Homemade Taco Seasoning for Ground Beef and More
Homemade taco seasoning for ground beef (and tons of other things) is one of the easiest ways to save money and cut unnecessary additives like sugar, gluten, and preservatives from your favorite Taco Tuesday. Make a big batch and use it on everything!
The journey to real food looks different for everyone. Some of us cling to familiar convenience items–unsure if we can really make something that’s as good at home.
Taco seasoning was that thing for me.
Even after making the decision to cut MSG, colors, and as many preservatives as we logically could, taco seasoning in the packet was one thing I couldn’t let go of.
But when I finally did?
Good grief! What was I worried about?!
Because this homemade taco seasoning for ground beef is going to make you really happy.
What’s in homemade taco seasoning for ground beef?
In my version, there are only spices. Some people want cornstarch or flour (packets from the store usually contain a wheat-based synthetic food starch) to thicken theirs. But I have to say, I don’t miss it here. The flavor is all there and you don’t really notice that your meat isn’t coated in a wet goop.
You won’t miss it.
If you don’t keep spices on hand for cooking, you may have to invest a bit more up front to make this homemade taco seasoning for ground beef, but rest assured, those bottles will make you many, many batches in the future.
You can whip this up in less than 5 minutes.
How to use homemade taco seasoning for ground beef and your other favorite recipes
Homemade taco seasoning is a snap to use! Simply add 2-3 tablespoons to your ground beef after it’s been cooked and drained. Pour in 2/3 cup water, stir well and bring the whole thing to a simmer and cook until the water reduces–maybe 5 to 7 minutes.
You can also sprinkle this seasoning on chicken before you cook it for quesadillas, in to your favorite Mexican-themed casseroles and anywhere you would normally reach for the regular old packet.
Use it to make my favorite Mexican Lasagna or 19 creative ways to use leftover taco meat.
Homemade Taco Seasoning for Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 3 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, add more for extra spice
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Transfer to a jar or airtight container for up to 6 months.
To use:
- Cook 1 pound ground beef. Drain.Add 2-3 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning and 2/3 cup water. Stir well and simmer until the water reduces.
Excellent. Just the right amount of everything. Like you said. Don’t miss the fillers. Thanks. Wife loved it.
As we continue with the Quarentine I’m going out less but I’m stocked on my spices. So, when I needed taco seasoning I’m glad I was able to find this! I’ve made a big batch! Thanks! It’s delicious ?
It’s a great recipe Fred, I agree! It’s all we eat here. 🙂 –Rachel
Just mixed up a batch of this to have for an enchilada cups recipe (crescent roll dough in a cupcake pan then filled with enchilada beef and topped with cheese) I’m making for dinner tomorrow night. It smells awesome!
You’ll never need another packet of anything again Kimberly! –Rachel
Sure won’t!
Hello what do I do if I don’t have red crushed pepper flakes or no dried oregano, and
cumin what do I do??!!
Well, unfortunately Emily you won’t get to make it. 🙁 You could do without the red pepper flakes but not the rest. Better wait till you have those things and make a big batch so you don’t run out! –Rachel
I didn’t use red pepper or cumin in mine. Used a Italian blend seasoning instead of oregano. Turned out great. Used onion powder. When you don’t something just do your best to sub it out. Make smaller batches. Mine turned out great. Made beef nachos.
Hi Rachael, my grandson & I were making tacos and realized I didn’t have a packet of Taco Seasoning! I remembered seeing your recipe & saud let’s try making our own. We loved it & now I keep Homemade Taco Seasoning on hand. Thanks for your recipe!
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Hey Ms.Brenda–Patty told me that story and I giggled. I think it’s great! I always make mine now as well–as simple as it is to do (and it saves money if you have the spices on hand already) there’s no need to buy packets. Glad you enjoyed it, and I hope your tacos were good. –Rachel