Gluten Free Taco Seasoning Recipe (low carb, keto) » LeelaLicious (2024)

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Make your own homemade gluten free taco seasoning! You save a lot compared to store-bought taco seasoning packets and on top of that you get to avoid the fillers and preservatives.

There is even a good chance that you already have all of the taco mix ingredients needed in your spice cabinet.

Gluten Free Taco Seasoning Recipe (low carb, keto) » LeelaLicious (1)

Does your family love Taco Tuesday as much as mine? Actually, since we live in Mexico now we don't limit eating tacos to one day a week.

You are probably quite familiar with the envelopes of taco meat seasoning. But are do you know what the taco seasoning packet ingredients are?

What's in Taco Seasoning

Unfortunately, it's not just a mix of spices. A taco seasoning package often includes preservatives, sugar, and fillers like wheat flour or cornstarch.

This makes store-bought taco packets unsuitable for anyone eating gluten-free, paleo, low carb, or keto.

But no need to despair. With this taco seasoning recipe you'll see that it is actually very easy to make at home.

And also much cheaper! If you have a decently stocked spice cabinet you most likely already have all of the taco seasoning ingredients at home.

Gluten Free Taco Seasoning Recipe (low carb, keto) » LeelaLicious (2)

Here are the spices you need: chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, cayenne, onion & garlic powder, paprika, and oregano.

While this list of 9 taco spice ingredients may seem overwhelming at first glance, in reality none of these spices are rare or obscure. I am sure you already have most of these.

I love cooking with lots of spices, therefore I always have quite the variety on hand to make my own sweet and savory spice mixes.

I like to buy my spices in small amounts from the bulk bins. This way I hope to ensure my spices are always fresh and flavorful (ground spices start losing their flavour after about 6 months).

How to Make Your Own Taco Seasoning

Gluten Free Taco Seasoning Recipe (low carb, keto) » LeelaLicious (3)

When I make taco seasoning I first pull up my recipe - because I can never seem to remember the ratio although I have been using this same recipe for at least 2 years now.

Equipped with the recipe I take out all the spices I need and put them on the counter within reach. There is nothing worse then having to run back and forth to keep getting more ingredients you need.

When I make just a single batch for immediate use, I simply measure all the spices into a bowl and whisk them up to combine.

Gluten Free Taco Seasoning Recipe (low carb, keto) » LeelaLicious (4)

However, most of the time I actually make a bigger batch because I use homemade taco seasoning not only for making taco meat, but also in many recipes that call for mexican seasoning (see below).

In that case I measure all the ingredients straight into a spice container (small Mason jar works well too). Then I close the lid and shake everything up to mix and combine.

The Mexican spice mix is now ready to use or store.

Mild Taco Seasoning Recipe Modifications

If you prefer your homemade taco seasoning mild, there are a couple substitutions you can make.

First of all omit the cayenne pepper! Secondly, substitute at least half of the chili powder with more sweet paprika powder.

This way anyone with any level of spice tolerance will be able to handle this taco seasoning from scratch.

Gluten Free Taco Seasoning Recipe (low carb, keto) » LeelaLicious (5)

How Much Taco Seasoning to Use

This recipe ratio is good for seasoning 1 - 2 pounds of ground meat (or vegetables). It equals about how much taco seasoning is in a packet once you take out the fillers.

You can mix up a batch of this easy taco seasoning as needed for one time use. Or you can multiply the recipe (bulk measurements listed below as well) and store the taco seasoning mix in an airtight container for future use.

Use 2-3 generous tablespoons of the bulk taco spice mix to season 1-2 pounds of meat or vegetables. When adding this simple taco seasoning to browned ground beef, I also like to add ½ cup of water for extra moist taco meat.

Gluten Free Taco Seasoning Recipe (low carb, keto) » LeelaLicious (6)

Where to Use Taco Seasoning in

This beef taco seasoning is perfect when you are making taco meat for your own taco bar dinner.

