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    Home » Budget Recipes

    Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe

    Published: Jan 14, 2022 · Modified: Dec 17, 2022 by Jessica Fisher

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    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    Save money, yet enjoy great flavor with this homemade taco seasoning recipe. It’s great for taco meat, burrito fillings, casseroles, marinades, salads, and soups.

    It’s also good used as a seasoning for dips, like for this Taco Layer Dip Recipe. It adds flavor wherever you need it! Recently I tossed it in Air Fryer Cauliflower before cooking it and it was crazy good!

    glass jar of taco seasoning mix tied with blue twine and topped with a metal lid. this …

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    Table of Contents
    • Why Make This
    • Ingredients
    • Step-by-Step Instructions
    • FAQs & Tips
    • Recipes that Use Taco Seasoning Mix
    • Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix

    If you’ve been buying those envelopes of taco seasoning mix, it’s time to just stop. Seriously.

    Sure, you need them. I get that. They take Tacos with Home Fried Taco Shells over the top. They add zing to your favorite Lawnmower Taco. They give a kick to Taco Soup.

    Why Make This

    The thing is that taco seasoning packets are also way too expensive for what you get, especially when you can so easily make a mix yourself — better and for less money!

    I’ve been making my own taco seasoning mix for over 20 years and would never consider going back. Buying herbs and spices in bulk and mixing my own spice mixes allows me a world of flavors for just pennies a teaspoon!

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    Ingredients

    Here’s what you’ll need for this Taco Seasoning recipe:

    ingredients for taco seasoning recipe laid out on table top.

    dried oregano – I use standard Mexican oregano that I buy in bulk at a restaurant supply store.

    ground chile – Keep in mind that some chili powders have added salt. I realized that this may be why some readers have commented on extra saltiness. This recipe should be made with salt-free chili powder. Look for ground chile on the label.

    salt – You can use fine or coarse salt, just keep in mind that the measuring is different among the different grinds and types.

    garlic powder – I buy this in bulk at Costco so that I can make my own Spice Mixes.

    dry onion flakes – If you’re using this taco seasoning recipe to season dressings, sauces, or ground meat, onion flakes add nice texture. If you want to use this as a rub, consider substituting granulated onion or onion powder instead.

    black pepper – Black pepper adds a little bit of heat to this taco seasoning recipe. If you’d like more spice, consider adding cayenne as well.

    A note about cumin: When I mixed up this taco seasoning recipe years ago I had six kids who were hungry for lunch. I made it up on the fly and they loved it. I didn’t really think about it, but readers have later questions why it doesn’t have cumin. It just doesn’t. You can add a tablespoon of cumin if it really matters to you, but I find the flavors of oregano and pure ground chile offset by the salt, pepper, garlic, and onion are exceptional.

    Step-by-Step Instructions

    Here’s how to prep this simple Taco Seasoning recipe:

    spices added to small white ramekin.
    stirring together the spices in the ramekin with a small spoon.

    Measure the spices in a small dish. Stir well to combine. Transfer the seasoning to an airtight container and store in a cool dry place.

    FAQs & Tips

    What is taco seasoning made of?

    Taco seasoning is a mix of dry spices and herbs. The combination can vary, but typically includes salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder or onion flakes, ground chile, cumin, and oregano. Some mixtures also include cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, and/or coriander.

    What is the difference between taco seasoning and fajita seasoning?

    There really is no big difference between taco seasoning and fajita seasoning. You can mix and match the herbs and spices based on your preferences.

    How do you make homemade taco seasoning mix?

    Making your own homemade taco seasoning mix is super quick and easy. Measure out the herbs and spices. Mix them together in a bowl. Store them in a covered container in a dry, cool place.

