The Best DIY Taco Seasoning
DIY Taco Seasoning is easy to make, healthier than store-bought options, and budget-friendly, too. Super versatile, it’s so tasty you’ll want every day to be Taco Tuesday!
Homemade Vs. Store-Bought Taco Seasoning
Sure, you can easily buy packets of taco seasoning from the store, but making your own DIY taco seasoning is so much better! Not only is it even tastier, but this homemade taco seasoning mix is:
- Free from added sugar, MSG, and preservatives.
- A lot more budget-friendly than repeatedly buying packets.
- Easy to customize with different ingredients to suit your flavor and spice preferences.
- Great to make in bulk and keep on hand for all your favorite recipes.
What Is In Taco Seasoning?
Most taco seasoning mixes contain warm spices that pair wonderfully with Tex-Mex meals. Here’s what I use in this DIY recipe:
- Chili Powder – This is a blend of different kinds of chilis. The flavor can vary slightly between brands. So, use whatever chili powder you love!
- Ground Cumin – Don’t skip this! It’s essential to the flavor we associate with this seasoning, adding an earthy taste.
- Ground Coriander – This is made of ground coriander (cilantro) seeds and has a warm flavor with vibrant, citrusy notes.
- Onion Powder – Adds subtle onion flavor.
- Garlic Powder – Who doesn’t love bold garlic flavor?
- Salt and Black Pepper – Use fine sea salt and freshly cracked or ground black pepper.
- Cayenne Pepper – Adds a touch of heat.
How to Make a Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe (2 Ways!)
- Add all the ingredients to an 8 ounce jar, tighten the lid and shake until combined. OR
- Combine all the ingredients in a small bowl.
- Whisk until well incorporated.
- Transfer to an airtight container, or use right away!
How Much Taco Seasoning is in a Packet?
If a recipe calls for a packet of taco seasoning, you will probably wonder how much homemade taco mix to use. Different brands will have slightly different measurements in each packet.
However, a single packet of store-bought taco seasoning is typically equal to three tablespoons of this DIY taco seasoning. Of course, use your best judgement, and adjust to taste as you see fit.
How to Store Homemade Taco Seasoning
Store your seasoning in an airtight container, and keep it in a cool, dark place like a cabinet or pantry. It will stay fresh for up to six months.
Pro-Tip: Smell your seasonings before making the mix and the taco blend before using. If the ingredients don’t have much of an aroma, it’s probably time to toss them out!
Ways to Use a DIY Taco Seasoning Mix
There are endless ways to use this taco mix recipe. Feel free to experiment with different recipes and flavor combinations! To get you started, some of our favorite ways to use this mix are with:
- Taco Soup
- Easy Beef Enchiladas
- Beef Tacos
- Shrimp Tacos
- Chicken Tacos
More Tex-Mex Recipes
The Best DIY Taco Seasoning Recipe
Equipment
- 8 oz jar
- 1 lid for jar
- 1 measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 5 Tablespoons chili powder
- 4 Tablespoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne powder
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to an 8 ounce jar and tighten the lid. Shake the jar until the spices are well combined.
- Alternatively, add all the ingredients to a bowl and whisk together until combined. Pour taco seasoning mix into a jar with lid.
- Store seasoning mix for up to 6 months.
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