The Best Homemade Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade taco seasoning is a game-changer, with bold flavors and no weird additives. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up, and it tastes way better than store-bought mixes.
- Customizable heat: Adjust the spice level to match your taste, from mild to fiery.
- Pantry staples: Uses common spices you probably already have in your kitchen.
- Quick & fresh: Ready in minutes, with no clumpy bits or preservatives.
Recipe

Taco seasoning is a staple in many kitchens, but store-bought versions often contain additives and preservatives. Making your own guarantees you know exactly what’s in it and allows you to adjust flavors to your preference. This homemade blend is quick to prepare and stores well for future use.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
¼ teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients.
- Whisk or stir thoroughly until evenly mixed.
- Store in an airtight container.
Notes:
This recipe makes approximately 2 tablespoons of seasoning, enough for one pound of meat. Double or triple the batch for larger quantities and store in a cool, dry place for up to six months.
Equipment:
Small mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon
Airtight container
Time:
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine:
Mexican
Serving:
Makes enough seasoning for 1 pound of meat
Nutrition
Packaged taco seasoning can be high in sodium and preservatives, but this homemade version allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking.
| Nutrition | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 15 |
| Total Fat | 0.4g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
| Carbohydrates | 2.7g |
| Fiber | 0.6g |
| Sugar | 0.2g |
| Protein | 0.4g |
What To Serve With It
Now that you’ve got your homemade taco seasoning ready, let’s talk about what to serve with it—I love loading up my tacos with fresh fixings like crunchy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado. For sides, I can’t resist pairing them with cilantro lime rice or crispy roasted sweet potatoes. Trust me, these combos make every bite even more delicious!
Taco Fixings Ideas
When you’re whipping up tacos, the toppings can make or break the meal—I love loading mine with fresh, colorful ingredients that add crunch and flavor. My go-tos include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and creamy avocado slices. A sprinkle of cilantro adds a herbaceous kick, while crumbled Cotija cheese brings a salty finish. I always have a jar of pickled jalapeños on hand for heat lovers, and a drizzle of lime juice brightens everything up. Salsa and sour cream are essentials, but don’t forget guacamole for extra creaminess. Experiment with what you love—tacos are all about making them your own!
Side Dish Pairings
Tacos deserve the perfect sidekicks, and I’ve found that a crisp, tangy slaw balances their bold flavors beautifully. It’s light, invigorating, and cuts through the richness perfectly. I also love serving Mexican street corn—grilled, slathered with mayo, and sprinkled with chili powder and cotija cheese. It’s creamy, smoky, and addictive. For something hearty, try cilantro lime rice or black beans seasoned with cumin and garlic. They’re simple but pack a punch. And don’t forget guacamole with tortilla chips—it’s a classic that never disappoints. These sides don’t just complement tacos; they make the whole meal feel complete.