Taco Seasoning

5m
Prep Time
0m
Cook Time
5m
Ready In


"I stopped buying those expensive little packets to season a pound of ground beef. It is so easy to make your own out of spices you already have! If you like things more spicy, just add a little more of each spice."

Original is 1 serving

Nutritional

  • Serving Size: 1 (133.2 g)
  • Calories 36
  • Total Fat - 1.5 g
  • Saturated Fat - 0.3 g
  • Cholesterol - 0 mg
  • Sodium - 1230.2 mg
  • Total Carbohydrate - 5.9 g
  • Dietary Fiber - 1.9 g
  • Sugars - 1.5 g
  • Protein - 1.3 g
  • Calcium - 34.3 mg
  • Iron - 2 mg
  • Vitamin C - 0.3 mg
  • Thiamin - 0 mg

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Combine ingredients and add to 1 pound of browned and drained ground beef or cooked diced chicken and stir in water slowly to desired consistency. You want it a little soupy to start with. Simmer 5 minutes to thicken up. Enjoy! I sometimes add in one tsp of onion flakes in while simmering if I don't add onions while browning the meat.

Tips


No special items needed.

Editorial Notes

The ingredient tips, suggestions, variations, facts, questions and answers below are not edits to the original author's recipe. They are not meant to imply any change would improve the recipe. They're offered for convenience, alternative ideas, and points of interest. If you have any comments about them, please post in the Help & Ideas forum.


  • Be sure to use chili powder, not cayenne pepper for this recipe.
  • If you want to make the seasoning spicier, add more cayenne pepper or chili powder.

  • Replace chili powder with smoked paprika for a smoky, earthy flavor. Smoked paprika has a unique flavor that will add a depth of flavor to the taco seasoning.
  • Replace cayenne powder with chipotle powder for a smoky, spicy flavor. Chipotle powder is a great way to add a hint of smokiness and some heat to the taco seasoning without overpowering the other flavors.

Vegetarian Option Substitute the ground beef with cooked and crumbled tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of water.


Mexican Option Substitute the ground beef with cooked and crumbled chorizo, and use Mexican-style diced tomatoes instead of regular diced tomatoes. Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder to the mix.


Mexican Rice: Mexican Rice is the perfect side dish to serve with Taco Seasoning. It is easy to make and has a great flavor that complements the spices in the taco seasoning. It is also a great way to add some extra nutrition to your meal.


Refried Beans: Refried beans are a classic accompaniment to Mexican Rice and Taco Seasoning. They are easy to make and have a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the flavors of the taco seasoning. Refried beans are also a great source of protein and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to your meal.




FAQ

Q: How much water should I use?

A: Start with 1/2 to 3/4 cup water and add more as needed to achieve desired consistency.



Q: How do I store my leftovers?

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before consuming.

3 Reviews

acerast

Nice flavor combination and so much less salt than commercial seasoning packets. A tasty and economical recipe. Thanks Dissie!

5.0

review by:
(30 Sep 2017)

LuLuJ

I am so happy you posted it! It has fast become a staple in my cupboard because we love our Mexican and this is used frequently by us! It's so cheap to make and you can have it in your cupboard ready to go at a moments notice. No trips to the store from now on!

5.0

review by:
(26 Sep 2012)

ChefNateFL

I made up a batch of this to have ahead. It sure beats the heck out of the prices at the store making it at home. My meat was fully flavored and the spices were right on.

5.0

review by:
(18 Feb 2012)

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Fun facts:

Fun Fact 1: Taco seasoning has been used in Mexican cooking for centuries, but it was popularized in the United States in the 1940s by the famous chef and restaurateur, Ignacio "Nacho" Anaya, who invented the dish nachos.

Fun Fact 2: Taco seasoning is a staple in many celebrity kitchens. Oprah Winfrey and Gordon Ramsay are both fans of the flavor and have been known to use it in their own cooking.