But you can also use it in many other recipes that call for a Mexican spice blend. Here are some ideas:

Gluten Free Taco Seasoning Recipe (low carb, keto) » LeelaLicious (7)

Gluten Free Taco Seasoning

5 from 4 votes

Make your own homemade gluten free taco seasoning! You save a lot compared to store-bought taco seasoning packets and on top of that you get to avoid the fillers and preservatives. There is a good chance that you already have all of the taco mix ingredients needed in your spice cabinet.

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 1 for 1-2 pounds of beef

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon oregano

Instructions

  • Measure all spices into a bowl and stir or whisk to combine.

  • Add to 1-2 pounds of ground beef while browning together with ½ cup of water.

  • If not using right away, store taco seasoning in a spice jar, small Mason jar or any other container with a tight fitting lid.Store in a cool, dry place.

Notes

One batch will season 1-2 pounds of ground meat. Multiply this ratio as needed for your recipe or for storage.

Mild Taco Seasoning Recipe:
Omit the cayenne pepper, and substitute at least half of the chili powder with sweet paprika

Bulk Taco Seasoning:
makes 1 scant cup of seasoning for 5 pounds of beef (use 3 generous tablespoons per pound)

  • ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons fine sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
  • 2-½ teaspoons cayenne pepper
  • 2-½ teaspoons onion powder
  • 2-½ teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2-½ teaspoons paprika
  • 1-¼ teaspoons oregano

Keyword gluten free taco seasoning

Tried this recipe?Please leave a comment below! Share a picture on social media with tag #leelalicious !

Pin Gluten Free Taco Seasoning tutorial for later?

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Random Questions

What can I use if I don't have taco seasoning?

You can create your own taco seasoning with common spices like chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and others. I provide a homemade taco seasoning recipe you can easily follow.

What is taco seasoning mix made of?

A typical taco seasoning mix includes spices such as chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, cayenne, onion & garlic powder, paprika, and oregano. These ingredients combine to create the distinctive flavor profile of taco seasoning.

What's the difference between Mexican seasoning and taco seasoning?

Mexican seasoning is a broader blend of spices used in various Mexican dishes, while taco seasoning is a specific mix designed to flavor taco meat. However, the two may share some common ingredients depending on the recipe.

Does taco seasoning have tomatoes in it?

Traditional taco seasoning does not usually contain tomatoes. It primarily consists of a combination of various spices and herbs to impart the classic Mexican flavor.

Gluten Free Taco Seasoning Recipe (low carb, keto) » LeelaLicious (2024)

FAQs

Gluten Free Taco Seasoning Recipe (low carb, keto) » LeelaLicious? ›

Both McCormick and Old El Paso taco seasonings are naturally gluten-free, but not labelled as such. There are no gluten ingredients and no declared allergens. Ingredients per Old El Paso web site are: Chili Pepper, Maltodextrin, Salt, Onion Powder, Spice, Corn Starch, Sea Salt (Potassium Magnesium Chloride, Salt).

Is there a taco seasoning that is gluten free? ›

Both McCormick and Old El Paso taco seasonings are naturally gluten-free, but not labelled as such. There are no gluten ingredients and no declared allergens. Ingredients per Old El Paso web site are: Chili Pepper, Maltodextrin, Salt, Onion Powder, Spice, Corn Starch, Sea Salt (Potassium Magnesium Chloride, Salt).

Why is taco seasoning so high in carbs? ›

Most commercial taco seasonings are loaded with fillers and it's usually posted as the first ingredients. These hidden fillers are high in carbs and can sabotage your low-carb efforts. Instead, try making your own homemade taco seasoning and you will notice a big difference in flavor without the added carbs!

What's a good substitute for taco seasoning? ›

Packet Taco Seasoning replacement: if you only want to make enough taco seasoning to replace 1 packet, use the following amounts:
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder.
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder.
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder.
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • ¼ teaspoon dried oregano.
  • ½ teaspoon paprika.
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin.
  • 1 teaspoon salt.
Mar 16, 2021

How many carbs are in taco seasoning? ›

Most store bought taco seasoning mix can have over 4 grams of carbs per tablespoon. This recipe for keto taco seasoning has 1.6 grams of carbohydrates per tablespoon! Not to mention, the taco seasoning packets from the store are loaded with fillers and preservatives.

