Have you ever wondered exactly how much taco seasoning is in a packet? This post will shed light on the mysterious measurement of taco seasoning!
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Quick answer
While the exact amount can vary slightly between brands, most standard taco seasoning packets contain around 1 ounce (or 3 tablespoons) of seasoning mix.
This is a handy rule of thumb to remember, especially when substituting homemade taco seasoning for store-bought packets.
Brand Breakdown
- Old El Paso: Their classic Original Taco Seasoning Mix comes in a 1 ounce packet, making it a perfect match for the standard measurement.
- McCormick: Their Taco Seasoning Mix also weighs in at 1 ounce per packet.
- Trader Joe’s: Their Taco Seasoning is slightly larger, clocking in at 1.25 ounces per packet.
How much taco seasoning do I need for 1 pound of beef?
- Use 1 packet of taco seasoning (or 2 Tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning) for every 1 pound of ground beef, chicken, ground turkey or tofu.
Pro tips
- Taste as you go: When adding seasoning, start with a little less than the recommended amount and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
- Adjust for protein: If you’re using a leaner protein like ground turkey or chicken, you may need to add a touch more seasoning for bolder flavor.
- Experiment with homemade: Making your own taco seasoning allows you to customize the flavor profile and adjust the heat level to your liking.
- Add a squeeze of lime juice or a dollop of sour cream to your taco filling for an extra burst of flavor.
So, there you have it! The next time you reach for a packet of taco seasoning, you’ll be armed with the knowledge of its typical measurement.
Now, go forth and conquer taco night with confidence! May I suggest one of the recipes below…
Taco recipes to try
- Sweet Potato Tacos
- Carnitas Street Tacos
- Korean Tacos with Bulgogi Beef
- Taco Zucchini Boats
- Fish Taco Bowls with Avocado Crema
- Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos
- Cauliflower Tacos with Lime Crema
PS – Be sure to check out these 9+ Tasty Taco Sauces and 40+ Taco Side Dishes too!
Homemade Taco Seasoning
Ingredients
- 4 Tablespoons chili powder
- 2 Tablespoons cumin
- 1 Tablespoon paprika (smoked paprika preferred)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a small jar and stir (or shake) until well combined.
- Store tightly sealed for up to 6 months.
