Taco Seasoning Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade taco seasoning is a game-changer, giving your tacos that perfect kick without any weird additives. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to whip up with spices you probably already have in your pantry.
- Bold flavor: Packed with smoky, spicy, and savory notes that beat store-bought mixes every time.
- Customizable heat: Adjust the chili powder or cayenne to make it mild or fiery—your choice!
- Versatile uses: Great for tacos, sure, but also amazing on meats, veggies, or even popcorn for a fun twist.
Recipe

Craving tacos without the store-bought seasoning? This homemade taco seasoning recipe is quick, versatile, and free of preservatives. It’s perfect for adding bold, zesty flavor to your favorite taco fillings.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients.
- Whisk or stir until well blended.
- Store in an airtight container for future use or use immediately.
- To season taco meat, add 2-3 tablespoons to 1 pound of cooked ground beef, chicken, or plant-based protein along with ½ cup of water. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until thickened.
Notes:
- Adjust salt and spice levels to taste.
- Use within 6 months for best flavor.
- Sprinkle on roasted vegetables, beans, or popcorn for extra flavor.
Time:
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (or 10 minutes when used with taco meat)
Serving: Makes about 3 tablespoons (enough for 1 pound of meat)
Nutrition
This homemade taco seasoning is not only flavorful but also packed with essential nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 15 kcal |
Total Fat | 0.5 g |
Sodium | 580 mg |
Carbohydrates | 3 g |
Fiber | 1 g |
Protein | 0.5 g |
What To Serve With It
Now that you’ve got your taco seasoning ready, let’s talk about what to serve with it. I love loading up my tacos with fresh toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa, but don’t forget about side dishes—rice, beans, or even chips and guac make the meal complete. Trust me, pairing these with your seasoned meat takes taco night to the next level.
Taco Toppings
A few simple toppings can turn your taco from good to great, and I love how customizable they are—you really can’t go wrong. Taco topping variations are endless, but I always start with popular toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheese. For extra flavor, I add creamy guacamole, tangy salsa, or a dollop of sour cream. Don’t forget fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime—they make all the difference!
Side Dishes
While tacos are the star of the meal, pairing them with the right side dishes can make the whole experience even better. I love serving a crunchy taco salad with fresh veggies and a tangy dressing—it’s like a deconstructed taco! Mexican rice, fluffy and flavorful, is another must-have. It soaks up all those delicious taco juices, making every bite satisfying. Trust me, these sides complete the feast!