Homemade Taco Seasoning
This easy Homemade Taco Seasoning is bold, savory, smoky, and perfectly balanced with a touch of brown sugar. Made with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, coriander, garlic, and a little chipotle, it's packed with flavor without being overly spicy. Use 2–3 tablespoons per pound of meat, or sprinkle it over chicken, pork, shrimp, fish, beans, and roasted vegetables for an easy flavor boost.
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Servings: 0.75 cups
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
- 1 tablespoon light or dark brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- ¼ teaspoon chipotle powder or cayenne pepper
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Add the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, dried onion flakes, brown sugar, smoked paprika, oregano, coriander, chipotle powder, kosher salt, and black pepper to a small bowl or jar.
- Stir well with a spoon, or secure the lid and shake the jar until all of the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Transfer the taco seasoning to an airtight spice jar or container and store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. Shake before each use.
- Use on meat or vegetables. Use 2–3 tablespoons of seasoning per pound of meat, poultry, seafood, or vegetables, adjusting to taste.
- For ground beef: Brown 1 pound of ground beef, then add 2–3 tablespoons of taco seasoning and ¼ cup water. Stir well and simmer for 2–3 minutes, or until the liquid has mostly cooked off and the meat is well coated.
Notes
- For an even milder taco seasoning, omit the chipotle powder or cayenne.
- Light brown sugar gives the seasoning a subtle sweetness, while dark brown sugar adds a deeper molasses flavor.
- If using fine table salt instead of kosher salt, reduce the amount slightly.
- Chili powder blends can vary in heat and flavor, so adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- The seasoning can be used on beef, chicken, turkey, pork, shrimp, fish, beans, tofu, and roasted vegetables.