Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix

We eat a lot of tacos in our house, so this taco spice mix is one that I always have on hand. I also use it with a healthy squeeze of lime juice to make fajitas. Yes, it works equally well for both dishes.

It’s also great as a hostess or homemade food gift. Trust me, many friends and family members have received this taco/fajita spice mix, and they’ve all loved it. Plus, check out the serving suggestions below. You can use this spice mix for so much more than just tacos or fajitas.

Feel free to play around with the spice ratios as everyone’s palate is a little different. Add more or less chipotle powder depending on the level of spice you like. Love garlic? Add more garlic powder. Not a fan of cumin? Add less. You get the idea. Use this taco spice recipe as a starting point, and blend your own favorite mix.

So what are you waiting for? Replace those store-bought packets with this super simple Taco and Fajita seasoning mix.

FAQS:

What’s the difference between taco and fajita seasoning?Although chili powder and cumin are found in both spice mixes, usually there is a larger amount of chili powder in taco seasoning, and cumin is more prevalent in a fajita blend. Additionally, most store-bought fajita mixes add citric acid to replicate the acidity that is typically found in fajita dishes. You can replicate this acidity at home simply by squeezing in some fresh lime juice to the meat marinade, or adding a squeeze of lime at the end of cooking.

How long can I store homemade taco mix?As with all spices, store in an airtight container in a dark cabinet away from heat. It will store for months without losing its flavor. (This assumes you made the mix with fresh spices.) Shake the container before each use as the spices do settle.

What does chipotle powder taste like?Chipotle powder has a smoky, spicy taste from the smoking process of the red jalapeño peppers. The rich, earthy taste adds a unique flavor to foods.

IT’S EASY TO MAKE YOUR OWN TACO SEASONING:

• All you need to do is measure all the spices into a bowl, and whisk the ingredients together. Transfer to an airtight container, such as a small mason jar, to store.
• You’ll need 2-3 tablespoons of the taco spice mix per pound of meat.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Use to season ground beef, turkey, or chicken in Easy Taco Meat.
• Season your meat and veggies in these Easy Skillet Fajitas.
• Make a Taco Cheese Ball—yes, you read that right!
• Taco Hummus anyone? It’s super delish with tortilla chips or bell pepper strips.
• How about a Taco Pasta Salad?
• Make Vegetarian Burritos with jackfruit, beans, and corn.
• Mexican Stuffed Bell Peppers are another delicious vegetarian option for Taco Tuesday.
• Add to black beans or refried beans to rev up the flavor.
• How about upping your popcorn game?
• Turn into a wet marinade simply by adding water, oil, and lime juice.
• Make extra seasoning to give as food gifts to your friends and family.

INGREDIENT SUBSTITUTIONS:

• Chipotle powder: You can use cayenne, but it doesn’t have the same smoky flavor of the chipotle powder.

RECIPE NOTES:

• If you don’t like spicy, omit the chipotle powder. However, if you like a bit of spice in your life, feel free to add more chipotle powder. As made, this is a mildly spiced blend.
• I love these small mason jars for storing homemade spice blends.

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