Homemade Taco Seasoning

Homemade Taco Seasoning is a easy Mexican recipe that serves 6. 10 calories per serving. Recipe by Getty Stewart on YouTube.

Prep: 5 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 10 min

Cost: $0.90 total, $0.15 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 tsp Cayenne Pepper (adjust heat to taste; use fresh ground for best flavor)
  • 2 tsp Garlic Powder (provides savory depth)
  • 2 tsp Dried Oregano (adds earthy aroma)
  • 2 tbsp Ground Cumin (key Mexican flavor)
  • 2 tbsp Chili Powder (mild heat and color)
  • 1 tbsp Ground Coriander (citrusy undertone)
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground if possible)

Instructions

  1. Gather All Spices

    Collect cayenne pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, ground cumin, chili powder, ground coriander, and black pepper.

    Time: PT1M

  2. Measure Each Spice

    Using measuring spoons, measure 2 tsp cayenne, 2 tsp garlic powder, 2 tsp oregano, 2 tbsp cumin, 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp coriander, and 1 tsp black pepper.

    Time: PT2M

  3. Combine Spices

    Add all measured spices to the mixing bowl and stir with a spoon or whisk until evenly blended.

    Time: PT1M

  4. Transfer to Jar

    Spoon the blended seasoning into an airtight jar, seal tightly, and give the jar a gentle shake to settle the mix.

    Time: PT1M

  5. Cleanup

    Rinse the mixing bowl, spoon, and measuring spoons. Wipe the jar exterior.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
10
Protein
0g
Carbohydrates
2g
Fat
0g
Fiber
0g

Dietary info: Vegan, Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free, Nut‑Free

Last updated: April 15, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Homemade Taco Seasoning

Recipe by Getty Stewart

A quick, all‑natural taco seasoning blend made with cayenne, garlic powder, oregano, cumin, chili powder, coriander, and black pepper. Mix, jar, and you’re ready to flavor tacos, fajitas, burritos, or any Mexican‑inspired dish.

EasyMexicanServes 6

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
10m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
20m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$0.90
Total cost
$0.15
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Measure spices accurately to maintain flavor balance.
  • Mix the spices thoroughly to avoid pockets of heat.
  • Seal the jar tightly to keep the seasoning fresh.

Safety Warnings

  • Cayenne pepper can irritate skin and eyes; wash hands thoroughly after handling.
  • Avoid inhaling spice dust; consider wearing a mask if you are sensitive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of taco seasoning in Mexican cuisine?

A

Taco seasoning, as we know it today, is a modern convenience blend that captures the traditional flavors of Mexican street tacos—cumin, chili, garlic, and oregano. While authentic Mexican cooking often uses fresh chilies and herbs, the powdered mix became popular in the United States in the mid‑20th century to simplify home cooking.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of taco seasoning in Mexican cuisine?

A

In northern Mexico, taco seasoning leans heavily on cumin and dried chilies, while southern regions favor fresh chilies, oregano, and sometimes smoked paprika. Coastal areas may add citrus zest or dried lime for brightness. The blend in this recipe reflects a balanced, all‑American style that works well across regions.

cultural
Q

How is taco seasoning traditionally served with tacos in Mexico?

A

Traditionally, Mexican tacos are seasoned with fresh ingredients—sliced onions, cilantro, lime, and a sprinkle of dried chili powder or chipotle. The powdered taco seasoning is a shortcut used mainly in the U.S.; in Mexico, cooks often toast whole spices and grind them fresh for each batch.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is taco seasoning traditionally associated with in Mexican culture?

A

Tacos are a staple at everyday meals, street festivals (ferias), and family gatherings. While there is no specific holiday for taco seasoning, the blend is commonly used for quick meals during celebrations like birthdays, Cinco de Mayo, and weekend barbecues.

cultural
Q

What other Mexican dishes pair well with this homemade taco seasoning?

A

Use this seasoning for fajitas, enchilada fillings, chili con carne, Mexican‑style grilled vegetables, and even spiced popcorn. It also works nicely in taco‑style salads and burrito bowls.

cultural
Q

What makes this taco seasoning blend special compared to store‑bought mixes?

