Description
Make your own Homemade Taco Seasoning Blends for the perfect flavorful taco night! Skip the store-bought packets and create your own blend of spices with this easy and customizable recipe. This taco seasoning adds a savory, slightly smoky, and mildly spicy kick to your tacos, burritos, fajitas, and more. Perfect for controlling the level of heat and flavor in your meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
- Mix the Spices:
- In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients—chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Store the Seasoning:
- Store the taco seasoning blend in an airtight container, spice jar, or resealable bag. Label the container and keep it in a cool, dry place. It will stay fresh for up to 6 months.
- Use the Seasoning:
- Use about 2 tablespoons of the seasoning per pound of ground meat (chicken, beef, turkey, or vegetarian options). Simply add it to your cooked meat, along with a splash of water (about 1/4 cup), and simmer for 5-10 minutes until the flavors are well combined and the meat is coated.
- Optional Variations:
- Adjust the spice level by adding more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- For a smokier flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
- Add a pinch of brown sugar for a slightly sweet taco seasoning.
Notes
- No Salt? You can skip the salt and adjust to your taste or use a low-sodium alternative if you’re watching your sodium intake.
- Make-Ahead: This seasoning is perfect for meal prep. Make a larger batch and store it for future taco nights or other Mexican-inspired dishes.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Seasoning, Condiment
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 20
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0g