Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix

Name: Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

5 min 12 servings Easy

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Elevate your tacos with this easy homemade taco seasoning mix, perfect for adding restaurant-style flavour to your ground beef.

Prep

5 min

Total

5 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Taco night just got a whole lot better with this homemade taco seasoning mix. Forget the store-bought packets; this blend is full of fresh spices that will turn your ground beef into a flavourful masterpiece. Why settle for less when you can make a restaurant-style taco meat seasoning at home? This mix is crafted to bring out the best in your tacos, with a balance of spices that will have your family asking for more. It's also a fantastic way to control the ingredients, especially if you're conscious about sodium or additives. This seasoning is perfect for anyone looking to replicate that Taco Bell seasoning copycat flavour without leaving the comfort of their kitchen. It's simple, quick, and uses spices you probably already have in your pantry.

Ingredients

Servings

For the seasoning mix

Instructions

Combine spices

In a small bowl, combine all the spices: chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, ground black pepper, salt, and optional crushed red pepper flakes.

Pro tip: Use a whisk to ensure the spices are evenly mixed.

Store the mix

Transfer the seasoning mix to an airtight container or jar.

Pro tip: Label the container with the date for freshness tracking.

Prepare ground beef

To use, cook 500g (1 lb) ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Pro tip: Break up the meat with a wooden spoon for even cooking.

Add seasoning

Drain excess fat, then add 2 tablespoons of seasoning mix and 1/4 cup (60 ml) of water to the cooked beef.

Pro tip: Adjust water as needed to achieve desired consistency.

Simmer

Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Pro tip: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Serve immediately with taco shells and your choice of toppings.

💡

Tips & Tricks

For a milder version, reduce the chili powder.
Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Adjust salt to taste if you're watching sodium intake.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your seasoned ground beef in soft or hard taco shells with your favourite toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa. Pair it with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This seasoning mix can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to six months, making it a convenient go-to for busy weeknights.

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