Have you ever been halfway through making dinner and realized you’re out of that little packet of taco seasoning? Me too, friend. It’s why I started making my own blend years ago, and honestly, I’ve never looked back. This Taco Seasoning with Garlic & Onion Powder is a game-changer. It’s fresher, more flavorful, and you get to control the salt—a huge win for busy weeknights. Plus, once you see how simple it is to whip up a big batch, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner. It’s the kind of simple, from-scratch magic that makes you feel like a real kitchen hero.
What Is Taco Seasoning with Garlic & Onion Powder?
At its heart, taco seasoning is a simple blend of dried spices that gives ground meat that iconic flavor we all crave on Tuesdays (or any day, who’s counting?). While store-bought packets are convenient, they often contain fillers, anti-caking agents, and a lot more sodium than you might want. This homemade version is pure spice. The garlic and onion powder are the real stars here, working with the chili and cumin to create a savory, deeply flavorful base that’s so much brighter than anything from a packet. It’s the taste of a real, home-cooked meal.
Ingredients for Taco Seasoning with Garlic & Onion Powder
Here’s the beautiful part: you probably have most of these spices in your pantry right now. That’s the magic of this easy taco seasoning recipe. Just grab a small bowl and your measuring spoons.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: The foundation for that classic, earthy taco flavor.
- 1 ½ tablespoons ground cumin: Adds a warm, smoky depth that’s essential.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: For a robust, savory kick.
- 1 tablespoon onion powder: Brings a sweet, aromatic quality.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: Provides a subtle sweetness and gorgeous color.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Lends a hint of authentic Mexican seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors. You can adjust this to your taste.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: For a little bit of background warmth.
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper: This is your heat control. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice.
Step by Step Method for Making Taco Seasoning
This is so simple it barely needs steps, but here’s the foolproof method to get a perfectly blended mix.
- Gather your ingredients. Get all your spices out on the counter. This makes the process quick and prevents you from forgetting anything.
- Combine everything. In a small bowl, add the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
- Whisk it all together. Use a small whisk or a fork to mix everything until the colors are fully blended and no streaks remain. This takes about 30 seconds. Really.
- That’s it! Your homemade taco seasoning mix is ready to use immediately. You can store the rest in an airtight container for your next taco night.
Equipment Needed for Easy Taco Seasoning
You don’t need any fancy gadgets for this. Seriously.
- A small bowl: Any size will do, just big enough to whisk without making a mess.
- Measuring spoons: For accuracy.
- A small whisk or a fork: A fork works perfectly fine if you don’t have a tiny whisk. The goal is just to blend everything evenly.
- An airtight container or small jar: For storing your leftover bulk taco seasoning recipe blend. A mason jar or even an old spice jar works great.
Creative Variations for Taco Seasoning
Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, have fun with it! This is your kitchen. For a smokier flavor, try swapping the regular paprika for smoked paprika. If you’re making a chicken taco seasoning recipe, a pinch of coriander is a lovely addition. And honestly, if you hate heat, skip the cayenne altogether. For a salt-free version, just leave it out and let everyone salt their own tacos at the table. A little citrus zest can be wonderful, too—try adding a teaspoon of dried orange peel for a bright, unexpected twist.
Storage Tips for Homemade Taco Seasoning
This is a make-ahead dream. Store your seasoning mix in an airtight container in a cool, dark place—like your spice cabinet. It will stay fresh and potent for up to 6 months. I like to make a big batch of this bulk taco seasoning recipe and keep it in a labeled jar. So handy. There’s no need to refrigerate or freeze it. Just give the jar a little shake before you use it to make sure the spices haven’t settled.
Serving Ideas & Pairings for Tacos
Obviously, this seasoning is perfect for a classic taco night for 1 lb ground beef. But don’t stop there! It’s incredibly versatile. Sprinkle it on roasted chickpeas for a healthy snack. Use it as a dry rub for chicken before grilling. Stir a teaspoon into sour cream for a quick dip. Or add it to a pot of pinto beans while they simmer. Serve your tacos with all the fixings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheese, a dollop of guacamole, and a squeeze of fresh lime. So good.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Taco Seasoning
Making your own spice blends is one of the easiest ways to save money in the kitchen. Those little packets add up! Instead, buy your spices in the bulk section of the grocery store where you can scoop just what you need. Or, if you use a lot of a particular spice, buy the larger containers—they are almost always a better value per ounce. This easy taco seasoning recipe costs pennies per batch compared to the pre-made stuff. And you get so much more flavor for your money.
FAQs About Taco Seasoning Recipes
- How much of this taco seasoning recipe do I use for 1 lb of meat? For a taco seasoning for 1 lb ground beef or chicken, I recommend using 2 to 3 tablespoons of the mix, along with about 2/3 cup of water or broth. Let it simmer until the liquid reduces and coats the meat beautifully.
- Is this similar to Old El Paso taco seasoning? Yes, this homemade version delivers that classic flavor you love from brands like Old El Paso, but with a fresher taste and less sodium. It’s the best taco seasoning recipe for replicating that familiar taste.
- Can I make it spicier? Absolutely! Feel free to increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Adjusting the heat is the best part of a home made taco seasoning easy to customize.
There you have it—a simple, foolproof way to make a delicious Taco Seasoning with Garlic & Onion Powder right in your own kitchen.