Homemade Taco Seasoning

Sauces, Spreads, Dips & Dressings

Prep Time: 5 mins Cook Time: 5 mins Servings: 1/4 cup Source:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon ancho chile powder

1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional; see note)

1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt; for table salt, use half as much by volume

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon cayenne

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon sweet Hungarian-style paprika

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon ground coriander

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

Directions

In a small bowl, thoroughly stir together all ingredients. Transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry, dark place for up to 2 months.

For 1 pound (454g) ground meat, such as ground beef: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola) over medium heat until shimmering. Add 2 tablespoons taco seasoning and cook, stirring, until it smells lightly toasted. Add ground meat and cook, stirring and breaking up with a wooden spoon, until meat is evenly coated in taco seasoning and lightly browned, about 8 to 10 minutes. Season with additional salt, to taste, if desired. Transfer to a serving bowl and keep warm.

The taco seasoning can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry, dark place for up to 2 months.

Notes

Cornstarch helps make ground beef juicier and less watery as it cooks. If you don’t plan to use the taco seasoning for meat, then you can omit this ingredient.

Make Ahead and Storage