Can’t get enough of those delicious Old El Paso hard shell tacos? Well, now you can make them at home with this easy copycat recipe for the seasoning mix!
Just mix a few simple spices, and you can enjoy your favorite tacos whenever you want.
So grab your apron, and let’s get started!
What is Old El Paso Taco Seasoning?
Old El Paso taco seasoning is a blend of spices that can be used to flavor beef or chicken tacos.
The seasoning includes chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Some versions of the blend also contain paprika, oregano, and pepper.
To use the seasoning, mix it with ground beef or chicken before cooking.
The proportions of the spices in the seasoning blend vary depending on the manufacturer, but most mixes contain between 1 and 2 tablespoons of chili powder.
Old El Paso taco seasoning can be found in the spice aisle of most grocery stores. It is also available online. With the help of our recipe, you can easily make your own Old El Paso taco seasoning at home.
Can I make this seasoning at home?
Yes, you can!
This Old El Paso taco seasoning recipe is a copycat of the popular store-bought seasoning mix and is so easy to make.
Simply combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until well combined. That’s it!
What ingredients do I need to start?
To make this Old El Paso taco seasoning recipe, you’ll need the following:
Chili powder: It’s the key ingredient in any good taco seasoning! Look for a chili powder made with chili peppers and spices (no salt, sugar, or other additives).
Ground cumin: Cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor to the seasoning.
Garlic powder: For a little bit of garlic flavor.
Paprika: Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
Salt: To balance out the flavors.
Black pepper: For a little bit of heat.
Onion powder: Another way to add a touch of onion flavor.
Oregano: For a bit of Mexican flavor.
Red pepper flakes (optional): If you like things a little bit spicy, add some red pepper flakes.
What else do I need?
In addition to the ingredients, you’ll need:
- A bowl: For mixing everything.
- An airtight container: For storing the seasoning. We like to use a Mason jar.
- A spoon: For stirring everything together.
Old El Paso Taco Seasoning Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until well combined.
- Store in an airtight container. Will keep it for several months.
- To use, add 1-2 tablespoons of taco seasoning to your favorite Mexican dish. Adjust to taste.
- Enjoy!
Will this seasoning taste like the original?
Yes, this Old El Paso taco seasoning recipe tastes like the original. It’s a perfect blend of spices that will give your food a delicious Mexican flavor.
Can I add, remove, or replace some ingredients?
Yes, absolutely!
Feel free to play around with the ingredients to suit your taste.
For example, if you don’t like things too spicy, you can leave out the red pepper flakes. Or, if you want more of a certain flavor, simply add more of that ingredient. The key is to experiment until you find a combination that you love.
Tips and tricks for a better seasoning
Use fresh chili powder for the best flavor.
- If you don’t have all the spices on hand, you can use a pre-made chili powder or taco seasoning mix.
- Add a bit of cayenne pepper for extra heat, if desired.
- Stir the seasoning well before each use to distribute the spices evenly.
- To make a milder seasoning, omit the red pepper flakes and/or use less chili powder.
- For a spicier seasoning, add more chili powder and/or red pepper flakes to taste.
- Use this seasoning in ground beef tacos, chicken tacos, nachos, or anywhere else you’d like a little extra flavor.
- This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled if you want to make a larger batch.
- Store the taco seasoning in a cool, dark place.
- Be sure to label the container with the name and date, so you know how long it’s been stored.
- If you find that the seasoning has lost its flavor after a few months, simply make a new batch.
- Try adding a tablespoon or two to your next pot of chili for extra flavor.
- You can also use this seasoning mix to make homemade tortilla chips by sprinkling it on top of thinly sliced potatoes before baking.
Get creative and experiment with other herbs and spices to create your unique taco seasoning blend!
Final Words
We hope you enjoyed this Old El Paso taco seasoning recipe. If you try it, let us know how it turned out in the comments below. And don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. They’ll love it, too!
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