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Taco seasoning spices measured into a bowl: chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, pepper and cayenne

Homemade Taco Seasoning

Easy homemade taco seasoning made with pantry spices. No fillers, and you control the salt and heat. One batch seasons up to 2 pounds of beef.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 batch (about 1/3 cup)
Course: Seasoning
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/4 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 1/4 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • 1 1/2 tsp cornstarch optional, for a saucy, packet-style texture

Equipment

  • Small Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Airtight Spice Jar

Method
 

  1. Add all the spices to a small bowl and mix well.
  2. To use: brown 1 1/2 to 2 lb of ground beef and drain the fat. Stir in the full batch of seasoning.
  3. For drier taco meat, add about 1/4 cup water and simmer 2 to 3 minutes. For saucy, packet-style taco meat, include the cornstarch and add about 1/2 cup water instead, then simmer until thickened.
  4. Store any extra in an airtight jar for up to 6 months.

Notes

One batch seasons 2 lb of ground beef, or 1 1/2 lb if you like it extra seasoned. About 2 to 3 tablespoons equals one standard packet.
The recipe scales easily. Quadruple it and keep a jar on hand.
🛒 Shop the gear I used in this recipe