Ditch the packets! Make this easy copycat Old El Paso taco seasoning in bulk. Healthier, cheaper, and tastes even better than the original. Plus, this recipe will save you time, because it yields about 3 cups – or 16 batches – in about five minutes!

Why Make Your Own Old El Paso Taco Seasoning at Home?

If you love the iconic flavor of Old El Paso taco seasoning but want to avoid preservatives and save money, this copycat recipe is for you! After countless attempts to recreate that classic Old El Paso taste, I’ve perfected this homemade taco seasoning mix that my family actually prefers to the store-bought options. This DIY taco seasoning gives you complete control over the salt content and heat preference.

Old El Paso Taco Seasoning: Store-Bought vs. Homemade

Old El Paso taco seasoning packets have been a pantry staple for generations, but have you ever looked at the ingredient list? Most commercial seasoning packets, including Old El Paso, contain additives like corn starch, silicon dioxide, citric acid, and sometimes monosodium glutamate (MSG) or yeast extract (which contains natural flavor similar to MSG). My homemade blend uses only simple, recognizable spices while capturing that distinctive Tex-Mex flavor you love.

Cost Comparison

Making your own Old El Paso style seasoning in bulk can save you over 60% compared to buying individual packets at the grocery store! One batch of this recipe equals approximately 16 store-bought packets!

What Makes This Batch Seasoning Special?

The signature Old El Paso flavor comes from its perfect blend of spices including chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder, with subtle notes of oregano and paprika. This homemade taco seasoning replicates these proportions, but allows you to adjust to your taste preferences.

Ingredients for Homemade Old El Paso Taco Seasoning

This bulk recipe creates enough seasoning for approximately 16 pounds of meat – the equivalent of 16 Old El Paso packets:

• 1 cup chili powder
• 1/2 cup ground cumin
• 1/4 cup sea salt (I recommend Redmond’s Real Salt for bold flavor)
• 1/4 cup black pepper
• 8 teaspoons garlic powder
• 8 teaspoons onion powder
• 8 teaspoons dried oregano
• 8 teaspoons paprika
• Optional – 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper or up to 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes to make a spicier seasoning

How to Make Old El Paso Copycat Taco Seasoning

Creating your own Old El Paso style spice blend couldn’t be simpler:

1. Combine all flavorful seasonings in a medium bowl
2. Mix thoroughly until evenly blended
3. Using a funnel, transfer to an airtight container (I use a mason jar or glass jar)
4. Store in a dry place and shake well before each use

How to Use Your Homemade Old El Paso Taco Seasoning

For that authentic Old El Paso taco experience:

1. Heat a 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat
2. Add 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil
3. Cook beef (a pound of ground beef or ground turkey) until browned
4. Drain excess fat
5. Add 3 tablespoons of homemade seasoning mix and 1/2 cup little water
6. Bring to a simmer
7. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens

This method mirrors the instructions on the back of actual packet of taco seasoning, ensuring you get that same familiar taco flavor for your next taco night.

We like mixing beans in with our meat to stretch the meat more. You can find our delicious homemade taco meat recipe here!

Making the Best Taco Meat for Your Family

This homemade seasoning makes the best taco meat for classic tacos served in a variety of crispy hard taco shells or tasty soft tortillas. Top with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and sour cream for a complete meal the whole family will love.

Old El Paso Variations You Can Make at Home

One advantage of making your own Old El Paso style seasoning is customization with exact measurements:

• Mild Taco Seasoning: Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes
• Hot: Double the red pepper flakes or add 1 tsp chili pepper
• Low Sodium: Cut the salt in half or use potassium magnesium chloride as a substitute
• Authentic Style: Add 1 tsp of Mexican oregano and 1 tsp of smoked paprika

Creative Ways to Use Your Taco Seasoning Beyond Taco Tuesday

While the most obvious use is for tacos, this versatile popular Mexican spice mix works wonderfully in:

• Taco soup
• Mexican rice
• Seasoned black beans for vegetarian options
• Sprinkled on roasted vegetables for Mexican-inspired flavors
• Added to soups for a delicious kick

FAQ About This Taco Seasoning Recipe

How long does homemade taco seasoning last?

When stored properly in an airtight container away from heat and light, this homemade version can last up to 1 year, though the flavors are strongest within the first 6 months.

Does this taste exactly like Old El Paso taco seasoning?

Most people find this homemade version tastes even better than Old El Paso packets because it uses fresher spices without fillers or anti-caking agents. In the event of a conflict between fresh and store-bought, fresh usually wins!

Can I use this Old El Paso copycat recipe for other Mexican dishes?

Absolutely! The endless options include enchiladas, burritos, taco soup, or sprinkle it on roasted vegetables for that familiar Old El Paso flavor profile.

Is this healthier than actual Old El Paso taco seasoning?

This homemade version eliminates the preservatives, anti-caking agents, and potential MSG found in store-bought Old El Paso packets – ingredients that are problematic for some people.