Originally posted September 2013; Updated February 2021

My early attempts at cooking from scratch were often born out of necessity – I’d often forget something at the store and then have to make my own homemade version at home. This happened with taco seasoning more times than I care to admit to.

At first, I found it daunting to make my own seasonings, but the more I did it, the more I relied on it instead of store-bought versions. I found it easier to adjust the seasonings to our personal taste (more spice before kids, less so now) and easier to adjust the amount in recipes. I always found it annoying that if I had a little more ground beef than called for, everything would be less flavorful – or if I didn’t want to make as much I’d end up wasting. Making my own was the perfect solution.

Jump to:

• What’s in homemade taco seasoning?
• What to make with homemade taco seasoning
• Recipe for Homemade Taco Seasoning

What’s in Homemade Taco Seasoning?

I bet you have most of – if not all! – of the ingredients for taco seasoning in your pantry already.

• 1 Tablespoon chili powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper

These measurements are enough to replace one store-bought packet. I often make 4 batches at once and store in an airtight jar for future use!

What to Make with Homemade Taco Seasoning

There is so much more you can make with taco seasoning than just tacos!

Mexican Lasagna is a feast of Tex-Mex flavors, Taco Stuffed Shells are a family favorite, and this Taco Bread Twist makes a fun lighter dinner or appetizer.

Recipe

Homemade Taco Seasoning

Yield: 1 Packet

This is the equivalent of 1 store-bought packet.

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Ingredients

• 1 Tablespoon chili powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper

Instructions

1. Whisk together in a small bowl. Store in an airtight container.