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Tired of store-bought packets filled with anti-caking agents and mystery ingredients? This easy Homemade Taco Seasoning is your flavor savior! Whip up a big batch in just 5 minutes using pantry staples for a blend that's not only bursting with authentic, zesty flavor but is also naturally sugar-free, low-carb, and infinitely customizable. Ditch the preservatives, take control of the heat, and get ready to elevate your Taco Tuesdays—and your wallet will thank you, too!
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Why You'll Love This Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe
- 🚫 DITCH THE MYSTERY INGREDIENTS & SAVE $$$! - Skip the store-bought packets with their anti-caking agents and fillers! This blend uses pure spices you already own, costs pennies per batch, and tastes infinitely fresher.
- 🌶️ TOTAL FLAVOR & HEAT CONTROL! - You’re the boss! Use a spicier chili powder or add cayenne for a fiery kick, or use a mild chili family-friendly nights, or use smoked paprika for depth. It’s your perfect taco seasoning.
- 🥑 SECRETLY SUGAR-FREE & LOW-CARB FRIENDLY! - Unlike many store-bought blends that sneak in sugar and starches, this one is naturally sugar-free and low-carb. It’s the EASY way to keep your Taco Tuesday on track without sacrificing flavor!
In This Post
Your Taco Tuesday Upgrade: 5-Minute Homemade Taco Seasoning (Sugar-Free & Low-Carb!)
Let’s be real: have you ever turned over a packet of store-bought taco seasoning and actually read the ingredients? From anti-caking agents to hidden sugar and unpronounceable preservatives—it’s enough to make you lose your appetite.
As someone passionate about clean, low-carb eating, I said ¡basta! to sketchy spice blends and started making my own. And let me tell you: this 5-Minute Homemade Taco Seasoning didn’t just change my tacos—it changed my whole approach to flavor.
I get it—starting a keto or low-carb lifestyle can feel overwhelming. I’ve been there. For weeks, my dinners were plain grilled chicken and steamed veggies. It was… fine. But fine isn’t fabulous. And who wants to eat boring food forever?
Then I discovered the secret: homemade seasoning blends are a low-carber’s best friend.
This taco seasoning is my everything spice. I use it as a:
- Dry rub for grilled chicken or beef
- Flavor booster for cauliflower rice
- Savory stir-in for ground turkey taco bowls
- Seasoning for roasted peppers and onions
And the best part? You control everything. Want more heat? Add extra cayenne. Not a cumin fan? Use less. You’re the CEO of your flavor.
Oh, and in my house, we like it caliente. The first time I made this blend, I may have gone overboard with the chili powder. My husband took one bite, fanned his mouth, and said, “It hurts so good!” (Yes, we’re those people.)
Even better? This simple switch has won over my once-skeptical husband, who used to side-eye anything labeled “Mexican night.” Now he asks for it—and that, my friends, is what I call a spicy victory.
So if you’re ready to:
- Skip the junk
- Save money
- Eat flavorful, low-carb meals everyone will love
...then it’s time to make your own seasoning. Your tacos (and your body) will thank you.
🍽️✨ Don't forget to share your delightful creations with us on BlueSky using #BobbisKozyKitchen for a chance to be featured in our newsletter! 📸
🥘Ingredient Notes
Here, I explain the best ingredients for my Homemade Taco Seasoning recipe, what each one does, and substitution options. For the exact measurements, see the recipe card below.
- 🌶️ New Mexico Chile Powder – The soul of the blend! Mild heat with rich, earthy flavor. Sub: Ancho chili powder (similar vibe) or regular chili powder blend.
- 📜 Paprika – For color & sweet smokiness. Sub: Smoked paprika for a deeper, campfire-kissed flavor.
- ✨ Ground Roasted Cumin Powder – The essential earthy, warm base note. Roasting is key! Sub: Regular cumin (it’ll be less complex).
- 🍃 Ground Roasted Coriander Powder – Adds a subtle citrusy, floral brightness. Sub: Skip it if you must, but you’ll miss the depth!
- ⚫ Black Pepper – For a little sharp, pungent kick. Freshly ground is best!
- 🧂 Pink Salt – Enhances all the flavors. Sub: Sea salt or kosher salt (use 1.5x if using kosher).
- 🧄 Garlic Powder – Savory backbone. No substitutions here—fresh garlic will clump!
- 🧅 Onion Powder – Sweet, aromatic base. Sub: 1 tsp onion flakes, crushed fine.
- 🌿 Mexican Oregano – Earthy, citrusy, and distinct from Mediterranean oregano! Sub: Regular oregano (use a bit less, it’s stronger).
The printable recipe card at the bottom of the page contains a detailed list of measurements and instructions.