Is Costco McCormick taco seasoning gluten-free? ›

Gluten-free information on product packaging: This product is not labeled gluten-free. Note: There is a labeled gluten-free version of McCormick Taco Seasoning.

Is McCormick organic taco seasoning gluten-free? ›

It is gluten free.

What kind of seasonings can you use on a keto diet? ›

Here are some excellent options for your keto kitchen: Spices: Ground spices: Black pepper, cayenne pepper, chili powder, cinnamon, cumin, ginger, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (smoked or sweet), turmeric.

What seasoning is low-carb? ›

The lowest-carb options include thyme, basil, coriander, tarragon, mint, cinnamon, and ginger. Oregano, paprika, cumin, and cayenne have slightly more carbs, but are also low-carb safe options when used in smaller amounts.

Does Mccormick taco seasoning have carbs? ›

Mccormick Taco Seasoning Mix Less Sodium (1 serving) contains 4g total carbs, 4g net carbs, 0g fat, 1g protein, and 20 calories.

What can I use if I don't have cumin for taco seasoning? ›

8 Good Substitutes for Cumin
  • Ground coriander. Cumin and coriander grow from a plant in the parsley, or Apiaceae, family. ...
  • Caraway seeds. ...
  • Chili powder. ...
  • Taco seasoning. ...
  • Curry powder. ...
  • Garam masala. ...
  • Paprika. ...
  • Fennel seeds.

What can you use instead of taco shells for tacos? ›

Try one of our 10 creative ideas for tasty alternatives to traditional taco shells.
  • PUT TACOS IN PITA POCKETS. ...
  • GRILL GLUTEN-FREE TACO SHELLS. ...
  • WRAP UP HEALTHY TACOS. ...
  • TRANSFORM CHEDDAR INTO SHELLS. ...
  • PARMESAN IS PERFECT TOO. ...
  • COOK UP SHREDDED CARROT SHELLS. ...
  • ROLL OUT FRESH SPINACH SHELLS. ...
  • CREATE CAULIFLOWER TACO SHELLS.
Jun 7, 2023

What can I substitute for paprika in taco seasoning? ›

Our favorite smoky substitutions are:
  • Chipotle chili powder (For smoked sweet paprikas)
  • Cayenne pepper powder (For hot/sharp paprikas)
  • Ancho pepper powder (For sweet paprikas)
  • Guajillo Pepper powder (For hot/sharp paprikas)
  • Chili powder (For hot/sharp paprikas)

How many carbs are in keto tacos? ›

Keto Tacos are deliciously crispy and crunchy, similar to what you would find at your favorite taco truck or shop. These homemade taco shells taste like a corn, hard shell taco. With only two grams of net carbs per taco shell, these low carb tacos will become your new favorite Mexican food.

Does Old El Paso taco seasoning have carbs? ›

Old El Paso Taco Spice Mix (0.1 pack) contains 1.8g total carbs, 1.5g net carbs, 0.1g fat, 0.1g protein, and 9 calories.

Does taco seasoning have carbs or sugar? ›

Nutrition Facts
% Daily Value*
Sodium 320mg14%
Total Carbohydrate 3g1%
Dietary Fiber 0g0%
Includes 0g Added Sugars0%
9 more rows

Is Stop and Shop taco seasoning gluten-free? ›

Per 2 Tsp Serving: 15 calories; 0 g sat fat (0% DV); 280 mg sodium (12% DV); 0 g total sugars. Gluten free.

What Old El Paso products are gluten-free? ›

Old El Paso are proud to offer several gluten-free Mexican-style products, and you can enjoy our crunchy corn-based tacos, or our specially developed gluten-free tortillas without a care in the world.

Is Best Choice Taco seasoning gluten-free? ›

Is it Gluten Free? Yes!

Does Taco Bell taco seasoning have gluten in it? ›

Is it Gluten Free? No. This product is not gluten free as it lists 1 ingredient that contains gluten and 2 ingredients that could contain gluten depending on the source.

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