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A glass spice jar filled with vibrant homemade taco seasoning powder surrounded by whole cumin seeds, smoked paprika, and chili flakes

5-Minute Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe (Better Than Store-Bought Packets)

Say goodbye to store-bought seasoning packets loaded with artificial preservatives, excessive sodium, and cornstarch fillers! This 5-minute homemade taco seasoning recipe uses staple pantry spices to deliver bold, smoky, Mexican restaurant flavor to ground beef, chicken, tacos, and fajitas.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 8 tablespoons (seasons 4 lbs meat)
Course: DIY Mix, Gluten-Free, Pantry Staple, Spice Blend
Cuisine: American, Mexican, Tex-Mex
Calories: 24
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

Pantry Spice Blend (Yields ~½ Cup)
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder standard American mild chili powder blend
  • 1.5 tablespoons ground cumin freshly ground for aromatic depth
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika or sweet Hungarian paprika
  • 1 tablespoon fine sea salt or kosher salt (adjustable to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder granulated or pure powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder adds savory sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Mexican oregano preferred, crushed
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper fine ground
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for mild heat kick

Method
 

Mixing & Storing
  1. Combine the spices: In a small glass bowl or mason jar, measure out the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, sea salt, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Whisk until uniform: Whisk thoroughly with a mini fork or seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously for 20 seconds until the color is completely uniform with no clumps.
  3. How to use per pound of meat: Brown 1 lb of ground beef, turkey, or shredded chicken in a skillet. Drain excess fat, add 2 tablespoons of this homemade taco seasoning plus ⅓ cup of water or broth, and simmer on low for 3 to 4 minutes until a thick, glossy taco sauce coats the meat.
  4. Storage: Seal in an airtight glass spice jar in a cool, dark pantry. Stays aromatic and potent for up to 1 full year.