A

Because you control each ingredient, you can adjust heat, avoid additives, and ensure the spices are fresh. The blend balances cayenne’s heat with aromatic oregano and coriander, giving a more nuanced flavor than many commercial mixes that rely heavily on salt and MSG.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making homemade taco seasoning?

A

Common errors include over‑measuring cayenne, which makes the blend overly hot, and not mixing the spices thoroughly, leading to uneven flavor. Also, using stale spices will result in a flat taste; always use fresh, aromatic spices.

technical
Q

Why does this taco seasoning recipe use both chili powder and cayenne pepper instead of just one hot spice?

A

Chili powder provides color, mild heat, and a blend of dried chilies plus other spices, while cayenne adds a sharp, focused heat. Using both creates depth—chili powder gives the base flavor and cayenne lets you dial in the heat level.

technical
Q

Can I make this taco seasoning ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the seasoning keeps well for up to six months when stored in an airtight jar in a cool, dark pantry. Label the jar with the date, and avoid exposing it to moisture or direct sunlight.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Getty Stewart specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Getty Stewart focuses on quick, practical home‑cooking tutorials, often highlighting simple seasoning blends, pantry staples, and easy‑to‑follow recipes for everyday meals.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Getty Stewart's approach to Mexican cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Getty Stewart emphasizes minimal equipment, clear step‑by‑step visuals, and budget‑friendly ingredients, making Mexican flavors accessible to beginners. Unlike some channels that use elaborate techniques, Getty keeps the process straightforward and adaptable.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

How to make Taco Pickles
13

How to make Taco Pickles

A quick and daring snack that combines low‑sodium dill pickles with bold taco seasoning. After shaking the jar and refrigerating for 24 hours, the pickles absorb cumin, chili, and garlic flavors for a tangy, spicy treat. Optional hot sauce adds extra heat.

11 minServes 4$11
American
Tac-O Pickle
1

Tac-O Pickle

A quick, crunchy snack that turns ordinary pickles into a Mexican-inspired treat by coating them with Dan-O's Taco Seasoning and letting the flavors meld in the fridge.

10 minServes 4$12
Mexican-American
Taco Pickles
3

Taco Pickles

Quick, no‑boil refrigerator pickles flavored with taco seasoning and fresh cilantro. Perfect as a snack or taco topping.

25 minServes 4$3
Mexican
homemade taco seasoning can be healthier
14

homemade taco seasoning can be healthier

A quick, low‑sodium taco seasoning blend you can make at home in minutes. Perfect for tacos, burritos, fajitas, and any Mexican‑inspired dish, this DIY mix saves money and lets you control the salt level.

15 minServes 6$1
Mexican
The Best Homemade Taco Seasoning
15

The Best Homemade Taco Seasoning

A quick, no‑cook spice blend that beats store‑bought taco seasoning. Perfect for tacos, burritos, fajitas, and any Mexican‑inspired dish. Ready in five minutes.

10 minServes 4$1
Mexican
Homemade Taco Seasoning to Replace a Store-bought Package
4

Homemade Taco Seasoning to Replace a Store-bought Package

A fast, preservative‑free taco seasoning blend that uses pantry staples. Perfect for a pound of ground meat or any Mexican‑inspired dish. Adjust the heat to your taste and store in an airtight jar for weeks.

10 minServes 4$0
Mexican
How to Make Homemade Taco Seasoning
3

How to Make Homemade Taco Seasoning

A quick, 8‑ingredient homemade taco seasoning blend that tastes fresher than store‑bought mixes. Perfect for tacos, taco cupcakes, taco egg rolls, fajitas, and any Mexican‑inspired dish.

10 minServes 10$1
Mexican
making the viral pickled garlic snack
2

making the viral pickled garlic snack

A super fast, tangy, sweet, and mildly spicy Korean-style pickled garlic snack that became viral during lockdown. Made in just a few minutes with garlic, Korean red pepper flakes, and sriracha, this jarred snack is perfect for a pungent, crave‑worthy treat.

8 minServes 2$1
Korean