Homemade Steak Taco Seasoning 

Homemade Steak Taco Seasoning – Easy, Flavorful & Smoky

I have a confession to make—I used to rely on those little store-bought taco seasoning packets for far too long until I discovered how simple and flavorful homemade steak taco seasoning can be!

The best part about creating your own mix is the control it gives you over every single ingredient. This seasoning is a perfect blend of savory, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors, all of which elevate steak tacos to a whole new level.

Looking for something new? Check out our delicious Steak Tacos with Cabbage Slaw Recipe here.

Ingredients You Will Need

• 1/4 cup garlic powder
• 4 teaspoons chili powder
• 4 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 4 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Note: The quantities above create enough seasoning for about 4 servings of steak tacos (roughly 1 pound of steak).

Variations to Try

This seasoning is incredibly versatile, and you can tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra smoked paprika for more heat.
• Go Sugar-Free: Swap the brown sugar for a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit, or skip the sweetness altogether.
• Add Citrus Zing: Incorporate dried lime zest for a tangy kick that pairs wonderfully with steak.
• Herb Boost: Blend in some dried oregano or coriander to give the seasoning even more depth.

For more inspiration, head over to our best dinner recipes roundup.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes (to mix the seasoning)
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (dry rub only)
• Total Time: 5 minutes

Equipment You Need

• Mixing bowl: To combine all the spices evenly.
• Measuring spoons: To ensure the correct proportions.
• Mason jar or an airtight container: For storing leftover seasoning.
• Whisk or spoon: To incorporate the spices thoroughly.

How to Make Steak Taco Seasoning?

Homemade steak taco seasoning is not only quick to whip up but also adds a burst of flavor to your meals. With just seven ingredients, you’ll have a simple yet extraordinary seasoning ready in minutes.

Combine the Ingredients

Start by gathering all the spices and measuring them out. Add the garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, and brown sugar to a mixing bowl.

Using a whisk or small spoon, combine the spices until they’re fully mixed and evenly distributed. This ensures every tablespoon of your seasoning packs the same punch of flavor.

Store or Use Immediately

You can use the seasoning right away for your steak tacos or store it for later. If you’re saving it, transfer the mix to an airtight container like a Mason jar. Keep it in a cool, dark place, like a spice cupboard, and it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to three months.

Apply to Your Steak

When you’re ready to use it, coat your steak generously with the seasoning. Massage it into the meat so that it clings to the surface and infuses every inch with flavor.

For the best results, allow the seasoned steak to sit for at least 15 minutes before cooking. This not only tenderizes the meat but also ensures a bold, even taste.

Best Cut of Beef for Steak Tacos

Flank steak is often considered the best cut for steak tacos due to its rich flavor and tender texture when cooked correctly. It absorbs marinades beautifully and remains juicy when sliced against the grain.

Other great options include skirt steak or sirloin, both of which offer a similar balance of flavor and tenderness, making them perfect for tacos.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

From convenience to flavor, there are plenty of reasons to give this recipe a try:

• It’s made with simple pantry ingredients you already have on hand.
• You can customize the spice level to suit your family’s preferences.
• It perfectly balances smoky, savory, and sweet notes.
• The seasoning enhances not just steak but also veggies, chicken, and more.
• It’s free from preservatives and artificial flavors!

How to Serve Steak Tacos Seasoning?

Steak tacos seasoned with this blend are best served warm and freshly made. Pile thinly sliced, seasoned steak onto warm tortillas, then top with fresh garnishes like diced onions, shredded lettuce, and chopped cilantro.

A dollop of sour cream and a squeeze of lime juice can take your tacos to the next level. To add some crunch and bright color, serve alongside a plate of tortilla chips and salsa or guacamole.

Don’t miss the bold flavors in this easy Vegan Steak Tacos Recipe.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of seasoning (approximately 1 tablespoon per serving) contains the following:

• Calories: 71
• Protein: 2 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fat: 1 g

Make Ahead and Storage

This seasoning is so convenient to prepare in advance. I usually make a big batch and store it in an airtight Mason jar, so it’s ready to go whenever taco cravings hit. If you prefer small portions, you can also scoop the seasoning into individual jars or bags for single-use servings.

The mix stays fresh in your spice cupboard for up to three months when stored properly. Be sure to keep it in a cool, dry space away from sunlight to retain its vibrant flavors. If you notice the seasoning clumping over time, simply give the jar a shake to break it up.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Making steak taco seasoning is easy, but here are a few tips I’ve learned along the way:

• Use fresh spices for the best flavor impact. If your spices are older than a year, consider replenishing your stock.
• Mix thoroughly to ensure the brown sugar doesn’t clump and every spice is evenly distributed.
• Adjust salt levels to taste if dietary restrictions require less sodium.
• For a smokier flavor, try doubling the smoked paprika or adding chipotle powder.

What’s the Best Seasoning for Steak Tacos?

The ideal steak taco seasoning should strike a balance between smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. This homemade blend does exactly that, combining garlic, chili, and smoky paprika with a hint of sweetness from brown sugar. It’s the perfect base for enhancing the natural flavor of steak without overpowering it.

And there you have it! With this quick and easy seasoning recipe, you’re all set to make your next taco night a hit. Enjoy your flavorful, juicy steak tacos and prepare to take your seasoning game to the next level!

Ben Carraoli

Homemade Steak Taco Seasoning

I have a confession to make—I used to rely on those little store-bought taco seasoning packets for far too long until I discovered how simple and flavorful homemade steak taco seasoning can be! The best part about creating your own mix is the control it gives you over every single ingredient.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Side Dish

Calories: 71

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1/4 cup garlic powder
• 4 teaspoons chili powder
• 4 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 4 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Method

 

1. Start by gathering all the spices and measuring them out. Add the garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, and brown sugar to a mixing bowl. Using a whisk or small spoon, combine the spices until they’re fully mixed and evenly distributed. This ensures every tablespoon of your seasoning packs the same punch of flavor.
2. You can use the seasoning right away for your steak tacos or store it for later. If you’re saving it, transfer the mix to an airtight container like a Mason jar. Keep it in a cool, dark place, like a spice cupboard, and it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to three months.
3. When you’re ready to use it, coat your steak generously with the seasoning. Massage it into the meat so that it clings to the surface and infuses every inch with flavor. For the best results, allow the seasoned steak to sit for at least 15 minutes before cooking. This not only tenderizes the meat but also ensures a bold, even taste.