Taco Seasoning Mix (Better Than Old El Paso Recipe)

This homemade taco seasoning mix using similar old el paso taco seasoning ingredients contains mexican-inspired flavors perfect for taco Tuesday. This perfect blend of spices makes the best taco meat and enhances any type of mexican food.

If you’re tired of store-bought taco seasoning mixes that lack flavor or contain unnecessary additives, it’s time to take matters into your own hands. With this easy and delicious homemade taco seasoning mix, you can elevate your taco game and create flavor-packed dishes that will have your taste buds dancing. 

Say goodbye to the pre-packaged options and embrace a homemade blend that’s even better than Old El Paso! This diy taco seasoning is perfect for lean ground beef, ground turkey, or to season chicken in tasty soft tortillas.

A few recipes that I love using this taco seasoning on is my Taco Bell Crunch Wrap Supreme or paired with my Taco Shells Made In The Air Fryer.

​OLD EL PASO TACO SEASONING INGREDIENTS

You will need the following ingredients listed below to make this diy taco seasoning (the exact measurements, nutrition information and full recipe are in the recipe card at the bottom of this post):

• Chili powder
• Ground cumin
• Sea salt
• Black pepper
• Sweet paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Italian seasoning – or dried oregano
• Cayenne pepper
• Optional – red chili pepper, corn starch to thicken, etc.

HOW TO MAKE

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine all the spices. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly mixed.
2. Transfer the taco seasoning mix to an airtight container or jar with a tight-fitting lid. Label the container with the date and name.
3. To use the taco seasoning mix, add full recipe to one pound of ground meat (beef, chicken, turkey) or a plant-based protein alternative (such as crumbled tofu or cooked lentils). Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.

WHY IS THIS BETTER THAN OLD EL PASO TACO SEASONING MIX?

1. Full Control: By making your own taco seasoning mix, you have complete control over the flavors and spice levels. Adjust the ratios of spices to suit your taste preferences, creating a perfectly balanced seasoning blend or bold flavor every time.
2. No Additives or Fillers: Unlike store-bought options, this homemade taco seasoning mix contains no unnecessary additives, preservatives, or fillers. It’s a pure blend of high-quality spices that enhances the flavors of your dishes without any unwanted extras.
3. Fresher Ingredients: By using individual spices, you ensure the freshness and quality of each component. This results in a more vibrant and robust flavor profile compared to pre-packaged blends that may have been sitting on the shelf for a while.
4. Cost-Effective: Making your own taco seasoning mix is a cost-effective alternative to buying pre-packaged options. Plus, you can easily customize the batch size according to your needs.

​WHAT DO I USE THESE GREAT-TASTING TACO SPICES IN?

1. Tacos: Of course, the most obvious use for taco seasoning mix is in classic tacos for some taco night fun. Use it to season ground meat (beef, chicken, turkey) or plant-based protein alternatives (such as tofu, tempeh, or lentils) for a flavorful taco filling. Simply sprinkle the seasoning mix on the protein while cooking and adjust the amount according to your taste preferences. Alternatively, using it in a taco casserole would be delicious.
2. Fajitas: Add a delicious kick to your fajitas by incorporating the homemade taco seasoning mix. Toss the seasoning with sliced bell peppers, onions, and your choice of protein (such as chicken, shrimp, or steak) before sautéing them in a skillet. The result is a savory and aromatic fajita filling.
3. Quesadillas: Sprinkle some taco seasoning mix onto your quesadilla filling to enhance the flavors. Whether you’re using cheese, chicken, or veggies, the seasoning mix will add an extra layer of deliciousness.
4. Nachos: Take your nachos to the next level by adding the homemade taco seasoning mix to the ground meat or bean mixture used as a topping. The spices will infuse the entire dish with a mouthwatering flavor.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Toss your favorite vegetables in a mixture of olive oil and taco seasoning mix before roasting them in the oven. This will give the vegetables a delightful spicy and smoky flavor.
6. Soup and Stews: Add a tablespoon or two of taco seasoning mix to soups and stews, such as tortilla soup or black bean soup. It will add depth and complexity to the broth, making it more satisfying.

HOW TO STORE THE HOMEMADE TACO SEASONINGS MIX

Transfer the taco seasoning mix to an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid. This will help keep out moisture, air, and light, which can degrade the quality of the spices over time.

Store the container of taco seasoning mix in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A pantry or spice cabinet is an ideal location.

It’s essential to label your container with the name and date of preparation. This will help you keep track of its freshness and prevent confusion if you have multiple spice blends.

The homemade taco seasoning mix will generally stay fresh for about 6 to 12 months. Over time, the flavors may diminish slightly, but it will still be usable.

Ditch the store-bought taco seasoning mixes and opt for this homemade blend that surpasses the flavors of Old El Paso. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a taco seasoning mix that elevates your dishes to new heights. 

Enjoy the full control over flavors, fresher ingredients, and the absence of unnecessary additives, all while saving money. It’s time to take your taco game to the next level with this delicious homemade taco seasoning mix.

MORE FUN HEALTHY SNACKS & PARTY FOOD

• Gluten Free Pizza Bites
• Easy 6 Ingredient Vegan Beer Bread
• Easy Pico De Gallo Recipe
• 30 Low Carb Air Fryer Recipes
• Homemade Air Fryer Steak Fries

IF YOU TRIED THIS RECIPE PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT IN THE COMMENT SECTION AND STAR RATING. I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOUR CREATIONS! YOU CAN PIN THIS RECIPE ON PINTEREST OR SHARE ON INSTAGRAM BY TAGGING @basicswithbails and #basicswithbails