Description
This Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe offers a flavorful and versatile blend of spices perfect for seasoning ground beef to create authentic, delicious tacos. Made with a combination of chili powders, cumin, oregano, garlic, and a hint of cocoa powder, this seasoning mix is easy to prepare and can be stored for multiple uses, enhancing any Mexican-inspired dish with rich, smoky, and aromatic flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Spice Mix Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons cornmeal
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ancho chili powder
- 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder
- 2 tablespoons cumin
- 2 tablespoons oregano
- 2 tablespoons dried minced onion
- 4 teaspoons garlic powder
- 4 teaspoons sea salt (or kosher salt)
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
Taco Meat Ingredients (per batch)
- 1 pound 80/20 ground beef
- 1/4 cup homemade taco seasoning
- 1 & 1/4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon Beef Base
Instructions
- Mix the seasoning: In a medium bowl, whisk together 6 tablespoons cornmeal, 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 tablespoon ancho chili powder, 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder, 2 tablespoons cumin, 2 tablespoons oregano, 2 tablespoons dried minced onion, 4 teaspoons garlic powder, 4 teaspoons sea salt, 2 teaspoons paprika, 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon cocoa powder thoroughly until evenly combined.
- Store the seasoning: This mixture yields about 1 cup of taco seasoning. Transfer it into an airtight container such as a mason jar, Tupperware, or zip-top bag and store at room temperature for future use.
- Prepare the taco meat: For each pound of ground beef, use 1/4 cup of the homemade taco seasoning. Adjust the quantity based on the amount of ground beef you are cooking (e.g., 2 tablespoons for 1/2 pound, 1/2 cup for 2 pounds). Add the seasoning to the browned ground beef along with 1 & 1/4 cups water and 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon Beef Base, stirring to combine.
- Simmer the mixture: Cook the seasoned meat over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces and thickens, and the beef is fully cooked and flavorful. This step ensures the seasoning melds into the meat perfectly.
Notes
- Adjust the salt level depending on the saltiness of your beef base and personal preference.
- The cocoa powder adds depth but is subtle—omit it if you prefer a more traditional flavor profile.
- This seasoning blend can also be used with chicken, turkey, or vegetarian proteins.
- Store the seasoning in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness for up to 6 months.
- For a spicier mix, increase the chipotle chili powder or add cayenne pepper.
