How to Make Taco Seasoning from Your Spice Rack Supplies

Ground beef spiced with taco seasoning is a staple in my kitchen. It is easy to make and very versatile. There are so many different things you can do with taco-seasoned beef. Instead of using individual packets of taco seasoning which are (a) costly and (b) full of sodium and (d) contain interesting filler ingredients, I create my own taco seasoning mix with supplies from my spice rack. It tastes great, and I know exactly what is in it!

Do-it-Yourself Taco Seasoning Recipe

6 Tablespoons Chili Powder

2 Tablespoons Cumin

4 Tablespoons Paprika

3 Tablespoons Onion Powder

1 Tablespoon garlic powder

1 Teaspoon cayenne pepper (this makes it very spicy, add more or less to taste)

Mix all ingredients together and stir in an airtight container. An empty spice shaker bottle works well, as does a small Rubbermaid or Tupperware food storage container.

Awesome Taco Meat

Brown 2 pounds ground beef

Drain excess fat

Stir in 4 tablespoons of taco seasoning

Add a cup of water or a can of Rotel if you really like spicy food

Simmer for about 30 minutes

Once the taco meat is prepared, you can make many different tasty treats. I like to make a big batch of this on Sundays to use for meals throughout the week. It even freezes well, so you can make enough to save for those days (or weeks) that you just don't feel like cooking.

What can you make with Awesome Taco Meat?

Here are a few ideas:

Tacos - Simply fill store bought taco shells with meat, cheese, lettuce, and tomato. If you like guacamole and sour cream, pile them on too!

Soft Tacos - Instead of using a crunch taco shell, use a flour tortilla to put together tasty soft tacos.

Beef & Rice Burritos - Mix awesome taco beef with an equal amount of Mexican rice. Use to stuff flour tortillas for super beef and rice burritos.

Mexican Joes - If you are tired of the same old sloppy joe mix, try using Awesome Taco Meat the next time your family is in the mood for these stick-to-the rib sandwiches. Simply pile Awesome Taco Meat on hamburger buns and you have a quick and delicious dinner.

For more recipe ideas, see Quick and Easy Dinners - Mexican Style. The possibilities are endless with this simple, versatile, and delicious recipe for Awesome Taco beef made with your very own homemade taco seasoning mix.