    How to make this good and cheap:

    Here are some of the strategies you can use to make this taco seasoning recipe more economical:

    • Stock up on ingredients when they are on sale. When I find regular kitchen staples on sale, I buy a lot. I’m currently using a price book to track prices and that’s saving me money. For this recipe, keeping an eye on the price of bulk spices can help keep the price down.
    • Buying in bulk – Using dried herbs and spices within 3 to 6 months is key to maintaining their flavor. It would make sense to buy small bottles, however small bottles are pricier than larger ones. For herbs and spices that I use in great quantity, I buy large packages from Costco, Smart & Final, Vitacost, or Amazon. I fill my small jar and then store the larger package in the freezer to extend its shelf life. For spices I use infrequently, I buy small amounts from the bulk jars at the health food store. In this way, I always have potent dried herbs and spices.
    mixed taco seasoning in small white ramekin.

    Recipes that Use Taco Seasoning Mix

    • chicken enchilada bake on plate with side dishes.
      Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole (63 cents/serving)
    • brown pie plate holding taco layer dip.
      Taco Layer Dip Recipe (52 cents/serving)
    • pair of chimichangas in baking dish topped with sauce, cheese, and chopped scallions.
      Beef Chimichanga Recipe (61 cents each)
    • place setting with large dinner salad
      Santa Fe Salad with Chicken, Corn, & Black Beans
    white spoon and fork on a teal plate logo.

    Tell us what you think!

    We love to hear your experiences with Good Cheap Eats. Click the STARS on the recipe card or leave a STARRED comment to let us know what you think of the recipe.

    mixed taco seasoning in small white ramekin.

    Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix

    Save money, yet enjoy great flavor with a homemade taco seasoning mix. It’s great for taco fillings, casseroles, marinades, and soups.
    5 from 5 votes
    Print Pin Rate
    Course: Main Course
    Cuisine: American, Mexican
    Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
    Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 5 minutes minutes
    Servings: 8 tablespoons
    Calories: 15kcal
    Author: Jessica Fisher
    Cost: $1

    Ingredients

    • 2 tablespoon dried oregano
    • 2 tablespoon chile powder or ground chile make sure this is salt-free chili powder
    • 1 tablespoon salt
    • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
    • 1 tablespoon dry onion flakes
    • 1.5 teaspoon black pepper
    US Customary – Metric

    Instructions

    • In a small bowl or jar, measure out the spices and herbs. Stir gently to combine. 
    • Store the taco seasoning mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. For longest storage, store the mix in an airtight container in the freezer.

    Notes

    To use: Use in place of taco seasoning mix in recipes. Use 1-2 Tablespoons of mix per pound of ground beef or turkey, depending on how spicy you like it.
    Nutritional values are approximate and based on 1 tablespoon.
    Ingredient Notes:
    • Keep in mind that some chili powders have added salt. I realized that this may be why some readers have commented on extra saltiness. This recipe should be made with salt-free chili powder. Look for ground chile on the label.
    • You can use fine or coarse salt, just keep in mind that the measuring is different among the different grinds and types.
    • If you’re using this taco seasoning recipe to season dressings, sauces, or ground meat, onion flakes add nice texture. If you want to use this as a rub, consider substituting granulated onion or onion powder instead.
    • Black pepper adds a little bit of heat to this taco seasoning recipe. If you’d like more spice, consider adding cayenne as well.
    • A note about cumin: When I mixed up this taco seasoning recipe years ago I had six kids who were hungry for lunch. I made it up on the fly and they loved it. I didn’t really think about it, but readers have later questions why it doesn’t have cumin. It just doesn’t. You can add a tablespoon of cumin if it really matters to you, but I find the flavors of oregano and pure ground chile offset by the salt, pepper, garlic, and onion are exceptional.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 14g | Calories: 15kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 906mg | Potassium: 82mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 616IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 31mg | Iron: 1mg
    Tried this recipe?Tell us what you think! Your reviews help us develop better recipes and give newcomers the confidence to try your favorites. Scroll down to leave a starred comment.

    This post was originally published on March 25, 2019. It has been updated for content and clarity.

    « 90+ Pantry Staples You Can Make Yourself
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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Tonia

      December 30, 2022 at 10:17 pm

      5 stars
      This is my go to taco seasoning. I don’t buy the salty packets in the grocery store. I usually make a triple batch of this and keep in a mason jar to use with ground turkey or beef for a quick weeknight meal. Thank you for providing healthy fresh alternatives. I love your ideas and stories!

