When Dustin and I were first dating, he used to cook with store-bought, pre-packaged spice mixes all the time.
He’d use them to make meals like Stroganoff, fajitas and tacos. They were what his dad used, so they were what he used.
Well, over time, as I became more comfortable in the kitchen (and in our relationship!), I decided to start trying my own seasoning mixes, rather than the packaged ones.
What a difference!
Today, you won’t find any store-bought seasoning packets in our house.
I happily changed Dustin’s mind and hope to change yours, too.
Making your own homemade taco seasoning mix will also eliminate those unnecessary ingredients like MSG, partially hydrogenated soybean oil, silicon dioxide and other not-so-fun preservatives from your food.
Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix
Makes enough seasoning for about 2 lbs. meat
1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
1/2 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1/4 tsp. chili powder
1/4 tsp. dried oregano
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
1/8 tsp. ground ginger
Directions
Combine all ingredients in small mixing bowl and mix well.
Store in an airtight container if not using right away.
Enjoy!







Great idea…I love mixing up my own seasonings!
Jennifer @ Jane Deere recently posted..Ile de France Cheese Giveaway & Asparagus Brie Tart
Thanks, Jennifer
I can’t wait to make this. I have been trying to make all of my spice mixes due to all the preservatives. I was surprised to see ginger in this recipe. Love your blog. Take care and have a great week.
I love my ginger
I think it adds a unique zest to the taco seasoning. Thanks again, Connie!
How many tablespoons of this would you use per pound of meat? Thanks! I’m excited about the ginger addition.
P.S. Where did you get the adorable little container? I want some!
Hi, You taco spice recipe looks very good. I just wanted to check what the difference is between chili powder and cayenne pepper. I think in most cases chili powder is a commercial spice mix in its own right.
Hi Stanley. You are correct that Chili Powder is a mixture of spices (like cayenne pepper, cumin, garlic, oregano and paprika). Cayenne Pepper is ground hot red cayenne pepper. I hope that helps!
Lacey, this was great! I’m so appreciative that you put it together. Since I found this recipe on Pinterest, I’ve reviewed it here: http://pineatreview.com/2012/02/24/homemade-taco-seasoning/. (Of course I gave you credit and links throughout.) Thanks again! –Denise
Denise recently posted..Homemade Taco Seasoning
Darn good!
I had no idea that taco seasoning was doable at home. I actually have all the spices in my pantry!
This is great! Thank you so much.
I like to use Garden of Eatin’ Blue Corn taco shells.
My daughter wants to try this seasoning in burgers,
And I plan to try it with black beans and rice.
Love your site. Can you please tell me how many TBSPNS would equal 1 package of seasoning? I would love to substitute your homemade with store bought but not sure of amounts. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Hi Nancy! Unfortunately, I don’t have a great transfer for tbsp as compared to the store bought seasoning packets. But, as a starting point, I recommend using this whole recipe for about 2 pounds of meat. I hope that helps!
Lacey
Hi there
I just used your recipe in my dinner and it turned out really awesome. Thanks for sharing!
http://megsfitnessphototracker.wordpress.com/2013/03/28/dinner-salsa-chicken-and-wild-mushroom-couscous/
Made this and love it! Printing for my cookbook!