How to Make Taco Seasoning, and where to source it
The packet is roughly a third cornstarch and salt, which is what makes packet-seasoned meat gluey. Mixing it yourself means you control the salt entirely and can push the cumin and chili to where they should be. Two tablespoons seasons a pound of meat.
The ratio4 tbsp chili powder + 2 tbsp cumin + 1 tbsp paprika + 2 tsp oregano + salt. 2 tbsp per lb of meat.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep5 min
Cooknone
Makes½ cup
CuisineMexican
Cost$
VeganGluten-free
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for4servings
Chili powder
Four tablespoons. Ancho for something mild and raisiny, or a blend.
Toast whole spices firstIf you're grinding cumin or coriander yourself, dry pan, two minutes, until fragrant. This is the single biggest upgrade over any pre-made blend.
Mix and jarEverything whisked together and into an airtight jar. Keeps six months, though it's noticeably brighter in the first two.
Use two tablespoons per poundAdd it to the pan with a splash of water after the meat browns, so it blooms in the fat rather than sitting on top as dust.
Make it yoursChipotle powder for smoke and heat. A teaspoon of cocoa and a pinch of cinnamon takes it toward mole. Calabrian chili is not traditional and is very good.
Can you make How to Make Taco Seasoning in an air fryer? — Not needed
No cooking needed here — this one comes together without heat, so the air fryer sits it out.
Can you freeze How to Make Taco Seasoning? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make How to Make Taco Seasoning ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is How to Make Taco Seasoning gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is How to Make Taco Seasoning vegan? — Yes
Yes — no meat, seafood, dairy, egg, or honey in it as written.
Community Notes
Cooked it? Changed something that worked? Leave a note for the next person — first-name basis, no account.
Open data. Every maker on this site is published as a free dataset under CC BY 4.0 — use it in anything, commercial or not, as long as you credit 5best2buy. Browse the datasets →