This gluten-free Taco Seasoning Mix has been a staple in our house for over a decade now! It’s my secret to giving all of our favorite Mexican recipes that extra level of flavor. It’s easily customizable, made with common pantry staples such as cumin, paprika, and garlic powder, and goes great in your favorite beef, chicken, shrimp or even veggie dishes!
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Most of my friends know that I cook for a living. But what they don’t know is that I have a few very simple tricks up my sleeve that give my dishes that extra oomph!
And ya’ll… this homemade taco seasoning mix is probably my best kept secret.
Why Homemade is Better Than the Packets
We all know you CAN buy a packet of taco seasoning mix at the store. But let me tell you why you should take the extra 5 minutes and make this DIY version instead:
- Easy. You only need a few common Mexican spices.
- Balanced. I’ve tweaked and tested this recipe for YEARS to get the ratios just right.
- Healthier. It’s perfect for guests on a gluten-free diet since it has no hidden wheat or additives.
- Customizable. If you have a pickier guest that doesn’t like a lot of spice, you can easily decrease the amount of cayenne pepper to make it milder.
- Scalable. Make as much or as little as you like and then store the rest for up to a year!
What is in Taco Seasoning?
Unlike many of the store-bought packets, this recipe has no added MSG, gluten, artificial ingredients, or hidden dairy. That’s why making it at home is SO much healthier for you! This recipe uses common ingredients you likely have on hand.
The basic ingredients for taco seasoning include:
- Cumin. A common spice used in many Mexican, Mediterranean, and Indian recipes. Cumin has a slightly peppery, earthy taste.
- Paprika. Make sure to use regular paprika, not smoked as it will change the flavor.
- Chili Powder. Mild chili powder, such as McCormick’s, is suggested. Spice level of the powder can vary drastically between brands, so make sure you’re using one you like.
- Garlic Powder. Do not substitute for garlic salt or granulated garlic. You want a fine powder concentrated with flavor.
- Cayenne Pepper. Adjust this seasoning to your preferred spice level. Omit completely for the mildest taste, and add more to make it spicy.
- Salt. This can be left out to control the sodium level.
How to Make a Gluten-Free Taco Seasoning Mix
These are the simple steps to take when making taco seasoning. See the recipe card below for more detailed ingredient amounts.
1. Mix Ingredients Together
First, find all the spices you will be using. Likely, they are already in your spice cabinet. If not, a quick trip to your local grocery store will yield everything you need. Consider purchasing spices in bulk, if possible, to save money as well as waste less plastic!
In a large bowl or the container you’ll be storing it in, combine all of the ingredients. You can easily make adjustments to accommodate dietary tastes and needs.
It is best to use a whisk to evenly mix spices. Ensure there are no clumps left and there is a smooth consistency.
2. Use Seasoning or Store for Later
After the seasoning is mixed to your preference, you can either use it immediately or store it in an airtight container. You can use a small mason jar or reuse an old spice jar. As the spices are exposed to air they lose their potency. If you don’t have airtight containers, plastic zip-top bags work well.
When homemade spices are stored in a cool, dry place they will last for up to 1-2 years. (Avoid placing it over the stovetop as the heat will ruin the flavor!)
How much taco seasoning should I use for a pound of meat?
You will need roughly 2 – 2 ½ tablespoons of taco seasoning per pound of meat. This includes everything from ground beef or turkey to chicken or steak fajitas. (You may need to adjust the amount of salt to taste.) This blend also tastes incredible on grilled or roasted vegetables, too!
FAQs
Most contain a mix of spices including chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Other additions include oregano, cayenne powder, and onion powder.
Taco seasoning is easy to customize. You can use any of the ingredients you have on hand to make your own blend. The most important components are a mix of chili powder and cumin. Or, use this Fajita Seasoning.
Recipes that Use Taco Seasoning
There are a ton of recipes you can make with this homemade seasoning mix:
- Mexican Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Mexican Zucchini Taco Boats
- Shredded Chicken Tacos
- Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Fiesta Lime Chicken
- Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps
- Mexican Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Other DIY Spice Mix Recipes
If you like this taco spice blend recipe, you should definitely check out these other homemade seasoning mixes:
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Gluten-Free Taco Seasoning Mix
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Ingredients
- 3 Tbsp. cumin
- 3 tsp. paprika
- 2 tsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- ¼ tsp. cayenne pepper optional
- 1 ½ tsp. salt optional
- 1 tsp. black pepper
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a medium-sized bowl until well combined.
- Store taco seasoning in an airtight glass container until ready to use for up to 1-2 years.
- Use 2 – 2 ½ tablespoons seasoning mix per pound of meat.
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Video
Notes
Meal Prep & Storage
- To Prep-Ahead: Seasoning mix can be made before using and kept in the cabinet.
- To Store: Keep in an airtight container for up to 1-2 years in a cool, dry place.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Thank you! I was out of taco seasoning. This was really easy!
Yay! So happy to hear you enjoyed the recipe, Stephanie! It is so easy! Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a comment and rating!