Keto Homemade Gluten-Free Taco Seasoning Mix
Quick spice blend for seasoning ground meat tacos. Warm, earthy cumin and chili powder with garlic and onion notes, balanced by paprika and a subtle heat kick. Perfect for weeknight taco nights, meal prep, or gifting to friends. This version uses cornstarch as a thickening agent when mixed with water, eliminating any gluten concerns while delivering authentic taco flavor without additives or preservatives.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- 1
Combine chili powder, cumin, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes in a small mason jar or ziplock bag.
- 2
Seal and shake vigorously until spices are evenly distributed.
- 3
To use, add seasoning blend to 1 pound cooked and drained ground meat along with 3/4 cup water.
- 4
Cook for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens.
- 5
Serve immediately with tacos.
Tips
Make in bulk and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Label with preparation date for easy reference.
For milder heat, reduce red pepper flakes to 1/8 teaspoon. For extra spice, increase to 1/2 teaspoon or add cayenne.
Good to Know
Airtight container at room temperature, 3 months. Protect from moisture and direct sunlight.
Make up to 2 weeks ahead. Store in sealed jar or ziplock bag.
Add to 1 pound cooked ground meat with 3/4 cup water. Cook 1-2 minutes until thickened.
Common Mistakes
Do not add water to dry seasoning; add to cooked meat only to prevent clumping.
Do not skip shaking the jar; uneven mixing leads to some bites being too spicy or bland.
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I make this without cornstarch?
Yes. Omit it for a drier seasoning to sprinkle on prepared tacos. Without cornstarch, the sauce will not thicken when water is added; reduce water to 1/2 cup or skip it entirely.
How long does the seasoning keep once mixed with meat?
Use immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container up to 3 days. Freeze seasoned meat mixture up to 3 months; thaw overnight and reheat gently.
Can I use this for chicken or fish?
Yes. Use 1-2 teaspoons per pound of protein. Adjust water amount based on desired sauce consistency. For fish, reduce red pepper flakes to avoid overpowering delicate flavor.