Flavorful Homemade Taco Seasoning Spicy

Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe Highlights

I have many spice blends in my spice cabinet that I make myself. They are so easy to make. I love them because I can get as creative as I want, and they can be easily customized for my family’s taste. Plus, I am avoiding all additives, preservatives, and coloring that the store-bought mixes usually have. This Homemade Spicy Taco Seasoning recipe is super easy and way better than store packages. Made of natural spices, this recipe creates the most delicious dishes ever! It goes on any kind of meat. I’ve used it on beef, chicken, turkey, pork, shrimp, potatoes, as a meat rub (obvi), etc. This hot and tasty blend adds a little excitement to just about anything. I often triple or quadruple the recipe and store it in a big airtight jar, so it’s handy when I need it. It’s a great time-and-money saver. So quit the store-bought taco seasoning packets and take your seasoning skills to the next level. It’s delish and healthier!

Benefits of Making Your Own Taco Seasoning

It’s a great time-and-money saver. It does not have all additives, preservatives, and coloring that the store-bought mixes usually have. You can adapt it to your taste! Want it less spicy? Reduce the amount of chipotle chili pepper. Get as creative as you want – it’s your taco seasoning, after all. It adds an incredible amount of flavor to all kinds of dishes! I’ve used it on beef, chicken, turkey, pork, shrimp, potatoes, as a meat rub, and the list goes on.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Please check the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact quantities and detailed instructions (scroll down).

Ingredients Notes & Substitutions

Ground Chipotle Chili Pepper: These are dried and smoked jalapeños. They have a rich, charred flavor and intense heat. If you want your mix to be very mild, I recommend reducing this to half and adding more ancho chile powder instead. This is the one I use, Chipotle Powder. Ancho Chile Powder: It’s fruity, earthy, and relatively mild. It’s very tasty and not too spicy! This is the one I use, Ancho Chile Pepper Powder. Chili Powder: This is American-style chili powder, which is a blend of a few different varieties of dried chiles. This can be found in most American groceries stores, and the flavor can vary between brands. I know this is difficult to find outside the USA, so if not available, substitute for more and ancho chile powder. Ground Coriander: Add citrus flavor to the mix. Ground Cumin: This spice is very common in Latin-American kitchens. It adds a warm and earthy flavor. Garlic Powder: Gives it a fragrant garlic aroma. Onion Powder: This is a subtle onion flavor you will not want to skip even if you are not a fan of onions. The taste is subtle but adds another layer of flavor. Paprika: Adds a smokey flavor without being too overpowering. You can also use smoked paprika if you want. Dried Oregano: A nice balance between sweet and spicy. I use regular dried oregano, but you can also use Mexican oregano. Salt & Black Pepper: These two ingredients help round out the seasoning and bring all of the flavors together.

How to Make Taco Seasoning at Home

PRO-TIP: I like to use a kitchen funnel to transfer my taco seasoning to the storage jar without spilling it.

How Much Homemade Taco Seasoning Should I Use

I recommend using 1 tablespoon of seasoning per pound of meat for a mild kick. However, you can use more to increase the flavor and spiciness or less for a mild flavor.

Storing Instructions

To store, simply place it in an airtight container or jar covered with a lid. My favorite way to store it is in mason jars. I often quadruple this recipe to have it on hand for use all year long. Yes…I said a year! Ground and dried herbs have a long shelf life, and since this recipe is made of both – it does too!

More Recipes You’ll Love!

Venezuelan Guasacaca Easy Chimichurri Sauce Easy Tzatziki Sauce [Greek Yogurt Sauce] Easy Homemade Eggless Ranch Dressing Maple Vinaigrette Browse more recipes…