Mild Taco Seasoning

This mild taco seasoning recipe is the perfect choice for your next taco night. It is bursting with flavor while being mild enough to please even the most sensitive palates. 

If you love the flavor of taco seasoning but have been searching for a milder option, you have come to the right place! This kid-friendly mild taco seasoning recipe is suitable for the whole family. 

Don’t worry, though; if someone in your family likes it spicy, there is an easy option to take the heat up a notch or two. This recipe is super easy to make and just as easy to customize exactly to your liking. 

Why not get the whole family involved? They will surely be delighted to learn how to make their own mild taco seasoning and even more delighted to taste it. You never have to rely on storebought packets again.

Here’s what I’m going to teach you in this post: 

• All the ingredients you need to make this mild taco seasoning recipe.
• Step by step instructions on how to make and store your homemade taco seasoning. 
• Expert tips on how to use taco seasoning. 

With a handful of simple spices and 5 minutes, you can also create this delicious mild taco seasoning. Get ready for maximum flavor with minimal effort!

How to Make Mild Taco Seasoning

A full printable version of this recipe with ingredient measurements is available at the bottom of this post.

STEP ONE: Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and mix until well combined. 

STEP TWO: Transfer your seasoning mix to a mason jar, reusable spice jar, or any other airtight container. It will keep in the pantry for at least 6 months, up to a year!

STEP THREE: Add to your favorite taco recipe and enjoy!

What is Taco Seasoning Made Of?

Traditionally speaking, taco seasoning is made from salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and a combination of warming spices. This classic and simple recipe includes:

• Chili powder
• Paprika
• Cumin
• Onion Powder
• Garlic Powder
• Cayenne (optional)

Other recipes may include black pepper, crushed red pepper, or dried oregano. Once you have your baseline flavor preference down, feel free to tweak the recipe a bit. 

How Much Taco Seasoning Do You Put in a Pound of Meat?

This depends totally on your preferences and the type of meat you use! A good rule of thumb is to start with about 2 tablespoons of seasoning per pound of meat and adjust to your liking. Go slowly; you can always add more if needed. 

You may need more for leaner, mild-flavored meat like chicken or ground turkey and less for extra savory options like ground beef and steak. Taste as you go and make it your own!

How to Use Taco Seasoning

Aside from the obvious taco meat, you can use your mild taco seasoning as a dry rub on vegetables, fish, or larger cuts of meat. Here are some of my favorite ways to use this spice blend:

• Air Fryer Squash
• Taco Salad with Catalina Dressing
• Southwest Chicken Wraps
• Instant Pot Tilapia Fish Tacos
• Mexican Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

If you make your taco seasoning mild enough, you can add it to any dish that needs a subtle Mexican flare! It will add an extra punch of flavor to the food without overwhelming your senses.

Do You Season Taco Meat Before or After Draining?

Some opinions vary, but I recommend you use your mild taco seasoning after fully cooking your meat. 

If using it with ground meat like beef or turkey, cook the meat and drain off any excess fat. Return your meat to the skillet and add in your seasoning and water. You can also do this with shredded chicken or beef.

How Do I Make Taco Seasoning Less Spicy?

To make your taco seasoning mild, be sure to omit the optional cayenne pepper. The other spices are flavorful and warming but not spicy. 

If your cooked and seasoned meat is too spicy, try adding something acidic, such as: 

• Juice of ½ of lemon or lime
• 1-2 tablespoons of wine
• 1-2 tablespoons of vinegar
• A bit of tomato sauce
• A splash of pineapple juice

Any of these options will help neutralize the pH of the dish and will help to tone down the spice quite a bit.

Do You Need to Add Water to Taco Seasoning?

While it isn’t necessary, it certainly helps in terms of keeping meat (especially ground beef) moist and tender. 

If you are working with a pound of meat, add 2 tablespoons of seasoning and ½ cup of water once the meat is cooked and drained. Stir and simmer until the liquid has mostly evaporated for ultimate flavor dispersal and irresistible taco meat!

When using it as a dry rub or in soups and stews, there’s no need to add additional liquid.

Other Taco Recipes You’ll Love:

• 30 Best Leftover Taco Meat Recipes
• Sweet Potato Black Bean Tacos
• Instant Pot Chicken Taco Bowls
• Cheesy Taco Lasagna

And if you like mild recipes, try our mild buffalo sauce!