Homemade Taco Seasoning
A simple and easy taco seasoning, good for ground turkey, ground beef, and chicken that beats any storebought packet you can get your hands on. This DIY Taco Seasoning is the perfect taco fix.
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If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine, you know that tacos are one of the most beloved dishes around. They're versatile, tasty, and easy to customize to your liking.
But have you ever considered making your own homemade taco seasoning?
Not only is it more affordable than buying pre-made packets, but you also have complete control over the flavor profile. Plus, you can adjust the seasoning to your preference by making it as mild or as spicy as you like.
With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of homemade taco seasoning that's sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Taco Tuesday has become a tradition in my house. And therefore taco seasoning is a staple.
While I don't use it every taco Tuesday. I can say that MOST Tuesdays come with a sprinkle of taco seasoning.
The disappointment that ensues if Tuesday comes without some variation of taco I can not even describe. So much so, that when my parents came to stay with my kids for a week back in October, my mom planned a taco themed meal to stay with “tradition”. It runs deep. Lol
After constantly buying taco seasoning packets and one day running out, I gave pause and realized that I could probably create my own seasoning and not be required to have to make a store run if I am missing one of those packets.
The Spices Needed To Make Taco seasoning
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Chilli powder
- Red pepper
- Black pepper
- Cumin
- Paprika
- Oregano
- Salt
Is this homemade taco seasoning spicy?
This recipe has a little kick. Not much, but a little, which is way better than the store bought ones.
If you prefer to go mild, you can leave out the red pepper, and it would be just as good.
I don't eat really spicy food though, so the fact that I can handle it is an indication of it not being that hot.
How To Make Your Own Taco Seasoning
It's so easy! You just combine all of the above. And BAM! You are ready to go!
With this recipe, you mix it up, jar it up, and set it aside for when you are ready for it.
And the best part is that it's made with stuff you probably already have in your kitchen!
Like a traditional taco seasoning packet, you add water and let the meat simmer and magically you have taco meat. Just. Like. That!
How to use the taco seasoning?
You can use this to season your meat while cooking it. By sprinkling it to your taste preferences.
Or you can opt to use it like a taco seasoning packet. Cook your meat through, and then add two tablespoons plus 2/3 cups of water. And let it simmer for a few minutes.
What can you use this taco seasoning on?
You can use this on a variety of meats for taco meat – chicken, ground beef, and ground turkey. But also things like fajitas and even tostones.
Homemade taco seasoning is a versatile blend of spices that can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes beyond tacos.
Here are some ideas for how to use homemade taco seasoning:
- Tacos: Of course, the most obvious use for taco seasoning is in tacos! Use it to season ground beef, chicken, or fish, or sprinkle it over roasted vegetables or beans.
- Fajitas: Use taco seasoning to season steak, chicken, or shrimp for flavorful fajitas. Saute the seasoned protein with peppers and onions for a complete meal.
- Quesadillas: Sprinkle taco seasoning over cheese and cooked protein in a quesadilla for an extra burst of flavor.
- Soups and stews: Add taco seasoning to soups and stews for added depth of flavor. It works particularly well in chili or black bean soup.
- Roasted vegetables: Toss vegetables such as sweet potatoes, cauliflower, or broccoli in taco seasoning before roasting for a tasty side dish.
- Popcorn: Sprinkle taco seasoning over popcorn for a fun and flavorful snack.
The possibilities are endless, like this Taco Pizza recipe my family absolutely loves when it comes to using homemade taco seasoning. Experiment with different dishes and let your taste buds guide you!
How long does homemade taco seasoning last?
Homemade taco seasoning, if stored properly, can last up to 6 months.
It's important to store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. I use mason jars stored in the kitchen cabinet or pantry.
This will help preserve its flavor and prevent it from clumping or becoming stale.
Over time, the potency of the spices may diminish, but the seasoning should still be safe to consume as long as it has been stored properly and there are no signs of spoilage, such as mold or a foul odor.
To ensure the freshness of your homemade taco seasoning, it's best to make it in small batches and use it within a few months.
Alright so if you're ready to whip up your own taco seasoning, here's how to do it, and use it!
DIY Taco Seasoning
A simple and easy taco seasoning that beats any storebought packet you can get your hands on. This DIY Taco Seasoning is the perfect taco fix.
Ingredients
- ½ cup chili powder
- 2 tbsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp cumin
- ¼ cup garlic powder
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp salt
- ¼ tsp red pepper
- 1 tbsp oregano
Instructions
- Measure out and combine all ingredients in airtight jar
- Mix well.
- Enjoy!
Notes
To use: Cook ground meat. When cooked through, add 3 tbsp of seasoning and ⅔ cup of water and simmer until thoroughly combined. Everytime you use it, shake the jar to blend the seasonings together well.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 1 jar Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 447Total Fat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 8883mgCarbohydrates: 87gFiber: 35gSugar: 8gProtein: 21g