Save This easy homemade taco seasoning combines chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic, and oregano to create a vibrant, all-purpose spice blend. Ready in minutes with simple ingredients, it's perfect for boosting flavor in tacos, burritos, or roasted vegetables. Store in an airtight container for up to six months and adjust the heat by adding red pepper flakes as desired. Its vegan and gluten-free profile makes it suitable for many dishes.
The first time I made taco seasoning at home, I honestly did it because I'd forgotten to buy the little packets at the grocery store. Now I keep a jar in my pantry constantly because the smell when you mix everything together is absolutely incredible. It transforms a regular Tuesday night dinner into something that feels like it came from a restaurant.
I brought a batch of this to my sisters taco night last month, and her husband kept asking what restaurant we'd ordered from. The way the kitchen smelled while the meat was simmering with this blend made everyone keep wandering in to peek at the stove. Now my sister texts me whenever she runs out so I can remind her of the ratios.
Ingredients
- Chili powder: The foundation of the whole blend, providing that rich earthy base
- Ground cumin: Adds that signature warm, slightly nutty flavor we associate with tacos
- Paprika: Use smoked for depth or sweet for a milder, sweeter profile
- Garlic powder: Brings savory depth without the work of fresh garlic
- Onion powder: Rounds out the flavor profile beautifully
- Dried oregano: Adds a subtle herbal note that balances the heat
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional but perfect if you like things spicy
- Freshly ground black pepper: Essential for that little background warmth
- Sea salt: Helps all the spices bloom and marry together
Instructions
- Mix it all together:
- Dump everything into a small bowl and whisk until it looks uniform and smells amazing
- Store it right:
- Transfer to an airtight jar or container and keep it in your spice cabinet
- Use it up:
- Add 2 to 3 tablespoons per pound of meat or veggies, tasting as you go
Save My kids started helping me mix this up because they love dumping all the little spice jars into one bowl and watching the colors swirl together. Its become a tiny kitchen tradition that makes taco night feel like an event instead of just dinner.
Making It Your Own
The beauty of homemade seasoning is how easily it adapts to what you love. Sometimes I add a pinch of cinnamon if Im feeling adventurous, or extra cayenne when my brother comes over because he thinks mild is boring.
Scaling Up
I make triple batches now because its annoying to run out mid-week. The spices stay fresh for months, and having a ready supply means youre always just minutes away from incredible tacos.
Beyond Just Tacos
This blend works magic on roasted potatoes, scrambled eggs, or even popcorn. Once you have it on hand, youll find yourself shaking it into everything.
- Try it mixed into sour cream for an instant dip
- Sprinkle over avocado toast for a breakfast upgrade
- Keep a small shaker on your table for guests to customize
Save Trust me, once you start making your own seasoning mixes, youll wonder why you ever bothered with those expensive little packets from the store.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I store the seasoning blend?
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Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to six months to maintain freshness.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness?
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Yes, increase or decrease the crushed red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
- → What dishes work well with this seasoning?
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It pairs well with ground meats, tofu, vegetables, and grains to add vibrant flavor.
- → Is smoked paprika necessary?
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Smoked paprika adds depth but sweet paprika works well for a milder taste.
- → Can I double or triple the batch?
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Absolutely, scaling up the spices maintains the same great flavor for larger quantities.
