Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Total Time
5 mins
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Servings
2 tablespoons
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Calories
24 kcal
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Cuisine
American
Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe
Description
The Homemade Taco Seasoning mixes common dried spices including chili powder and cumin with onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper, creating a versatile flavor base. The addition of red pepper flakes and optional cayenne adds moderate heat and complexity. This dry mix, when measured at about 2 to 2.5 tablespoons, replaces a commercial taco seasoning packet effectively.
The instructions include seasoning browned ground beef or turkey with the mix plus some water to create a sauce that thickens as it simmers, enhancing the flavor. Optional additions like tomato paste or diced onion can deepen the dish’s savory notes. Stored airtight, the mix maintains its potency for up to six months.
This seasoning provides control over ingredients and salt levels compared to packaged options, making it customizable and useful for tacos, burritos, or taco bowls.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon oregano dried
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- pinch cayenne pepper optional
Instructions
- In a small bowl, add all ingredients and mix well to combine.
- Store in an airtight container in a cool dry place for 6 months.
To Prepare Tacos
- Add 1 pound of lean ground beef or turkey to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, for 5 to 7 minutes or until no pink remains. Drain any fat.
- Add 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning to the meat and cook for 1 minute more.
- Stir in ½ cup water and, if desired, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. Simmer uncovered until most of the water has evaporated.
- Serve in taco shells or tortillas.
Notes
- Use 2 to 2.5 tablespoons of this homemade seasoning per 1 pound of ground meat.
- Cook seasoned meat with ½ cup water and optionally add tomato paste or diced tomatoes for richer flavor.
- Store the seasoning in an airtight container away from heat and moisture for up to 6 months.
- Optional: add diced onion while browning meat to enhance flavor.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 2tablespoons
Amount Per Serving
Calories 24 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 24 | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | 4g | 1% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 655mg | 27% |
| Potassium | 139mg | 3% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 1293IU | 26% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 43mg | 4% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.