to add a warm and earthy flavor to your taco seasoning mix.
Ground mustard – For a tangy twist, you can add a pinch of ground mustard.
Ground cinnamon – A little bit of ground cinnamon can bring a hint of warmth and subtle sweetness to your homemade version of taco seasoning.

Delicious Ways to Use This Seasoning

Roasted vegetables – Toss a medley of vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and corn, with a sprinkle of homemade taco seasoning and roast them in the oven for a flavorful and vibrant side dish.
Popcorn seasoning – Add a delicious twist to your movie night by adding a sprinkle of this seasoning mix over freshly popped popcorn.
Grilled chicken or seafood – This seasoning works awesome on grilled meats like chicken, shrimp and other types of seafood.
Beans – Add a little bit to your baked beans, black beans, and refried beans.
Dips – Add a dash of homemade taco seasoning to sour cream, Greek yogurt, or cream cheese to create a flavorful dip or even as a salad dressing for taco salads. You can also add it to your favorite homemade salsa recipes.

How Much Taco Seasoning Do I Need for Per Pound of Meat?

Typically, you’ll want to add approximately 2 to 3 tablespoons of taco seasoning per pound of ground beef. However, the amount can be adjusted based on personal taste preferences and the intensity of flavor desired.

Start with a smaller amount and gradually add more seasoning until you get the taste you’re looking for. It’s always a good idea to taste and adjust as you go to ensure the perfect balance of flavors in your dish.

Tips for Making and Storing Taco Seasoning

To extend its shelf life, store your spice blends in a cool dry place, away from direct sunlight, like a pantry or spice cabinet.
Store your seasoning in a glass jar, like a small mason jar, spice jar, or other airtight container.
This seasoning does not freeze well because it typically causes moisture, which can cause them to clump and start to mold.
Heat will also cause seasonings to lose their flavor quickly. It’s best to keep them on a spice rack that is completely away from any heat source like your stove or dishwasher.
Label the jars with the date you made your seasoning mixes, so you’ll know when it’s time to make a new big batch.
For optimal freshness, homemade spice blends should be used within 9 months to a year.

More Mexican-Inspired Recipes

Taco Seasoning

Course Seasoning

Cuisine American

Prep Time 4

Total Time 5

Skip the store bought spices and make your own taco seasoning at home. You most likely have all the spices on hand, and if not, they’re easy to get! The perfect combination of Mexican flavors for any of your taco needs.

Ingredients

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a bowl or jar and mix well.
1 Tablespoon American Chili Powder, 2 Teaspoons Ground Cumin, 2 Teaspoons Garlic Powder, 2 Teaspoons Onion Powder, 1 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika, 1 Teaspoon Oregano, ½ Teaspoon Cracked Black Pepper, ¼ Teaspoon Salt
Use immediately, or store in the pantry for 10-12 months.