      Reply
    2. Michelle C

      December 25, 2022 at 10:55 am

      5 stars
      Delicious recipe! I combine this and the chili seasoning recipe. My 12 y/o son used this seasoning mix when he created a chili recipe.
      Jessica – thank you for another great recipe. Well done! I appreciate all that you do.

      Reply
    3. Cindy

      September 20, 2021 at 12:23 pm

      I’m trying this recipe for first time. Do you add water after gr beef is cooked and then add seasoning? Or just use spice?

      Reply
      • Jessica Fisher

        September 20, 2021 at 12:32 pm

        I just use the spice. No water necessary, unless you want a soupier meat. Up to you!

        Reply
    4. Tara

      April 04, 2021 at 9:14 am

      So I am happy there is no cumin in recipe but what would you suggest for chilli powder as kids can’t take spice? 1 tbsp? 1 teaspoon?

      Reply
      • Jessica Fisher

        April 05, 2021 at 9:26 am

        Ground Chile doesn’t necessarily add spice and keep in mind it is different than chili powder (a blend which might). I buy ancho Chile in bulk. It’s not super spicy. But start with a teaspoon and work your way up to be safe.

        Reply
    5. Milly salyers

      October 27, 2020 at 9:32 am

      5 stars
      I live in German and taco seasoning is extremely expensive (well about 3 dollars per packet) and today my family tried this recipe because it didn’t need cumin and we ran out of packets. Can I just say thanks. It was great and I had all the spice in the pantry making it super easy to fix. I’m adding this to my recipe list and going to save so much as we eat tacos weekly.

      Reply
      • Jessica Fisher

        October 27, 2020 at 2:59 pm

        Yay! So glad to hear it. Danke.

        Reply
    6. Trista Bingamon

      March 24, 2020 at 2:58 pm

      The salt in this recipe is way too much!!!! It’s overpowering and unbearable. Maybe two teaspoons would suffice. I am baffled. My husband and I had a very hard time even trying to eat it.

      Reply
      • Jessica Fisher

        March 25, 2020 at 1:17 pm

        Hey Trista. I’m sorry to hear that the recipe didn’t work for you. It’s a regular at our house. Can I ask how much seasoning you used in the finished dish? Also, what kind of salt? Happy to troubleshoot with you if you’d like.

        Reply
    7. Tara Dolan

      March 02, 2020 at 8:36 am

      Where’s the cumin?

      Reply
      • Jessica Fisher

        March 02, 2020 at 12:14 pm

        This recipe doesn’t call for cumin. However, if you prefer you can add 1 teaspoon ground cumin and/or try my Homemade Chipotle Taco Seasoning Mix which calls for cumin.

        Reply
    8. Misti Winebarger

      December 30, 2019 at 8:23 pm

      Is that sodium content for real??? ??

      Reply
      • Jessica Fisher

        December 30, 2019 at 9:45 pm

        Taco Seasoning is very much a seasoning salt, so yes, it will be high in sodium. You can reduce the amount of salt if you prefer.

        Reply
    9. Diana Teal

      April 17, 2019 at 4:25 am

      5 stars
      AMAZING TIPS and she’s frugal! LOVE it!! Thanks!

      Reply
      • Jessica Fisher

        April 17, 2019 at 3:41 pm

        Thanks!

        Reply
    10. Judith

      March 26, 2019 at 6:36 pm

      5 stars
      I’ve been making your recipe ever since I bought one of your cookbooks. I neglected to take it on vacation so had to buy a packet. No one in my family liked it. 🙂

      Reply
      • Jessica Fisher

        May 03, 2019 at 4:13 pm

        Yay for knowing what to pack on vacation next time. LOL!

        Reply

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    jessica from good cheap eats

    Hi, I'm Jessica! I'm a 4x cookbook author and 6x mom. I know what it is to be in a hurry and on a budget. I believe anyone can prepare delicious meals -- no matter what's on their plate. I've been featured on Good Morning America, PBS News Hour, and NBC.

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