Old El Paso Taco Seasoning Recipe

This taco seasoning blend brings way more punch than the Old El Paso packet—and it takes less than five minutes to pull together!

One of my tricks?

Toast your spices for about a minute in a dry skillet before mixing—it wakes everything up and adds richness.

I go a little heavier on the cumin and paprika than the original because I like the earthiness and warmth they bring.

Use garlic and onion powders, not salts, so you can control the saltiness based on what you’re cooking.

This mix sticks to ground beef really well, especially if you add a splash of water after the meat’s browned and simmer it for a few minutes!

How to Make Old El Paso Taco Seasoning

Ingredients

• 6 tbsp Chili Powder
• 5 tsp Paprika
• 4 1/2 tsp Cumin
• 3 tsp Onion Powder
• 3 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tbsp Dried Oregano
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/8 tsp Cayenne Powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Gather all the ingredients listed above in one place.

It’s easier to have everything within reach before you start.

Step 2:

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chili powder, paprika, and ground cumin.

Make sure they are thoroughly mixed for a consistent flavor.

Step 3:

Add the onion powder, garlic powder, and dried oregano to the mixture.

Stir well to combine the ingredients evenly.

Step 4:

Sprinkle in the salt and cayenne powder.

Adjust the spice level by varying the cayenne to your taste.

Step 5:

Store the seasoning mix in an airtight container.

Label it and place it in a cool, dry spot until you’re ready to spice up your next taco night.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Customize the Heat

If you prefer a spicier seasoning, feel free to add more cayenne pepper.

Paprika can also give the seasoning a different kick if you use smoked instead of regular.

Use Fresh Spices

Always try to use fresh spices for the best flavor.

Spices lose their potency over time, so make sure they’re not past their prime.

Double or Triple the Batch

It’s so convenient to have this on hand.

I recommend doubling or even tripling the recipe to save time later.

Experiment with Flavors

Feel free to experiment with different spices.

Some people enjoy adding a hint of cocoa powder for a richer taste.

Store Properly

Make sure your storage container is airtight to maintain the freshness.

Moisture can ruin your seasoning mix, so keep it dry.

What to Serve with Old El Paso Taco Seasoning Recipe

Classic Rice and Beans

You can never go wrong with a simple but yummy combination of rice and beans when serving tacos seasoned with Old El Paso taco seasoning.

I find that the rich, hearty texture of the beans perfectly complements the spices in the taco meat.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a squeeze of lime juice for an extra burst of flavor!

Zesty Corn Salad

Consider pairing your tacos with a bright and zesty corn salad made with fresh corn, diced red bell peppers, and a splash of lime juice.

The sweet and tangy elements of this salad make it a refreshing side dish that can balance the savory flavors of your tacos.

You might add some chopped cilantro to enhance the flavors even further!

Spicy Roasted Sweet Potatoes

If you’re looking for something a bit different, roasted sweet potatoes seasoned with a bit of chili powder and cumin can add a lovely hint of sweetness.

The potatoes get perfectly caramelized on the outside when roasted, creating a nice contrast to the slightly spicy taco seasoning.

This side might become a new favorite in your lineup.

Creamy Avocado Dip

Have you thought about making a creamy avocado dip to serve with your tacos?

It’s incredibly easy to prepare, and adding ingredients like lime juice and garlic can give it an extra zing.

Serve it up with tortilla chips for a crunchy, creamy goodness that pairs wonderfully with seasoned tacos!

Variations and Substitutions

When preparing Old El Paso taco seasoning, you can customize the heat level to suit your palate.

Swap the chili powder for cayenne pepper if you’re craving more spice.

This change will definitely turn up the heat in your dish!

Smoky Options

If you love a smoky flavor, consider replacing regular paprika with smoked paprika.

It gives a deeper and more complex taste that many enjoy.

You can add a dash of chipotle powder for an additional smoky kick.

Salt Alternatives

Are you looking to reduce sodium?

Substitute regular salt with sea salt or kosher salt.

These might offer a milder flavor, allowing you to control the saltiness better.

Herb Mix

For a herbaceous twist, you can add some dried oregano or replace it entirely with Mexican oregano.

This will give your seasoning a unique flavor that stands out.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect blend!

How to Store Leftover Old El Paso Taco Seasoning

Storing leftover taco seasoning is easy if you follow a few simple steps.

To keep your seasoning fresh and flavorful, make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Glass jars with tight lids work great, or you can use a plastic container with a good seal.

Labeling the Container

Don’t forget to label the container with the date you made the seasoning mix.

This helps you track how long it has been stored.

Proper labeling ensures you use it while it’s still fresh.

Cool and Dark Storage

Place the container in a cool and dark place, like a cupboard or pantry.

Direct sunlight and heat can cause the spices to lose their potency.

Keeping it away from light helps maintain the flavors longer.

Maximum Storage Duration

Try to use your homemade seasoning within six months for the best flavor.

Beyond that, the spices might start to taste a bit dull.

Freshness is key when you’re reaching for that bold taco flavor!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Too Much Salt

Adding too much salt is a common mistake when blending your own taco seasoning.

I suggest starting small and tasting as you go to keep the flavors balanced.

Overpowering Spices

It’s easy to get carried away with spices like cumin and chili powder.

You don’t want to dominate the seasoning mix and lose other subtle flavors.

Try adding these spices gradually and tasting the mix to achieve the right balance.

Skipping Fresh Ingredients

Relying solely on powders can lead to a seasoning that’s missing depth.

Adding fresh garlic or onions can enhance the flavor profile significantly.

Consider incorporating these fresh ingredients for a brighter and more aromatic seasoning!