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Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix

Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix

joymakersandco
Have you ever looked at the back of a taco seasoning packet? Some of them have corn maltodextrin, silicone dioxide, natural flavors… and other ingredients that are not necessary in such a simple blend of seasonings. It's the convenience that keeps the packets in our spice cabinets, but my Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix is not only a healthier alternative, it is just as simple as any off the shelf product.
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Mexican
Servings 8
Calories 39 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 8 ounce Glass Jar with lid, or other air-tight container

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne powder, or to taste
  • 1-1/2 tablespoons paprika
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1-1/2 tablespoons salt, or to taste

Instructions
 

  • Measure all of your spices into a medium bowl. Whisk them together and pour into a clean, labeled 8 ounce jar. Keep in a cool, dry, and dark place for up to one year.
  • Use 1-2 tablespoons of this mix (to taste) per 1 pound of ground beef or shredded chicken just as you would any store-bought packet mix.

How to cook taco meat:

  • Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat and adding a touch of oil or non-stick spray. Then add your choice of ground meat—beef, chicken, turkey, or even plant-based alternatives.
  • Break up the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks, making sure it browns evenly.
  • When it is almost cooked through, add the homemade taco seasoning mix, stir to coat the meat with the spices. Adding splash of water can help to bind the seasoning and create a sauce.
  • Once the meat is fully cooked and seasoned, you're ready to assemble your tacos.

Creamy Taco Dip:

  • Combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup sour cream, 8 ounces French onion dip, and 2-3 tablespoons of taco seasoning mix.
  • Pour into a 12 inch serving dish and top with shredded iceberg lettuce, cheddar cheese, and diced fresh tomatoes. Serve with tortilla chips.

Taco Burgers:

  • Add 2-3 tablespoons of the seasoning mix to 1.5 pounds of 80/20 ground beef.
  • Mix in 1 beaten egg and a tablespoon of finely diced onion. Cook on the stove or grill as you would any other burger.
  • Use your favorite hamburger buns, add the cooked patty. Top them off with cheese, tomatoes, and lettuce. Skip the ketchup and go for a chunky salsa instead. This will make about 6 burgers.

Notes

Nutritional values and servings are estimates only. 

Nutrition

Calories: 39kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 1.6gFat: 1.8gSaturated Fat: 0.3gSodium: 1391mgPotassium: 223mgFiber: 3.7gSugar: 1.2gCalcium: 45mgIron: 2mg
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