Storing Your Homemade Taco Seasoning
🌡️ Shelf Life:
Your homemade taco seasoning will stay fresh and potent for 6 to 12 months when stored correctly.
But let's be real...
Who actually has this last that long? 🙋♀️ Mine is always gone in less than two months because you'll want to put it on everything!
The Keys to Longevity:
✅ Airtight Container – A small jar or spice jar with a tight seal is perfect.
✅ Cool & Dark Place – Keep it away from the stove and out of direct sunlight (a pantry or spice cabinet is ideal).
✅ Dry Utensils Only! – Always use a dry spoon to scoop it out. Introducing moisture is the #1 way to ruin your blend.
👀 How to Tell If It's Gone Bad:
- Lost Its Aroma? – If you can't smell that vibrant, spicy scent, the flavor has faded.
- Signs of Moisture? – If it's clumping, it's time to make a fresh batch.
- Weird Appearance? – If you see any signs of mold (highly unlikely if stored properly), toss it immediately.
💡 Pro Tip:
"Make a double or triple batch! You'll use it up faster than you think, and it makes a fantastic homemade gift for your fellow clean-eating friends.
💭My Pro Tips & Tricks
- Spice Level Control: This blend is a medium heat level. For mild seasoning, use all paprika. For extra heat, add ½-1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or arbol chili powder.
- The "Roasted" Advantage: Using pre-roasted cumin and coriander adds a deeper, nuttier flavor. If you only have regular, you can toast the whole seeds in a dry pan until fragrant, then grind them for an instant upgrade.
- Clump Prevention: Ensure your measuring spoons are completely dry. For long-term storage, add a single terra cotta brown sugar saver disk to the jar to absorb any ambient moisture.
- Beyond Tacos: Don't limit this blend! It's amazing as a dry rub for grilled chicken or steak, shaken onto roasted chickpeas, or stirred into sour cream for a quick dip.
FAQ about Homemade Taco Seasoning
Yes! Store-bought packets often contain fillers, anti-caking agents, and hidden sugar or MSG. This blend uses only pure spices, is naturally sugar-free, and lets you control the sodium.
Absolutely! Simply omit the pink salt. You can add salt directly to your dishes later if needed. The blend will still be full of flavor from the herbs and spices.
Clumping usually means moisture got into the jar. As long as it smells normal (aromatic and spicy) and there's no mold, it's safe. You can break up the clumps with a fork. To prevent it, always use a dry spoon.
🍽️Recipe Inspirations
Now that you've made your blend, let's get cooking! Here are some of my favorite ways to use it:
🍖 The Classic: Perfect Taco Meat
Use 2-3 tablespoons of seasoning per 1 lb of ground beef, turkey, or chicken. Brown the meat, drain any excess fat, then add the seasoning with 1/2 cup of water or broth. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. If you would like it a bit "saucy" add 1/2 tsp of xanthan gum with the liquid.
🔥 Flavor Booster Ideas:
- "Fajita Veggies": Toss sliced bell peppers and onions with olive oil and 1 tbsp of seasoning before sautéing or roasting.
- "Creamy Taco Dip": Mix 1 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt with 1-2 tbsp of seasoning for an instant party dip.
- "Taco Roasted Chickpeas:" Toss a can of drained chickpeas with oil and 1 tbsp of seasoning. Roast at 400°F until crispy!
👩🍳 Use It In My Other Recipes:
- Taco Salad in a Jar – The ultimate low-carb lunch or light dinner!
- Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice – Stir in 1 tsp of this seasoning as it cooks.
- https://bobbiskozykitchen.com/instant-pot-shredded-chicken/Instant Pot Shredded Chicken – Use this blend instead of store-bought for a cleaner, tastier Mexican-style shredded chicken.
More Delicious Homemade Seasoning Recipes...
Homemade Taco Seasoning
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons New Mexico red chile powder
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 2 tablespoons roasted cumin
- 1 tablespoon roasted coriander
- 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon pink salt
- 1 tablespoon organic garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon organic onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Mexican oregano
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk all of the ingredients together well.
- Transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool dry place.
Disclaimer
Most of my recipes are low-carb (or keto) and gluten-free, but some are not. Please verify that a recipe fits your needs before using it. Recommended and linked products are not guaranteed to be gluten-free. Recipes may contain errors, so please use your common sense when following them. Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and is approximate only. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information given for any recipe on this site. Erythritol carbs will not be included as it has a glycemic index of 0 (meaning it does not spike blood sugar) and it’s not metabolized. Net carbs are the total carbs minus fiber.
Nutrition
Food safety
- Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
- Wash hands after touching raw meat
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Use oils with a high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
See more guidelines at USDA.gov.
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Valerie
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