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Mastering the art of homemade taco seasoning is essential. Why? Because homemade spice blends beat store-bought versions any day—they often contain unwanted additives and preservatives. It's also incredibly simple to make. In just five minutes, you can whip up your own seasoning using ingredients you likely already have: chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and salt. A pinch of light brown sugar adds that signature smoky-sweet touch. The best part? This homemade seasoning can last up to a year, making it totally worth the small effort.
To create homemade taco seasoning, combine 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons chili powder, 1 tablespoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon light brown sugar until evenly mixed. Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 1 year.
Once your seasoning is ready, you can use it, of course, to flavor ground beef for tacos. But we also had fun experimenting with ways to incorporate it into dishes like mac and cheese, hamburgers, and even bacon.
1. Spicy Mac and Cheese
Here’s a clever way to use taco seasoning in your whole meal: mix it into ground beef for burgers, coat oven-baked potato wedges with it as a side dish, and even use it to rim beer glasses. Get the Recipe: South-Of-The-Border Hamburgers. Antonis AchilleosHere’s a clever way to use taco seasoning throughout your entire meal: mix it into ground beef for burgers, sprinkle it over oven-baked potato wedges as a side, and even use it to rim your beer glasses.
Get the Recipe: South-Of-The-Border Hamburgers
2. Sweet and Spicy Bacon
Don’t save this bacon, coated in taco seasoning and brown sugar, just for breakfast. Make a large batch and crumble it over baked potatoes or a party dip. We especially enjoy it with a Bloody Mary. Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Bacon. Antonis AchilleosDon't limit this bacon, coated in taco seasoning and brown sugar, to just breakfast. Make a large batch, crumble it over baked potatoes or use it in a party dip. It's particularly delightful with a Bloody Mary.
Get the Recipe: Spicy-Sweet Bacon
3. South-Of-The-Border Hamburgers
Taco seasoning and chopped jalapeño bring a spicy kick to classic mac and cheese. Finish it off with tortilla chips instead of breadcrumbs for a full Southwest flair. Get the Recipe: Kicked Up Mac and Cheese. Antonis AchilleosTaco seasoning and chopped jalapeños bring a spicy kick to traditional mac and cheese. Top it off with tortilla chips instead of breadcrumbs for a perfect Southwest touch.
Get the Recipe: Kicked Up Mac and Cheese
