It has been many years since I switched from those little packets of taco seasoning to making my own. I found this recipe in The Complete Tightwad Gazette
After using the homemade for some time, I bought one of those little packets of brand name taco seasoning because it was a loss leader and I had a coupon so it was basically free. I made tacos with it. Nope. Give me the homemade mix every time. Once you try it from scratch, you won’t want anything else.
Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix
Ingredients
- 6 tsp chili powder
- 4 and 1/2 tsp cumin
- 5 tsp paprika
- 3 tsp onion powder
- 2 and 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/8 to 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Directions
- Mix all the ingredients.
- Store in an airtight container, preferably in the refrigerator.
Use the seasoning mix according to taste when adding to the cooked ground beef. Start with a few teaspoons and add more as needed. I always add salt to mine as well since there is no salt in the mix. As with other seasoning mixes, you also add water to achieve the sauce consistency you desire.
Enjoy!
You can see all of my recipes under Sallie’s Favorite Comfort Food Recipes. If you do try one of my recipes and like it, please come back and let me know in a comment. I truly do appreciate it when people do so!
oh, Thanks for this! I don’t like the packets either, and just shake in a little chili powder, a little cumin. I am glad to have a real recipe to use now!
I’m excited to try this! These are all spices I have on hand. Thanks!
Thanks for the recipe! I’m definitely going to try this. I’m curious – how much seasoning do you use per pounds of meat?
Thank you thank you thank you! I have been looking for a good taco seasoning recipe since my son has developed an allergy to one of the additives in most brands that come in the little envelopes. I truly appreciate it. Yum…
I agree with Jenny. I have always just used cumin and chili powder. I will definitely be using this recipe from now on. Thank you!
I *have* this book. I use Ortega taco seasoning *all the time*. And it has *never* occurred to me to make my own. I’m a tightwad flunky!
So… Thank you!
Ashley – I’m not sure. I never measure – I just start adding it until it tastes right. 🙂
Brandy – You’re welcome, you’re welcome, you’re welcome!
Renae – It is much better than the packets, but I don’t necessarily think it is less expensive. It really depends on where you buy your spices. If you buy your spices in bulk, it is reasonable.
That’s fabulous! Thanks.
I make my own pancake mix, and it’s so much better than Bisquick or some of the other options. I’m a big fan of making my own mixes. 🙂
This taco seasoning recipe is awesome!!! I would recommend 3 tbs. per 1 pound beef and add approximately 1/2 tsp salt to the recipe. If you want it spicier, add another tbs for an extra kick. I’m planning on making a big container of this and found a good use for all my big restaurant size containers of spices. Thanks!!!