Skip the store-bought packet and make your own homemade taco seasoning recipe that’s bursting with bold flavor and authentic taste. This easy blend of spices, like chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic, comes together in minutes and instantly upgrades ground beef, chicken, or veggies. Once you try this homemade mix, your next taco night will never be the same!

There’s nothing better than DIY taco night with the family! Everyone gets to build their own just the way they like it, which makes dinner fun and easy. I pile mine high with sour cream, cheese, salsa, lettuce, cilantro, and basically every topping in sight, while my kids keep it simple with their favorites. It’s a win for everyone at the table.

I didn’t realize it was so simple to make your own taco seasoning at home. Once you do, you’ll never go back to the store-bought taco seasoning packets again. This homemade version works perfectly with ground beef, ground chicken, or ground turkey, and it’s just as good tossed with roasted veggies, stirred into soups or stews, or sprinkled over taco salads.

It’s a pantry staple that’s cheaper, fresher, and more flavorful than anything store-bought, plus, it’s made with spices you probably already have on hand. No trip to the grocery store required. Mix up a big batch and keep it in your spice drawer for easy, delicious Taco Tuesday nights anytime.

Ingredients For Taco Seasoning

This Homemade Taco seasoning recipe is a total game-changer! Smoky, savory, and full of depth. Each spice pulls its weight to create that perfect balance of heat and flavor.

• Chili Powder: the bold, earthy base that gives this blend its signature flavor
• Ground Cumin: adds warmth and a hint of nuttiness
• Smoked Paprika: brings a rich, smoky undertone
• Garlic Powder: savory depth in every bite
• Oregano: adds a subtle herby note
• Coriander: brightens and balances the spice
• Onion Powder: rounds everything out with mellow sweetness
• Fine Sea Salt: enhances and ties all the flavors together
• Black Pepper: sharp bite for balance
• Cornstarch: helps the seasoning cling to meat and thicken sauces
• Cayenne Pepper: gives it that touch of heat that makes everything pop

Simple ingredients, big flavor! This mix is better than any store-bought packet and stays fresh for ages.

How To Make This Recipe

Instant Pot Taco Soup

This Instant Pot Taco Soup is a quick and easy weeknight dinner packed with bold Mexican flavors. Loaded with beef, beans, corn, and spices, it’s perfect topped with cheese, sour cream, and avocado for a hearty, family-friendly meal.

The Best Taco Soup Recipe

One of my favorite memories as a mom is of our daughters coming home on a chilly late fall afternoon, while our son, still just a toddler, stood at the window waiting for them. The moment they passed the big bush in our yard and came into view, he would light up with pure excitement, bouncing with joy until they walked through the door. That year felt like the happiest season for our little family. The girls would scoop him up in hugs, and that night we all gathered around the table with steaming bowls of taco soup topped with crunchy chips.

It’s funny how the simplest, most ordinary days become the ones we treasure most. There’s something about a pot of soup on the stove that feels grounding and safe. I honestly think every family should make soup at least once a month during the school year! Kids go through so much, and soup has a way of bringing comfort, warmth, and calm to the whole house.

Instant Pot Taco Soup Ingredients

This hearty taco soup is loaded with beef, beans, corn, and bold taco flavors. It’s quick to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or game-day gatherings.

• Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps brown the beef and onions.
• Ground Beef: Provides hearty, savory flavor as the base of the soup. Can swap for ground chicken or ground turkey.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
• Corn: Brings a touch of natural sweetness and texture.
• Pinto Beans: Adds protein, fiber, and heartiness. Can swap for black beans or kidney beans.
• Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies: Adds a mild kick and bright tomato flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes: Provides a rich, savory tomato base for the soup.
• Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix: Adds creamy, tangy flavor for extra depth.
• Taco Seasoning: Gives the soup classic taco spices and a flavorful punch.
• Beef Broth: Creates a savory, flavorful liquid base for the soup. Swap with chicken broth in a pinch.

Serve it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Note: This recipe calls for dry ranch seasoning, not ranch dressing. Ranch seasoning usually comes in small packets and can be found in the spice aisle.

How to Make Taco Soup in an Instant Pot

This easy taco soup is packed with bold flavors and ready in no time using your Instant Pot or slow cooker.

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